Ensemble movies are a rare breed, as the sheer star power of the cast often comes with a hefty price tag, making it challenging to manage the budget. Typically, A-list actors demand a substantial paycheck, making it difficult for filmmakers to bring together a group of talented individuals without breaking the bank. However, occasionally, a movie emerges that defies the odds and brings together a cavalcade of Hollywood heavy-hitters.
When this happens, the result is often nothing short of dazzling. Whether it’s due to a massive budget or stars taking a pay cut to be part of the project, these ensemble movies are truly special. The chemistry between the cast members is palpable, and the collective talent on display is nothing short of breathtaking. These films often become instant classics, with memorable performances and unforgettable scenes etched in audiences’ minds forever. So, here are 6 of the most iconic ensemble movies in cinema history.
6. The Expendables 2 (2012)
In 2010, Sylvester Stallone set out on a mission to bring together the biggest action stars in the world with The Expendables. The film follows a group of mercenaries who go by the name of The Expendables. Each member has their own unique set of skills, but one thing remains the same, they are all trained killers. Stallone successfully wrangled together the biggest names in action, including Jason Statham, Jet Li, Dolph Lundgren, Bruce Willis, and Arnold Schwarzenegger.
After the glaring success of the movie, a sequel soon followed in 2012 – The Expendables 2. All of the main stars returned and some exciting new additions were added. Jean-Claude Van Damme joined the cast as the movie’s lead villain, reigniting his career after a string of straight-to-DVD movies. Also, action legend Chuck Norris starred in a cameo.
To throw some fresh relevance into the sequel, Stallone cast emerging stars Scott Adkins and Liam Hemsworth (who was fresh off the success of The Hunger Games). What’s more, Bruce Willis’ and Arnold Schwarzenegger’s roles were beefed up, taking much more screen time than they did in the first movie, resulting in one of the most epic climaxes in action cinema history. What made The Expendables 2 so refreshing was the fact that it didn’t take itself too seriously. The movie knew exactly what it was and played on it, throwing in plenty of overused catchphrases in a tongue-in-cheek way. The movie grossed over $315 million worldwide and is the most critically acclaimed entry in the now four-part franchise.
5. Tropic Thunder (2008)
Tropic Thunder, directed by and starring Ben Stiller, is a 2008 comedy that brings together an all-star cast in a wildly entertaining and irreverent romp. The film tells the story of a group of self-absorbed, egotistical, and struggling actors who are hired to film a big-budget war movie in the jungle. When they become trapped in the midst of a real conflict, the actors must put aside their differences and work together to survive. The cast is truly remarkable, featuring a who’s who of Hollywood heavyweights, including Tom Cruise, Matthew McConaughey, Jack Black, Robert Downey Jr., Steve Coogan, and Nick Nolte.
Not only did Stiller direct this star-studded ensemble, but he also starred alongside them as Tugg Speedman, a has-been action hero struggling to regain his relevance. With its clever script, biting satire, and over-the-top performances, Tropic Thunder has since become a cult classic. Robert Downey Jr. found himself nominated for an Oscar for his hilarious yet controversial portrayal as Kirk Lazarus, a method actor who takes things a little too far.
4. Ocean’s Eleven (2001)
Ocean’s Eleven, released in 2001, marked a monumental moment in cinema as it brought together a dream team of Hollywood A-listers for a heist movie like no other. The film follows Danny Ocean (George Clooney), a charismatic thief who assembles a team of eleven experts, including Rusty Ryan (Brad Pitt), Saul Bloom (Carl Reiner), and Linus (Matt Damon), to pull off a daring heist at the Bellagio, the Mirage, and the MGM Grand casinos in Las Vegas.
With a cast that reads like a who’s who of Hollywood royalty, including Julia Roberts, Andy Garcia, and Bernie Mac, the film’s ensemble is truly unparalleled. The fact that these massive stars agreed to appear in this film, which was not a sequel or part of an existing franchise, is nothing short of unbelievable. The success of Ocean’s Eleven paved the way for future instalments, each featuring an all-star cast, but it is the original that remains the most impressive due to its sheer star power and the fact that it brought together some of the most talented actors of the time without any pre-existing franchise or series to draw from.
3. Glengary Glen Ross (1992)
The 1992 film adaptation of David Mamet‘s play, Glengarry Glen Ross, is a masterclass in acting and a testament to the power of exceptional writing. The movie follows a group of real estate agents struggling to make a living in a cutthroat industry, as they compete against each other in a high-stakes sales competition. The ensemble cast, which includes Al Pacino, Jack Lemmon, Alec Baldwin, Ed Harris, Alan Arkin, and Kevin Spacey, is widely regarded as one of the most impressive lineups of esteemed actors Hollywood has ever seen.
What makes this so remarkable is that the film was made on a relatively modest budget, with a production cost of around $12 million. Despite this, the cast was comprised of some of the biggest stars of the time, all vying for the opportunity to be part of this critically acclaimed project. The result is a film that is both intense and nuanced, with each performance elevated by the talents of its co-stars. The success of Glengarry Glen Ross is a testament to the enduring power of Mamet’s script and the dedication of its all-star cast, who brought their A-game to bring this gritty and unflinching portrayal of cutthroat capitalism to life.
2. The Dirty Dozen (1967)
The Dirty Dozen, released in 1967, is a classic war film that has stood the test of time, widely regarded as one of the greatest war movies of all time. The plot follows Major Reisman (Lee Marvin), a tough and seasoned military officer who is tasked with assembling a team of 12 convicted criminals, including Donald Sutherland‘s iconic breakout role as Vernon L. Pinkley, to undertake a high-risk mission behind enemy lines in Nazi-occupied France. The cast, which also includes Charles Bronson, Ernest Borgnine, and George Kennedy, is a veritable collection of Hollywood legends.
The film’s ensemble is remarkable not only for its sheer star power but also for the way each actor brings their unique presence to their respective roles. The result is a film that is both thrilling and emotionally resonant, with the Dozen’s ragtag group of misfits forming an unlikely bond as they embark on their perilous mission. The Dirty Dozen‘s enduring popularity can be attributed to its masterful storytelling, memorable characters, and outstanding performances from its all-star cast, cementing its place as a cinematic classic that continues to entertain and inspire audiences to this day.
1. The Great Escape (1963)
The Great Escape, directed by John Sturges in 1963, is a masterclass in filmmaking that has become an iconic war movie of all time. The film tells the true story of a group of Allied prisoners of war, led by Steve McQueen‘s iconic character Virgil Hilts, who hatch a plan to escape from the notorious Stalag Luft III prison camp in Nazi-occupied Germany. The ensemble cast, featuring James Garner, Richard Attenborough, Donald Pleasence, and Charles Bronson, among others, brings to life the bravery and ingenuity of the real-life prisoners who executed this daring escape.
The film’s enduring appeal lies in its masterful blend of action, suspense, and camaraderie, as the characters work together to overcome seemingly insurmountable odds. The iconic escape scenes, including the thrilling motorcycle chase through the French countryside and the heart-stopping tunnel dig, have become synonymous with cinematic excitement. But it’s the strong performances and nuanced character development that truly elevate the film, making it a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences with its themes of freedom, hope, and humanity. Want to read about another iconic ensemble movie? Here’s our deep dive into the cast of Interstellar.