Grayson West
Whenever Bradley Cooper steps on screen, you know he’s giving it everything. But let’s be real—some movies crushed it, and some flopped hard. This article ranks his movies from top-tier greatness to full-on “what were they thinking?” moments. Buckle up for a wild filmography ride.
Silver Linings Playbook (2012)
Bradley Cooper’s portrayal in “Silver Linings Playbook” earned him his first Oscar nomination, a testament to his dedication. He studied bipolar disorder in depth and rehearsed extensively for the movie’s pivotal dance scene, which felt spontaneous thanks to his relaxed delivery. Jennifer Lawrence also walked away with her own Academy Award for Best Actress.
American Sniper (2014)
Forty pounds. That’s what Bradley Cooper gained to play Chris Kyle. By combining a 6,000-calorie diet with heavy training, he recreated the Navy SEAL’s imposing presence. His performance earned an Oscar nod, as the film shattered war-movie records. Taya Kyle later said watching Cooper on screen felt like having her husband back—if only for a moment.
The Hangover (2009)
Cooper’s role in “The Hangover” became iconic almost overnight. Playing the smooth and slightly reckless Phil, he brought charm and timing that resonated with audiences. The film’s huge box office performance, followed by two sequels, established him as a bankable star and opened doors to more dramatic roles.
A Star Is Born (2018)
Bradley Cooper didn’t just play Jackson Maine—he embodied him. He learned to sing and play guitar, directed the film, and co-wrote the screenplay. His efforts paid off with an Oscar nomination for Best Actor, while the film itself received widespread acclaim and multiple award nominations.
Maestro (2023)
Becoming Bernstein meant more than mastering a few tricks. Cooper spent years inside the role, absorbing Bernstein’s world both onstage and off. When “Maestro” premiered, critics immediately recognized the depth, and the wave of award nominations that followed cemented another bold step in Cooper’s career.
Burnt (2015)
“Burnt” had the right ingredients for a standout drama. Cooper trained with elite chefs and brought grit to the role. But the script lacked bite. Critics called the story thin and unconvincing, and the box office echoed that response. In the end, polish couldn’t cover the film’s hollow center.
Serena (2014)
In the misty mountains of Depression-era America, “Serena” aimed for grandeur. Bradley Cooper and Jennifer Lawrence returned as co-stars, yet their connection felt distant. Delays weighed down the film, and critics saw little life in its somber tones. What should have been a sweeping romance faded into obscurity.
Aloha (2015)
A military contractor returns to Hawaii. What could go wrong? Though “Aloha” tries to blend drama and whimsy, it struggles to connect. Casting choices sparked backlash, and Cooper’s steady work couldn’t overcome the film’s unbalanced script.
Case 39 (2009)
A child in danger and a man who wants to help. That’s the pitch behind “Case 39.” But what unfolds is a clunky, uneven thriller that fails to deliver genuine fear. Cooper’s effort also felt wasted in a story that lacks conviction. By the end, the only shock is how forgettable it is.
The Words (2012)
Literary ambition meets cinematic stagnation in “The Words.” Cooper delivers a grounded performance, yet the story loops rather than evolves. The film, directed by Brian Klugman and Lee Sternthal in their directorial debut, should feel profound. Instead, it remains disappointingly one-note and lacks dramatic payoff.