
The journey to Hollywood stardom often begins with humble roles in big movies that audiences sometimes forget. Before they became household names, many of today’s biggest stars cut their teeth in supporting roles, cameos, or extras. These early appearances might have slipped under your radar but were crucial stepping stones on their path to fame. Join us as we reveal 15 big movies where future A-listers had their start.
Matt Damon in Mystic Pizza (1988)

Before he became an Oscar-winning superstar, Matt Damon appeared in Mystic Pizza as Steamer. In this coming-of-age romantic comedy, he plays the younger brother of Charles, the love interest of pizzeria waitress Daisy, played by Julia Roberts. The film itself became a cult classic, and Damon’s appearance is a delightful reminder of how far he has come since those days.
Viola Davis in Out of Sight (1998)

Viola Davis, now an acclaimed actress, had a small but significant part in Steven Soderbergh’s Out of Sight. She plays Moselle Miller, the wife of a boxer, in a film that melds crime and romance. Davis’s execution showcases her incredible talent, even in a supporting role. The film was well-received and helped elevate her profile, leading to her eventual Oscar nominations and wins.
Philip Seymour Hoffman in Scent of a Woman (1992)

In the 1992 melodrama Scent of a Woman, Philip Seymour Hoffman plays George Willis Jr., a prep-school student who interacts with Al Pacino’s character. While this role is not the centerpiece of the film, it is an excellent example of Hoffman’s ability to shine even in smaller parts. His performance added depth to the film, a critical and commercial success, foreshadowing the outstanding career that would follow.
Carey Mulligan in Pride and Prejudice (2005)

In Joe Wright’s adaptation of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, a young Carey Mulligan appears as one of the Bennet sisters. The film’s more prominent stars may overshadow her role, but Mulligan’s execution is noteworthy. The film was a critical darling and showcased the talents of a fresh-faced actress who would go on to earn multiple Oscar nominations.
Elijah Wood in Back to the Future Part II (1989)

Before he embarked on a quest to destroy the One Ring, Elijah Wood briefly appeared as “Video Game Boy #2” in Back to the Future Part II. This role was one of his earliest film credits, and while it was minor, it highlighted his youthful energy. The film is a beloved classic, and Wood’s appearance is a fun nod to his later success as a leading man in major franchises like The Lord of the Rings.
Ben Affleck in Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1992)

He had a brief, blink-and-you-miss-it role in Buffy the Vampire Slayer. He played a basketball player on the opposing team during a game scene where vampires invade the court. Affleck’s character has no lines and is only on screen for a moment, but it’s a fun tidbit from his career. At this point, Affleck was just starting out in Hollywood, and this small part was one of his first forays into film.
Charlize Theron in That Thing You Do! (1996)

Charlize Theron had a small but memorable role as Tina, Guy’s ex-girlfriend, in That Thing You Do! This film, directed by Tom Hanks, follows a fictional 1960s band and their rise to fame. Theron’s character adds a layer of complexity to the story, and her performance is a delightful reminder of her past work. The movie has become a nostalgic favorite, making Theron’s appearance all the more special.
Joe Manganiello in Spider-Man (2002)

Joe Manganiello played Flash Thompson, the high school bully in Sam Raimi’s Spider-Man. His character dated Mary Jane, played by Kirsten Dunst, before she ended up with Peter Parker. Manganiello’s portrayal of Flash was memorable and added to the film’s high school dynamics. It helped him gain recognition in Hollywood, paving the way for his future successes.
Seth Rogen in Donnie Darko (2001)

Rogen made his film debut as one of the high school bullies in Donnie Darko. This cult classic, starring Jake Gyllenhaal, features a complex narrative filled with dark themes and surreal elements. The film’s unique storyline and Rogen’s performance have since become iconic, marking the beginning of his successful career in comedy.
Timothée Chalamet in Interstellar (2014)

He appeared as young Tom in Christopher Nolan’s Interstellar, a film that explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the survival of humanity. His character is the son of Matthew McConaughey’s Cooper, and Chalamet’s performance, though brief, is poignant and impactful. This role was a stepping stone for the young actor, who would soon become one of Hollywood’s most sought-after talents.
Natalia Dyer in Hannah Montana: The Movie (2009)

Before gaining fame as Nancy Wheeler in Stranger Things, Natalia Dyer played a minor part in Hannah Montana: The Movie. She portrays a high school student in this family-friendly film, representing her youthfulness and charm. The film, starring Miley Cyrus, was a box-office success and helped Dyer gain exposure in the industry.
Rami Malek in Night at the Museum (2006)

Night at the Museum” featured Rami Malek as Ahkmenrah in a family comedy with a star-studded cast including Ben Stiller and Robin Williams. Malek’s character is a crucial figure in the film’s fantastical plot, and his delightful performance hinted at the depth and range he would later display in roles like Freddie Mercury in Bohemian Rhapsody. This role helped establish him in the industry, leading to his eventual stardom.
Leonardo DiCaprio in Critters 3 (1991)

DiCaprio starred in Critters 3, a horror-comedy that has now achieved cult classic status. In the film, he portrays a teenager striving to survive an alien invasion. While the film may not have been a critical success, DiCaprio’s role is a lovely reminder of his humble beginnings. This appearance was one of many that paved the way for his eventual breakout in films like What’s Eating Gilbert Grape.
Kristen Stewart in Panic Room (2002)

Long before she sparkled as Bella Swan in the Twilight series, Kristen Stewart played a pivotal role in David Fincher’s Panic Room. At just 12 years old, Stewart portrayed Sarah Altman, the diabetic daughter of Jodie Foster’s character. The film revolves around a mother and daughter trapped in their home’s panic room while thieves attempt to steal a hidden fortune. Stewart’s acting was remarkably mature for her age, showing her future potential.
Megan Fox in Bad Boys II (2003)

Megan Fox had a small part as the “stars-and-stripes bikini kid” in Bad Boys II, a film that became famous for its action-packed sequences and humor. Her appearance indicated her later success in the Transformers franchise, where she became a household name. This role may have been minor, but it introduced her to a broader audience and set the stage for her future in Hollywood.
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