Ranking the 15 Best Movies of Alain Delon

Alain Delon, an iconic figure in French cinema, defined the golden era of the industry in the 1960s and 70s. Recognized for his captivating presence and striking features, Delon featured in over 100 films throughout his remarkable five-decade career. His performances were often marked by unpredictability, ranging from the cold-blooded assassin in Le Samouraï to the charming outlaw in Borsalino. Notably, his ability to convey seduction shone brightly in films such as L’Eclisse and La Piscine. Additionally, Delon portrayed legendary literary characters, including Zorro and Tom Ripley.

On August 18, 2024, Delon passed away at the age of 88. His death prompted a wave of reflection among film scholars, journalists, and admirers of his work, recognizing him as one of the greatest actors of his generation and a rare international star who achieved widespread acclaim. Despite the extensive nature of his filmography, pinpointing Delon’s finest films offers a glimpse into his extraordinary talent and profound impact on cinematic history.

15 Spirits Of The Dead (1968)

Role: William Wilson

Delon’s journey into the horror genre comes alive in Spirits of the Dead (Histoires Extraordinaires), a horror anthology featuring three segments helmed by renowned directors Federico Fellini, Louis Malle, and Roger Vadim. The film draws inspiration from Edgar Allan Poe’s tales and boasts a stellar ensemble cast, including Jane Fonda and Bridgette Bardot.

Among the segments, Malle’s William Wilson stands out, showcasing Delon’s chilling portrayal of a deranged murderer confronting his doppelgänger. The haunting atmosphere, coupled with Delon’s electrifying exchanges with Bardot, enhances the eerie essence of Poe’s narratives.

14 Is Paris Burning? (1966)

Role: Jacqus Chaban-Delmas

Is Paris Burning? unfolds during WWII as Paris is liberated by the French Resistance. Delon steps into the shoes of Jacques Chaban-Delmas, a real-life leader faced with moral dilemmas concerning the potential destruction of Paris by a Nazi general. The film artfully showcases the tension within the German command as they navigate the madness of Hitler’s directives, adding layers to the narrative.

13 The Black Tulip (1964)

Role: Julien de Saint Preux / Guillaume de Saint Preux

The Black Tulip (La Tuilpe Noire) offers a lighter adventure, adapted from Alexandre Dumas’s novel. In this charming swashbuckler, audiences delight in witnessing two distinct performances from Delon. This film was a strategic move by Delon to display his versatility after building his intense screen persona.

Delon stars as a nobleman leading a double life as a masked bandit. The story unfolds with his twin brother stepping in to maintain the guise after Delon’s character is injured, providing an engaging narrative while showcasing Delon’s range in a more playful role.

12 The Sicilian Clan (1969)

Role: Roger Sartet

In The Sicilian Clan, a gripping mix of crime and heist genres, Delon partners with cinema legends Lino Ventura and Jean Gabin. Delon captivates as a cold-hearted criminal joined by the Sicilian Mafia for an audacious jewel heist. Although familiar in nature, the film is distinguished by Ennio Morriconne’s memorable score and an edge-of-your-seat climax involving a heist of a plane transporting diamonds.

11 Two Men In Town (1973)

Role: Gino Strabliggi

In Two Men in Town (Deux hommes dans la Ville), Delon portrays Gino Strabliggi, a man striving for redemption after his release from prison. The film delves into his reintegration into society, guided by an empathetic social worker, portrayed by Jean Gabin. However, old challenges resurface, thrusting Gino back into a life of crime. This stark narrative is underpinned by a poignant bond between the two men, anchoring the film in emotional depth, ultimately leading to a haunting conclusion.

10 Zorro (1975)

Role: Don Diego/Zorro

Delon takes on the classic role of Zorro in Duccio Tessari’s lively adaptation, which blends traditional swashbuckling with the Spaghetti Western aesthetic. Delon’s portrayal as the charming yet cunning Don Diego provides a delightful balance of adventure and romance, particularly in his dynamic with Hortensia, a fellow defender of the town.

9 The Eclipse (1962)

Role: Piero

The Eclipse (L’Eclisse) highlights a modern romance under the direction of Michelangelo Antonioni. It follows a translator’s turbulent relationship with a self-assured stockbroker, enigmatic and laden with tension. The film’s poetic quality captures the spectators’ senses and remains compelling, participating in Antonioni’s celebrated trilogy that includes La’Avventura and La Notte.

8 Rocco And His Brothers (1961)

Role: Rocco Parondi

Rocco and His Brothers (Rocco e i suoi fratelli) is an epic narrative that establishes Delon as a leading figure in Italian cinema. Covering themes of aspiration, familial loyalty, and the cyclical nature of violence, the film tells the story of Rocco and his four brothers who struggle to define their futures after relocating to northern Italy. The intense rivalry born out of love for the same woman further complicates the emotional landscape, making the film a compelling watch.

7 Dirty Money (1972)

Role: Edouard Coleman

In Dirty Money (Un Flic), Delon undergoes a transformation, shifting from a criminal to a police chief in this tense crime thriller. The narrative unfolds as Delon develops a friendship with a nightclub owner, only to discover the man’s nefarious intentions. The film underscores Delon’s versatility, showcasing a different dimension in his artistic expression.

6 The Swimming Pool (1969)

Role: Jean-Paul Leroy

The Swimming Pool (La Piscine) features Delon alongside Romy Schneider, as their vacation at a luxury villa takes a dark turn with the arrival of unexpected guests. Tension builds as the narrative explores the complexities of relationships layered with desire and jealousy, highlighting Delon’s flair for thrilling character portrayals.

5 Borsalino (1970)

Role: Roch Siffredi

Delon shines in Borsalino, a captivating tale set in the 1930s. Teaming up with Jean-Paul Belmondo, the duo navigates the criminal underworld of Marseille in a story filled with camaraderie and betrayal. The film cleverly balances its lighthearted moments with darker themes, highlighting Delon’s skill in portraying multifaceted characters.

4 No Way Out (1973)

Role: Tony Arzenta

No Way Out delivers a gritty narrative, thrusting Delon into the role of Tony Arzenta, an accomplished assassin seeking vengeance after a brutal betrayal. The relentless pace and captivating direction provide a visceral film experience, showcasing Delon’s ability to masterfully embody a character filled with rage and determination.

3 The Leopard (1963)

Role: Prince Tancredi Falconeri

In The Leopard (Il Gattopardo), directed by Luchino Visconti, Delon portrays Prince Tancredi Falconeri, a young aristocrat navigating the societal shifts of 1860s Italy. This epic historical drama, featuring Burt Lancaster as the aging nobleman, beautifully explores themes of legacy and change, earning the film the prestigious Palme d’Or at Cannes.

2 Purple Noon (1960)

Role: Tom Ripley

In Purple Noon (Plein Soleil), Delon delivers a remarkable performance as Tom Ripley, showcasing his complex charm and manipulative prowess. This adaptation of Patricia Highsmith’s novel introduces audiences to Ripley’s devious quest for wealth and identity, anchoring Delon’s stardom in the cinematic landscape.

1 The Samurai (1967)

Role: Jef Costello

Considered Delon’s most definitive performance, Le Samouraï by Jean-Pierre Melville encapsulates the essence of film noir. Delon’s portrayal of Jef Costello, a meticulous hitman, captivates audiences with its cool intensity. The film’s masterful direction and minimalist storytelling make it a cornerstone of French cinema, influencing directors across generations.

Light on dialogue and rich in atmosphere, Delon transforms from hunter to hunted, showcasing his range and depth as an actor in this timeless classic.

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