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It’s hard to pick the best John Lithgow movies. He appeared in animated movies like Shrek, dramas like The World According to Garp, and comedies like Terms of Endearment. Here are his five best.

1. ‘The World According to Garp’ (1982)

In The World According to Garp, Lithgow plays Roberta, a transgender woman and Garp’s mother’s best friend. Lithgow’s performance is deeply emotional and groundbreaking. His portrayal of Roberta, a character who is strong, vulnerable, and loving, stands out. The film explores themes of family, identity, and acceptance. Lithgow brings depth to his role, making Roberta one of the most memorable characters in the film. His performance earned him an Academy Award nomination, showcasing his ability to balance drama with compassion, and adding complexity to the story.

2. ‘Terms of Endearment’ (1983)

In Terms of Endearment, Lithgow plays the quirky, compassionate, and somewhat bumbling Dr. Joe Warner. His role as a supportive friend and lover to Shirley MacLaine’s character provides warmth and humor to the film. Lithgow’s portrayal is sincere, adding a layer of tenderness and emotional depth to the story. The film focuses on family dynamics, love, and loss, with Lithgow’s character offering comic relief while also showing vulnerability. His performance in this heart-wrenching film stands out and is one of the highlights of Terms of Endearment.

3. ‘Cliffhanger’ (1993)

Lithgow plays the villain in Cliffhanger, a high-octane action film set in the dangerous Rocky Mountains. As the ruthless Eric Qualen, Lithgow brings menace and intensity to the role. He contrasts beautifully with Sylvester Stallone’s hero character. Lithgow’s performance is a standout in a film filled with intense action. His portrayal of a cold, calculating criminal mastermind is convincing, making him a memorable antagonist. Cliffhanger is an adrenaline-filled movie, and Lithgow’s ability to play such a dark and complex character adds an extra layer of excitement to the film.

4. ‘Shrek’ (2001)

In Shrek, Lithgow voices Lord Maximus Farquaad, the film’s main antagonist. His over-the-top performance brings the character to life with wit and humor. Farquaad is a small, power-hungry ruler determined to control the kingdom. Lithgow’s voice work gives Farquaad a larger-than-life personality, making him both funny and villainous. His comedic timing and energetic performance add to the film’s charm. Shrek became a beloved animated classic, in part because of Lithgow’s standout role. His ability to blend humor with villainy makes Farquaad one of the most memorable animated characters.

5. ‘The Pelican Brief’ (1993)

In The Pelican Brief, Lithgow plays Thomas Callahan, a powerful and sinister figure involved in a political conspiracy. Lithgow brings a sense of menace to his role, making him a perfect villain in this political thriller.

His character adds tension to the story, which revolves around a law student who uncovers a dangerous secret. Lithgow’s chilling performance complements the film’s tone of suspense and intrigue. The Pelican Brief is an excellent showcase for Lithgow’s ability to play complex characters with dark, intense energy.

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