Best John Travolta Movies From The 1980s, 1990s, and 2000s Ranked in Order By Year

John Travolta is a talented and legendary actor who has been in the film industry for more than four decades. He became an instant sensation with his role in “Saturday Night Fever” in 1977, but it was the 1980s that cemented his status as a Hollywood icon. In the 1990s, he starred in several notable films that showcased his versatility as an actor. Since then, Travolta has starred in numerous movies, showcasing his talent as a versatile actor, singer, and dancer. He has been nominated for several awards and has won many, including a Golden Globe and an Emmy. In this article, we will take a closer look at his most memorable movies taking into consideration their critical acclaim, box office success, and cultural impact.

John Travolta Filmography

Best John Travolta Movies Ranked in Order By Year

Year	Title	Role
1975	The Devil’s Rain	Danny
1976	Carrie	Billy Nolan
1977	Saturday Night Fever	Anthony “Tony” Manero
1978	Grease	Daniel “Danny” Zuko
1978	Moment by Moment	Strip Harrison
1980	Urban Cowboy	Buford ‘Bud’ Una Davis
1981	Blow Out	Jack Terry
1983	Staying Alive	Anthony “Tony” Manero
1983	Two of a Kind	Zack Melon
1985	Perfect	Adam Lawrence
1989	The Experts	Travis
1989	Look Who’s Talking	James Ubriacco
1990	Look Who’s Talking Too	James Ubriacco
1991	Shout	Jack Cabe
1991	Eyes of an Angel	Bobby
1993	Look Who’s Talking Now	James Ubriacco
1994	Pulp Fiction	Vincent Vega
1995	Get Shorty	Chili Palmer
1995	White Man’s Burden	Louis Pinnock
1996	Michael	Michael
1996	Phenomenon	George Malley
1996	Orientation: A Scientology Information Film	Himself
1996	Broken Arrow	Maj. Vic ‘Deak’ Deakins
1997	Off the Menu: The Last Days of Chasen’s	Himself
1997	Mad City	Sam Baily
1997	Face/Off	Sean Archer / Castor Troy
1997	She’s So Lovely	Joey Giamonti
1998	A Civil Action	Jan Schlichtmann
1998	The Thin Red Line	Brigadier General Quintard
1998	Junket Whore	Himself
1998	Primary Colors	Governor Jack Stanton
1999	The General’s Daughter	Warr. Officer Paul Brenner
1999	Our Friend, Martin	Mr. Langon
2000	Battlefield Earth	Terl
2000	Lucky Numbers	Russ Richards
2000	Welcome to Hollywood	Himself
2001	Domestic Disturbance	Frank Morrison
2001	Swordfish	Gabriel Shear
2002	Austin Powers in Goldmember	Himself as “Austinpussy” Goldmember
2003	Basic	Tom Hardy
2004	Ladder 49	Captain Mike Kennedy
2004	A Love Song for Bobby Long	Bobby Long
2004	The Punisher	Howard Saint
2005	Magnificent Desolation: Walking on the Moon 3D	James Benson “Jim” Irwin
2005	Be Cool	Chili Palmer
2006	Lonely Hearts	Elmer C. Robinson
2007	Wild Hogs	Woody Stevens
2007	Hairspray	Edna Turnblad
2008	Bolt	Bolt
2009	The Taking of Pelham 123	Ryder
2009	Old Dogs	Charlie Reed
2010	From Paris with Love	Charlie Wax
2012	Savages	Dennis Cain
2013	Killing Season	Emil Kovac
2014	The Forger	Ray Cutter
2015	Life on the Line	Beau Ginner
2015	Criminal Activities	Eddie
2016	In a Valley of Violence	Marshal Clyde Martin
2016	I Am Wrath	Stanley Hill
2018	Gotti	John Gotti
2018	Speed Kills	Ben Aronoff
2019	Trading Paint	Sam Munroe
2019	The Poison Rose	Carson Phillips
2019	The Fanatic	Moose
2022	Paradise City	Buckley
2023	American Metal
TBA	Cash Out	Mason Goddard

John Travolta Television Shows Ranked in Order By Year

List of 14 Best John Travolta Movies From The 1990s Ranked in Order By Year

1. Pulp Fiction (1994)

“Pulp Fiction” is undoubtedly one of John Travolta’s most iconic roles. Directed by Quentin Tarantino, the film is a neo-noir black comedy crime film that follows the intersecting lives of several criminals in Los Angeles. Travolta plays Vincent Vega, a hitman who works for mob boss Marsellus Wallace. The film was a critical and commercial success, and Travolta’s performance was highly praised.

2. Get Shorty (1995)

“Get Shorty” is a crime-comedy film directed by Barry Sonnenfeld, based on Elmore Leonard’s novel of the same name. Travolta plays Chili Palmer, a Miami loan shark who travels to Hollywood to collect a debt and ends up getting involved in the movie business. The film was a hit with audiences and critics alike, and Travolta’s performance earned him a Golden Globe nomination.

3. Face/Off (1997)

“Face/Off” is a science fiction action film directed by John Woo. Travolta stars as Sean Archer, an FBI agent who undergoes experimental surgery to switch faces with his nemesis, terrorist Castor Troy (played by Nicolas Cage). The film was a box office success and received positive reviews, with critics praising the performances of both Travolta and Cage.

4. Broken Arrow (1996)

“Broken Arrow” is an action thriller film directed by John Woo. Travolta plays Vic Deakins, a corrupt Air Force pilot who steals two nuclear warheads and threatens to detonate them unless his demands are met. The film was a box office success, and Travolta’s performance was well-received.

5. Michael (1996)

“Michael” is a fantasy-comedy film directed by Nora Ephron. Travolta plays the title character, an angel who comes to Earth and befriends a journalist (played by Andie MacDowell). The film received mixed reviews, but Travolta’s performance was generally well-received.

6. Phenomenon (1996)

“Phenomenon” is a drama film directed by Jon Turteltaub. Travolta plays George Malley, a small-town mechanic who gains extraordinary intelligence and powers after seeing a bright light in the sky. The film explores the challenges George faces as he tries to understand and control his new abilities. While “Phenomenon” received mixed reviews, Travolta’s performance was praised, and the film was a box office success.

7. White Man’s Burden (1995)

“White Man’s Burden” is a drama film directed by Desmond Nakano. Travolta plays Louis Pinnock, a factory worker who lives in a world where black people are the ruling class, and white people are oppressed. The film explores themes of racial inequality and social injustice, and Travolta’s performance was well-received, even though the film itself received mixed reviews.

8. Look Who’s Talking Too (1990)

“Look Who’s Talking Too” is a comedy film directed by Amy Heckerling, and a sequel to the popular 1989 film “Look Who’s Talking”. Travolta reprises his role as James Ubriacco, a cab driver who becomes romantically involved with the mother of a talking baby (voiced by Bruce Willis). The film was a box office success, but it received mixed reviews from critics.

9. Eyes of an Angel (1991)

“Eyes of an Angel” is a drama film directed by Robert Harmon. Travolta plays Bobby, a man who rescues a dog from a fighting ring and becomes attached to it. The film explores themes of redemption and loyalty, and while it received mixed reviews, Travolta’s performance was praised.

10. The Punisher (1990)

“The Punisher” is an action film directed by Mark Goldblatt, based on the Marvel Comics character of the same name. Travolta plays Howard Saint, a crime lord who seeks revenge on the Punisher (played by Dolph Lundgren) after his son is killed. While the film received negative reviews, Travolta’s performance as the villain was praised.

11. Mad City (1997)

“Mad City” is a drama film directed by Costa-Gavras. Travolta plays Sam Baily, a disgruntled former museum guard who takes a group of schoolchildren hostage in a desperate attempt to get his job back. The film explores themes of media sensationalism and the power of the press, and while it received mixed reviews, Travolta’s performance was praised.

12. Basic (1998)

“Basic” is a thriller film directed by John McTiernan. Travolta plays Tom Hardy, an ex-Army Ranger who is brought in to investigate the disappearance of a group of soldiers during a training exercise. The film received mixed reviews, but Travolta’s performance was generally well-received.

13. Primary Colors (1998)

“Primary Colors” is a comedy-drama film directed by Mike Nichols, based on the novel of the same name by Joe Klein. Travolta plays Jack Stanton, a Southern governor running for President of the United States. The film explores themes of political corruption and idealism, and Travolta’s performance was praised, earning him a Golden Globe nomination.

14. A Civil Action (1998)

“A Civil Action” is a drama film directed by Steven Zaillian, based on the book of the same name by Jonathan Harr. Travolta plays Jan Schlichtmann, a personal injury lawyer who takes on a case against two companies accused of contaminating a town’s water supply. The film received positive reviews, and Travolta’s performance was praised, earning him a Screen Actors Guild Award nomination.

List of 11 Best Old John Travolta Movies From The 1980s Ranked in Order By Year

1. Urban Cowboy (1980)

“Urban Cowboy” is a romantic drama film directed by James Bridges, starring John Travolta and Debra Winger. The film follows the love story between Bud Davis, a country boy who moves to Houston and falls in love with Sissy, a cowgirl. The film explores the themes of love, loyalty, and the pursuit of happiness, set against the backdrop of the country music scene in Texas. The movie was a box office success, grossing over $53 million worldwide, and received positive reviews from critics.

2. Blow Out (1981)

“Blow Out” is a psychological thriller directed by Brian De Palma, starring John Travolta, Nancy Allen, and John Lithgow. The film follows Jack Terry, a sound effects technician who inadvertently records evidence of a political assassination while working on a horror movie. Jack becomes embroiled in a conspiracy and has to fight for his life while trying to uncover the truth. The movie was praised for its suspenseful plot, cinematography, and soundtrack, and is considered one of De Palma’s best works.

3. Staying Alive (1983)

“Staying Alive” is a musical drama film directed by Sylvester Stallone, starring John Travolta, Cynthia Rhodes, and Finola Hughes. The film is a sequel to “Saturday Night Fever” and follows Tony Manero, who moves to New York to pursue a career as a Broadway dancer. The movie features several iconic dance sequences and songs, including “The Woman in You” and “Far from Over.” Despite mixed reviews from critics, the film was a commercial success, grossing over $65 million worldwide.

4. Perfect (1985)

“Perfect” is a drama film directed by James Bridges, starring John Travolta, Jamie Lee Curtis, and Jann Wenner. The film explores the world of fitness journalism and the pressure to conform to beauty standards. John Travolta plays Adam Lawrence, a journalist investigating a story on a health club, who falls in love with the club’s instructor, Jessie Wilson, played by Jamie Lee Curtis. The movie received mixed reviews from critics but was praised for its performances and cinematography.

5. Look Who’s Talking (1989)

“Look Who’s Talking” is a romantic comedy film directed by Amy Heckerling, starring John Travolta, Kirstie Alley, and the voice of Bruce Willis. The film follows Mollie Jensen, a single mother who has an affair with James Ubriacco, played by John Travolta. The unique aspect of this film is that it features the inner thoughts and conversations of Mollie’s baby, voiced by Bruce Willis. The movie was a massive box office success, grossing over $297 million worldwide, and was praised for its humor and heartwarming story.

6. The Experts (1989)

“The Experts” is a comedy film directed by Dave Thomas, starring John Travolta and Arye Gross. The film follows two American nightclub owners who are hired by the Soviet Union to revamp a town’s nightlife in exchange for being allowed to open a club in Moscow. The movie was a commercial failure, but it has gained a cult following over the years and is considered a guilty pleasure by many.

7. Two of a Kind (1983)

“Two of a Kind” is a romantic comedy film directed by John Herzfeld, starring John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John. The film follows Zack and Debbie, two individuals who are chosen by God to save the world from destruction by changing their selfish ways. The movie was heavily criticized by critics for its convoluted plot and lackluster performances, but it did receive praise for its soundtrack, which features songs by Olivia Newton-John and other popular artists.

8. Chains of Gold (1989)

“Chains of Gold” is an action-drama film directed by Rod Holcomb, starring John Travolta, Marilu Henner, and Joey Lawrence. The film follows Scott Barnes, a social worker who becomes involved in the drug trade while trying to help a young boy escape from a dangerous drug lord. The movie was panned by critics for its weak script and lack of suspense, but it did receive praise for John Travolta’s performance.

9. Grease (1978)

In “Grease,” John Travolta plays Danny Zuko, the leader of a gang of greasers. The movie is set in the 1950s and follows the love story between Danny and Sandy, played by Olivia Newton-John. “Grease” is a beloved musical that features catchy songs and dance numbers.

10. Saturday Night Fever (1977)

“Saturday Night Fever” is a classic movie that propelled John Travolta to stardom. He plays Tony Manero, a young man from Brooklyn who dreams of becoming a professional dancer. The movie features an iconic disco soundtrack and captures the spirit of the 1970s.

11. The Devil’s Rain (1975)

“The Devil’s Rain” is a horror film directed by Robert Fuest, starring John Travolta, Ernest Borgnine, and William Shatner. The film follows a family who is terrorized by a group of Satanists who want to possess a book that contains the names of the Devil’s followers. John Travolta has a small role in this movie as Danny, a member of the Satanist cult. Despite being released in 1975, the movie is included on the list of old John Travolta movies because it was one of John Travolta’s earliest films, and it shows his versatility as an actor.

List of 7 Best Old John Travolta Movies From The 2000s Ranked in Order By Year

1. Swordfish (2001)

In “Swordfish,” John Travolta plays Gabriel Shear, a criminal mastermind who recruits a talented hacker, played by Hugh Jackman, to help him steal billions of dollars. The movie features intense action sequences and a plot full of twists and turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

2. Hairspray (2007)

In “Hairspray,” John Travolta stars as Edna Turnblad, a housewife who loves to dance. The movie is set in the 1960s and follows the story of a girl who dreams of being a dancer on a local TV show. “Hairspray” is a fun and upbeat musical that celebrates diversity and acceptance.

3. Ladder 49 (2004)

In “Ladder 49,” John Travolta stars as Chief Mike Kennedy, a veteran firefighter who tries to rescue his colleague, played by Joaquin Phoenix, from a burning building. The movie is a tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of firefighters and their families and is sure to tug at your heartstrings.

4. The Taking of Pelham 123 (2009)

“The Taking of Pelham 123” is a thrilling movie that stars John Travolta as Ryder, a criminal mastermind who hijacks a subway train and holds the passenger’s hostage. Denzel Washington plays the subway dispatcher who must negotiate with Ryder to save the hostages.

5. Bolt (2008)

“Bolt” is a 2008 animated movie directed by Chris Williams and Byron Howard that features the voice of John Travolta. The film follows the story of a dog named Bolt who believes he has superpowers and goes on a mission to save his owner. The movie was praised for its heartwarming story and charming characters.

6. From Paris with Love (2010)

“From Paris with Love” is a 2010 movie directed by Pierre Morel that stars John Travolta and Jonathan Rhys Meyers. The film is an action thriller that follows the story of a low-level CIA agent named James Reece, played by Rhys Meyers, who is tasked with helping a senior agent, played by Travolta, with a mission in Paris. The movie was praised for its thrilling action sequences and strong performances.

7. The Fanatic (2019)

“The Fanatic” is a 2019 movie directed by Fred Durst that stars John Travolta and Devon Sawa. The film follows the story of a man named Moose, played by Travolta, who is a huge fan of a movie star named Hunter Dunbar, played by Sawa. Moose becomes obsessed with Hunter and goes to extreme lengths to meet him, leading to dangerous consequences. The movie was praised for Travolta’s intense and unsettling performance.

7 Best John Travolta Movies and TV Shows on Netflix 2023

John Travolta is a legendary actor with a career spanning over four decades. He has played a variety of roles in different genres of films, from musicals to action movies. If you’re looking for some of the best John Travolta movies and TV shows, here are seven of the best John Travolta movies and TV shows currently available on Netflix:

1. Pulp Fiction (1994)
2. Hairspray (2007)
3. Get Shorty (1995)
4. Face/Off (1997)
5. Saturday Night Fever (1977)
6. Grease (1978)
7. American Crime Story: The People v. O.J. Simpson (2016)

20 Best Liam Neeson Movies On Netflix of All Time In 2024 [Ranked] – Must Watch Films

5 Best Samuel L. Jackson and John Travolta Movies

Samuel L. Jackson and John Travolta have both had long and successful careers in Hollywood, and they have collaborated on some of the most iconic movies of all time. Here are some of the best Samuel L. Jackson and John Travolta movies:

1. Pulp Fiction (1994)

“Pulp Fiction” is a classic movie that stars both Samuel L. Jackson and John Travolta. The movie is a crime drama that features interlocking stories about Los Angeles criminals. Samuel L. Jackson plays Jules Winnfield, a hitman who works alongside John Travolta’s character Vincent Vega. The movie won the Palme d’Or at the 1994 Cannes Film Festival and received seven Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture.

2. Jackie Brown (1997)

“Jackie Brown” is another Quentin Tarantino movie that stars both Samuel L. Jackson and John Travolta. The movie is based on the novel “Rum Punch” by Elmore Leonard and follows a flight attendant, played by Pam Grier, who gets involved with a gunrunner, played by Samuel L. Jackson. John Travolta plays a bail bondsman who also gets involved in the situation. The movie was critically acclaimed and received numerous award nominations.

3. Die Hard with a Vengeance (1995)

“Die Hard with a Vengeance” is an action movie that stars Samuel L. Jackson alongside Bruce Willis. John Travolta does not appear in this movie, but it was directed by John McTiernan, who also directed “Pulp Fiction”. Samuel L. Jackson plays Zeus Carver, a Harlem shop owner who gets caught up in a terrorist plot alongside Willis’ character John McClane. The movie was a commercial success and received positive reviews.

4. The Hateful Eight (2015)

“The Hateful Eight” is a Western movie that features both Samuel L. Jackson and a cameo from John Travolta. The movie follows a group of strangers who get stranded in a snowstorm in Wyoming and must confront their own biases and prejudices. Samuel L. Jackson plays Major Marquis Warren, a former Union soldier turned bounty hunter. The movie received mixed reviews but was praised for its performances and direction.

5. Basic (2003)

“Basic” is a thriller movie that stars both Samuel L. Jackson and John Travolta. The movie follows a DEA agent, played by John Travolta, who investigates the disappearance of a group of Army Rangers during a training exercise. Samuel L. Jackson plays a retired Army Ranger who was involved in the exercise. The movie received mixed reviews but was praised for its twist ending and performances.

These are just a few of the many great movies featuring Samuel L. Jackson and John Travolta. Whether you’re a fan of action movies, dramas, or thrillers, there’s sure to be something on this list that you’ll enjoy.

Upcoming John Travolta Movies

1. Paradise City
2. American Metal
3. Cash Out

Conclusion

John Travolta was one of the most prominent actors of the 1980s, and he starred in a wide range of movies during that decade. From action-packed thrillers to romantic comedies, John Travolta proved his versatility as an actor and cemented his status as a Hollywood icon.

John Travolta had a successful decade in the 1990s, with a range of films that showcased his acting abilities and versatility. From action films to dramas and comedies, Travolta proved himself to be a leading man in Hollywood.

Whether you’re a fan of action movies or romantic comedies, John Travolta’s movies from the 1980s have something for everyone. So, grab some popcorn and settle in for a trip down memory lane with one of Hollywood’s biggest stars.

While some of John Travolta’s Movies received mixed reviews, his performances were often praised by critics and audiences alike. Whether playing a dancing sensation, a hitman, or a man with extraordinary abilities, Travolta brought his unique charm and energy to every role.

Top 10 FAQs on Old John Travolta’s 1980s, 1990s, and 2000s Movies

1. What is John Travolta’s most successful film of the 1990s?

“Pulp Fiction” is considered John Travolta’s most successful film of the 1990s.

2. Did John Travolta win any awards for his performances in the 1990s?

Yes, John Travolta received several award nominations for his performances in the 1990s, including a Best Actor Oscar nomination for “Pulp Fiction”.

3. What was John Travolta’s first film of the 1990s?

John Travolta’s first film of the 1990s was “Look Who’s Talking Too”, a sequel to the popular 1989 film “Look Who’s Talking”.

4. What was John Travolta’s last film of the 1990s?

John Travolta’s last film of the 1990s was “A Civil Action”, a drama film directed by Steven Zaillian.

5. Did John Travolta play any iconic roles in the 1990s?

Yes, John Travolta played several iconic roles in the 1990s, including Vincent Vega in “Pulp Fiction” and Tony Manero in “Saturday Night Fever”.

6. What was John Travolta’s most successful movie of the 1980s?

“Look Who’s Talking” was John Travolta’s most successful movie of the 1980s, grossing over $297 million worldwide.

7. Did John Travolta win any awards for his 1980s movies?

John Travolta was nominated for a Golden Globe for his performance in “Perfect.”

8. Which of John Travolta’s 1980s movies is considered a cult classic?

“The Experts” is considered a cult classic among John Travolta’s 1980s movies.

9. Did John Travolta star in any sequels to his 1970s hit “Saturday Night Fever”?

Yes, John Travolta starred in the sequel “Staying Alive,” which was released in 1983.

10. What is John Travolta’s net worth?

John Travolta’s net worth is estimated to be around $250 million.