Henry Cavill's top 6 movie performances from least to best

Henry Cavill's versatile talent has graced screens with signature roles spanning heroes and villains alike. 

While he's soared as the latest Superman in DC Comics' epic saga under Zack Snyder's direction, Cavill's prowess extends far beyond the cape and tights.

But it's not all about playing the good guy – his magnetic presence also shines as a formidable foe, notably as Tom Cruise's adversary in the adrenaline-fueled Mission: Impossible – Fallout.

As the British heartthrob prepares to bid farewell to the iconic role of Superman and embark on new acting ventures, let's toast to his illustrious career by ranking his top 6 films, from pulse-pounding action to heartwarming drama.

6. Whatever Works (2009)

Woody Allen's rom-com gem Whatever Works (2009) featuring Larry David, Evan Rachel Wood, and more.

Cavill shines as Randy Lee James, entangled in a quirky love triangle with Southern runaway Melody Celestine, played by Evan Rachel Wood, and the misanthropic chess teacher Boris Yelnikoff, portrayed by Larry David. 

Despite Melody's initial resistance, Randy's genuine affection eventually wins her over.

What's particularly refreshing about Cavill's performance is his departure from the intense period or fantasy roles he's often associated with. 

5. Argylle (2024)

In this unique spy send-up, Cavill steps into the role of Agent Argylle, a character brought to life by writer Elly Conway, played by Howard, in her popular Argylle novels.

But here's the twist: he isn't just a figment of Conway's imagination. As the story unfolds, Elly discovers that her fictional creation is more real than she ever imagined. 

Cavill faces the challenge of portraying a character who straddles both the fictional and real worlds, bringing depth and nuance to the stalwart spy.

4. The Man From U.N.C.L.E.

The Man From U.N.C.L.E. is based on the beloved 1960s television series, this stylish flick trades off the James Bond craze of its time and delivers a fresh take on spy action.

In this rollicking romp, Henry stars as the suave CIA agent Napoleon Solo, alongside Armie Hammer as the formidable KGB agent Illya Kuryakin. 

Under Guy Ritchie's muscular direction, the movie delivers a cocktail of action, intrigue, and humor that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats from start to finish. 

3. Enola Holmes

Henry Cavill as the iconic Sherlock Holmes in Enola, directed by Harry Bradbeer. 

The story follows the feisty Enola Holmes, played by Brown, as she encounters her famous older brothers Sherlock and Mycroft, portrayed by Cavill and Claflin, and finds herself thrust into her own thrilling mystery. 

The success of Holmes was such that a sequel, Enola Holmes 2, was quickly greenlit and released in 2022, with Brown and Cavill reprising their roles to equal acclaim. 

2. Mission: Impossible – Fallout 

In this sixth installment of the iconic film series, Cavill stars as the mustachioed CIA assassin August Walker, locking horns with the indomitable IMF agent Ethan Hunt, played by Tom Cruise.

1. Man of Steel

From the epic showdown in Man of Steel (2013) to the intense clash with Batman in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016), Cavill's Superman grappled with the weight of his responsibilities while navigating his own vulnerabilities.

His performance in both versions of Zack Snyder's Justice League (2017, 2021) further solidified his place in superhero lore, earning praise for his nuanced portrayal of the beloved character.