Ron Howard is a director known for his ability to tackle a wide range of genres, from historical dramas to biographical stories to thrilling action adventures. With a career spanning decades, Howard has consistently produced films that combine strong performances, emotional depth, and meticulous storytelling. Whether directing true stories or reimagining beloved franchises, Howard's films resonate for their exploration of human ambition, resilience and personal growth.
Today we want to explore Howard's five best works, ranked from fifth to first, focusing on the themes and messages that make these films enduring and unforgettable. So let's not waste any more time. Here's what we consider to be the best of Ron Howard.
5. The Da Vinci Code trilogy (2006, 2009, 2016)
The Da Vinci Code follows Harvard symbolologist Robert Langdon (Tom Hanks) who discovers a series of secret codes hidden in famous works of art. The trail leads him to a centuries-old mystery involving the Catholic Church and a controversial secret that could change history forever.
The Da Vinci Code This film is a thrilling, puzzle-filled journey that explores themes of faith, history and questioning accepted truths. Although the film's plot has been the subject of controversy, particularly among religious groups, it raises interesting questions about the intersection of belief, history, and conspiracy. The dynamic between Tom Hanks' Robert Langdon and Audrey Tautou's enigmatic Sophie Neveu adds a layer of intrigue to the film's exploration of power, knowledge and hidden agendas. Although this film was not universally praised by critics, its cultural impact is undeniable, and Tom Hanks' portrayal of Langdon became iconic, leading to the sequels that followed. Choosing The Da Vinci Code over films like Cinderella Man or How the Grinch Stole Christmas was a difficult decision, as both films are personal favorites, but The Da Vinci Code saga made a significant impact on culture and remains a quintessential element of Howard's career.
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4. Solo : A Star Wars Story (2018)
Solo: A Star Wars Story tells the origin story of Han Solo (Alden Ehrenreich), chronicling his early years as a smuggler before joining the Rebel Alliance and becoming the legendary figure we know in the original trilogy Star Wars. The film also delves deeper into his relationship with Chewbacca and his encounter with the criminal mastermind, Dryden Vos (Paul Bettany).
Solo The film is an exciting, action-packed adventure that gives depth to one of the most beloved characters in the Star Wars universe. Although the film faced production difficulties and mixed reviews, Ron Howard's direction brings an undeniable charm and energy to the story. The film explores themes of loyalty, identity and self-discovery as Han Solo navigates a world of crime and betrayal, ultimately shaping the man who will become a hero. Although Solo hasn't received the same level of acclaim as other entries in the Star Wars saga, it remains an enjoyable film that enriches the series' mythology, giving fans a closer look at the origins of the one of the most iconic characters in cinema.
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3. Apollo 13 (1995)
Apollo 13 follows the true story of the ill-fated 1970 space mission in which astronauts Jim Lovell (Tom Hanks), Fred Haise (Bill Paxton) and Jack Swigert (Kevin Bacon) must collaborate with NASA ground control to survive after their spaceship was severely damaged and lost power.
Apollo 13 This film is a masterclass in storytelling, expertly combining suspense, historical accuracy, and human drama. Ron Howard captured the intensity of the astronauts' fight for survival and the tireless efforts of the NASA team working to bring them home. The film explores themes of resilience, teamwork and the ingenuity needed to overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges. Tom Hanks brilliantly plays the role of Jim Lovell, and the film's emotional depth makes it not only a thrilling tale of an extraordinary mission, but also a tribute to human perseverance in the face of crisis. Apollo 13 is one of Howard's most successful and impactful works, demonstrating his ability to direct both large-scale events and intimate, character-driven dramas.
2. Rush (2013)
Rush tells the true story of the intense rivalry between Formula One drivers James Hunt (Chris Hemsworth) and Niki Lauda (Daniel Brühl) during the 1976 racing season. The film explores their contrasting personalities and the high stakes of their rivalry , which culminate in a dramatic and earth-shattering race for the championship.
Rush This film is an exhilarating and fascinating exploration of competition, ambition and the human drive to succeed. Ron Howard brilliantly captures the speed and danger of Formula One racing, while delving into the personal lives of Hunt and Lauda, revealing the emotional costs of their intense rivalry. The film focuses on themes of sacrifice, passion and the fine line between obsession and self-destruction. Chris Hemsworth and Daniel Brühl deliver remarkable performances, their contrasting portrayals of Hunt and Lauda providing the emotional core of the film. Rush is a gripping, character-driven drama that highlights the personal cost of high-stakes competition, making it one of Howard's most dynamic and thrilling films.
1. A Beautiful Mind (2001)
A Beautiful Mind is a biographical drama about John Nash (Russell Crowe), a brilliant but troubled mathematician who struggles with paranoid schizophrenia. The film follows Nash's journey as he struggles with his mental illness, his relationships, and the complexities of his college career.
A Beautiful Mind Nash is a deeply moving and inspiring story about resilience, genius, and the human spirit. Ron Howard expertly directs the film, blending elements of drama, romance, and psychological thriller to tell the story of John Nash's struggle to distinguish between reality and illusion. The film explores themes of mental illness, love and the strength it takes to live with a condition that distorts one's perception of the world. Russell Crowe delivers an extraordinary performance as Nash, capturing the nuances of his character's brilliance and vulnerability. A Beautiful Mind is not only a remarkable true story, but also a powerful exploration of the triumph of the human spirit over adversity. It remains one of Howard's most poignant and critically acclaimed films.
And that's all for today! Ron Howard's diverse body of work highlights his incredible versatility as a director, with a focus on character-driven stories that explore deep emotional and philosophical themes. Although A Beautiful Mind is his greatest achievement, films like Rush and Apollo 13 showcase his ability to create tension and drama in a variety of settings, from the world of motorsports to outer space. Ultimately, Ron Howard continues to be a filmmaker capable of capturing the heart of major historical events and intimate personal struggles, making his films resonate across generations.
Now we'd like to hear about your experience of Ron Howard's work! Which of his films do you consider the best? Would you like to reorganize the list or add more? We look forward to reading your thoughts in the comments!
