In light of Gene Hackman recently passing away I want to move from that to his legacy. A real acting heavyweight whose career span about half a century; this intensive actor had plenty of film roles with great impact (expanded by occasional TV and theater work). So, what are some of your favorite films or performances of him?

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#1

Of course there is Superman, Crimson Tide, Enemy of the State, Mississippi Burning. But I'd like to mention these:

French Connection - one of his biggest hits - was and still is amazing (some parts of the chase shot in guerilla style without permission). Part II is good too, quite different with Popeye Doyle struggling.

Poseidon Adventure is still one of the best disaster movies. With a stellar cast around Gene Hackman. A real favourite of mine.

Get Shorty had that cool, stylish 90s vibe with an excellent cast and soundtrack.

The Birdcage - Hackman, Nathan Lane and Robin Williams? Yes please! A fun comedy, good times.

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    #2

    Just making a start with 1995's "Crimson Tide" by Tony Scott. A very intense Hackman starring as a nuclear submarine Captain after the Cold War ended, co-starring Denzel Washington (supported e.g. by Viggo Mortensen and the late James Gandolfini). Probably the most high-stakes plot, still/again relevant today and not always comfortable (no submarine film is), but really good.

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    User avatar Fred L.
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    #3

    1995 again, with Barry Sonnenfeld's "Get Shorty". A foray into comedy for Gene Hackman in this dialog-heavy hidden gem. Co-starring John Travolta, supported e.g. by Rene Russo, Danny DeVito, Gandolfini again, and the hilarious Dennis Farina. Hackman plays a troubled B-movie director in this Hollywood gangster comedy, far away from his usual roles but getting the job done. Based on a novel; it also got a belated sequel and an even later 3-season TV series (neither with Hackman though).

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    User avatar Fred L.
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    #4

    Mississippi Burning, The French Connection

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    User avatar Bianca
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