Hugh Jackman’s 5 Best Roles That Aren’t Wolverine

Hugh Jackman’s best known for playing Canada’s most popular member of the X-Men, Wolverine. But the rest of his resume shouldn’t be overlooked. Before you watch his new sci-fi film, ‘Chappie,’ check out his five best roles that are “snikt”-free.

Off the success of the first ‘X-Men’ film, Jackman turned to this romantic comedy with a twist. He plays an 18^th Century lord who, with the help of a tear through time (just go with it), falls in love with Meg Ryan. This little-seen film, from his ‘The Wolverine’ director James Mangold, shows off Jackman’s impressive comedic chops.

Jackman is scary good as the fiercely competitive magician Angier, locked in tragic game of one-upmanship with a rival played by Christian Bale. ‘The Prestige’ is one of both Jackman and director Christopher Nolan’s most underrated films.

Director Darren Aronofsky’s noble misfire is anchored by Jackman’s compelling performance as a man struggling with life and the consequences of immortality across three different time periods. The trippy visuals and inspired score are bonuses.

Earning an Oscar nom for this iconic role, Jackman plays Jean Valjean, a man who served a 19-year prison sentence for stealing bread, then went on to redeem himself in the popular film based on the even more popular musical.

When his daughter is kidnapped, Jackman’s character goes full vigilante to find her and bring her suspected abductor to justice. The film’s bleak and gritty tone help underscore its slow-burn tension, while Jackman gives his darkest performance yet.