Get ready to embark on a journey through the astounding filmography of a true cinematic powerhouse - Ian McDiarmid. This gifted actor has graced us with a diverse range of performances, from captivating critically acclaimed roles to action-packed blockbusters. Brace yourself as we delve into the unforgettable films that established McDiarmid as a beloved presence in the world of cinema. Discover his most iconic portrayals, and uncover the secret to his lasting impact on the film industry.
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1. The Likely Lads (1976)
"The Likely Lads, " a 1976 British comedy film, centers on the endearing friendship between Bob and Terry, established over the years by their mutual loyalty and shared interests. Set in the lively city of Newcastle upon Tyne, the movie unravels the unexpected changes that ensue when Terry starts dating a new woman. Initially, Bob, a bachelor, is disheartened by these developments, but his wife, ever the matchmaker, sees an opportunity to arrange a marriage and create a rift between the long-standing friends.
2. Macbeth (1979)
Dive into the world of Shakespeare's most chilling characters with the 1979 adaptation of "Macbeth. " Starring Ian McKellen as the titular character and Judi Dench as Lady Macbeth, this haunting drama will leave you spellbound. Based on a famous prophecy from three eerie sorceresses, Macbeth becomes obsessed with the idea of ruling Scotland, leading to a harrowing chain of events.
3. Richard's Things (1980)
"Richard's Things" is a 1980 drama film where the protagonist, a heartbroken widow, discovers and confronts her husband's hidden love affair. The movie takes an unexpected turn as they navigate through their emotions of pain, love, envy, and jealousy, leading them into an unexpected emotional and physical relationship. The film, penned by Frederic Raphael and directed by Anthony Harvey, features excellent performances by Liv Ullmann, Amanda Redman, and Tim Pigott-Smith.
4. Sir Henry at Rawlinson End (1980)
Sir Henry at Rawlinson End is a delightful English-comedy, released in 1980, and written and directed by Steve Roberts with contributions from Vivian Stanshall. The film revolves around the eccentric and peculiar English peer, Sir Henry Rawlinson, who, with the help of his equally peculiar family and servants, undertakes an unusual and comical exorcism in his mansion to rid himself of the ghost of his brother, Humbert.
5. Star Wars: Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back (1980)
"Star Wars: Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back" is a legendary sequel that continues the epic tale of Luke Skywalker, Han Solo, and Princess Leia as they face the relentless pursuit of Darth Vader and the Empire. Set three years after the Battle of Yavin, Luke embarks on his Jedi training under the wise guidance of Yoda, while his friends are hunted across the galaxy.
6. The Awakening (1980)
The Awakening (1980) is a suspenseful horror film directed by Mike Newell, featuring a chilling tale of demonic possession and reincarnation. Charlton Heston shines in his role as Thomas Molander, an experienced archeologist, who stumbles across a horrifying discovery in the British Museum – his daughter, Rachel (played by Jill Townsend), has been taken over by the spirit of a malevolent Egyptian queen. It's up to Molander to save mankind by destroying the demon within his daughter, in a desperate race against time.
7. Dragonslayer (1981)
"Dragonslayer, " a thrilling action-packed adventure from 1981, brings magic, mystery, and mythos to the silver screen. This high-flying, fantastical tale follows the journey of a young magic-wielding prodigy, sent on a perilous quest to slay a colossal, terrifying dragon that terrorizes a kingdom, consuming innocent young girls without mercy.
8. Gorky Park (1983)
"Gorky Park" is a gripping 1983 crime drama based on the novel of the same name by Martin Cruz Smith. Set in the shadowy world of Soviet Moscow, the film follows the relentless investigation of a Moscow police officer, Arkady Renko, played by William Hurt. The body of a vicious triple homicide lands on Renko's desk, and what seems like a simple murder case quickly evolves into a high-level international political conspiracy involving the KGB.
9. Star Wars: Episode VI - Return of the Jedi (1983)
"Star Wars: Episode VI - Return of the Jedi" is an epic sci-fi adventure that follows the Rebel Alliance's attempt to destroy the second Death Star and save the galaxy. The film delves deeper into the complexities of the relationships between siblings and fathers, as Luke Skywalker struggles with the might of Darth Vader, who remains connected to him through their dark past.
10. Dirty Rotten Scoundrels (1988)
Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, a charming comedy released in 1988, introduces us to two rival con men, Lawrence Jamieson (played by Michael Caine) and Freddy Benson (Steve Martin), who are determined to outwit each other. The action takes place on the French Riviera, where the two charismatic masterminds discover that they both have their eyes set on the same prize – the pocket of an unsuspecting American heiress named Elaine (played by Glenne Headly).
11. Chernobyl: The Final Warning (1991)
Chernobyl: The Final Warning tells a gripping tale of drama, recounting the heartrending aftermath of the Chernobyl nuclear power plant accident. Focusing on the true story, American expert Dr. Robert Gale cooperates with Soviet medical professionals to provide treatment for the survivors of the calamity that occurred in the core of the Ukrainian SSR in 1986.
12. Heart of Darkness (1993)
Heart of Darkness, released in 1994, is an intense drama film set in the heart of Africa. The story revolves around a trading company manager, played by Tim Roth, who embarks on a journey up the treacherous river to locate a missing outpost head. As he delves deeper into the uncharted jungles, he uncovers the dark side of human nature and the depths of evil buy pixel fruit online that lurk within humanity's soul.
13. Annie: A Royal Adventure! (1995)
Prepare for a heartwarming and hilarious adventure in the 1995 classic "Annie: A Royal Adventure! " America's favorite red-haired orphan is back, as the film follows little Annie, a spirited child with a heart of gold. In this brand new story, Annie finds herself entangled with a cast of sinister scoundrels and mischievous friends.
14. Restoration (1995)
In 17th century London, during the outbreak of the plague, the exiled royal doctor to King Charles II, Robert Merivel (played by Robert Downey Jr. ), is determined to help the suffering citizens. He dedicates his life to healing the sick, drawing the attention of an equally impoverished woman named Sarah GAMP (played by Sam Neill).
15. Hillsborough (1996)
"Hillsborough" (1996) delves into the heartache and struggle of grieving families in the aftermath of the 1989 Hillsborough Disaster, where 95 football fans were inexplicably crushed to death. Set against the backdrop of British soccer and the tragic incident, the film explores the emotional turmoil, the relentless pursuit of truth, and the underlying complexities of the situation.
16. All the King's Men (1999)
"All the King's Men" is a heart-wrenching feature-length drama that unfolds the mystery surrounding the Sandringham Company, a unit that disappeared in action during the Gallipoli Campaign in 1915. With Captain Frank Beck (played by David Jason) as their commanding officer, the men vanished into thin air while battling the elements during one of World War One's most epic battles.
17. Great Expectations (1999)
"Great Expectations" is a captivating 1999 adaptation of Charles Dickens' classic novel. The film follows the journey of a humble orphan named Pip, who is plucked from the depths of his impoverished life by a mysterious benefactor. As Pip transforms into a well-respected gentleman, he navigates the intricate web of unexpected friendships and alliances while unraveling the enigmatic identity of his benefactor.
18. The Adventures of Young Indiana Jones: Demons of Deception (1999)
The Adventures of Young Indiana Jones: Demons of Deception takes the audience back to the origins of the iconic hero as he navigates the chaotic landscape of World War I. Set in September 1916, this riveting adventure sees young Indiana Jones, played by Sean Patrick Flanery, serving as a motorcycle courier near the trenches at Verdun.
19. Sleepy Hollow (1999)
"Sleepy Hollow, " directed by Tim Burton and released in 1999, is a mesmerizing blend of fantasy, horror, and mystery. Based on Washington Irving's classic tale, the movie takes place in the charming town of Sleepy Hollow, haunted by the legendary apparition known as the Headless Horseman.
20. Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace (1999)
In the epic Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace, two Jedi knights on a mission to restore peace and balance to the Force come across a young boy who could be the key to their success. However, an ancient evil is awakened as the long-dormant Sith return, determined to reclaim their former glory.
21. Crime & Punishment (2002)
Crime & Punishment, a gripping crime drama based on Fyodor Dostoevsky's classic novel, follows the story of a once-promising student turned loner named Raskolnikov. Living in squalor, Raskolnikov commits a chilling murder in the pursuit of testing his hypothesis that some individuals can bypass morality for something greater. Directed by Julian Jarrold and featuring a stellar cast, including John Simm, Ian McDiarmid, and Shaun Dingwall, the film beautifully captures the atmosphere of pixel fruit Saint Petersburg, Russia, in this foreign language adaptation.
22. Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones (2002)
"Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones" takes place ten years after Anakin Skywalker and Padmé Amidala's initial meeting. As the galaxy faces a growing Separatist movement and Senator Amidala's life is threatened, Jedi Knight Obi-Wan Kenobi and his Padawan, Anakin Skywalker, must take action.
23. The Shape of Things (2003)
"The Shape of Things" is a gripping romantic drama that follows a reserved and introverted man named Adam (Paul Rudd), whose life takes a startling turn after befriending an enigmatic art student named Evelyn (Rachel Weisz). The film explores the complexities of human emotions and the blurred lines between love, manipulation, and deceit as the friends and family of both characters grow increasingly suspicious of this newfound relationship.
24. Our Hidden Lives (2005)
"Our Hidden Lives, " a dramatized film adaptation of best-selling author Simon Garfield's book, delves into the lives of four distinct individuals through their diaries in post-World War II Britain. Set in the tumultuous years of 1945 to 1955, the film showcases a candid, intimate look at how Britain coped in its post-war reconstruction era.
25. Star Wars: A Musical Journey (2005)
Embark on a musical adventure unlike any other with Star Wars: A Musical Journey. In this unique experience, renowned actor Ian McDiarmid takes you on a captivating journey through the world of Star Wars.
26. Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith (2005)
Embark on an epic adventure as the saga reaches its most anticipated and explosive chapter yet: Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith. Set three years into the Clone Wars, this riveting installment follows Jedi Master Obi-Wan Kenobi as he faces a new villainous threat, while brilliant Anakin Skywalker is lured into a sinister plot to rule the galaxy with Chancellor Palpatine.
27. Margaret (2009)
"Margaret" is a riveting and emotionally charged drama that chronicles the final days of Britain's most iconic leader, Margaret Thatcher. As the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Thatcher becomes an unyielding force, navigating through complex political turmoil and personal crisis. This film masterfully captures her undeniable power, making it an insightful and mesmerizing watch.
28. Star Wars: Greatest Moments (2015)
"The Finest Star Wars Moments" is a documentary that immerses in the most cherished scenes of the iconic saga, as decided by the fans themselves. Enthralling British presenter, Alex Zane, embarks on a journey through space, enumerating the top 20 moments that have captured the imaginations of Star Wars devotees globally. As he travels, he gathers insights from esteemed actors, directors, and writers who have played a pivotal role in the franchise's success.
29. The Lost City of Z (2016)
The Enigmatic Realm of Z unravels an exhilarating true tale revolving around the Amazonian forests. In the 1920s, a British adventurer named Major Percival Fawcett mysteriously vanished while pursuing a hidden city that could have been lost or non-existent.
30. How to Watch Star Wars, Part One: The Prequels Are Better Movies Than You Deserve (2019)
"How to Watch Star Wars, Part One: The Prequels Are Better Movies Than You Deserve" is a riveting documentary analyzing the Star Wars prequels through a unique and engaging lens. Rick Worley, a renowned filmmaker, crafts an artful video essay that dives deep into the filmmaking genius of Star Wars, addressing the often-maligned and misunderstood prequel trilogy.
31. Star Wars: Episode IX - The Rise of Skywalker (2019)
In the breathtaking and final installment of the iconic Skywalker saga, "Star Wars: Episode IX - The Rise of Skywalker, " new legends are born, as the epic battle for freedom and the future of the galaxy unfolds. Featuring a star-studded cast, including Daisy Ridley, John Boyega, and Oscar Isaac, the latest journey in this beloved space opera encompasses action, adventure, and fantasy in equal measure. With the return of cherished characters and the shocking reappearance of a fallen hero, the stakes have never been higher for our heroes. As they confront the forces of evil, they must harness the power of the Force and overcome fear and treachery to restore balance and fulfill the promise of a legacy.
32. The Disney Star Wars Trilogy Documentary (2020)
Immerse yourself in the thrilling universe of Disney's Star Wars Trilogy by watching the distinctive film, The Disney Star Wars Trilogy (2020). Witness the enchanting behind-the-scenes action as celebrated directors, writers, and actors disclose their perspectives, featuring J. J. Abrams, Kathleen Kennedy, and Rian Johnson.
33. The Skywalker Legacy (2020)
Dive into the making of a galaxy far, far away with the captivating documentary, The Skywalker Legacy. This intriguing film offers a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of Star Wars: Episode IX - The Rise of Skywalker, providing fans with a unique opportunity to witness the magic that unfolds on set.