16 The International
In the 2009 film 'The International,' Armin Mueller-Stahl delivers a stellar performance as Wilhelm Wexler, a veteran Stasi agent, who works as the security adviser to Jonas Skarssen, the chairman of the IBBC. Mueller-Stahl's portrayal of Wexler is marked by his signature gravitas, making him a pivotal figure in the film's gripping narrative.
15 Jakob the Liar
Armin Mueller-Stahl plays the role of Dr. Kirschbaum in the 1999 film 'Jakob the Liar.' The film is about a Jewish shopkeeper in Nazi-occupied Poland who fabricates a story to keep his people's spirits alive. Armin Muller-Stahl is the community's proud doctor. He is portrayed a heroic character. He was once a medical professor, but in the ghetto, he is trying to improve the health of his brothers and sisters in hell.
14 Angels & Demons
Armin Mueller-Stahl plays the character of Cardinal Strauss in the 2009 movie 'Angels and Demons.' He is the camerlengo of the Vatican and is one of the cardinals that is helping to protect the Vatican from the Illuminati. He is a strong believer in the Catholic faith and is willing to sacrifice himself to save the Vatican.
13 Kafka
In the 1991 film 'Kafka,' Armin Mueller-Stahl takes on the role of Inspector Grubach. As Inspector Grubach, Mueller-Stahl contributes to the film's surreal and nightmarish atmosphere, embodying a sense of authority and mystery that is characteristic of Kafkaesque themes. Mueller-Stahl's portrayal adds to the film's overall sense of intrigue and surrealism, aligning well with the complex narratives often found in Kafka's literature.
12 The House of the Spirits
In the 1993 film 'The House of the Spirits,' Armin Mueller-Stahl portrays the character Severo del Valle. Severo is a complex and pivotal figure in the story, a wealthy landowner with political ambitions who becomes entangled in the lives and conflicts of the Trueba family, around whom the narrative revolves. Mueller-Stahl's performance as Severo del Valle captures the character's transformation from a somewhat naïve and idealistic man into a politically ruthless figure.
11 The Thirteenth Floor
Armin Mueller-Stahl plays the role of Hannon Fuller in the 1999 film 'The Thirteenth Floor.' Fuller is a pivotal character in this science fiction thriller. He is the creator of a virtual reality simulation known as the "Thirteenth Floor," where people can experience life in Los Angeles during the 1930s. Mueller-Stahl's performance brings depth to the character, as Fuller's actions and discoveries drive the film's exploration of the nature of reality and identity.
10 The Power of One
Armin Mueller-Stahl portrayed the character Karl "Doc" von Vollensteen in the 1992 film 'The Power of One.' Doc is a key figure in this drama, set in South Africa during the 1930s and 1940s. He is a mentor to the film's protagonist, a young boy named Peekay, and teaches him the importance of education, music, and the power of one individual to make a difference in the world. Mueller-Stahl's performance as Doc adds depth and wisdom to the story.
9 Avalon
In 'Avalon,' Mueller-Stahl played the part of Sam Krichinsky, an aging Jewish immigrant living in Baltimore. Sam is a loving and devoted father, trying to make a better life for his family in America. His character is a poignant reminder of the struggles of immigrants throughout history. Mueller-Stahl's performance as Sam was praised for its subtlety and realism, and for its insight into the difficulties of adjusting to a new culture.
8 Music Box
Armin Mueller-Stahl starred in the 1989 drama film Music Box as Mike Laszlo, a Hungarian immigrant accused of war crimes. The film was written and directed by Costa-Gavras, and also starred Jessica Lange and Donald Moffat.
7 Lola
Armin Mueller-Stahl played the role of Hans in the 1981 film Lola. The film tells the story of a young cabaret dancer (Lola) who falls in love with a married man. Hans is a kind and understanding carpenter who takes Lola in when she is in need of help.
6 Eastern Promises
Armin Mueller-Stahl plays Kirill, the driver and enforcer of the Russian mob in David Cronenberg's 2007 film Eastern Promises. He is a close associate of the mob boss and his loyalty to him is unwavering.
5 The Game
Armin Mueller-Stahl plays the role of Nicholas Van Orton, a wealthy investment banker, in the 1997 thriller film The Game. He is the elder brother of the protagonist, Conrad Van Orton (Michael Douglas). Nicholas is a cold, distant, and cynical man who has hardened himself to the world and is unable to let anyone close. He is eventually confronted with a mysterious game that claims to give him a chance to change his life.
4 Shine
Armin Mueller-Stahl is portrayed the role of David Helfgott in the 1996 Australian film 'Shine.' In this film, he plays the role of a father who is unable to accept his son's musical genius and thus drives him away. Mueller-Stahl gives a powerful performance that captures the complexity of the father-son relationship. His performance was praised by critics and earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor.
3 Night on Earth
Armin Mueller-Stahl plays the role of the taxi driver in the movie Night on Earth. He is the driver for Winona Ryder's character, who is a blind woman. He helps her navigate the streets and provides her with much-needed moral support throughout her journey. The two eventually become close friends, and Mueller-Stahl's character helps Ryder's character to understand her disability in a new and compassionate way.
2 Veronika Voss
Armin Mueller-Stahl plays Willi in Veronika Voss. Willi is a sportswriter and a former lover of the title character, Veronika Voss. He is kind and caring towards her, but his love for her is not enough to protect her from the corruption and darkness that surrounds her.
1 12 Angry Men
Armin Mueller-Stahl played the role of a 'juror' in the American courtroom drama '12 Angry Men.' He plays Juror 4, a soft-spoken man of few words but great wisdom. Mueller-Stahl's performance in 12 Angry Men is a testament to his talent and skill as an actor. He brings a sense of maturity and dignity to the role.