10 Bryan Cranston movies and TV shows to explore the versatility of the actor

Bryan Cranston's path through Hollywood depicts his versatility. From sitcoms to intense dramas, political thrillers to independent cinema, Cranston has traveled an astonishing range of characters with rare skill. Although most of us first met him as the lovable, hapless Hal in Malcolm in the Middle, it was his trailblazing performance as Walter White in Breaking Bad that established him as one of the greatest actors of his era. But Cranston's genius doesn't end there, he keeps surprising audiences with complicated roles that break conventions and push storytelling.

Whether he's speaking animated characters, playing real-life individuals, or starring in high-stakes dramas, Cranston infuses a singular combination of vulnerability, authority, and depth.

This is a list that delves into five of his standout TV shows and five essential movies that celebrate the numerous faces of Bryan Cranston. Not only does each entry feature a different aspect of his skill, but it also indicates the growth of an actor who will not be pigeonholed. For old and new fans alike this is a tasteful tour through Cranston's ever-growing and diverse catalog.

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Bryan Cranston's movies and TV Shows to explore the versatility of the actor

1. Breaking Bad (2008–2013)

Walter White in Breaking Bad revolutionized television. From chemistry teacher to notorious drug lord, Cranston gave a masterclass in acting range. The show's success saw him win four Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actor. What is remarkable even now is how Cranston, who had been known for comedy, surprised audiences with such gravitas. He also reunited with Aaron Paul in a Super Bowl advertisement in 2023, setting fans' minds racing. Still, Breaking Bad is not only a binge watch thriller but the turning point moment for Cranston from sitcom father to dramatic darling.

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2. Malcolm in the Middle (2000–2006)

Before Bryan Cranston went bad, he was ridiculously chaotic as Hal, the wacky, lovable dad in Malcolm in the Middle. His Emmy-nominated character displayed his fantastic comedic timing and physical humor, from roller-skating montages to bee attacks. Cranston's Hal was a lovable man-child who tended to steal scenes with unexpected hijinks. In 2024, Cranston hinted at a potential reunion episode, creating buzz among old-school fans. His skill for switching between mirthful silliness and heartfelt genuineness made Hal more than simple comic relief he was the soul of the show. It's still treasured and unexpectedly complex on repeat viewing.

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3. Your Honor (2020–2023)

In Your Honor, Cranston again ventured into dark drama as a well-respected judge pushed into moral compromise when his son is party to a hit-and-run fatality. The show's tension and emotional complexity provided Cranston with a new vehicle to probe guilt, justice, and fatherhood under siege. Season two, which wrapped in 2023, went further into systemic corruption and individual ruin, garnering him critical acclaim for another emotionally exposed performance. Cranston also executive-produced the show, demonstrating his increasing power behind the scenes. Your Honor demonstrates he is more than a performer but a storyteller, not hesitant to work on morally ambiguous ground.

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4. How I Met Your Mother (2006–2013, Guest)

Although a guest spot, Cranston's acting as Hammond Druthers, Ted's childish and pompous ex-boss, on How I Met Your Mother was comedic gold. Periodically showing up he injected surprise laughs and awkwardness into the office environments. Fans adored how Cranston, fresh from his dark Breaking Bad acclaim could still deliver ridiculous over-the-top humor. In an interview in 2023 creators disclosed that Cranston improvised some lines a testament to his comedic sense. His skill at moving from dark drama to sitcom satire is a demonstration of the versatility that characterizes his acting range even in cameo appearances.

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5. The Simpsons – “The Fool Monty” (2010)

In a classic Simpsons guest appearance, Cranston played Jack, a spy attempting to reprogram Mr. Burns in the episode "The Fool Monty." His suave, authoritative voice added a surprise gravitas to Springfield's cartoon mayhem. Although a one-off, the role showed his talent for voice work, something he built on in subsequent animated roles. As of 2024, Cranston is said to be voicing a lead character in an upcoming Pixar movie, showcasing his ongoing development within the industry. His Simpsons episode is still a great, underrated moment where Cranston's involvement brought even the zaniest cartoon world to life.

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6. Trumbo (2015)

In Trumbo, Cranston received an Oscar nomination for his performance as screenwriter Dalton Trumbo, blacklisted during Hollywood's Red Scare. With acid wit and unbreakable dignity, he conveyed the battle of an artist struggling for free expression. His delivery of Trumbo's acerbic dialogue and emotional defiance was compelling. Off-screen, Cranston researched actual Trumbo interviews to get the cadence and mannerisms right. The movie was a milestone in his cinema life, establishing him as a serious player in Hollywood's A-list. It's a must-see for fans who care about history, politics, and powerhouse acting.

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7. The Infiltrator (2016)

As Robert Mazur, a U.S. Customs agent, poses as a money launderer to infiltrate Pablo Escobar's drug empire, Bryan Cranston portrays a tight, psychologically charged performance in The Infiltrator. It's a story inspired by actual events where undercover action is delivered in all the ugly tension, and Cranston encapsulates how a person dangles between duty and identity choice. He performs both against the kind of genius whose tank is not brimming over with an oeuvre or just another unnoticed crime thriller. The film was not the greatest box office success, but found success in cult appreciation. In 2024, it was re-evaluated among the most underrated performances of Cranston.

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8. Argo (2012)

In Ben Affleck's Argo, Cranston portrayed Jack O'Donnell, a CIA operative going through the clandestine rescue of American diplomats in Iran. Although not the star, he was compelling and necessary, anchoring the film's gripping political thriller. Argo took home the Best Picture award at the Oscars, and Cranston's performance was instrumental in its victory. His crisp delivery of quick-witted dialogue and restrained intensity brought back memories of his perfection of understated authority. The role also initiated a close working relationship with Affleck, with rumors circulating in 2024 about a potential reunion in a political thriller. Argo demonstrates Cranston's mettle even in ensemble castings.

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9. The Upside (2017)

Cranston paired up with Kevin Hart for The Upside, a sentimental dramedy of an odd friendship between a quadriplegic billionaire and his ex-con caretaker. Cranston's Phillip was played with charm, dry humor, and emotional control, eschewing sympathy for dignity and humor. The movie was a box office success, particularly noted for the actors' rapport. Cranston's performance brought depth to disability portrayal on screen. Behind the camera, he fought for diverse casting and accessibility in Hollywood, efforts for which he was praised by disability rights organizations. The Upside is a poignant reminder of Cranston's skill at infusing every character with humanity.

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10. Asteroid City (2023)

In visually quirky Wes Anderson's Asteroid City, Cranston narrates the film's dreamlike story as the TV host. While a less extensive role, his deep, resonant voice and dry delivery were perfectly attuned to Anderson's stylized universe. The film mingles theater, science fiction, and absurdity, and Cranston's presence unites those levels with refined command. Critics singled out his meta-performance as an aspect of the film's innovative architecture. In recent interviews, Cranston spoke of admiration for Anderson's process and even suggested future collaborations. Asteroid City might be unconventional, but it shows that even in experimental filmmaking, Cranston's versatility and presence shine with ease.