Mads Mikkelsen's Best Films, Ranked

The film that pushed Mikkelsen to worldwide prominence and introduced Daniel Craig as the new James Bond, Casino Royale was released in 2006 and became an instant success. Mikkelsen played a villain named Le Chiffre, who had a penchant for weeping blood and playing cards. In the supporting role, Mikkelsen proved himself to be a worthy adversary for the infamous superspy.

A Danish production starring Mikkelsen, Valhalla Rising tells the story of a Viking warrior named One-Eye. Released in 2009, the film remains one of Mikkelsen's best, a rough and ready adventure story that sees his character exploring uncharted lands and encountering Christian Crusaders.

2018's At Eternity's Gate features a star-studded cast, including Willem Dafoe as the famed painter Vincent Van Gogh. Mikkelsen portrays a priest, a fictional representation of Van Gogh's need to share his concerns about his thoughts and feelings. While Mikkelsen's role is a small one, it is significant, showing his range and his ability to make a supporting role totally his own.

One of the best-reviewed and received Star Wars films, Rogue One: A Star Wars Story is a space opera that focuses more on people than starships. As Galen Erso, a loving father embroiled in galactic intrigue, Mikkelsen helped make the film a hit with long-time fans of the franchise and newcomers alike. Released in 2016, Rogue One remains one of the best entries in the science-fiction franchise.

A black comedy-drama released in 2020, Another Round tells the story of four friends who decide to see how far they can push the bounds of propriety by maintaining a near-constant level of intoxication. While Mikkelsen is probably best-known for his work in dramas, this film shows how adept he is with comedy. As Martin, Mikkelsen demonstrates how the character uses alcohol as a balm, never realizing he's increasingly reliant on the substance to get through every facet of daily life. Striking and funny, Another Round is a must-see Mikkelsen project.