Jake Gyllenhaal names his five favourite movies of all time.

 

 

Jake Gyllenhaal is widely admired for his thoughtful approach to acting and storytelling. Over the years, his performances have reflected emotional depth, intensity, and a strong respect for cinema’s past. When the acclaimed actor shared his five favorite films of all time, the list revealed a mix of nostalgia, classic Hollywood, and international cinema — including a landmark film featuring Anthony Quinn.

 

According to Far Out Magazine, Gyllenhaal’s selections are deeply personal, shaped by childhood memories and powerful viewing experiences that stayed with him long after the credits rolled.

 

The Five Films That Shaped Jake Gyllenhaal

 

Among Gyllenhaal’s favorites is The Goonies, the beloved 1980s adventure that captures the joy of childhood imagination and friendship. He has described it as an endlessly entertaining film that left a lasting impression during his early years.

 

 

Another favorite is Jerry Maguire, Cameron Crowe’s iconic romantic drama. Gyllenhaal has said it’s a movie he can never turn off once it’s on, praising its emotional honesty and character-driven storytelling.

 

 

His list also includes Searching for Bobby Fischer, a quietly powerful film about a young chess prodigy. The movie’s thoughtful pacing, strong performances, and reflective tone clearly resonated with Gyllenhaal, aligning with his appreciation for emotionally grounded stories.

 

 

Rounding out the list is Woman of the Year, the classic romantic comedy starring Spencer Tracy and Katharine Hepburn. Gyllenhaal’s connection to the film is rooted in memory, recalling watching it with his mother and being especially fond of its humor and warmth.

 

 

Standing prominently among Gyllenhaal’s favorite films is La Strada, Federico Fellini’s 1954 masterpiece and one of Anthony Quinn’s most celebrated performances. In the film, Quinn portrays Zampanò, a traveling strongman whose emotional journey unfolds with devastating power.

 

 

 

Gyllenhaal has singled out La Strada for its unforgettable ending, a moment often cited as one of the most moving conclusions in cinema history. At the heart of that impact is Quinn’s performance — raw, complex, and deeply human. His portrayal helped define the film’s emotional weight and cemented his place as one of the great actors of world cinema.

 

 

That La Strada remains influential enough to appear on a modern actor’s list of all-time favorites speaks to Anthony Quinn’s enduring legacy. His work continues to inspire actors across generations, serving as a benchmark for emotional truth and cinematic bravery.

 

 

Jake Gyllenhaal’s list reflects a deep respect for films that transcend time, and La Strada stands as a powerful example of that legacy. While cinema continues to evolve, performances like Anthony Quinn’s remain essential viewing — not only for audiences, but for actors seeking to understand the depth and responsibility of the craft.

 

 

 

 

Source:
Original article published by Far Out Magazine
https://faroutmagazine.co.uk/jake-gyllenhaal-five-favourite-movies/