Don Cheadle Reveals the One Movie He Watches Every Year
While known for his dramatic roles, Don Cheadle has a surprising list of favorite films that have deeply influenced him. Discover the profound sci-fi, classic satire, and one particular comedy that he revisits annually for a guaranteed laugh.
Don Cheadle's filmography is packed with movies people love to watch again and again, from his roles in the Marvel Cinematic Universe to the slick Ocean’s Eleven series. But what does the acclaimed actor himself put on for a repeat viewing? Cheadle recently shared a list of his all-time favorite films, revealing a fascinating mix of hidden gems and timeless classics that have shaped his perspective over the years.
Profound and Powerful Stories
Among his top picks is "Man Facing Southeast," a compelling 1986 Argentine science fiction film. The story centers on a patient in a psychiatric hospital who claims to be an extraterrestrial visitor. Cheadle found it deeply moving, saying, “It’s a great meditation on how we treat and mistreat ‘the other’. A magical, thought-provoking film that I saw at a time in my life when I was questioning a lot of things about the nature of humanity and how we react when we come up against the unknown and unknowable.”
Another film that left a lasting mark on him was 1972’s "Sounder." He described it as, “Another film that I saw at an impressionable time in my life that served for me as a beautiful testament to the power of love in the face of absolute injustice and oppression.”
An Appreciation for the Greats
It’s no surprise that a Stanley Kubrick masterpiece made the list. Cheadle praised 1964’s "Dr. Strangelove," particularly for the incredible work of its star. “Another perfect film showcasing the brilliance of the one and only, never-to-be-seen-again talents of Peter Sellers. What a beast,” he commented. “Kubrick actually wanted him to play another character. I can only imagine what he would have done with that.” Alongside this satirical classic, Cheadle also named the powerful 2002 drama "City of God" as one of his favorites.
The Movie That Guarantees a Laugh
While his choices lean toward serious drama, the one film Cheadle returns to regularly is a pure comedy: the original 1979 version of "The In-Laws." He confessed, “It makes me pee with laughter. Peter Falk and Alan Arkin are a perfect combination and play off each other so well in this ridiculous movie. I watch it at least once a year.”
Directed by Arthur Hiller, this action-buddy comedy follows a mild-mannered dentist (Arkin) who gets roped into a series of wild escapades by his daughter's future father-in-law (Falk), a man who claims to be a rogue CIA agent. Their chaotic journey involves the Treasury Department and Central American dictators, all before their kids can get married. The film, written by Andrew Bergman, was a critical hit thanks to the brilliant chemistry of its leads.
In stark contrast, the 2003 remake starring Michael Douglas and Albert Brooks was widely considered a flop, serving as a perfect example of why some classics are best left untouched. Cheadle’s list, though dominated by dramas, highlights that even for a serious actor, there's always room for an underrated comedy that simply exists to make you laugh.