Benedict Cumberbatch is undeniably a master at portraying the complexities of genius, a gift that comes with both blessings and burdens. Throughout his illustrious career encompassing stage, television, and film, this extraordinary actor has solidified his position as the ultimate go-to performer for cinematic excellence.
However, his talent transcends far beyond that. In the last ten years, he has demonstrated his versatility by taking on an array of intricate roles. As an Emmy and BAFTA winner and a double Oscar nominee, Cumberbatch’s repertoire of characters is as diverse as it is compelling.
From solving mind-bending mysteries as Sherlock Holmes to saving the universe as Doctor Strange, this debonair actor has graced us with unforgettable performances over the years.
As we revisit some of his best movie roles on the occasion of his birthday, let us raise our or teacups to toast to the man who has made us laugh, cry, and believe in the magic of cinema.
So, grab your popcorn and fasten your seatbelts as we delve into Cumberbatch’s most spellbinding movie roles!
Sherlock Holmes in Sherlock (2010-2017)
Let’s start with the role that put Cumberbatch on the map—the modern-day Sherlock Holmes. His portrayal of the legendary detective was nothing short of electrifying! With a brain that could outsmart a supercomputer and a taste for the eccentric, Cumberbatch breathed new life into the detective with his dry humour and cheekbones sharp enough to slice bread. It’s like he was born to don that iconic deerstalker hat!
Watch it here.
Alan Turing in The Imitation Game (2014)
In this captivating biopic, the actor portrays Alan Turing, a brilliant mathematician and logician who helped bring the war to an end. The way he made nerdy look so cool was almost an injustice to the rest of us mere mortals. Who knew solving complex equations could be so attractive?
Watch it here.
Doctor Strange in Doctor Strange (2016)
Cumberbatch waved his wand, or rather, his mystical Cloak of Levitation, and magically transformed into the Sorcerer Supreme, Doctor Strange. With a perfect blend of arrogance and vulnerability, he whisked us away to the Marvel Cinematic Universe. He mastered the mystic arts like a seasoned pro, making us believe that parallel dimensions were just a stone’s throw away. If only we could summon a Benedict Cumberbatch into our everyday lives!
Watch it here.
Khan Noonien Singh in Star Trek Into Darkness (2013)
Remember when Cumberbatch took a break from being the good guy and embraced his inner villainy? As the genetically enhanced superhuman, Khan Noonien Singh, he sent chills down our spines while still managing to make us swoon. The best part? Even when he’s a bad guy, we can’t help but root for him. His villainy is as charming as his smile, which, let’s be honest, should be illegal!
Watch it here.
Dominic Cummings in Brexit: The Uncivil War (2019)
Cumberbatch took a deep dive into the world of political drama as Dominic Cummings, the mastermind behind the Brexit campaign. He brought the same intensity to politics as he did to battling supervillains or solving crimes. With his sharp intellect and that iconic voice, he could make any political debate entertaining—even if it’s about fish quotas!
Watch it here.
Thomas Edison in The Current War (2017)
No need to switch on the light; just let Cumberbatch’s dazzling performance as Thomas Edison illuminate your screen! In this historical drama, he portrayed the renowned inventor in a battle for electrical supremacy. With his characteristic intensity and charisma, he lit up the screen like one of Edison’s very own light bulbs.
Watch it here.
Julian Assange in The Fifth Estate (2013)
Cumberbatch donned the platinum hair and Australian accent to portray the infamous WikiLeaks founder, Julian Assange. His portrayal delved into the complexities of this controversial figure, showing us that truth-telling doesn’t always come without consequences. And let’s be honest, with those striking blue eyes, he could leak classified documents into our hearts any day!
Watch it here.
