Mel Gibson’s Career: From ‘Summer City’ to ‘Monster Summer’

Mel Gibson rose from the Australian film scene to become one of the biggest and most recognizable movie stars in the world. He first gained international attention as the lead in the dystopian action film ‘Mad Max’, a role that established his on-screen intensity. Throughout the 1980s, he became a massive box-office draw, known for his charisma and his ability to play edgy, unpredictable heroes in blockbuster franchises like ‘Lethal Weapon’.

Beyond his success as an actor, Gibson also became a highly acclaimed director. His work behind the camera on films like ‘Braveheart’ earned him Academy Awards and proved his talent for telling epic, ambitious stories. His career has seen him move between action, drama, romance, and even comedy, showcasing a remarkable range. From his early days as a rising star to his work as an established veteran of the industry, Gibson has remained a powerful and compelling presence in cinema.

Summer City (1977)

This was Mel Gibson’s first feature film role. He played a supporting character named Scallop in this low-budget Australian drama. The story follows a group of four young men who go on a surfing trip, which takes a dark turn and ends in violence.

As his film debut, ‘Summer City’ was a humble start for the young actor. The film itself is a gritty example of the Australian exploitation genre of the era. Gibson’s appearance was brief but marked the official beginning of a long and significant screen career that would soon take off.

Mad Max (1979)

This is the film that made Mel Gibson a star. He played Max Rockatansky, a police officer in a near-future Australia that is descending into chaos. After a violent motorcycle gang targets his family, Max sets out on a brutal path of revenge.

‘Mad Max’ was a global smash hit, praised for its raw energy and groundbreaking stunt work. Gibson’s intense and brooding performance as the anti-hero Max became iconic and launched his international career. The film spawned a highly successful franchise and is considered a classic of dystopian action cinema.

Tim (1979)

In this Australian romantic drama, Gibson played the title role of Tim, a handsome young man with an intellectual disability. He forms a close and controversial friendship with an older, lonely businesswoman who hires him to do yard work.

‘Tim’ showcased Gibson’s dramatic range early in his career. He won the Australian Film Institute Award for Best Actor for his sensitive and convincing portrayal of the character. The role proved that he was more than just an action star and had the skills of a serious dramatic actor.

Attack Force Z (1981)

Gibson starred in this World War II film as Captain Paul Kelly. He leads an elite Australian special forces unit on a secret mission to a Japanese-occupied island. Their goal is to rescue the survivors of a crashed plane.

‘Attack Force Z’ was a straightforward war-action movie that featured Gibson in a heroic leadership role. It was one of several Australian films he made as his international profile was growing. The film highlighted his ability to play capable and commanding military characters.

Gallipoli (1981)

In this acclaimed historical drama, Gibson played Frank Dunne, a cynical young man who enlists in the Australian army during World War I. The film follows his friendship with another soldier as they are sent to fight in the disastrous Gallipoli Campaign.

Directed by Peter Weir, ‘Gallipoli’ is considered a landmark of Australian cinema. Gibson’s performance was praised for its depth and charisma, capturing the character’s journey from carefree youth to a soldier facing the horrors of war. The film’s tragic ending cemented its powerful anti-war message.

Mad Max 2 (1981)

Gibson reprised his iconic role as Max Rockatansky in this highly anticipated sequel, also known as ‘The Road Warrior’. Now a lone wanderer in a post-apocalyptic wasteland, Max agrees to help a community of settlers defend their fuel supply from a band of vicious marauders.

‘Mad Max 2’ is often regarded as one of the greatest action films ever made. It surpassed the original in scale and intensity, and its visual style has influenced countless films, TV shows, and video games. Gibson’s performance solidified Max as a legendary cinematic anti-hero.

The Year of Living Dangerously (1982)

In this romantic political thriller, Gibson played Guy Hamilton, an ambitious Australian journalist. He is sent to Indonesia during a period of political unrest in the 1960s. He navigates a dangerous world of intrigue with the help of a local photographer.

The film was a critical and commercial success, further boosting Gibson’s international stardom. Directed by Peter Weir, it combined romance, drama, and political tension. Gibson’s performance as the driven and conflicted journalist was central to the film’s appeal.

The Bounty (1984)

Gibson starred as the historical figure Fletcher Christian, the mutinous first mate of the HMS Bounty. The film tells the famous story of the 1789 mutiny against the tyrannical Captain Bligh, played by Anthony Hopkins. The crew seizes the ship and settles on a remote island.

‘The Bounty’ was a lavish and historically detailed production with a star-studded cast. Gibson gave a charismatic and sympathetic performance as the leader of the mutiny. The film was noted for its more nuanced portrayal of both Christian and Captain Bligh compared to previous adaptations.

The River (1984)

In this drama, Gibson played Tom Garvey, a struggling farmer trying to save his family’s farm from foreclosure. He must also protect his land and his family from a constantly flooding river, while dealing with a local businessman who wants to buy his property.

‘The River’ was a story about the resilience of rural American families. Gibson played a hardworking and determined patriarch, co-starring with Sissy Spacek. The role allowed him to portray a grounded, everyday man facing immense hardship.

Mrs. Soffel (1984)

Gibson played Ed Biddle, a real-life prisoner on death row in early 20th-century Pittsburgh. The film tells the story of the prison warden’s wife, played by Diane Keaton, who falls in love with Biddle and helps him and his brother escape.

‘Mrs. Soffel’ was a dark and atmospheric romantic drama based on a true story. Gibson’s performance as the charismatic and dangerous condemned man was intense and compelling. He shared strong on-screen chemistry with Diane Keaton in this tragic love story.

Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome (1985)

In his third outing as Max Rockatansky, Gibson’s character is exiled into the desert wasteland. He is rescued by a tribe of lost children who believe he is a prophesied savior who will lead them to a new home.

‘Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome’ was the biggest and most ambitious film in the trilogy. It introduced iconic elements like the Thunderdome arena and the villainous Aunty Entity, played by Tina Turner. The film was a commercial success that cemented the franchise’s legendary status.

Lethal Weapon (1987)

This film defined Gibson’s status as a Hollywood superstar. He played Martin Riggs, a reckless and suicidal LAPD detective who is partnered with a veteran cop nearing retirement. Together, they uncover a massive drug-trafficking ring.

‘Lethal Weapon’ was a massive hit that revolutionized the buddy-cop action genre. Gibson’s portrayal of the unhinged but highly skilled Riggs was iconic, blending wild humor with intense action and surprising emotional depth. The film’s success launched another major franchise for the actor.

Tequila Sunrise (1988)

Gibson starred as Dale McKussic, a former drug dealer trying to go straight. His efforts are complicated by his best friend, a narcotics detective played by Kurt Russell, and a beautiful restaurant owner, played by Michelle Pfeiffer, with whom they both fall in love.

‘Tequila Sunrise’ was a stylish and slick romantic crime thriller. Gibson’s performance as the charming and conflicted anti-hero was a key part of the film’s appeal. The movie was noted for the strong chemistry between its three lead actors.

Lethal Weapon 2 (1989)

Gibson returned as Martin Riggs in this highly successful sequel. Riggs and his partner Murtaugh are assigned to protect a federal witness, but they soon find themselves battling a group of ruthless South African diplomats who are using their diplomatic immunity to cover up a criminal enterprise.

‘Lethal Weapon 2’ was even more successful than the original, praised for its blend of explosive action and comedy. Gibson fully embraced the character of Riggs, whose wild antics and emotional vulnerability continued to resonate with audiences worldwide.

Bird on a Wire (1990)

In this action-comedy, Gibson played Rick Jarmin, a man in the witness protection program. His cover is blown when his old flame, played by Goldie Hawn, recognizes him. The two are forced to go on the run from the dangerous criminals he helped put in prison.

‘Bird on a Wire’ was a commercial success that capitalized on the on-screen chemistry between Gibson and Goldie Hawn. The film combined romance, comedy, and action in a lighthearted adventure. It showcased Gibson’s talent for more playful and comedic roles.

Air America (1990)

Gibson co-starred with Robert Downey Jr. in this action-comedy. He played Gene Ryack, a veteran pilot for a secret, CIA-run airline that operates during the Vietnam War. The airline is used to transport supplies, and unofficially, to smuggle drugs.

‘Air America’ was a satirical take on a secret chapter of the Vietnam War. Gibson’s character is a cynical and rebellious pilot who acts as a mentor to the new recruit. The film blended action with a dark, anti-establishment sense of humor.

Hamlet (1990)

Gibson took on the iconic title role in this film adaptation of William Shakespeare’s famous play. He played the tormented Prince of Denmark who seeks to avenge his father’s murder. The film was directed by Franco Zeffirelli and featured a cast of acclaimed actors.

Taking on the role of Hamlet was a bold and ambitious move that showed Gibson’s commitment to serious acting. His performance was praised by many critics for making the complex character accessible and emotionally raw. The film helped solidify his reputation as a versatile and talented actor.

Forever Young (1992)

In this science-fiction romance, Gibson played Daniel McCormick, a test pilot in 1939. Devastated after his girlfriend falls into a coma, he volunteers for a cryogenic experiment that freezes him for what he thinks will be one year. He wakes up over 50 years later in the 1990s.

‘Forever Young’ was a charming and sentimental film that became a box office hit. Gibson’s performance as the man out of time was both charismatic and touching. The film was a gentle blend of romance, comedy, and adventure.

Lethal Weapon 3 (1992)

Gibson once again played Martin Riggs in the third installment of the blockbuster franchise. This time, Riggs and Murtaugh investigate a case involving stolen police firearms and a corrupt ex-cop. They are joined by a tough Internal Affairs officer, played by Rene Russo.

‘Lethal Weapon 3′ continued the series’ successful formula of high-octane action and witty banter. The film was another massive commercial success, proving the enduring popularity of the characters and the franchise. Gibson’s chemistry with his co-stars remained a major highlight.

The Man Without a Face (1993)

This film marked Gibson’s directorial debut, and he also starred in the lead role. He played Justin McLeod, a reclusive former teacher whose face was disfigured in an accident. He forms a bond with a young boy who asks him for tutoring.

‘The Man Without a Face’ was a well-received drama that showcased Gibson’s talent behind the camera. His performance as the lonely and mysterious teacher was sensitive and powerful. The film was a thoughtful and moving story about friendship and overcoming prejudice.

Maverick (1994)

Gibson starred as Bret Maverick in this comedic Western based on the classic television series. He plays a charming cardsharp and con man trying to raise enough money to enter a high-stakes poker tournament. He is joined by a fellow gambler and a determined lawman.

‘Maverick’ was a fun and entertaining blockbuster that perfectly suited Gibson’s charismatic and witty screen persona. The film was a critical and commercial success, praised for its clever script and the great chemistry of its cast.

Braveheart (1995)

Gibson directed, produced, and starred in this historical epic about the Scottish hero William Wallace. The film follows Wallace’s journey from a commoner to the leader of the Scottish rebellion against English rule in the 13th century.

‘Braveheart’ was a massive critical and commercial success. The film won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director for Gibson. His passionate portrayal of Wallace and the film’s sweeping battle scenes made it an instant classic and the defining achievement of his career.

Ransom (1996)

In this intense thriller, Gibson played Tom Mullen, a wealthy airline executive whose son is kidnapped. When he becomes convinced the kidnappers will not return his son even if he pays, he turns the tables by offering the ransom money as a bounty on their heads.

‘Ransom’ was a huge box office hit, praised for its suspenseful plot and Gibson’s powerful performance. He convincingly portrayed a desperate father pushed to his absolute limit. The film remains one of the most popular and successful thrillers of the 1990s.

Conspiracy Theory (1997)

Gibson played Jerry Fletcher, an eccentric and paranoid New York City taxi driver. He believes in numerous complex conspiracy theories, which he publishes in a newsletter. His life is turned upside down when one of his theories turns out to be real, making him a target.

This thriller reunited Gibson with ‘Lethal Weapon’ director Richard Donner. He delivered a manic and sympathetic performance as the troubled protagonist. The film was a commercial success that blended action, suspense, and a touch of dark humor.

Lethal Weapon 4 (1998)

In the fourth and final film of the series, Gibson returned as Martin Riggs. Now expecting a child with his partner, Riggs and Murtaugh take on a ruthless Chinese Triad gang involved in human trafficking and counterfeiting.

‘Lethal Weapon 4’ brought the beloved franchise to a close with another dose of explosive action and comedy. It was a major box office hit, successfully concluding the story of two of the most iconic partners in action movie history.

Payback (1999)

Gibson starred as Porter, a hardened thief who is double-crossed by his wife and his partner after a heist and left for dead. After recovering, he returns to the city to get his share of the money back, leaving a trail of destruction in his wake.

‘Payback’ was a gritty and violent neo-noir action film. Gibson’s performance as the relentless and single-minded anti-hero was cold and brutal. The film was a stylish and cynical thriller that paid homage to crime films of the 1970s.

The Patriot (2000)

In this historical epic, Gibson played Benjamin Martin, a veteran of the French and Indian War and a widowed father of seven. He is drawn into the American Revolutionary War after a brutal British officer commits an atrocity against his family.

‘The Patriot’ was a massive blockbuster, praised for its epic scope and intense battle sequences. Gibson gave a powerful performance as a reluctant hero forced to fight for his family and his country. It was another major success in the genre of historical drama for the actor.

What Women Want (2000)

Gibson starred in this fantasy romantic comedy as Nick Marshall, a chauvinistic advertising executive. After a freak accident, he gains the ability to hear what women are thinking. He uses his newfound power to his advantage at work and in his personal life.

‘What Women Want’ was a massive box office success and showed a completely different side of Gibson. His comedic performance was widely praised, and the film proved his versatility and appeal in a lighthearted, romantic genre.

The Million Dollar Hotel (2000)

In this drama, Gibson played Agent Skinner, a determined FBI agent. He is investigating the death of a billionaire’s son, who fell from the roof of a rundown hotel populated by a cast of eccentric outcasts.

Gibson’s role was a supporting one in this quirky, atmospheric film. He played the straight-laced lawman in a world of bizarre characters. The film was a more artistic and unconventional project than his usual blockbusters.

We Were Soldiers (2002)

Gibson portrayed Lt. Col. Hal Moore in this visceral war film. It depicts the true story of the Battle of Ia Drang in 1965, the first major battle between the United States Army and the North Vietnamese Army during the Vietnam War.

‘We Were Soldiers’ was praised for its realistic and brutal depiction of combat and its focus on the soldiers’ experiences. Gibson gave a commanding and compassionate performance as the leader who promises to be the first to step on the battlefield and the last to leave.

Signs (2002)

In this science-fiction thriller directed by M. Night Shyamalan, Gibson played Graham Hess. He is a former priest who has lost his faith after his wife’s death. He discovers mysterious crop circles in his cornfield, which signals the beginning of an alien invasion.

‘Signs’ was a huge box office success, lauded for its suspense and focus on family and faith. Gibson’s performance as a man struggling with his beliefs in the face of an extraordinary event was powerful and emotional. It is one of the most memorable roles of his career.

The Singing Detective (2003)

Gibson had a supporting role as Dr. Gibbon in this musical-noir-comedy. The film is about a writer hospitalized with a severe skin condition. Hallucinating from pain and medication, he escapes into a fantasy world where he is a detective in a 1950s noir story.

Gibson, who also produced the film, played the writer’s quirky psychiatrist. It was an unconventional and stylized film that allowed him to take on a more eccentric character role. The film was a bold and imaginative adaptation of a classic British television series.

Edge of Darkness (2010)

This film marked Gibson’s first leading role after several years away from the screen. He played Thomas Craven, a homicide detective whose daughter is murdered on his doorstep. His investigation uncovers her secret life and a vast corporate and government conspiracy.

‘Edge of Darkness’ was a gritty and intense revenge thriller. Gibson’s performance was praised as a powerful comeback, capturing the rage and grief of a father seeking justice. The film was a dark and serious crime drama.

The Beaver (2011)

In this unique drama, Gibson played Walter Black, a deeply depressed CEO. He hits rock bottom and begins to communicate only through a beaver hand puppet, which takes on its own personality and helps him turn his life around.

‘The Beaver’ was a bold and unconventional film that tackled themes of mental illness. Gibson’s performance was acclaimed by critics as brave and emotionally complex. The role was one of the most challenging and unusual of his career.

Get the Gringo (2012)

Gibson played a career criminal known only as “Driver.” After being caught by Mexican authorities, he is sent to a corrupt and bizarre prison that functions like a small city. He must learn to survive using his wits and skills.

Gibson also co-wrote and produced this gritty action film. It was praised for its clever script, dark humor, and hard-hitting action. The film was a return to the tough, anti-hero characters that he was known for in his earlier career.

Machete Kills (2013)

In this over-the-top action sequel, Gibson played the main villain, Luther Voz. He is a brilliant but psychotic arms dealer and inventor who has a plan to start a war from space. The hero Machete is hired by the U.S. President to stop him.

Gibson embraced the campy and outrageous tone of the film, delivering a fun and theatrical performance as the eccentric supervillain. The role allowed him to show a more playful and self-aware side in a highly stylized action-comedy.

The Expendables 3 (2014)

Gibson played the primary antagonist, Conrad Stonebanks, in this ensemble action film. Stonebanks is a ruthless arms dealer and the co-founder of the Expendables team, who was presumed dead. He returns to destroy the team he helped create.

Playing the villain opposite a cast of action legends like Sylvester Stallone and Arnold Schwarzenegger, Gibson was a formidable and intense presence. His performance was highlighted by critics as one of the best parts of the film.

Blood Father (2016)

In this gritty action-thriller, Gibson played John Link. He is an ex-convict and recovering alcoholic who lives in a remote trailer park. His estranged teenage daughter comes to him for help after getting into trouble with a dangerous drug cartel.

‘Blood Father’ was praised by critics as a lean, tough, and effective thriller. Gibson’s performance was highly acclaimed, with many calling it one of his best in years. He brought a weary authenticity to the role of a flawed man trying to do the right thing.

Daddy’s Home 2 (2017)

Gibson joined the cast of this holiday comedy sequel. He played Kurt Mayron, the womanizing, astronaut father of Mark Wahlberg’s character. His cool and rebellious personality clashes with the gentle and emotional father played by John Lithgow.

Gibson’s role was a key source of comedy in the film. He fully committed to the part of the inappropriate and overly masculine grandfather, showing off his comedic timing in an ensemble cast.

Dragged Across Concrete (2018)

In this slow-burn crime thriller, Gibson played Brett Ridgeman. He is a veteran police detective who, after being suspended for brutality, decides to enter the criminal underworld to get the money he feels he is owed.

‘Dragged Across Concrete’ was a dark, violent, and deliberately paced film. Gibson’s performance as the bitter and morally compromised detective was praised for its gritty realism. The film was noted for its distinctive style and dialogue.

The Professor and the Madman (2019)

Gibson played Professor James Murray, the primary editor of the Oxford English Dictionary in the 19th century. The film tells the true story of how Murray oversaw the massive project and formed an unlikely partnership with one of its most prolific contributors, a man confined to a lunatic asylum.

This was a long-time passion project for Gibson, who also served as a producer. He gave a dedicated and intellectual performance as the scholar undertaking a monumental task. The film was a historical drama about the power of words and an unusual friendship.

Force of Nature (2020)

In this action-thriller, Gibson played Ray Barrett, a stubborn retired detective. He refuses to evacuate his apartment building during a hurricane. A group of thieves, planning a heist in the building, sees the storm as the perfect cover.

Gibson played a grizzled and tough supporting character who gets caught up in the siege. The film is a contained thriller that pits a handful of residents against a team of well-armed criminals during a natural disaster.

Fatman (2020)

Gibson starred in this dark action-comedy as a gritty and unconventional Santa Claus. Facing a decline in his business, this world-weary Chris Cringle must also contend with a hitman who has been hired by a vengeful child to kill him.

‘Fatman’ was a unique and violent twist on the holiday movie genre. Gibson’s performance as a jaded and tough Santa was praised for its originality and dark humor. The role was another example of him taking on unusual and unexpected projects.

Boss Level (2021)

In this science-fiction action film, Gibson played the main villain, Colonel Clive Ventor. The story is about a retired special forces soldier who is trapped in a time loop, forcing him to relive the day of his murder over and over. Ventor is the man responsible for his predicament.

Gibson delivered a charismatic and menacing performance as the film’s powerful antagonist. ‘Boss Level’ was a high-energy and inventive action movie that received positive reviews for its fun concept and exciting sequences.

Dangerous (2021)

Gibson played Dr. Alderwood, a psychiatrist, in this action-thriller. His patient, a reformed sociopath, travels to a remote island to investigate his brother’s mysterious death. The island is soon besieged by mercenaries, and the man’s violent past comes roaring back.

Gibson’s role was a supporting one, appearing mostly in phone conversations as he tries to counsel the film’s protagonist. He provided a grounding presence as the voice of reason in the violent and chaotic story.

Last Looks (2022)

In this mystery-comedy, Gibson played Alastair Pinch. He is an eccentric and often-drunk television star who is the prime suspect in his wife’s murder. A disgraced ex-cop is hired as a private investigator to look into the case.

Gibson gave a wild and theatrical performance as the flamboyant and unpredictable actor. The role allowed him to showcase his comedic talents in a quirky detective story filled with colorful characters.

Panama (2022)

Gibson played Stark, a former military commander, in this action-thriller. The film is set in 1989 and follows an ex-marine who is sent undercover by Stark to Panama to execute a high-value deal. He soon finds himself in the middle of a dangerous political conflict.

Gibson’s role was that of a grizzled veteran who orchestrates the mission from the shadows. He provided a commanding presence in a supporting capacity, guiding the protagonist through the perilous political landscape of the era.

Agent Game (2022)

In this spy thriller, Gibson played Olsen, a senior intelligence official. He is part of a team of CIA officers who find themselves scapegoats for a failed mission. They become the targets of a rendition team and must fight for their survival.

Gibson played a ruthless and cynical intelligence operative in this ensemble action film. The movie was a complex tale of betrayal and shifting loyalties within the world of espionage.

Father Stu (2022)

Gibson had a key supporting role as Bill Long in this biographical drama. The film tells the true story of Stuart Long, an amateur boxer who becomes a Catholic priest after a life-changing accident. Gibson played Stu’s estranged and cynical father.

Gibson’s performance was highly praised by critics as one of the best of his later career. He gave a raw and powerful portrayal of a man who is initially distant and dismissive of his son’s faith but undergoes his own transformation.

Hot Seat (2022)

In this thriller, Gibson played a veteran bomb squad officer. The story centers on a former hacker who is forced to break into high-level banking institutions by an unseen villain. The hacker is sitting on a bomb that will detonate if he leaves his chair.

Gibson’s character is the expert who tries to find and disarm the bomb while also investigating the larger conspiracy. He brought his trademark intensity to the role of the seasoned professional in a high-pressure situation.

Bandit (2022)

Gibson played a supporting role as Tommy Kay in this crime film based on a true story. The movie follows the “Flying Bandit,” a charming criminal who escaped from a Michigan prison, crossed into Canada, and proceeded to rob a record number of banks.

Gibson portrayed a grizzled and loan shark who both finances and is impressed by the main character’s audacious crime spree. He added a veteran presence and a touch of dark humor to the biographical heist film.

On the Line (2022)

In this real-time thriller, Gibson starred as Elvis Cooney, a controversial radio host. During his late-night show, he receives a call from an unknown person who claims to have kidnapped his family. The host must play a dangerous game of survival live on the air to save them.

Gibson carried the film with an intense and frantic performance. The movie’s suspense is built around his character’s race against time, with the entire story unfolding over the course of a single night.

Confidential Informant (2023)

Gibson played Kevin Hickey, a police narcotics lieutenant, in this crime thriller. The story is about two detectives who make a deal with an informant to hunt down cop killers. However, their investigation uncovers a deeper level of corruption within the police department.

Gibson’s role was that of a weary and morally compromised police boss overseeing the dangerous investigation. The film is a gritty story of betrayal and justice in the criminal underworld.

Desperation Road (2023)

In this thriller, Gibson played a supporting role as Mitchell. The film follows an ex-convict who is trying to live a quiet life in a small Mississippi town. He and his daughter get caught up in a cycle of violence after he tries to help a woman on the run.

Gibson played the father of the main character, providing guidance and support as his son is drawn back into a dangerous world. It was a grounded, character-driven role in a tense, Southern noir story.

Boneyard (2024)

Gibson played Agent Petrovick in this crime thriller. An FBI agent and a local police chief team up to hunt for a serial killer known as “The Bone Collector.” Their investigation leads them to a suspect who may be more than he seems.

Gibson’s role as the determined federal agent drives the film’s central mystery. The movie is a suspenseful procedural that focuses on the hunt for a dangerous and elusive killer.

Monster Summer (2024)

In this thriller, Gibson played a supporting role. The story is set in the 1990s and follows a group of kids on Martha’s Vineyard. They discover a dead body and find themselves pursued by a serial killer during a hurricane.

Gibson portrayed a seasoned detective investigating the case. The film blends a coming-of-age story with a suspenseful slasher plot, creating a nostalgic yet tense atmosphere.

Which Mel Gibson film stands out the most to you? Let us know in the comments.