Ben Kingsley’s Career: From ‘Fear Is the Key’ to ‘ The King of Kings’

Ben Kingsley is one of the most acclaimed and versatile actors of his generation, known for his ability to completely transform into a wide array of characters. Knighted in 2002 for his services to the British film industry, his career spans over five decades and includes some of the most memorable performances in cinematic history. From historical icons to terrifying villains and comedic figures, Kingsley has demonstrated a remarkable range that has earned him numerous awards and nominations.

His journey to international stardom began with his monumental, Oscar-winning role in ‘Gandhi’. This definitive performance set the stage for a career defined by its diversity and depth. Whether he is playing a quiet hero, a menacing gangster, or a quirky supporting character, Kingsley brings a level of dedication and believability to every part. His filmography is a masterclass in the art of acting, showcasing a talent that continues to captivate audiences around the world.

‘Fear Is the Key’ (1972)

Ben Kingsley made his feature film debut in this action thriller, where he played the role of Royale. The film follows a man whose family is killed in a plane crash that he discovers was no accident. He embarks on a complex and dangerous quest for revenge against the people responsible.

Although it was a minor role, it marked Kingsley’s first appearance on the big screen after years of extensive and successful work on the stage, particularly with the Royal Shakespeare Company. This initial foray into film was the first step in a long and celebrated cinematic career.

‘Gandhi’ (1982)

In a career-defining performance, Ben Kingsley portrayed Mahatma Gandhi, the leader of India’s non-violent independence movement against British rule. The epic biographical film chronicles Gandhi’s life from his early days as a lawyer in South Africa to his assassination in 1948.

Kingsley’s transformative and deeply nuanced portrayal earned him the Academy Award for Best Actor. The role made him an international star, and his performance is still considered one of the greatest in film history, perfectly capturing the quiet strength and unwavering resolve of the historical figure.

‘Betrayal’ (1983)

Ben Kingsley starred as Robert in this drama based on the Harold Pinter play of the same name. The film examines the seven-year extramarital affair between a woman and her husband’s best friend, with the story told in reverse chronological order.

As the betrayed husband, Kingsley delivers a subtle and complex performance, navigating the intricate emotional landscape of love, friendship, and deceit. The film, also starring Jeremy Irons and Patricia Hodge, was praised for its powerful acting and its faithful adaptation of Pinter’s clever and poignant script.

‘Harem’ (1985)

In this romantic drama, Ben Kingsley played Selim, a wealthy Arab sheik. The story follows a young American woman who is kidnapped and taken to Selim’s harem, where a complex relationship develops between the captor and his captive.

Kingsley’s character is a powerful and enigmatic man who becomes fascinated by the independent spirit of the woman he has abducted. The film explores themes of power, love, and cultural clashes, with Kingsley providing a commanding central performance.

‘Turtle Diary’ (1986)

Ben Kingsley starred as William Snow in this quiet British drama. The film, also based on a novel, tells the story of two lonely, middle-aged people who find a common purpose when they hatch a plan to free sea turtles from the London Zoo and release them into the ocean.

Kingsley plays a bookstore assistant who, along with a children’s author, feels a connection to the captive animals. His performance is gentle and understated, perfectly capturing the character’s sense of quiet desperation and his yearning for freedom and connection.

‘Maurice’ (1987)

In this period drama based on the E.M. Forster novel, Ben Kingsley had a supporting role as Lasker-Jones. The film tells the story of a young man’s struggle with his identity as a gay man in the repressive society of early 20th-century England.

Kingsley’s character is a hypnotist whom the protagonist visits in an attempt to “cure” himself of his homosexuality. Lasker-Jones is a sympathetic and understanding figure who ultimately advises Maurice to accept himself for who he is, providing a key moment of insight in the film.

‘Pascali’s Island’ (1988)

Ben Kingsley played the title role of Basil Pascali, a spy for the Ottoman Sultan living on a small Greek island at the turn of the 20th century. For years, he has sent reports to the government that have gone unanswered, leaving him in a state of paranoia and existential doubt.

Kingsley gives a compelling performance as a man whose identity is tied to an empire that may no longer care about him. His world is turned upside down by the arrival of a British archaeologist, leading to a story of intrigue, betrayal, and obsession.

‘Without a Clue’ (1988)

In this comedic take on the Sherlock Holmes stories, Ben Kingsley played Dr. John Watson. The film’s premise is that Watson is the true crime-solving genius, who hired a bumbling, alcoholic actor to play the fictional detective “Sherlock Holmes” as a public front.

Kingsley’s portrayal of the intelligent but perpetually frustrated Watson is a perfect foil for Michael Caine’s incompetent Holmes. The role showcased Kingsley’s comedic talents as he tries to solve a case while struggling to keep his “famous” partner in line.

‘Testimony ‘ (1988)

Ben Kingsley portrayed the renowned Russian composer Dmitri Shostakovich in this biographical film. The movie explores the composer’s difficult life and career under the oppressive regime of Joseph Stalin, where his work was constantly scrutinized by the state.

Kingsley delivers a powerful and intense performance, capturing the artistic genius and moral struggles of a man trying to create music in a climate of fear and censorship. The film uses Shostakovich’s music to tell the story of his turbulent life.

‘Slipstream’ (1989)

In this post-apocalyptic science fiction film, Ben Kingsley played Avatar, a reclusive and enigmatic figure. The story is set in a future where the Earth has been devastated by ecological disaster, and small communities live in the path of a massive, near-constant wind.

Kingsley’s character is a mystic who lives in a cave and offers cryptic advice to the film’s protagonist, a lawman who is pursuing a fugitive. His role adds a layer of spiritual and philosophical depth to the sci-fi adventure.

‘The Fifth Monkey’ (1990)

Ben Kingsley starred as Cunda in this drama set in the Brazilian rainforest. Cunda is a poor villager who catches a number of chimpanzees to sell, hoping to use the money to marry the woman he loves, who is the wife of another man.

The film follows his difficult journey to the city, during which he forms a bond with one of the chimps. Kingsley’s performance captures the desperation and eventual moral awakening of a man facing difficult choices in a harsh environment.

‘Cellini: A Violent Life’ (1990)

In this historical drama, Ben Kingsley played the Governor. The film is a biopic of the 16th-century Italian sculptor and goldsmith Benvenuto Cellini, known for both his artistic genius and his tumultuous, often violent life.

Kingsley’s role as the provincial governor is part of the larger narrative exploring Cellini’s encounters with patrons, rivals, and the law. His performance contributed to the film’s depiction of the political and social landscape of Renaissance Italy.

‘Bugsy’ (1991)

Ben Kingsley earned his first Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor for his role as the notorious gangster Meyer Lansky. The film tells the story of his volatile friend and associate, Benjamin “Bugsy” Siegel, and his dream of building a gambling mecca in the Nevada desert, which would become Las Vegas.

As the intelligent and business-minded Lansky, Kingsley is the calm and calculating counterpart to Warren Beatty’s hot-headed Bugsy. His performance was widely praised for its quiet authority and understated menace, making him a memorable figure in the acclaimed crime drama.

‘Necessary Love’ (1991)

In this Italian romantic comedy, Ben Kingsley played Ernesto. The story centers on the relationship between two young lovers who work at the same company and whose romance is observed and commented on by their co-workers and the film’s narrator.

Kingsley’s role as one of the central characters in the office adds to the film’s ensemble cast. The movie explores the nature of love and relationships through its charming and quirky narrative style.

‘Sneakers’ (1992)

Ben Kingsley played Cosmo, the brilliant but sociopathic antagonist in this popular heist comedy. The film follows a team of security specialists who are blackmailed into stealing a top-secret black box that can decrypt any computer system.

Cosmo is the former friend of the team’s leader, who was arrested years ago and now seeks revenge with the powerful device. Kingsley’s performance as the charming and intelligent villain who believes in “world peace through world revolution” was a memorable highlight of the film.

‘Freddie as F.R.O.7.’ (1992)

In this animated musical fantasy, Ben Kingsley provided the voice for the main character, Freddie the Frog. Freddie is a medieval prince who was turned into a frog by his evil aunt and now works as a secret agent for the British intelligence service in modern-day Paris.

Kingsley’s voice work brought charm and sophistication to the six-foot-tall amphibian secret agent. The film is a whimsical adventure where Freddie must stop a villain’s plan to steal famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Big Ben.

‘Searching for Bobby Fischer’ (1993)

Ben Kingsley played Bruce Pandolfini, a stern and demanding chess teacher, in this drama based on a true story. The film is about Josh Waitzkin, a young boy who discovers he is a chess prodigy and must navigate the world of competitive chess while trying to maintain his love for the game.

As Pandolfini, Kingsley teaches his young student the disciplined, strategic approach of the legendary Bobby Fischer. His performance captured the intensity and complex philosophy of a master teacher trying to shape a gifted but sensitive child.

‘Dave’ (1993)

In this political comedy, Ben Kingsley had a key supporting role as Vice-President Gary Nance. The film stars Kevin Kline as Dave Kovic, a kind-hearted man who looks exactly like the President of the United States and is hired as a temporary double, only to end up running the country when the real president falls into a coma.

Kingsley portrays Nance as a decent and honest man who has been marginalized by the corrupt White House staff. His character ultimately plays a crucial part in resolving the film’s central deception and restoring integrity to the government.

‘Schindler’s List’ (1993)

Ben Kingsley delivered a powerful and moving performance as Itzhak Stern, the Jewish accountant and conscience of Oskar Schindler. The historical drama tells the true story of Schindler, a German businessman who saved the lives of more than a thousand Jewish refugees during the Holocaust by employing them in his factories.

As Stern, Kingsley is the man who manages the factory and quietly guides Schindler from being a war profiteer to a savior. His understated and dignified performance earned him another Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor and was a cornerstone of the celebrated film.

‘Death and the Maiden’ (1994)

In this intense psychological thriller directed by Roman Polanski, Ben Kingsley played Dr. Roberto Miranda. The film is set in an unnamed South American country after the fall of a dictatorship and centers on a woman who believes a stranger who visits her home is the doctor who tortured her years ago as a political prisoner.

Kingsley gives a compelling and ambiguous performance as the man who may or may not be a monster. The entire film is a tense, three-person drama that explores themes of justice, revenge, and the lingering trauma of political violence.

‘Species’ (1995)

Ben Kingsley starred as Xavier Fitch, the lead scientist on a secret government project, in this science fiction horror film. After receiving a transmission from space with alien DNA, his team creates a human-alien hybrid who escapes the lab and goes on a deadly quest to mate.

As the man in charge, Fitch assembles a team of experts to hunt down the beautiful but lethal creature before she can reproduce. Kingsley provided a sense of gravitas and desperation to the high-stakes sci-fi thriller.

‘Twelfth Night’ (1996)

In this film adaptation of the William Shakespeare comedy, Ben Kingsley played Feste, the wise and witty fool in the court of Countess Olivia. The story involves a shipwreck, mistaken identities, and a complex web of unrequited love.

Kingsley’s portrayal of Feste was highly praised. He brought a sense of melancholy and depth to the character, acting as both a source of comedy and a poignant observer of the romantic follies unfolding around him. He also sang several of the film’s musical numbers.

‘The Assignment’ (1997)

Ben Kingsley played Amos, a shrewd Israeli Mossad agent, in this spy thriller. The film is based on a true story and follows an American naval officer who is recruited to impersonate the infamous international terrorist Carlos the Jackal in a complex plot to capture him.

As the mastermind of the operation, Kingsley’s character is a driven and determined spy who trains the American officer to become a convincing double of the world’s most wanted man. His performance is central to the film’s tense and intricate plot.

‘Photographing Fairies’ (1997)

In this fantasy drama, Ben Kingsley played Minister Templeton. The film is set in the 1920s and follows a photographer who, grieving the loss of his wife, is hired to investigate a case of two young girls who claim to have photographed real fairies.

Kingsley’s character is a clergyman who has a strong belief in the spiritual world and becomes involved in the photographer’s investigation. His role adds a layer of faith and mystery to the story as the protagonist questions the line between reality and the supernatural.

‘The Confession’ (1999)

Ben Kingsley starred as Harry Fertig in this legal drama. After the medical system fails his young son, leading to his death, Fertig takes revenge on the three people he holds responsible and then turns himself in, asking a brilliant defense lawyer to represent him.

Kingsley delivers an intense performance as a man driven to an extreme act by grief and a sense of injustice. The film explores the moral and legal complexities of his case, questioning the nature of justice and vengeance.

‘Parting Shots’ (1999)

In this dark comedy, Ben Kingsley played Renzo Locatelli. The film’s protagonist is a man who, after being diagnosed with a terminal illness, decides to get revenge on all the people who have wronged him in his life by hiring a hitman.

Kingsley’s character is one of the colorful individuals involved in the protagonist’s unusual final mission. The film uses its morbid premise to explore themes of life, death, and settling scores.

‘CNN Millennium’ (1999)

Ben Kingsley served as the narrator for this landmark 26-part documentary series. The series, co-produced by CNN and the BBC, chronicled the last thousand years of human history, from the 11th century to the end of the 20th century.

His authoritative and engaging voice guided viewers through centuries of major historical events, cultural achievements, and social changes around the world. The series was a massive undertaking and was praised for its comprehensive scope and educational value.

‘Spooky House’ (2002)

In this family-friendly film, Ben Kingsley played The Great Zamboni, a mysterious and reclusive magician. He lives in a strange house that is rumored to be haunted and becomes the object of fascination for a group of young orphans.

Kingsley’s character is a lonely man who uses his magic and intimidating persona to keep people away. The film is a heartwarming story about friendship and looking past appearances to find the good in people.

‘What Planet Are You From?’ (2000)

Ben Kingsley played Graydon, the leader of a highly advanced alien race, in this science fiction comedy. His planet is populated by beings who have no emotions and reproduce by cloning, and he sends one of his agents to Earth to impregnate a human woman as part of a plan to take over the planet.

Kingsley’s performance as the deadpan and humorless alien leader was a comedic highlight of the film. He provides instructions and commentary from his home planet as his agent struggles to understand human emotions and relationships.

‘Rules of Engagement’ (2000)

In this military legal drama, Ben Kingsley played Ambassador Mourain. The film centers on a decorated Marine officer who is put on trial for ordering his troops to fire on a crowd of demonstrators outside the U.S. embassy in Yemen.

Kingsley’s character is the U.S. ambassador who was rescued during the incident but whose testimony may not be enough to save the officer’s career. The role was part of a strong ensemble cast in a film that explores the difficult moral choices made in combat.

‘Islam: Empire of Faith’ (2000)

Ben Kingsley served as the narrator for this PBS documentary, which explores the history of Islam from its origins to the height of the Ottoman Empire. The film chronicles the life of the Prophet Muhammad and the subsequent rise of a major world civilization.

His commanding and respectful narration provided the voice for this sweeping historical narrative. The documentary was praised for its educational content and for providing a comprehensive overview of Islamic history and culture for a Western audience.

‘Sexy Beast’ (2000)

Ben Kingsley delivered a terrifying and unforgettable performance as Don Logan, a volatile and sociopathic English gangster. For this role, he earned his third Academy Award nomination. The film follows a retired criminal living peacefully in Spain who is visited by Logan, who has come to forcibly recruit him for one last heist.

Kingsley’s portrayal of the relentlessly abusive and menacing Logan is considered one of the greatest cinematic villains of all time. He completely transformed himself for the role, creating a character of pure, intimidating malevolence that drives the film’s intense and suspenseful narrative.

‘A.I. Artificial Intelligence’ (2001)

In this science fiction film directed by Steven Spielberg, Ben Kingsley provided the voice for the Specialist, one of the advanced, futuristic androids. The story follows David, a highly advanced robotic boy who longs to become a real boy so he can regain the love of his human mother.

In the film’s final act, David is discovered in the distant future by the Specialists, who are studying the extinct human race. Kingsley’s calm and intelligent voice brought a sense of wonder and melancholy to these curious, elegant beings from the future.

‘The Triumph of Love’ (2002)

Ben Kingsley played Hermocrates in this romantic comedy based on an 18th-century French play. The film stars Mira Sorvino as a princess who disguises herself as a man to infiltrate the home of the philosopher who holds a grudge against her family and to win the heart of the prince he is mentoring.

As the stern and logical philosopher Hermocrates, Kingsley’s character is an obstacle to the princess’s plans. The film is a lighthearted farce about the battle between reason and emotion, with Kingsley representing the side of intellect.

‘Tuck Everlasting’ (2002)

In this fantasy drama, Ben Kingsley played the Man in the Yellow Suit, the film’s mysterious antagonist. The story is about a young girl who discovers a family that has become immortal after drinking from a magical spring, and the sinister man who wants to find the spring and sell the water for profit.

Kingsley’s character is a creepy and relentless figure who has been searching for the secret to eternal life for a long time. His performance brought a sense of quiet menace and obsession to the timeless story.

‘House of Sand and Fog’ (2003)

Ben Kingsley earned his fourth Academy Award nomination, this time for Best Actor, for his powerful portrayal of Massoud Behrani. Behrani is a former Iranian Air Force colonel who, now living in the United States, buys a house at auction, intending to sell it for a profit to restore his family’s fortune.

However, the house was wrongly taken from its original owner, leading to a tragic and escalating conflict between the proud immigrant family and the desperate young woman. Kingsley’s performance as a dignified man trying to maintain his honor while facing impossible circumstances was deeply moving and critically acclaimed.

‘Thunderbirds’ (2004)

In this live-action adaptation of the classic British sci-fi television series, Ben Kingsley played the main villain, “The Hood”. The Hood is a powerful psychic and master criminal who maroons the members of International Rescue on their space station so he can use their advanced vehicles to rob the world’s most secure banks.

As the antagonist, Kingsley brought a sense of theatrical villainy to the family-friendly adventure film. His plan is ultimately foiled by the youngest son of the Tracy family and his friends.

‘Suspect Zero’ (2004)

Ben Kingsley played Benjamin O’Ryan in this psychological thriller. The film follows an FBI agent who is investigating a series of bizarre murders and discovers that the killings may be connected to a former agent who was hunting a mythical serial killer known as “Suspect Zero.”

Kingsley’s character is a complex and mysterious figure at the heart of the investigation. His performance is intense and unsettling, driving the film’s dark and twisting narrative about the hunt for the ultimate evil.

‘A Sound of Thunder’ (2005)

In this science fiction action film based on a short story by Ray Bradbury, Ben Kingsley played Charles Hatton. He is the ruthless CEO of a company that offers time-travel safaris to the prehistoric age for wealthy clients.

When a tourist accidentally steps on a butterfly during a trip, it sets off a chain of evolutionary changes that threaten to erase human history. Kingsley’s character is a greedy corporate villain whose hubris leads to catastrophic consequences.

‘Oliver Twist’ (2005)

Ben Kingsley took on the iconic role of Fagin in this Roman Polanski-directed adaptation of the Charles Dickens novel. Fagin is the elderly and cunning leader of a group of young pickpockets in 19th-century London who takes in the orphan Oliver and teaches him to steal.

Kingsley’s portrayal of Fagin was a mix of menace, comedy, and pathos, presenting him as a complex figure who is both a villain and a victim of his circumstances. The performance was a key part of this dark and realistic retelling of the classic story.

‘BloodRayne’ (2005)

In this fantasy action-horror film based on a video game, Ben Kingsley played Kagan, the powerful vampire king of Transylvania. He is the father of the film’s heroine, Rayne, a human-vampire hybrid who seeks to kill him to avenge her mother.

As the main antagonist, Kingsley portrays a cruel and ancient vampire lord. The role was part of a series of genre films Kingsley appeared in during this period of his career.

‘Lucky Number Slevin’ (2006)

Ben Kingsley played The Rabbi in this stylish and complex crime thriller. The film follows a man named Slevin who, due to a case of mistaken identity, gets caught in the middle of a war between two rival mob bosses: The Rabbi and The Boss.

Kingsley’s character is a powerful and feared Hasidic Jewish crime lord. His performance was part of a star-studded cast in a twisty neo-noir story known for its clever dialogue and intricate plot.

‘You Kill Me’ (2007)

Ben Kingsley starred as Frank Falenczyk, a Polish-American hitman for his family’s mob in Buffalo, New York. When his drinking problem causes him to mess up an important job, his family sends him to San Francisco to sober up.

The film is a dark romantic comedy that follows Frank as he attends AA meetings, gets a job at a mortuary, and falls in love, all while trying to deal with his violent profession. Kingsley’s performance was praised for its blend of deadpan humor and pathos.

‘The Last Legion’ (2007)

In this historical action-adventure film, Ben Kingsley played Ambrosinus, a wise mentor and wizard. The story is a fantasy reimagining of the fall of the Western Roman Empire and the subsequent legends of King Arthur.

As Ambrosinus, he is the teacher of the last Roman emperor, the young Romulus Augustus. He guides the boy on a perilous journey to Britain, where he is destined to become the father of Arthur. The character is later revealed to be the famous Merlin.

‘The Ten Commandments’ (2007)

Ben Kingsley served as the narrator for this animated religious film, which tells the biblical story of Moses. The movie follows Moses from his discovery in a basket on the Nile, through his time as a prince of Egypt, to his destiny as the leader of the Israelites and the receiver of the Ten Commandments.

Kingsley’s authoritative voice guided the audience through the epic and well-known story. It was one of several voice roles he has taken on in animated and documentary projects throughout his career.

‘Elegy’ (2008)

Ben Kingsley starred as David Kepesh, a respected cultural critic and professor in New York. The film, based on a Philip Roth novel, explores his life and his passionate, transformative relationship with a much younger former student.

Kingsley gives a powerful and vulnerable performance as a man who has always kept women at an emotional distance but finds his world completely upended by love. The film is an intimate and moving study of love, mortality, and human connection.

‘War, Inc.’ (2008)

In this political satire, Ben Kingsley played Walken, a former CIA viceroy now running a multinational corporation that has taken over the fictional country of Turaqistan. The film stars John Cusack as a hitman sent to kill a Middle Eastern oil minister.

Kingsley’s role is a supporting one within the film’s absurdist and darkly comedic take on war and corporate greed. He portrays a quirky and eccentric figure who is part of the surreal landscape of the privatized war zone.

‘The Love Guru’ (2008)

Ben Kingsley took a broad comedic turn as Guru Tugginmypudha. In the film, a celebrity hockey player hires a self-help guru to help him win back his wife, who has started dating a rival player.

Kingsley’s character is the cross-eyed and eccentric leader of the ashram where the main guru was trained. His performance was a small but memorable part of this over-the-top Mike Myers comedy.

‘The Wackness’ (2008)

In this coming-of-age comedy-drama, Ben Kingsley played Dr. Squires, a pot-smoking psychiatrist in New York City during the summer of 1994. He trades therapy sessions for marijuana with a teenage drug dealer who is one of his patients.

Kingsley’s performance was widely praised for its humor and heart. He portrays Dr. Squires as a man struggling with his own mid-life crisis and a failing marriage, who forms an unlikely friendship with his young patient.

‘Transsiberian’ (2008)

Ben Kingsley played Grinko, a Russian narcotics detective, in this tense thriller. The film follows an American couple traveling on the Trans-Siberian Railway from China to Moscow whose journey takes a dark turn when they become involved with another couple who are not what they seem.

As the seemingly friendly but ultimately menacing detective who investigates a murder on the train, Kingsley’s character is a key figure in the film’s suspenseful plot. He brings a sense of unpredictable danger to the story.

‘Fifty Dead Men Walking’ (2009)

In this thriller based on a true story, Ben Kingsley played Fergus, a British intelligence officer in Northern Ireland during The Troubles. He recruits a young man from West Belfast to become an informant inside the IRA.

As the handler, Kingsley’s character develops a complex, father-son-like relationship with his informant. The film explores the immense danger and moral compromises involved in their line of work.

‘Journey to Mecca’ (2009)

Ben Kingsley provided narration for this IMAX documentary film. The movie dramatizes the first journey of the 14th-century Islamic scholar and explorer Ibn Battuta, as he travels from his home in Morocco to Mecca for the Hajj pilgrimage.

The film combines a dramatic retelling of his perilous journey with stunning footage of the modern-day Hajj. Kingsley’s voice guides the audience through both the historical narrative and the contemporary spectacle of this major religious event.

‘Shutter Island’ (2010)

In this psychological thriller directed by Martin Scorsese, Ben Kingsley played Dr. John Cawley, the lead psychiatrist at a hospital for the criminally insane on a remote island. Two U.S. Marshals arrive to investigate the disappearance of a patient, but they soon find that nothing at the hospital is as it seems.

Kingsley’s performance as the calm and cryptic doctor is central to the film’s twisting and unreliable narrative. He is a key figure in the mystery, guiding both the protagonist and the audience through a maze of psychological intrigue.

‘Teen Patti’ (2010)

Ben Kingsley starred as world-renowned mathematician Perci Trachtenberg in this Bollywood thriller. He visits a reclusive Indian professor who has written a paper on probability that could revolutionize the game of Teen Patti, a form of poker.

The film follows their experiment as they test the theory in the underground gambling dens of Mumbai. Kingsley’s role as the distinguished foreign academic brought a major Hollywood name to this Indian production.

‘Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time’ (2010)

In this fantasy action film based on a popular video game, Ben Kingsley played Nizam, the treacherous brother of the Persian king. He serves as the film’s main antagonist, plotting to seize the throne and harness the power of the magical Sands of Time to change his past.

As the villain, Kingsley brought a sense of quiet, calculating evil to the role. He manipulates his heroic nephew, the prince Dastan, in a scheme that threatens to destroy the world.

‘1001 Inventions and the Library of Secrets’ (2010)

Ben Kingsley starred as The Librarian in this short educational film. The movie was created for a touring museum exhibition and follows a group of schoolchildren who discover the forgotten history of the golden age of Muslim civilization.

As the mysterious librarian, Kingsley guides the children through the library, revealing the scientific and cultural contributions made by scholars from that era. His performance helped bring history to life for a young audience.

‘Hugo’ (2011)

Ben Kingsley played Georges Méliès, the real-life pioneering filmmaker, in this Martin Scorsese-directed family adventure. The film’s protagonist is an orphan boy who lives in a Paris train station and becomes entangled in a mystery involving his late father and the bitter old man who runs the station’s toy booth.

Kingsley’s portrayal of the forgotten genius Méliès, who has turned his back on his past, is filled with both bitterness and eventual warmth. The role earned him numerous award nominations and was praised for bringing the story of the cinematic pioneer to a new generation.

‘The Desert of Forbidden Art’ (2011)

Ben Kingsley served as the narrator for this documentary film. It tells the incredible true story of Igor Savitsky, a Russian artist who, during the Soviet era, managed to rescue 40,000 forbidden works of avant-garde art and create a museum for them in the remote desert of Uzbekistan.

Kingsley’s narration, using Savitsky’s own notes and letters, helped to tell the story of this courageous art collector. The film sheds light on a hidden chapter of art history and the struggle for creative freedom under an oppressive regime.

‘Beatles Stories’ (2011)

In this documentary film, Ben Kingsley appeared as himself. The movie is a collection of interviews with actors, musicians, and other celebrities who share their personal stories and memories related to their encounters with The Beatles.

Kingsley shared his own anecdote about meeting one of the members of the legendary band. His participation was part of a larger tapestry of stories that illustrated the massive cultural impact of the group.

‘The Dictator’ (2012)

Ben Kingsley played Tamir in this political satire starring Sacha Baron Cohen. Tamir is the uncle of Admiral General Aladeen, the ruthless dictator of the fictional Republic of Wadiya. He plots to overthrow his nephew and replace him with a dim-witted double so he can open up the country to foreign oil interests.

In this broad comedy, Kingsley portrays the treacherous and scheming second-in-command. His performance as the serious straight man to Baron Cohen’s outrageous dictator was a key part of the film’s humor.

‘A Therapy’ (2012)

In this short comedy film directed by Roman Polanski for a fashion brand, Ben Kingsley played a therapist. The short stars Helena Bonham Carter as a wealthy patient who arrives for her session and drapes her expensive fur coat over the back of the couch.

While she talks, Kingsley’s character completely ignores her, becoming silently obsessed with the coat instead. The film is a wordless and humorous look at distraction and material obsession.

‘It Is No Dream: The Life Of Theodor Herzl’ (2012)

Ben Kingsley lent his voice to this documentary about the life of Theodor Herzl, the visionary leader of the modern Zionist movement. The film traces Herzl’s journey from a playwright in Vienna to the political activist who fought for the establishment of a Jewish homeland.

Using archival footage and dramatic reenactments, the film tells the story of his life and legacy. Kingsley’s narration provided the central voice for this historical biography.

‘Iron Man 3’ (2013)

Ben Kingsley played one of his most famous roles as Trevor Slattery, a washed-up, drug-addicted actor who is hired to portray “The Mandarin,” the fearsome terrorist leader. The Mandarin serves as the primary antagonist for Tony Stark in the film, but is later revealed to be a complete fabrication.

Kingsley’s performance was a highlight of the film, praised for its brilliant comedic twist. He expertly portrayed both the menacing, eloquent terrorist on screen and the bumbling, clueless actor behind the scenes, creating one of the most surprising and debated villains in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

‘Ender’s Game’ (2013)

In this science fiction action film, Ben Kingsley played Mazer Rackham, a legendary and supposedly long-dead military hero. The story follows Ender Wiggin, a gifted young boy who is trained at an advanced military school in space to lead the fight against a hostile alien race.

Rackham is revealed to be alive and becomes Ender’s private mentor, pushing him to his limits to prepare him for the final battle. Kingsley’s face is covered in traditional Māori tattoos for the role, giving him a striking and memorable appearance.

‘A Common Man’ (2013)

Ben Kingsley starred as “The Man” in this thriller. His character is a mysterious individual who has planted five bombs in the city of Colombo, Sri Lanka, and threatens to detonate them unless four major terrorists are immediately released from prison.

Kingsley gives an intense performance as he directs the city’s police chief from a rooftop, creating a tense standoff. The film is a cat-and-mouse game that explores the motivations behind his seemingly villainous act.

‘Walking with the Enemy’ (2013)

Ben Kingsley played Regent Horthy, the leader of Hungary during World War II, in this historical drama. The film is based on a true story and follows a young Jewish man who disguises himself as a Nazi officer to find his family and save thousands of his countrymen from the Holocaust.

As the head of state, Horthy is a complex historical figure who tries to navigate the treacherous political landscape and protect his country from the Nazis. Kingsley’s supporting role brought gravitas to the film’s depiction of this tumultuous period.

‘The Physician’ (2013)

In this historical drama, Ben Kingsley played Ibn Sina, the renowned 11th-century Persian physician and scholar. The film follows a young Christian from England who travels to Persia, pretending to be Jewish, in order to study medicine under the great master.

Kingsley portrays Ibn Sina as a brilliant and wise teacher who becomes a mentor to the young protagonist. His performance is central to the film’s exploration of the quest for knowledge and the clash of cultures in the medieval world.

‘A Birder’s Guide to Everything’ (2013)

Ben Kingsley played Lawrence Konrad, a legendary ornithologist, in this coming-of-age comedy. The film follows a group of teenage bird-watching enthusiasts who, on the eve of their leader’s father’s remarriage, embark on a road trip to find a rare duck supposedly discovered by Konrad.

Kingsley’s character is the hero and inspiration for the young birders. His supporting role is crucial to their journey of friendship and discovery.

‘Marvel One-Shot: All Hail the King’ (2014)

Ben Kingsley reprised his role as Trevor Slattery in this short film that serves as an epilogue to ‘Iron Man 3’. The story follows Slattery in prison, where he has become a celebrity among the inmates. He is being interviewed by a documentary filmmaker for a piece about his life.

The short film reveals new details about the real “Ten Rings” terrorist organization and ends with a twist, as the filmmaker reveals he is a member of the group and breaks Slattery out of prison to meet the real Mandarin.

‘War Story’ (2014)

In this drama, Ben Kingsley played Albert. The film stars Catherine Keener as a war photographer who, after a brutal experience in Libya, retreats to a small town in Sicily to recover. There, she crosses paths with her former mentor and lover, Albert.

Kingsley’s role is a supporting one, and his character serves as a link to the protagonist’s past trauma. Their interactions force her to confront the memories she has been trying to escape.

‘The Boxtrolls’ (2014)

Ben Kingsley voiced the main villain, Archibald Snatcher, in this stop-motion animated fantasy film. Snatcher is a pest exterminator in the town of Cheesebridge who is obsessed with joining the city’s elite, known as the White Hats. He creates a false narrative that the friendly, box-wearing creatures living underground are dangerous monsters in order to hunt them down.

Kingsley’s voice performance was highly praised for its theatricality and villainy. He perfectly captured the desperation and cruelty of the social-climbing antagonist, who also happens to have a secret and explosive cheese allergy.

‘Learning to Drive’ (2014)

Ben Kingsley starred as Darwan, a Sikh driving instructor and part-time taxi driver living in New York. When a sharp-tongued literary critic’s husband leaves her, she decides she must finally learn to drive and hires Darwan as her teacher.

The film is a warm and gentle comedy-drama about the unlikely friendship that develops between the two. Kingsley gives a dignified and charming performance as the calm and patient teacher who is also dealing with his own personal challenges, including an arranged marriage.

‘Stonehearst Asylum’ (2014)

In this gothic thriller, Ben Kingsley played Silas Lamb, the superintendent of a remote mental asylum in the late 19th century. When a young doctor arrives at the asylum seeking an apprenticeship, he is initially impressed by Lamb’s modern and humane methods of treatment.

However, he soon discovers a dark secret: Lamb and the other “doctors” are actually the inmates, who have taken over the asylum and imprisoned the real staff. Kingsley’s performance is both charismatic and menacing, keeping the audience guessing about his true nature.

‘Exodus: Gods and Kings’ (2014)

In this biblical epic directed by Ridley Scott, Ben Kingsley had a supporting role as Nun, a Hebrew scholar and the spiritual leader of the enslaved Israelites in Egypt. The film tells the story of Moses as he rises up against the Egyptian Pharaoh.

As Nun, Kingsley’s character reveals Moses’s true Hebrew heritage to him, setting him on his path to becoming the leader of his people. The role, while small, was a pivotal one in the film’s narrative.

‘Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb’ (2014)

Ben Kingsley played Merenkahre, an Egyptian pharaoh and the father of Ahkmenrah, in the third installment of this family-friendly fantasy-comedy series. The film follows museum security guard Larry Daley as he travels to the British Museum to save the magic of the tablet that brings the exhibits to life.

Merenkahre is the creator of the magical tablet, and Kingsley’s character appears in flashbacks and as a newly awakened wax figure. He provides the key to understanding the tablet’s power and how to restore it.

‘Robot Overlords’ (2015)

In this science fiction action film, Ben Kingsley played Robin Smythe. The story is set in a future where Earth has been conquered by giant robots from another galaxy, who have confined the human population to their homes.

Smythe is a human collaborator who works for the robots, acting as a warden for his local community. Kingsley portrays him as a petty and officious man who enjoys the small amount of power he has been given by his new masters.

‘Knight of Cups’ (2015)

In this experimental drama directed by Terrence Malick, Ben Kingsley provided the voice of “The Voice”. The film follows a disillusioned screenwriter living in Los Angeles as he navigates a series of encounters with different women and reflects on his life.

The film is known for its non-linear narrative and dreamlike visuals. Kingsley’s narration, which includes excerpts from ‘The Pilgrim’s Progress’, adds a layer of philosophical and spiritual contemplation to the main character’s journey.

‘Life’ (2015)

Ben Kingsley played Jack L. Warner, the formidable head of Warner Bros. studio, in this biographical drama. The film chronicles the friendship between a Life Magazine photographer and the up-and-coming actor James Dean.

As the powerful studio boss, Kingsley’s character represents the controlling and commercial side of Hollywood. He is concerned about Dean’s rebellious image and the effect it will have on his career and the studio’s films.

‘Dragonheart 3: The Sorcerer’s Curse’ (2015)

Ben Kingsley provided the voice for Drago the Dragon in this direct-to-video fantasy adventure film. The story serves as a prequel to the original ‘Dragonheart’ and follows a young knight who, after being betrayed, forms a bond with a fire-breathing dragon.

Kingsley’s voice work brought wisdom, power, and personality to the mythical creature. He helps the knight on his quest for revenge and to stop the reign of a tyrannical sorcerer.

‘Unity’ (2015)

Ben Kingsley was one of 100 narrators who lent their voices to this documentary film. The film is a sequel to ‘Earthlings’ and explores the concept of humanity’s transformation from living by killing to living by loving.

The movie is divided into five chapters and features an all-star cast of narrators. Kingsley’s participation contributed to the film’s message of compassion, empathy, and interconnectedness.

‘Self/less’ (2015)

In this science fiction thriller, Ben Kingsley played Damian, an extremely wealthy real estate mogul who is dying of cancer. He undergoes a radical medical procedure called “shedding,” in which his consciousness is transferred into a new, healthy body that was artificially grown in a lab.

After the procedure, he enjoys his new youth and strength, but soon discovers that the body was not empty and begins to experience the memories of the man who was there before him. Kingsley’s performance as the powerful but dying man sets up the central conflict of the film.

‘The Walk’ (2015)

Ben Kingsley played Papa Rudy, a veteran circus performer and mentor, in this biographical drama. The film tells the true story of French high-wire artist Philippe Petit and his daring, illegal walk between the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center in 1974.

As Papa Rudy, Kingsley is the wise and experienced patriarch of a circus troupe who teaches Petit the technical skills and showmanship he needs to pull off his incredible dream. Kingsley’s performance provided the film with warmth and worldly wisdom.

‘The Jungle Book’ (2016)

Ben Kingsley voiced the character of Bagheera, the sleek and serious black panther, in this live-action/CGI adaptation of the classic Rudyard Kipling story. Bagheera is the one who discovers the “man-cub” Mowgli in the jungle and brings him to the wolf pack to be raised.

As Mowgli’s mentor and protector, Bagheera is a wise and noble figure who tries to guide the boy and keep him safe from the vengeful tiger, Shere Khan. Kingsley’s dignified voice performance was a perfect fit for the intelligent and caring panther.

‘Collide’ (2016)

In this action thriller, Ben Kingsley played Geran, a flamboyant and eccentric drug lord. The film follows a young man who, in order to pay for his girlfriend’s medical treatment, agrees to go back to his old criminal life and pull off a drug heist for Geran.

When the heist goes wrong, he finds himself on the run from another, more ruthless crime boss. Kingsley’s performance as the quirky and theatrical gangster was a memorable and comedic element in the high-octane film.

‘The Ottoman Lieutenant’ (2017)

Ben Kingsley played Garrett Woodruff in this historical war drama. The film is set during World War I and follows an idealistic American nurse who travels to a medical mission in the Ottoman Empire, where she falls in love with a Turkish officer.

Kingsley’s character is the senior American doctor running the mission. He is a jaded and world-weary figure who has seen the horrors of war and tries to navigate the complex political and ethnic tensions of the region.

‘Security’ (2017)

In this action thriller, Ben Kingsley played Charlie. The film stars Antonio Banderas as a down-on-his-luck veteran who takes a job as a security guard at a shopping mall. During his first night shift, a young girl running from a gang of mercenaries seeks refuge in the mall.

Charlie is one of the other security guards on duty who must help protect the girl from the heavily armed criminals who want her dead. Kingsley’s role is a supporting one in the siege-style action film.

‘War Machine’ (2017)

Ben Kingsley had a notable cameo role as Hamid Karzai, the then-President of Afghanistan, in this satirical war film. The movie stars Brad Pitt as a charismatic four-star general who is sent to Afghanistan to command the NATO forces and win the war.

Kingsley’s portrayal of Karzai was a brief but memorable part of the film’s satirical look at the leadership and politics of the war in Afghanistan. His scenes with Pitt’s character highlighted the complex and often absurd nature of the conflict.

‘An Ordinary Man’ (2017)

Ben Kingsley starred as “The General,” a war criminal in hiding who is modeled after a real-life Serbian commander. He lives in hiding, protected by loyalists, but his lonely existence is shaken up when he forms a relationship with the young maid who is his only contact with the outside world.

Kingsley, who also served as a producer on the film, gives a compelling performance as a man who was once powerful and feared but is now living a life of paranoia and isolation. The film is a character study that explores the humanity of a man considered to be a monster.

‘Backstabbing for Beginners’ (2018)

In this political thriller based on a true story, Ben Kingsley played Pasha, a seasoned diplomat and the head of the United Nations’ Oil-for-Food Programme in post-invasion Iraq. A young, idealistic UN coordinator is assigned to work for him and soon uncovers a massive corruption scandal.

As Pasha, Kingsley is a charismatic and morally ambiguous figure who may or may not be involved in the conspiracy. His performance is central to the film’s exploration of diplomacy, corruption, and idealism.

‘Operation Finale’ (2018)

Ben Kingsley portrayed Adolf Eichmann, one of the main architects of the Holocaust, in this historical thriller. The film tells the true story of the 1960 secret mission by Mossad agents to track down and capture the Nazi war criminal, who was living in hiding in Argentina.

The second half of the film is a tense psychological battle between Eichmann and his captors as they try to get him to sign a confession. Kingsley’s chilling performance captured what Hannah Arendt called “the banality of evil,” portraying him as a seemingly ordinary man responsible for monstrous acts.

‘Night Hunter’ (2018)

In this crime thriller, Ben Kingsley played Michael Cooper, a retired judge who, along with a police detective, has been running a vigilante operation to trap and castrate child predators. The film follows a police lieutenant who gets caught up in their scheme when they capture a particularly disturbed serial killer.

Kingsley’s character is a man who has taken the law into his own hands after being frustrated by the justice system. His role is a key part of the film’s dark and complex moral landscape.

‘Intrigo: Death of an Author’ (2018)

Ben Kingsley starred as Henderson in this mystery thriller, the first in a trilogy of films based on novels by Håkan Nesser. The story follows a writer who, while translating the final novel of a famous author who has recently disappeared, gets drawn into the mysterious and potentially criminal world of the man’s life.

Kingsley’s character is a strange and enigmatic man who holds the key to the central mystery. His performance drives the film’s suspenseful and atmospheric narrative.

‘The Red Sea Diving Resort’ (2019)

In this spy thriller based on a true story, Ben Kingsley played Ethan Levin. The film chronicles the incredible mission of a group of Mossad agents in the early 1980s who used a deserted holiday resort in Sudan as a front to smuggle thousands of Ethiopian-Jewish refugees to Israel.

Levin is one of the senior Israeli intelligence officers who oversees the dangerous and audacious operation. Kingsley’s supporting role provided a sense of gravitas and historical weight to the incredible true-life spy story.

‘Spider in the Web’ (2019)

Ben Kingsley played Adereth, an aging Israeli Mossad agent, in this spy thriller. He is being followed by a younger operative who has been sent to determine if he is still a reliable asset or if he has started fabricating intelligence and become a traitor.

Kingsley portrays Adereth as a wily, old-school spy whose motivations are unclear. The film is a cat-and-mouse game that keeps the audience guessing about the old agent’s true loyalties and his final mission.

‘Locked Down’ (2021)

In this comedy-heist film set during the COVID-19 pandemic, Ben Kingsley played Solomon. The story follows a warring couple who are forced to quarantine together in London and decide to resolve their issues by attempting a high-stakes jewelry heist at the famous Harrods department store.

Kingsley’s character is the protagonist’s straight-laced boss who appears via video call. His role is part of the ensemble of quirky characters that the main couple interacts with remotely while planning their crime.

‘Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings’ (2021)

Ben Kingsley made a surprise and highly anticipated return as the actor Trevor Slattery. After being broken out of prison, he became a “court jester” for Shang-Chi’s father, the real leader of the Ten Rings organization. He befriends a mythical creature and eventually helps the heroes in their final battle.

His comedic performance was once again a highlight, providing a humorous link back to ‘Iron Man 3’. The role allowed him to further explore the character of the well-meaning but cowardly actor who has been swept up in a world of myth and magic.

‘Dalíland’ (2022)

Ben Kingsley portrayed the iconic and eccentric artist Salvador Dalí in this biographical film. The story is told through the eyes of a young gallery assistant in the 1970s who is drawn into the surreal world of the aging artist and his wife, Gala, as he prepares for a major show in New York.

Kingsley captured the famous artist’s theatrical personality, his genius, and his vulnerability in his later years. The performance was a centerpiece of the film’s exploration of the turbulent relationship between art, commerce, and a legendary marriage.

‘Jules’ (2023)

Ben Kingsley starred as Milton Robinson in this science fiction comedy-drama. His character is a lonely widower living a quiet, routine life in a small Pennsylvania town. His life is upended when a UFO crashes in his backyard, and he forms a friendship with the silent alien pilot.

Kingsley gives a gentle and touching performance as a man who finds a new sense of purpose and connection through his extraordinary new friend. The film is a heartwarming story about loneliness, aging, and friendship.

‘The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar’ (2023)

In this short film directed by Wes Anderson and based on a Roald Dahl story, Ben Kingsley played two roles: Imdad Khan and The Dealer. The story is about a rich man who learns about a guru who could see without using his eyes and sets out to master the skill so he can cheat at cards.

As Imdad Khan, Kingsley portrays the man in the circus who can perform the incredible feat. As The Dealer, he is part of the framing narrative at the card table. The film was praised for its unique, storybook-like visual style and its faithful adaptation of Dahl’s writing.

‘Poison’ (2023)

Ben Kingsley starred as Dr. Ganderbai in another short film from Wes Anderson’s series of Roald Dahl adaptations. The tense story follows an Englishman who discovers a deadly, poisonous snake asleep on his stomach under the bedsheets and must remain perfectly still while his friend and a local doctor try to save him.

Kingsley’s portrayal of the calm and resourceful doctor is the anchor of the suspenseful narrative. His performance drives the short film’s building tension and its surprising, thought-provoking conclusion.

‘William Tell’ (2024)

In this historical action film, Ben Kingsley plays King Albert. The movie tells the legendary story of William Tell, the Swiss folk hero who was forced to shoot an apple off his son’s head by a tyrannical ruler, an act that sparked a rebellion against the Austrian empire.

Kingsley’s role as the Austrian King places him as a key figure in the epic tale of rebellion and freedom, bringing his formidable presence to the classic legend.

‘The Killer’s Game’ (2024)

Ben Kingsley is part of the ensemble cast for this action-comedy, where he plays Zvi. The film stars Dave Bautista as a top assassin who, after being diagnosed with a life-threatening illness, puts a hit out on himself, only to find out he was misdiagnosed and must now fight off his colleagues.

The film is a high-octane actioner with a comedic twist. Kingsley’s role as Zvi is one of the many colorful characters in the world of elite assassins that the hero must face.

‘The King of Kings’ (2025)

Ben Kingsley lends his voice to the character of High Priest Caiaphas in this animated, faith-based film. The movie offers a fresh perspective on the story of Jesus, told through the eyes of Charles and Walter Dickens, the sons of the author Charles Dickens.

The story within the story depicts the life of Jesus, with Kingsley voicing one of the key antagonists. This role continues his long history of participating in films with significant historical and religious themes.

After reviewing this incredible journey through cinema, share in the comments which Ben Kingsley role has left the most lasting impression on you.