Cary Elwes—yes, that Cary Elwes from the beloved 1987 classic The Princess Bride—has had a career full of surprising turns and memorable performances. Known for his charming and dashing presence in Rob Reiner’s timeless fairy tale, Cary Elwes quickly became a fan favorite, but he didn’t rest on those laurels. Instead, Cary Elwes embraced a wide range of roles across genres, proving time and again that he was much more than just a romantic lead.
Over the years, Cary Elwes demonstrated a particular fondness for period pieces, slipping back into tights—this time with a comedic twist—in Mel Brooks’ hilarious spoof Robin Hood: Men in Tights (1993). That role only reinforced what many already suspected: Cary Elwes had the flair of a true old-school swashbuckler, reminiscent of legends like Errol Flynn. But he wasn’t just playing heroes. In Hollywood, Cary Elwes held his own alongside stars like Tom Cruise, portraying his rival in Days of Thunder (1991), then turning around to lampoon action movie tropes in the uproarious Hot Shots! (1991).
As his career evolved, so did the complexity of his roles. Cary Elwes brought both intensity and nuance to genre films, showing a darker side in projects like Twister (1996), where he braved tornadoes with gripping energy, and later in the chilling Saw (2004). He even took on the disturbing real-life figure Ted Bundy in The Riverman (A&E, 2004), a performance that surprised many with its depth and restraint. His turn on The X-Files (Fox, 1993–2002) further cemented his ability to navigate suspense and mystery with quiet authority.
Yet, through it all, Cary Elwes never lost his sense of humor or warmth. He lent his voice to animated features like the CGI version of A Christmas Carol (2009), bringing heart to the holiday classic. Fans also delighted in his recurring role as the sly and suave Pierre Despereaux on the quirky TV series Psych (USA, 2006–14), where Cary Elwes once again proved he could balance wit, charm, and a touch of mischief.
From gallant hero to sinister villain to outright comic relief, Cary Elwes has done it all. And through decades of varied work, Cary Elwes has remained one of the most reliable, versatile, and quietly brilliant actors in the business. Whether you first fell in love with him in Buttercup’s arms or were stunned by his haunting turn in Saw, there’s no denying: Cary Elwes leaves a lasting impression.
When it comes to Cary Elwes’s filmography, fans and critics alike often point to Justice League: The Flashpoint Paradox (2013) as his standout performance—widely regarded as Cary Elwes’s highest rated movie. It’s no surprise that this animated superhero thriller earned such acclaim, showcasing Cary Elwes in a role that truly highlighted his vocal range and dramatic timing. On the other end of the spectrum, however, lies Behaving Badly (2014), which is frequently cited as Cary Elwes’s lowest rated film. While opinions may vary, the contrast between these two projects really underscores the ups and downs even seasoned actors like Cary Elwes can experience throughout their careers. Still, Cary Elwes continues to be a respected figure in the industry, consistently delivering memorable performances across genres.