🕶️The Best Daniel Craig Movies Ranked – From James Bond to Bold New Roles

When you think of modern spy thrillers, raw intensity, and suave sophistication, one name instantly comes to mind — Daniel Craig. From redefining James Bond for a new era to diving into complex dramatic roles, Craig has proven he’s not just an action hero — he’s an artist who thrives on transformation.

Over two decades, Craig has built one of the most fascinating careers in Hollywood. Whether he’s delivering breathtaking stunts as 007 or solving mysteries as the quirky Benoit Blanc, Daniel Craig’s screen presence is magnetic and unforgettable.

Let’s dive into the best Daniel Craig movies ranked, celebrating his evolution from brooding agent to cinematic legend.

🍸 1. Casino Royale (2006)

When Casino Royale hit theaters, fans were skeptical about Daniel Craig taking over as James Bond. But from the moment he appeared on screen, he silenced every critic.

Craig’s portrayal of Bond wasn’t just cool — it was human. Vulnerable, brutal, and emotionally charged, this version of 007 showed us the man behind the tuxedo. The film revitalized the Bond franchise with a gripping origin story, electrifying action, and emotional depth.

⭐ Why It’s Great: The perfect balance of style, heart, and high-stakes action. Craig redefined Bond for the 21st century.

🎥 Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV+

🕵️ 2. Knives Out (2019)

Trading his tuxedo for a detective’s suit, Daniel Craig delighted audiences as Benoit Blanc, a Southern-accented sleuth investigating a mysterious family murder.

Knives Out, directed by Rian Johnson, became an instant classic — a sharp, witty, and brilliantly layered whodunit. Craig’s playful performance showed off his comedic timing and charisma, proving he could dominate more than just spy thrillers.

⭐ Why It’s Great: A refreshing, fun side of Craig with scene-stealing charm.

🎥 Where to Watch: Netflix

💣 3. Skyfall (2012)

Arguably the most cinematic Bond film ever made, Skyfall dives deep into Bond’s past and vulnerabilities. Directed by Sam Mendes, it’s a beautifully shot masterpiece that combines emotional storytelling with explosive action.

Craig gives one of his most nuanced performances — weary, loyal, and haunted — making Bond more human than ever before. The film also features Judi Dench’s powerful final turn as M and Javier Bardem’s chilling villain.

⭐ Why It’s Great: A breathtaking balance of art, emotion, and espionage — one of the finest spy films ever made.

🎥 Where to Watch: Prime Video

⚔️ 4. Layer Cake (2004)

Before he was Bond, Layer Cake established Daniel Craig as a serious leading man. Playing an unnamed cocaine distributor trying to retire from the criminal world, Craig delivers a cool, calculating, and intense performance.

The film’s style and tone directly influenced his casting as 007. You can see shades of Bond already taking shape here — confident, sharp, and unpredictable.

⭐ Why It’s Great: A smart British crime thriller that set the stage for Craig’s stardom.

🎥 Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video and Tubi

🎭 5. No Time to Die (2021)

Craig’s final outing as James Bond is both emotional and epic. No Time to Die gives closure to his 15-year Bond journey, filled with heartbreak, heroism, and stunning action sequences.

His performance is deeply personal — you can feel the weight of every choice Bond makes. It’s a fitting farewell to a character Craig completely transformed.

⭐ Why It’s Great: A bold, emotional sendoff that solidifies Craig as one of the best Bonds in history.

🎥 Where to Watch: Apple TV+ and Prime Video

🧩 6. Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery (2022)

Craig returned as detective Benoit Blanc in this colorful, clever sequel that transported fans to a tech billionaire’s island during a murder mystery weekend gone wrong.

He’s funnier, looser, and more eccentric than ever — and the movie’s social satire only enhances his brilliant performance.

⭐ Why It’s Great: Craig’s comedic genius shines while keeping his character sharp and unpredictable.

🎥 Where to Watch: Netflix

🔫 7. Quantum of Solace (2008)

Often overlooked, Quantum of Solace continues Bond’s emotional journey from Casino Royale. While more action-heavy, Craig’s performance remains committed, driven by grief and vengeance.

The film showcases Bond at his most ruthless and relentless, proving Craig’s intensity can carry even a flawed script.

⭐ Why It’s Great: A raw, fast-paced continuation of Bond’s emotional evolution.

🎥 Where to Watch: Prime Video

🎬 8. Logan Lucky (2017)

Craig surprised audiences again with his hilarious performance as Joe Bang, a bleach-blond, explosive expert in Steven Soderbergh’s offbeat heist comedy.

Far from the serious Bond persona, he completely embraces his quirky side with Southern drawl, eccentricity, and humor — and it’s a blast to watch.

⭐ Why It’s Great: Proof that Daniel Craig can do comedy just as brilliantly as action.

🎥 Where to Watch: Apple TV+ and Netflix

🕯️ 9. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2011)

In this dark thriller directed by David Fincher, Craig stars as journalist Mikael Blomkvist, teaming up with Lisbeth Salander to uncover a decades-old mystery.

His restrained, thoughtful performance grounds the film’s chilling tone. Paired with Rooney Mara’s powerhouse acting, this adaptation became one of the most gripping mysteries of the decade.

⭐ Why It’s Great: A tense, intelligent crime drama with Craig’s quiet intensity anchoring the story.

🎥 Where to Watch: Netflix

🎥 10. Defiance (2008)

Based on a true story, Defiance sees Craig as Tuvia Bielski, a Jewish resistance fighter leading refugees during World War II. It’s a powerful, emotional performance that highlights Craig’s dramatic range and leadership presence.

⭐ Why It’s Great: A lesser-known gem that showcases Craig’s strength in historical and human stories.

🎥 Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video

🧠 Final Thoughts

From the smooth sophistication of Casino Royale to the eccentric humor of Knives Out, Daniel Craig has proven he’s one of the most versatile actors of our time.

His James Bond will be remembered for decades — not just as a spy, but as a man with heart, pain, and depth. And with his new ventures beyond 007, including more Knives Out mysteries, Craig continues to surprise, entertain, and inspire.

Whether he’s saving the world or solving a crime, Daniel Craig’s legacy is built on reinvention — and he’s only getting better.