Brendan Fraser has had a career with highs and lows, spanning almost three and a half decades from his first performance back in 1991. Fraser is known for his charisma and versatility, able to portray a wide variety of characters in multiple genres, from action-packed thrillers to more serious dramas to zany comedies. His movie star's persona and natural command of the screen helped him become an A-List Hollywood mainstay during the late 1990s.

Though best known more recently for his Fraser's best films, such as Bedazzled and Airheads, show off his comedic timing and impeccable presence while also delivering the same subtle intensity in more nuanced roles in films like Gods and Monster. Fraser's talent has never been in doubt, and even though some of his filmography never received huge critical or commercial acclaim, his performances were still the stand-out high point of the movies.

10 The Mummy: Tomb Of The Dragon Emperor (2008)

As Rick O’Connell

The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor is the third film in The Mummy franchise, which sees Fraser reprise his iconic role as charismatic adventurer Rick O’Connell. The film, directed by Rob Cohen, sees the plot move from Egypt to China and takes the focus away from the pyramids and ancient Egyptian elements, putting a fresh, unique spin on the story. Rick, now retired, is forced to face off against one last foe, an ancient Chinese emperor who rises back to life from a curse with deadly intent to take over the world with his vast army.

Though the film suffered from not having Rachel Weisz reclaim her role as Rick's wife, it still delivers on what it promises as a fun film that doesn't take itself too seriously. Fraser picks up from the previous two films of the series, portraying Rick as a relatable action hero with intensity and humor. His command over the screen in both the action sequences and in the moments of genuine sincerity is captivating to watch, and though the film's plot doesn't capture the imagination in the same way as the first two installments, it is still an enjoyable film to watch.

9 Encino Man (1992)

As Link (Caveman)

Les Mayfield puts together the surprisingly effective comedy Encino Man in his directorial debut, which sees a Caveman, frozen millions of years ago, be thawed and placed into a modern high school setting. Caveman, Link (Fraser), who was discovered and thawed out by two teenagers, must adjust to his new life as the high schoolers show him around, and he, in turn, teaches them the rudimentary skills and knowledge he has. It is a classic fish-out-of-water situation that is played with a tongue-in-cheek nature that also sees Sean Astin and Pauly Shore star in the film.

Though the premise of Encino Man might seem a little bizarre and even silly, that's pretty much the point of the movie; to have fun in an unconventional situation. Fraser is, once again, the highlight, as he plays his role as Link with genuine sincerity, which makes the concept seem more believable and delivers a comical and nuanced performance with very little dialogue. Though not a big critical or commercial success at the time, the uniqueness of the story, combined with Fraser's enduring acting, make it a cult classic that has become an underrated work in his career.

8 Inkheart (2008)

As Mo Folchart

Iain Softley's Inkheart is an epic fantasy adventure based on author Cornelia Funke's award-winning 2003 novel of the same name. The film's plot follows a loving father called 'Mo' Folchart who has one incredible ability: he can make book characters come to life just by reading about them aloud. Though, the gift has its drawbacks as he accidentally brings Capricorn into the real world, the evil antagonist of the novel 'Inkheart', and he must go on a mission to save his daughter and put the villain back into the literary world.

The film features an ensemble cast, including stars like Helen Mirren and Paul Bettany, that add another layer of quality and finesse to the production. Fraser continues to deliver exceptional performances in these adventure films, portraying even the most sensationalized plots with genuine care and gravitas that bring his roles to life. Though it falls short of the novel's character development and narrative pacing, it is still a great film with an emotionally resonant story and beautifully dynamic visuals.

7 The Mummy Returns (2001)

As Rick O’Connell

The Mummy Returns, as the title suggests, is the second installment in The Mummy series that sees Fraser once again take on the role of Rick O'Connell. Rick has fully settled down in London with his Egyptologist wife Evelyn Carnahan (Rachel Weisz), and young son Alex, however, their family bliss is interrupted when Imhotep - a 3,000-year-old mummified corpse of an ancient high priest - is resurrected by a supernatural cult. If that wasn't bad enough, the Scorpion King and his mystical army are also a threat, as Rich must battle against both sides to save his family.

Though not as commercially or critically successful as its predecessor, The Mummy Returns is a truly enjoyable action adventure that lives up to the hype of the first film in many ways. Fraser delivers what might even be a better performance than Rick, providing more emotional depth and humor in an exciting plot that perfectly balances the action sequences with interesting character interactions. Though it does rely heavily on CGI, which doesn't hold up the best to modern standards, the film, particularly Fraser's performance is vastly underrated and can stand with many of his other more acclaimed roles.

6 Blast From The Past (1999)

As Adam Webber

Blast from the Past is a film that blends many elements and genres, from comedy and romance to science fiction and fantasy. Directed and produced by Hugh Wilson, Fraser stars as Adam Webber, a man born and raised in a Cold War-era nuclear shelter built by his anti-communist father, who emerges from the bunker 35 years later. As to be expected, Webber is gullible, innocent, and overcome with the modern world, as he tries to navigate his new surroundings with help from a love interest (Alicia Silverstone) who helps him adapt.

Similar in tone to Encino Man, Fraser plays another 'fish-out-of-water' role in a situation that is unique and confusing to his character, but Blast from the Past gets a few more of its key elements right. The film features an ensemble cast with stars like Alicia Silverstone, Christopher Walken, and Sissy Spacek, with Fraser and Silverstone's chemistry in leading roles being the main highlight of the film. Overall, though it failed to make a big splash upon its release, it provides a unique showcase of Fraser's effortless ability to combine romance with comedy in one of his most endearing and heartfelt roles.

5 School Ties (1992)

As David Greene

As well as comedy, romance, and adventure, early in his career, Fraser also turns his hand to more dramatic work, such as Dick Wolf's School Ties, directed by Robert Mandel. Fraser plays Jewish student David Greene, who goes to an elite high school on an athletic scholarship but soon is targeted for bullying and harassment due to his religion. His peers ostracize and bully him, but David's resilience, alongside his sporting ability and natural charm, helps him navigate the cruel waters of the system and help him rise above the hate.

School Ties is a film that has gained a cult status in later years, in part, for the later success of its ing cast, with future A-list Hollywood stars like Matt Damon and Ben Affleck playing smaller roles. Fraser, even in the very early portion of his career, delivers a sensational portrayal of a young man who shows incredible vulnerability in the face of bigotry but who is also resilient and determined to stand up for what is right. The film explores many universal themes, including discrimination and privilege, that help the film remain relevant to this day.

4 With Honors (1994)

As Monty Kessler

With Honors, directed by Alek Keshishian, is a heartwarming comedy-drama that stars Fraser and the legendary Joe Pesci. The film follows arrogant Harvard student Monty Kessler (Fraser), who has his senior thesis held hostage by a homeless man (Pesci), who he must then befriend and help out to get back. Though the premise is a little wacky, the film is surprisingly emotional and relatable, as Monty helps the man in various ways, forging a unique friendship, even though it was built on theft and blackmail.

Though, on the surface, the concept of the film sounds like one that shouldn't work, the bond and chemistry between Fraser and Pesci genuinely make it incredibly emotional and heartfelt throughout. The pair share several authentic moments of poignant connection, punctuated with many comical scenes that add levity and depth to the budding friendship. Fraser transforms from rude and belligerent to empathetic and kind, and in turn, transforms what should be a fairly mundane work into a showcase for his comedy and dramatic acting skills that would serve him well in future roles.

3 Gods And Monsters (1998)

As Clayton Boone

In another step away from some of his more quirky work, Gods and Monsters is a biographical drama that follows the final years of Frankenstein director James Whale (Ian McKellen) and his gardener, Clayton Boone (Fraser). The film is based on Christopher Bram's excellent novel Father of Frankenstein and follows the two as they form an unlikely friendship and complicated bond with James developing feelings for the younger man. It is partly fictionalized, which allows for authenticity in the film while also adding some more fantastical elements that keep the story intriguing and interesting from start to finish.

Though Ian McKellen is undoubtedly the star of the film, Fraser more than holds his own with the acting legend, showing a wonderful chemistry and connection between the two men. They both go for an understated and nuanced performance that allows the narrative and dynamic between the two to take center stage, with neither aiming to steal the spotlight but instead working together to create their beautiful contrasting character studies. The film received much critical acclaim; however, Fraser's role seemed to be a bit underappreciated, making it one of the most underrated roles in his career.

2 Bedazzled (2000)

As Elliot

In a remake of the 1967 classic British film, Bedazzled is a fantasy rom-com that sees a Fraser star alongside Elizabeth Hurley in one of her most memorable roles. Directed by Harold Ramis, the film follows a geeky, hapless man named Elliot (Fraser) who works a mundane job in a computer store, after being ditched by his love interest and co-workers at a bar, he meets the devil (Hurley) who offers him seven wishes in exchange for his eternal soul. The film explores many interesting themes like lust, desire, and fulfillment in a tale as old as time.

Hurley and Fraser are, ironically, a match made in heaven, with Hurley's devil role providing the perfect base to allow Fraser to encom a whole host of personas as he is given free rein with his wishes.

Like almost all of Fraser's work, his chemistry with his co-stars is often the highlight of the film as he is able to perfectly contrast and compliment performances with anybody he shares the screen with. Hurley and Fraser are, ironically, a match made in heaven, with Hurley's devil role providing the perfect base to allow Fraser to encom a whole host of personas as he is given free rein with his wishes. While not his most celebrated work, it is perhaps the film that shows off his incredible versatility the most, effortlessly slipping into different personalities, often multiple times in the same scene.

1 Airheads (1994)

As Chazz

Airheads isn't just one of Fraser's most underrated films, but it's just one of the most underrated comedy films, period. The comedy, directed by Michael Lehmann (40 days and 40 nights), follows a trio rock band of Chazz, Pip, and Rex, played by Fraser, Adam Sandler, and Steve Buscemi, respectively, as they become obsessed with getting their demo tape played on the air. The three take matters into their own hands and sneak into a local LA radio station, 'holding up' the place with water pistols, but when the manager misunderstands the situation, things escalate to a point nobody expected.

A mid-90s film about a rock band starring Fraser, Sandler, and Buscemi could never be anything but an instant cult classic. The three create a compelling trio, with all three over-delivering on their roles to create a film that, while absurd, balances satire, slapstick, action, and emotion to create a perfect work of 90s nostalgia. Brendan Fraser, starring as the lead over Sandler and Buscemi, goes some way in explaining his star power and potential at the time, helping craft an incredible film that is certainly the most underrated of his entire career.