10 best Benedict Cumberbatch performances, ranked

Benedict Cumberbatch is one of the most versatile actors of modern cinema. Call him Sherlock, Strange, Smaug, or Turing—he has more alter egos than one can find in a sci-fi movie. Known for crisp diction, intellectual screen presence, and emotional depth, he has portrayed many characters on screen. From genius scientists to dragons and damaged cowboys, he has built a global brand of acting brilliance. Whether on television, in indie films, or in blockbusters, he makes every role unforgettable.

Benedict Cumberbatch rose to prominence as Sherlock Holmes in BBC’s Sherlock. He took up more projects later on. Some of them got Oscar nominations, some received BAFTA wins, and needless to mention, critical acclaim across genres. Here are 10 of his brilliant performances ranked.

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10 best Benedict Cumberbatch performances, ranked

1. Phil Burbank in The Power of the Dog (2021)

In this moody Western, Cumberbatch plays Phil Burbank, a cruel rancher from the 1920s. Phil unleashes cruel behavior towards his brother’s new wife and her effeminate son. He distrusts the widow and thinks she is after his brother’s money. As the movie progresses, we see Phil’s changing relationship with other characters, mainly with Peter and Rose.

Cumberbatch delivered exactly what the role demanded—a dominating screen presence, vocal adaptation, and acting that reflected sustained psychological tension. The film won Jane Campion a Silver Lion at the 78th Venice Film Festival, but this was only the beginning. Cumberbatch earned Best Actor nominations at the Oscars, BAFTAs, and Golden Globes, while the film won the Academy Award for Best Director.

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2. Alan Turing in The Imitation Game (2014)

In this film, Cumberbatch plays famous real-life mathematician Alan Turing. Turing cracked Nazi Germany’s Enigma code during WWII but was punished for his homosexuality.

The film required mature, grounded acting that reflected the real-life wartime tension. To Turing’s post-war tragedy, Benedict Cumberbatch added more nuance, intellect, and social awkwardness. He won his first Academy Award nomination for Best Actor and a plethora of critical acclaim.

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3. Patrick Melrose in Patrick Melrose (2018)

In this five-part Showtime miniseries, Cumberbatch portrays an inspiring, emotionally appealing tale of wealthy businessman Patrick Melrose. Patrick’s journey through addiction, suffering, and recovery is played with balanced intensity by Benedict Cumberbatch. The role required tonal shifts—from black comedy and devastating grief to eventual composure.

For this role, he won a BAFTA for Best Actor and received an Emmy nomination.

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4. Sherlock holmes in Sherlock (2010–2017)

This modern-day depiction of Arthur Conan Doyle’s popular detective series made Cumberbatch a pop culture icon. There have been many renditions of Sherlock, but Cumberbatch carries himself impeccably in the role. He is brilliant, arrogant, and emotionally detached—but he is a man of complexities that doubled up as the show progressed. The onscreen chemistry with Martin Freeman’s Watson brought global recognition to the series.

For this role, he won a Primetime Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actor. Moreover, his name got etched into pop culture memory forever.

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5. Stephen Hawking in Hawking (2004)

This is one of the most highly acclaimed roles played by Cumberbatch. During the early phase of his acting career, he portrayed Stephen Hawking during his ALS diagnosis as a young student. The film traces Hawking’s journey as his health declined but his academics flourished. With Cumberbatch’s brilliant and vulnerable acting, this remains a memorable watch.

This BBC TV film earned him a Golden Nymph Award at Monte-Carlo and a BAFTA nomination, along with global acclaim.

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6. Khan Noonien singh in Star Trek into Darkness (2013)

In Star Trek Into Darkness, Cumberbatch plays Khan, a genetically modified being with a calm demeanor. The calculated delivery, composed presence, and chilling physicality were exactly what gave Benedict Cumberbatch’s portrayal of one of the most feared villains of pop culture its magnetism.

While the film received mixed reactions, Cumberbatch’s performance was applauded.

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7. William Ford in 12 Years a Slave (2013)

We have seen Benedict Cumberbatch in almost all the genres that exist in pop culture. In this historical drama, he plays complicit plantation owner William Ford. The story of the film is moving, and it demanded a restrained, conflicted performance. 12 Years a Slave won Best Picture at the Academy Awards, and though he acted in a supporting role, his performance remains memorable.

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8. Greville Wynne in The Courier (2020)

The film is based on the true story of Greville Wynne, an ordinary British businessman recruited as a Cold War spy. The story portrays a drastic transformation of the character, who evolves into a dutiful spy from a normal citizen.

This performance is not widely discussed, but it received strong reviews and highlighted Benedict Cumberbatch’s skill in blending realism with emotional intensity.

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9. Smaug in The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (2013)

Through motion capture and voice work, Cumberbatch breathes life into the dragon Smaug. With his voice acting and signature cut-sharp diction, he brings intelligence, menace, and theatrical flair to Smaug’s character. Fans identify his rumbling voice even without knowing he dubbed the part.

Though the film received mixed reviews, Benedict Cumberbatch’s work earned a pop-culturally memorable place for itself.

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10. Julian Assange in The Fifth Estate (2013)

In The Fifth Estate, Cumberbatch portrays the role of Julian Assange, the founder of WikiLeaks. The film explores themes like transparency, control, and other biographical aspects associated with the character. Through his nuanced acting, he captures Assange’s intelligence, paranoia, and moral dilemmas with precision.

The film did not perform well, but critics praised Benedict Cumberbatch’s ability to portray a controversial figure with poise and brilliance.

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From iconic TV roles to complex biographical portrayals, Benedict Cumberbatch has proven time and again that he’s one of the most dynamic actors of his generation. He has even taken on motion-captured dragons, showcasing the full range of his talent and versatility. His performances span genres and formats, yet he consistently brings depth, nuance, and a magnetic presence to every role. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a new admirer of his work, this list is just a glimpse into the brilliance that defines his career—and there’s no doubt he’ll continue surprising us in the years to come.

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