10 Eric Bana movies and TV shows that prove his range is wildly underrated

Eric Bana (or Eric Martin Andrew Banadinovic) is an Australian actor who began his career on a sketch TV show, Full Frontal, before gaining fame for his roles in the biographical crime film Chopper and the comedy-drama The Castle. Bana has consistently shown his ability to transform into any character at will, whether in intense tragedies, quirky comedies, or heartfelt thrillers.

He approaches each role sincerely and deeply, whether portraying a heartbroken father figure, a ruthless gangster, or a wounded spy. This list of ten movies and TV shows showcases the wide range and talent of Eric Bana, explaining why his acting remains underappreciated.

Please note: This article is based solely on the writer's opinion. Reader discretion is advised.

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The list of 10 Eric Bana movies and TV shows that prove his range is wildly underrated:

10. Untamed (2025)

Untamed is a six-episode mystery show on Netflix set in the Yosemite National Park area. The series follows a disgraced special agent who must navigate rugged wilderness and uncover secret crimes. Eric Bana stars as Kyle Turner, an ISB investigator sent to look into the mysterious death of a rock climber.

He is haunted by a personal tragedy that follows him everywhere he goes. In the first episode, Kyle examines a victim's injuries before an autopsy. He notes a bullet wound and claw marks with quiet seriousness, long before anyone suspects foul play. That scene shows how underrated Eric Bana's dramatic skills are, blending his calm confidence with compassion.

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9. Full Frontal (1994-1997)

Full Frontal is an Australian sketch comedy that mocked TV norms through rapid sketches. Eric Bana debuted as Poida, a bogan TV host who takes over any show with ignorant laughter, dressed in a velvet suit and carrying a VB esky. The famous clip shows Bana retelling Snow White in a bar-like tone, riffing on fairy tale clichés and making witty remarks on modern life. His blend of humor and spontaneity reveals his comic genius, often underappreciated.

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8. Castle (1997)

The Castle is an Australian comedy film from 1997 directed by Rob Sitch. It shows what drives the working-class Kerrigan family, whose house is next to a runway at Melbourne Airport. In the film, Tracey Kerrigan's husband is Con Petropoulous, played by Eric Bana. Con is a kind-hearted accountant and part-time kickboxer who fits in well with the Kerrigan family. Although his role is small, Bana provides honesty and light humor that stand out.

In one scene, the audience sees Con Petropoulous sitting quietly in court as his cheerful in-laws gather around him. He stands and calmly says he is disappointed in the rule of law, then quickly shifts to applause, sharing his beliefs. This moment shows Con's deep emotions and reflection. Eric Bana is both dry and warm; through his performance, he balances tough love and humor, demonstrating his versatile talent.

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7. Blueback (2022)

Blueback is a 2022 Australian drama film based on Tim Winton's novel of the same name. Eric Bana stars as Mad Macka, a local abalone diver who befriends a young girl named Abby. The story centers on Abby's bond with a wild blue groper as she works to save the reef.

Eric Bana's character offers subtle support for Abby's goal. In one scene, Mad Macka takes Abby on a night dive without saying a word. His expression shifts as he watches her find the fish. In seconds, Eric Bana changes from a frustrated spectator to a caring hero. He stays quiet, letting Abby figure out her next move. His quiet encouragement shows great attentiveness. This scene highlights how much his adaptability is underestimated.

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6. The Dry (2020)

The Dry is a 2020 Australian mystery drama set in drought-ridden Kiewarra, featuring Eric Bana as Aaron Falk, a federal officer returning for a friend's funeral who uncovers secrets linking past and present. Bana's Falk walks through a dry riverbed at night, connecting crimes with a torch and receipts. His soft questioning masks a fierce determination that cracks under pressure when confronting a suspect. The scene's tone is subdued, with poignant revelations and moments of compassion under stress.

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5. Hulk (2003)

Ang Lee directed the 2003 American superhero film Hulk, starring Eric Bana as Dr. Bruce Banner. He is a scientist specializing in genetics who transforms into a destructive green giant when provoked. The film focuses on Banner, his father's tragic past, and his angry transformation. In a tense lab scene, Bruce whispers,

“You’re making me angry.”

His gentle remarks hide underlying danger. As anger and pain grow, he shifts in his chair. Then, he suddenly erupts with a loud yell and destroys a wall. In moments, Eric Bana transforms from a kind scientist into a furious monster. His expression shifts quickly from calm to frenzied.

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4. The Time Traveler's Wife (2009)

The Time Traveler's Wife tells the story of Henry, who has a rare condition that causes him to randomly travel through time. He meets Clare, and they become lovers. His unpredictable jumps through time affect their life together. Eric Bana plays a gentle librarian (Henry) in Chicago. He is a highly sensitive person who struggles with love, grief, and pain over the years.

One of the most powerful moments is when Henry vanishes at dinner, and Clare is terrified. He comes back a few minutes later, looking exhausted and guilty, before trying to comfort her. The tender scene perfectly captures his mental state and the impact of constant time travel on him.

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3. Troy (2004)

Troy is an epic battle film largely based on Homer's Iliad. The Greeks, led by Achilles, invade Troy to rescue Helen, igniting years of war. Eric Bana portrays Hector, the noble prince of Troy. He is composed, courageous, and strives to protect his home.

A remarkable scene features his duel with Achilles (Brad Pitt). Hector fights with skill and heart, blocking swings while showing hurt and obligation. He trips over a rock, rebalances, and keeps fighting. In his performance, Bana shows a heavy and emotional warrior. Although he is defeated and dies at the hands of Achilles, his bravery is honored by his opponent.

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2. Chopper (2000)

Chopper is a crime drama about a real-life Australian gangster named Mark Chopper Read. The movie portrays his time in jail and his involvement in criminal activities. Eric Bana gained weight, got tattoos, and perfected his speech and mannerisms to portray Chopper.

A scene shows him shooting a drug dealer and then driving him to the hospital. Violence, dark humor, and fear are blended together in these scenes. Bana shifts from charming to menacing in an instant. This balance highlights Eric Bana's versatility.

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1. Munich (2005)

Munich is a thriller about history written by Steven Spielberg. It follows the story of Mossad spy Avner after the Munich Olympics massacre of 1972. Avner forms a secret team to find and eliminate the murderers. He is a sensitive man driven into violence. In a tense scene in Rome, Avner and his partner wait their turn to kill the target.

Ban's expression of intense internal conflict is evident through his nervousness and focused demeanor. Avner is later affected by PTSD and doubt. Bana portrays a man who loses his innocence.

Bana brings poise and sincerity to every performance, whether it is physically demanding or emotionally gut-wrenching. These ten movies and TV shows showcased the depth of his talent, which was rarely recognized in mainstream discussions.