With actor Miles Teller’s successful launch of The Finnish Long Drink in Ontario and the recent release of The Gorge, it feels like the perfect time to celebrate his rise — and revisit the performances that got him here. Teller may not be the loudest name in Hollywood, but he’s quietly building one of the most impressive resumes out there, stacking up success after success. So with that said, let’s look back at some of the star’s most defining moments on the silver screen.
#3 Top Gun: Maverick
Teller was propelled to stardom with his role as Lieutenant Bradley ‘Rooster’ Bradshaw, the son of Maverick’s late best friend, Goose. Not only did Teller’s talent bring emotional depth to his role, but also the role of his on-screen father from the original 1986 Top Gun. Teller as Rooster perfectly captures the immense weight left by his father’s emotional legacy. Aside from his acting prowess, Teller has fantastic chemistry with Tom Cruise in this film, something crucial for the story’s success.
#2 The Spectacular Now
A standout role early in Teller’s career, The Spectacular Now was a turning point for the actor. While it wasn’t his first film, it was the movie that earned him recognition among critics. Teller proved that coming-of-age films can be grounded and don’t have to lean into overused cliches.
Rolling Stone called Miles Teller’s performance “a breakthrough,” severing him from the party-guy roles he was initially typecast in.
#1 Whiplash
Whiplash is not just Miles Teller’s best film to date, it’s one of the best movies of the 21st century. Teller is at his absolute best in this film alongside the brilliant J.K. Simmons. In this thematic, dramatic, and suspenseful masterclass of a film, Teller gives it everything he’s got, much like his character, Andrew. The film plays into heavy themes of obsession, perfectionism, self-sacrifice, abusive mentorship, and fear of failure. While seemingly a simple premise, this film has something for everyone in its subtle depth.
Final Thoughts
Miles Teller fully commits to his roles both physically and mentally, a trait few modern actors seem to possess. Because of this, Teller’s roles carry a sense of authenticity, earning him a well-deserved and luminous spot in Hollywood.
