The best Jamie Dornan movies and TV shows highlight the fact that, despite being his most widely known, the Fifty Shades franchise is far from his greatest achievement. Born in 1982 in Northern Ireland, Dornan is not only a versatile actor, but a model and musician too. He began his career in modeling, working with prominent brands such as Hugo Boss, Dior Homme, and Calvin Klein. Transitioning into acting, Dornan’s early roles included the likes of like 2006’s Marie Antoinette and TV shows like Once Upon a Time. His breakthrough came with the critically acclaimed 2014 crime drama series The Fall, which earned him significant recognition and award nominations.
Of course, many viewers know Jamie Dornan for playing Christian Grey in the Fifty Shades of Grey franchise. However, this is far, far from his best work. From leading roles in romantic dramas to intense performances in historical thrillers, Jamie Dornan has established himself as a dynamic presence in the entertainment industry. The best Jamie Dornan movies and TV shows showcase his most compelling performances and reveal that he should be recognized for much more than Fifty Shades.
5 Synchronic (2020)
In director Justin Benson and Aaron Moorhead’s sci-fi thriller Synchronic, Jamie Dornan stars as Dennis Dannelly, a New Orleans paramedic who, alongside his best friend and partner (Anthony Mackie), stumbles upon a mysterious new drug that causes unpredictable, time-altering effects. As the film unfolds, Dennis faces personal struggles, including a strained marriage and the sudden disappearance of his teenage daughter, forcing him to confront the drug’s terrifying consequences.
Synchronic marks Jamie Dornan’s first significant venture into sci-fi, and he brings a grounded, emotional depth to the story, balancing his character’s skepticism with genuine fear and desperation. His performance adds a human element to the film’s high-concept premise, making the sci-fi narrative feel personal and relatable. Synchronic was an important project in Dornan’s career, reinforcing his ability to lead in complex, thought-provoking stories outside of mainstream dramas.
4 A Private War (2018)
In 2018’s A Private War, Jamie Dornan takes on the role of Paul Conroy, a war photographer and trusted colleague of renowned journalist Marie Colvin (played by Rosamund Pike). Directed by Matthew Heineman, A Private War chronicles Colvin’s fearless reporting from some of the most dangerous war zones in the world, highlighting the sacrifices made by journalists in pursuit of the truth.
Jamie Dornan’s portrayal of Conroy is quiet yet deeply compelling, providing a steady presence alongside Pike’s intense, emotionally charged performance. His chemistry with Pike makes their on-screen partnership feel authentic, capturing the deep camaraderie between real-life war correspondents. A Private War was a turning point for Dornan, proving that he could hold his own in a hard-hitting, critically acclaimed biopic. His performance helped solidify his reputation as a serious dramatic actor capable of handling emotionally demanding roles.
3 The Fall (2013–2016)
In the critically acclaimed 2013-2015 crime drama series The Fall, Jamie Dornan delivers a chilling performance as Paul Spector, a family man leading a double life as a serial killer. Starring opposite Gillian Anderson’s Detective Superintendent Stella Gibson, Dornan’s portrayal is deeply unsettling, yet captivating. His ability to balance Spector’s outward charm with his sinister, predatory nature makes the character one of the most haunting in modern television.
The Fall was a career-defining role for Jamie Dornan, proving his ability to carry a complex and psychologically intense character. His performance earned him a nomination for Best Actor at the Irish Film and Television Awards (IFTAs) and widespread critical acclaim. The series not only solidified Dornan as a serious actor but also played a key role in opening doors to more challenging and high-profile roles in movies and TV shows.
2 Belfast (2021)
Kenneth Branagh’s semi-autobiographical 2021 movie Belfast features Jamie Dornan as Pa, a working-class father trying to navigate life in Northern Ireland during the Troubles. Dornan delivers one of his most heartfelt performances, portraying a devoted yet struggling father who wants a better future for his family. His chemistry with Caitríona Balfe, who plays his wife, adds depth to the emotional core of the story.
The film received widespread critical acclaim, with Dornan’s performance praised for its warmth and authenticity. He was nominated for a Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Award alongside the ensemble cast and won the Hollywood Critics Association Award for Best Supporting Actor. Belfast showcased Dornan’s dramatic depth, proving his ability to shine in Oscar-nominated movie and marking a high point in his career.
1 A Haunting in Venice (2023)
The very best Jamie Dornan movie sees him once again working with Kenneth Branagh, this time as part of the actor/director’s acclaimed Hercule Poirot franchise. In A Haunting in Venice, Jamie Dornan plays Dr. Leslie Ferrier, a troubled war doctor grappling with trauma while entangled in a supernatural murder mystery. Directed by Branagh, A Haunting in Venice is an atmospheric adaptation of Agatha Christie’s Hallowe’en Party, blending psychological horror with classic detective storytelling.
Jamie Dornan’s performance as the haunted and fragile doctor adds layers of tension to the eerie narrative. This role demonstrated Dornan’s continued evolution as an actor, moving further into psychological and character-driven storytelling. His performance was widely praised for its intensity and depth, helping establish him as a serious performer in high-profile ensemble films. With A Haunting in Venice, Dornan solidified his reputation as a versatile actor capable of thriving in multiple genres, and it’s arguably the best Jamie Dornan movie so far.
