Jeff Goldblum's Greatest and Least Loved Films According to Critics

For five decades, Jeff Goldblum has been a notable figure in significant film franchises. His roles in 'Independence Day,' numerous 'Jurassic Park' films, and the Marvel Cinematic Universe have cemented his place as a Hollywood icon.

Despite his films grossing over $5 billion globally, not each of them has left a lasting impact.

Relying on Rotten Tomatoes ratings, we explore the most and least acclaimed films in Goldblum's illustrious career.

The Less Successful Films in Jeff Goldblum's Portfolio

Beginning his cinematic journey in 1974 with 'Death Wish,' where he played a minor role, not every project has been a critical darling.

10. 'Zambezia' (2012)

With a Rotten Tomatoes score of 25%, this animated feature presents a young peregrine falcon near an active avian metropolis. Goldblum lends his voice to Ajax, a bearded vulture.

Sandra Hall from The Sydney Morning Herald remarked on the film's attempt to mimic the Hollywood style, resulting in a cluttered narrative.

9. 'Man of the Year' (2006)

Earning a 22% score, this comedy features a satirical news show host, played by Robin Williams, running for president. Goldblum portrays a malevolent executive managing the vote-counting software.

Cath Clarke of The Guardian critiqued the film for its lack of coherent satire.

8. 'Hideaway' (1995)

Scoring 21%, this thriller focuses on a man surviving a car accident and forming a psychic connection with a serial killer. Goldblum plays Hatch, the tormented protagonist.

Roger Ebert noted the high-caliber acting that elevates scenes otherwise bordering on absurdity.

7. 'Transylvania 6-5000' (1985)

With a 20% rating, this comedic horror tells of reporters in Transylvania investigating Frankenstein myths. Goldblum co-stars with Ed Begley Jr.

Matt Brunson of Film Frenzy labeled it potentially the worst horror-comedy ever produced.

5 (tie). 'Beyond Therapy' (1987)

A 17% rating characterizes this film adaptation of a play where Goldblum stars as a New Yorker seeking romance through personal ads.

Vincent Canby of The New York Times criticized its lack of cohesive humor and stylistic unity.

5 (tie). 'Mad Dog Time' (1996)

Also at 17%, this film showcases Goldblum as a criminal enforcer embroiled in a complex romantic entanglement.

Roger Ebert described it as the first movie that fails to improve over staring at a blank screen.

4. 'Vibes' (1988)

This comedy, rated at 13%, features Goldblum alongside Cyndi Lauper as psychics on a mission in Ecuador.

Cathy Burke from UPI disparaged it as jumbling humorous moments with over-the-top drama.

2 (tie). 'Holy Man' (1998)

Also scoring 12%, Goldblum appears as a TV network employee in this comedy about a charismatic sales show host.

Lisa Schwarzbaum of Entertainment Weekly claimed the film squandered its cast's potential.

2 (tie). 'Mortdecai' (2015)

With another 12% rating, this film places Goldblum in a comedic role opposite art thief played by Johnny Depp.

David Edelstein of Vulture expressed frustration over Depp's performance style.

1. 'Perfume' (2001)

At the lowest with 11%, this fashion industry satire boasts improvised dialogue linking separate storylines, featuring Goldblum as a talent scout.

Todd McCarthy of Variety appreciated its coherence over similar genre attempts, yet found it lacking in allure.

The High Points of Goldblum's Cinematic Journey

Goldblum's career is dotted with appearances in blockbuster series like 'Jurassic Park' and 'Independence Day' and several prestigious accolades, including nominations for Independent Spirit and Emmy Awards.

Critics have earmarked these films as highlights in his filmography.

10. 'Nashville' (1975)

With an 89% score, this Robert Altman-directed film includes Goldblum as a silent character linking various storylines in the bustling Nashville setting.

Michael Wilmington described it as a rich, multi-layered narrative set in country music's epicenter.

8 (tie). 'Le Week-End' (2013)

Rated at 90%, this film follows a couple revisiting Paris amidst personal dissatisfaction, with Goldblum portraying a successful author.

Moira Macdonald noted its hopeful conclusion resonates deeply with its audience.

8 (tie). 'Isle of Dogs' (2018)

Achieving a 90% rating, this stop-motion film marks Goldblum's collaboration with Wes Anderson. He voices a dog amidst a political quarantine on Trash Island.

Max Weiss praised its detailed and visually unique storytelling.

7. 'Jurassic Park' (1993)

Scoring 91%, Goldblum's chaotician Ian Malcolm has become iconic from this dinosaur-filled adventure.

Olly Richards of Empire highlighted its enduring appeal and groundbreaking effects.

6. 'The Grand Budapest Hotel' (2014)

With a 92% rating, this Wes Anderson film features Goldblum as the meticulous executor of a contested will in a 20th-century European hotel.

Jason Bailey regarded it as a meticulously crafted visual delight.

3 (tie). 'Invasion of the Body Snatchers' (1978)

Sharing a 93% score, this sci-fi classic sees Goldblum as one of the few aware of an alien plot to replace humans.

The New Yorker's Pauline Kael hailed it as highly enjoyable and thrilling.

3 (tie). 'The Fly' (1986)

Leading another 93% rated film, Goldblum stars in a transformative horror narrative melding emotional depth with visceral impact.

Richard Corliss praised the film for its dual achievement as a horror hit and an unexpected love story.

3 (tie). 'Thor: Ragnarok' (2017)

Matching at 93%, Goldblum's Grandmaster in this entry of the MCU captivates audiences with humor within epic settings.

Christopher Orr considered the comedic approach a refreshing strength for the franchise.

2. 'Between the Lines' (1977)

At 94%, this film captures a newspaper newsroom's challenges amid changing times, casting Goldblum as its music critic.

Jonathan Romney admired its cultural reflection on the evolving media landscape.

1. 'Annie Hall' (1977)

Leading with a 97% rating, this Woody Allen classic features Goldblum in a minor but memorable part among a varied ensemble cast.

Janet Maslin praised it for its inventive storytelling and enduring influence on the rom-com genre.