10 must-see films – Rolling Stone

From James Bond to Robin Hood, old school cops to men who would be kings, here are some of the Scottish star’s best performances

He would always be to be known as Bond – James Bond – and it’s almost impossible not to say those words without emulating Sean Connery’s deep Scottish baritone. But while the former lifeguard, bodybuilder and Mr. Universe contestant turned actor would help transform 007 into an iconic screen character, he was more than the man who gave Bond his first license to kill. Before his death at 90, Connery had the distinction of working with directors ranging from Alfred Hitchcock to Brian De Palma, winning Oscars and BAFTAs, playing everything from soldiers to train robbers to kings. . He became a de facto ambassador for his home country of Scotland, and embraced the thick, oft-imitated brogue no matter who he played. He was a versatile actor and also a movie star, the kind of performer who could infuse roles with a certain type of radiant, gritty character you could only describe as Conneryesque.

Here are 10 essential Sean Connery movies that pay homage to his range, screen presence, and ability to make virtually any part, big or small, seem larger than life. Yes, Bond is here – how could he not be here? But so did nine others who showed just how funny, dramatic, heroic, wicked, formidable and flawed his characters were once Sir Sean grasped them.