Steven Soderbergh has done everything, from heist flicks to artsy experiments and everything in between. With a decades-spanning career, this Oscar-winning director has made films that are as wildly diverse as they are memorable. Whether it’s the sleek charm of Ocean’s Eleven or the gritty realness of Traffic, Soderbergh has a knack for keeping us guessing. One minute, he’s giving us big-budget blockbusters; the next, he’s diving headfirst into indie territory with handheld cameras and tiny crews. Who does that? Steven Soderbergh, that’s who.
Ranking the movies of the Swiss Army knife of filmmakers feels almost unfair because each one carries its own unique vibe. From star-studded casts to experimental narratives, there’s always something surprising in his work. Love action-packed thrillers? He’s got you covered. Prefer something slow, cerebral, and artsy? He’s got those, too. And let’s not forget his playful, offbeat ventures that leave you scratching your head but oddly satisfied.
So, whether you’re here to celebrate his greatest hits or discover the hidden gems, this ranking will take you through the highs, lows, and delightful weirdness of a career like no other.
35. Out of Sight (1998)
Few films can pull off crime, comedy, and romance as seamlessly as Out of Sight. George Clooney plays a suave bank robber, and Jennifer Lopez brings her A-game as the smart, no-nonsense federal marshal on his tail. Their chemistry? Off the charts. Steven Soderbergh uses non-linear storytelling to keep things fresh, and the film radiates a jazzy, cool vibe that feels effortless.
The supporting cast, including Don Cheadle and Ving Rhames, add layers to the playful yet dangerous world of heists and schemes. It’s sleek, sexy, and endlessly rewatchable, showcasing Soderbergh’s knack for making even the most outrageous plots feel grounded. The dialogues are sharp, the pace never drags, and the whole thing feels like a cinematic smooth criminal, stealing hearts and keeping you hooked.
34. Ocean’s Eleven (2001)
This heist movie doesn’t just entertain; it struts in with a swagger that screams cool. George Clooney’s Danny Ocean assembles a dream team of con artists to rob three Vegas casinos simultaneously. The cast is stacked: Brad Pitt, Matt Damon, Julia Roberts, and every actor shines in their role. The heist itself is ridiculously clever, and Soderbergh directs with the precision of a master conductor.
The jazzy music, sharp banter, and effortless style make it an unforgettable ride. It’s pure fun but never dumb, blending charm and suspense into one slick package. Soderbergh knows how to keep the audience engaged, leaving you guessing without ever feeling confused. If you’ve ever wondered what a perfectly executed movie heist feels like, Ocean’s Eleven is the answer.
33. Traffic (2000)
Soderbergh tackles the drug trade from every angle in this intense, multi-layered drama. The interconnected storylines, spanning a Mexican cop’s moral dilemma, a U.S. drug czar’s family struggles, and a wealthy housewife’s descent into chaos, are seamlessly woven together. The brilliance lies in its realism; this isn’t a flashy crime thriller but an unflinching look at a global crisis.
Benicio Del Toro delivers a haunting, Oscar-winning performance that sticks with you long after the credits roll. The film’s color-coded cinematography is subtle yet powerful, guiding you through the story’s complexities. Soderbergh doesn’t spoon-feed conclusions, trusting the audience to grapple with the moral ambiguity. It’s heavy but rewarding, offering a sobering perspective on a topic that’s as relevant today as it was then.
32. Erin Brockovich (2000)
Few movies can make legal battles this compelling, but Soderbergh and Julia Roberts pulled it off in style. Roberts shines as the unstoppable Erin Brockovich, a single mom turned legal powerhouse who takes on a corrupt corporation poisoning a small town’s water supply. It’s the ultimate David vs. Goliath story, told with heart, grit, and a healthy dose of sass.
Soderbergh directs with a light touch, letting the performances and story take center stage. It’s a movie that makes you root for the underdog and feel genuinely inspired. Every scene brims with energy, and the dialogue is razor-sharp. Watching Erin go toe-to-toe with corporate giants is pure cinematic satisfaction. If you want a drama that’s equal parts empowering and entertaining, this one’s a no-brainer.
31. Contagion (2011)
Watching Contagion post-2020 hits differently, but Soderbergh’s pandemic thriller was ahead of its time. The film is a stark, clinical look at how a deadly virus spreads across the globe, disrupting lives and exposing vulnerabilities in our systems. The star-studded cast, including Kate Winslet, Matt Damon, and Marion Cotillard, delivers grounded, realistic performances that make the stakes feel painfully real.
Soderbergh’s direction avoids melodrama, opting instead for a methodical, almost documentary-like approach. It’s chilling, gripping, and eerily prescient, with moments that feel like a mirror to reality. The haunting score by Cliff Martinez amplifies the tension lingering in your mind long after the movie ends. If ever there was a film to make you appreciate hand sanitizer and masks, this is it.
30. The Limey (1999)
Soderbergh goes full neo-noir with The Limey, a revenge tale soaked in style and grit. Terence Stamp is riveting as Wilson, a tough-as-nails Brit seeking justice for his daughter’s death in Los Angeles. The film’s fragmented editing and flashback sequences give it a dreamlike quality, pulling you into Wilson’s fractured emotional state.
Stamp’s performance is raw and commanding, while Peter Fonda’s smarmy villain is a perfect foil. The dialogue crackles with understated menace, and the pacing keeps you hooked without overstaying its welcome. Soderbergh delivers a masterclass in less-is-more filmmaking, creating a moody atmosphere that lingers long after the credits. It’s gritty, poetic, and uniquely Soderbergh, a hidden gem that deserves more love.
29. Magic Mike (2012)
Don’t judge this one by its premise. Magic Mike isn’t just a movie about male strippers; it’s a surprisingly thoughtful exploration of ambition, relationships, and the price of chasing the American Dream. Channing Tatum gives his best performance yet, drawing from his own life experiences, while Matthew McConaughey steals the show as the sleazy yet charismatic club owner.
Soderbergh balances the glitzy dance routines with a grounded narrative, making it both entertaining and emotionally resonant. The cinematography is warm and intimate, capturing the highs and lows of the characters’ lives with authenticity. Whether you’re here for the drama or the dance moves, Magic Mike is a crowd-pleaser that offers way more than meets the eye.
28. Che: Part One (2008)
Soderbergh’s biographical epic about Che Guevara’s rise is more than just a history lesson; it’s an immersive experience. Benicio Del Toro disappears into the role, delivering a magnetic performance that captures Che’s charisma and determination. The film chronicles the Cuban Revolution with meticulous attention to detail, offering a boots-on-the-ground perspective of guerrilla warfare.
Soderbergh’s decision to shoot in a documentary style makes the action feel immediate and raw. This isn’t a Hollywood-ized version of history; it’s an unvarnished portrayal of the complexities of rebellion. While it’s heavy on political and historical context, it’s also deeply human, showing the sacrifices and struggles behind the iconic figure. It’s a slow burn, but for those willing to invest, it’s a rewarding cinematic journey.
27. Bubble (2005)
Bubble is as experimental as it gets for Soderbergh, a minimalist thriller set in a small-town doll factory with a cast of non-actors. The story revolves around a murder mystery, but don’t expect a conventional whodunit. The real intrigue lies in the stark realism and awkward, unpolished performances that feel eerily authentic.
The film’s quiet tension builds through its mundane setting and unassuming characters, creating a lingering sense of dread. Soderbergh’s decision to shoot in a documentary style adds to the eerie vibe, making it feel like you’re peering into real lives unraveling. It’s not flashy or fast-paced, but it’s fascinating in its own unique way, a stripped-down, intimate exploration of small-town secrets and human fragility.
26. The Informant! (2009)
Matt Damon shines in this quirky, darkly comedic take on corporate whistleblowing. Playing the bumbling, compulsive liar, Mark Whitacre, Damon delivers a performance that’s both hilarious and oddly sympathetic. Soderbergh injects a retro vibe into the film with jazzy music and playful editing that contrasts sharply with the shady corporate dealings at its heart.
The film walks a fine line between comedy and drama, blending absurdity with genuine stakes. It’s a fascinating dive into the mind of an unreliable narrator, with moments that will leave you scratching your head in the best way. The Informant! is Soderbergh at his most playful, turning what could’ve been a dry corporate drama into a captivating rollercoaster of deception and irony.
25. Ocean’s Twelve (2004)
Following up on the perfection of Ocean’s Eleven was no small feat, and Ocean’s Twelve decided to lean into its own absurdity. This sequel takes the crew to Europe for a heist that’s as stylish as it is chaotic. The plot is more convoluted, but that’s part of the charm. This movie is less about the heist and more about the playful chemistry between the star-studded cast. Julia Roberts playing a character who pretends to be Julia Roberts? Genius.
The film doesn’t take itself too seriously, and that’s what makes it so much fun. Soderbergh’s direction is as slick as ever, and the jazzy score sets the perfect tone. It’s lighter, sillier, and a bit self-indulgent, but for fans of the first film, it’s still a delightful ride.
24. Logan Lucky (2017)
Think Ocean’s Eleven, but with a Southern twang and a lot more duct tape. Logan Lucky is Soderbergh’s hilarious, down-to-earth take on the heist genre, featuring a ragtag group of underdogs planning to rob a NASCAR race. Channing Tatum and Adam Driver, as the Logan brothers, are a perfect duo. Daniel Craig steals the show with his unexpected comedic chops as the eccentric explosives expert Joe Bang.
The movie is clever, heartwarming, and full of quirky characters that feel real. Soderbergh brings his signature precision to the chaos, making every twist and turn a delight. It’s a heist movie with heart and humor, proving that sometimes, losers can be winners, too.
23. Side Effects (2013)
This psychological thriller starts as a tale of prescription drugs and spirals into something much darker. Rooney Mara gives a chilling performance as Emily, a woman battling depression whose life takes a turn after being prescribed a new medication. Jude Law’s role as her psychiatrist adds layers of tension and intrigue. Soderbergh plays with audience expectations, weaving a web of deceit and manipulation that keeps you guessing until the end.
The sleek cinematography and unsettling score create an atmosphere of unease, making it impossible to look away. It’s a film that starts as a commentary on the pharmaceutical industry and ends as a gripping game of cat and mouse. For fans of twisty, cerebral thrillers, this one’s a knockout.
22. Haywire (2011)
With Haywire, Soderbergh dives headfirst into the action genre, crafting a sleek and brutal spy thriller. MMA fighter Gina Carano stars as a black-ops agent betrayed by her employers, and her fight scenes are nothing short of spectacular. Forget over-the-top explosions; this movie is all about raw, realistic combat. The stellar supporting cast, including Antonio Banderas, Michael Fassbender, and Ewan McGregor, adds gravitas, but Carano’s physicality steals the show.
Soderbergh’s minimalist approach to the action feels fresh, with long takes and no shaky cam to distract. It’s a no-nonsense, tightly executed thriller that delivers punches, literally and figuratively. For fans of stylish, grounded action, this is a must-watch.
21. King of the Hill (1993)
Soderbergh’s most personal film is a tender coming-of-age story set during the Great Depression. King of the Hill follows 12-year-old Aaron as he navigates poverty and abandonment with resilience and wit. The film is poignant without being overly sentimental, capturing the harshness of the era while celebrating the resourcefulness of its young protagonist. Soderbergh’s direction is understated, letting the story and characters shine.
The period details are impeccable, immersing viewers in Aaron’s world. It’s a heartfelt, beautifully crafted film that showcases Soderbergh’s range as a director. This hidden gem is worth discovering for those who enjoy emotionally rich, character-driven stories.
20. The Girlfriend Experience (2009)
Starring adult film star Sasha Grey in a surprisingly nuanced performance, The Girlfriend Experience is a fascinating blend of fiction and reality. The film explores the life of a high-end escort in the midst of the 2008 financial crisis, delving into themes of intimacy, power, and commerce.
Shot with a documentary-like aesthetic, the movie feels raw and immediate, offering a voyeuristic glimpse into a world few truly understand. Soderbergh’s experimental approach makes it less about plot and more about mood and character. It’s not a traditional narrative but a compelling, thought-provoking exploration of human connections in a transactional world.
19. Kimi (2022)
In Kimi, Soderbergh taps into contemporary anxieties about technology and surveillance, crafting a taut, modern thriller. Zoë Kravitz shines as Angela, an agoraphobic tech worker who stumbles upon evidence of a crime while analyzing audio streams. The film captures the paranoia of the digital age, blending Hitchcockian suspense with a sleek, tech-savvy edge.
Angela’s journey from isolation to action is both thrilling and empowering, with Soderbergh keeping the tension razor-sharp throughout. The brisk pace and tight editing make it an edge-of-your-seat experience. It’s a smart, stylish thriller that feels fresh and relevant, proving once again Soderbergh’s knack for reinventing genres.
18. The Laundromat (2019)
The Laundromat dives into the murky waters of financial corruption, using the Panama Papers scandal as its backdrop. Meryl Streep leads the ensemble cast, delivering a performance that’s equal parts heart and humor. The film uses interconnected stories and fourth-wall-breaking narration (courtesy of Gary Oldman and Antonio Banderas) to explain the complex world of offshore accounts and tax evasion.
Soderbergh’s approach is playful yet biting, blending comedy with scathing social commentary. While it’s not as tightly focused as some of his other works, it’s an ambitious, thought-provoking take on systemic greed. For anyone curious about how the 1% really operates, this one’s a sharp and stylish watch.
17. The Good German (2006)
The Good German is Soderbergh’s homage to classic Hollywood cinema, but it’s more about style than substance. Set in post-WWII Berlin, the film uses old-school techniques like black-and-white cinematography and period-accurate sound design to recreate the golden age of film noir. George Clooney and Cate Blanchett bring old-fashioned star power to this tale of love, betrayal, and espionage.
While the story itself doesn’t break new ground, the film’s dedication to its aesthetic makes it a fascinating experiment. It’s a love letter to the past that might not thrill everyone but will definitely intrigue cinephiles.
16. Schizopolis (1996)
Bizarre, chaotic, and utterly original, Schizopolis is Soderbergh’s most experimental work. It’s less a traditional movie and more a surreal collection of sketches exploring themes of communication, identity, and absurdity. Soderbergh himself stars in dual roles, further blurring the line between filmmaker and subject.
The film is packed with nonsensical dialogue, fourth-wall breaks, and offbeat humor, making it a cult classic for fans of avant-garde cinema. While it’s not for everyone, it’s a fascinating glimpse into Soderbergh’s creative mind. For those willing to embrace its weirdness, Schizopolis offers a uniquely rewarding experience.
15. Full Frontal (2002)
Full Frontal is Soderbergh at his most experimental, offering a meta-commentary on Hollywood and storytelling itself. Shot on digital video with a stripped-down aesthetic, the film follows interconnected characters over a single day in Los Angeles.
With an ensemble cast featuring Julia Roberts, David Duchovny, and Catherine Keener, it’s a movie that constantly blurs the lines between fiction and reality. While it’s far from conventional, the film’s raw, improvisational energy makes it intriguing. It’s a love-it-or-hate-it kind of project, but this one’s a thought-provoking watch for those interested in Soderbergh’s more daring ventures.
14. Solaris (2002)
Soderbergh’s adaptation of Solaris is a moody, introspective sci-fi film that explores grief, love, and the nature of existence. George Clooney stars as a psychologist sent to a mysterious space station, where he encounters a haunting version of his deceased wife.
The film trades traditional sci-fi thrills for emotional depth, using the eerie, dreamlike atmosphere to probe its characters’ inner lives. Soderbergh’s minimalist style and Cliff Martinez’s hypnotic score make it a visually and aurally arresting experience. While it’s slower-paced, Solaris offers a deeply affecting journey for those willing to immerse themselves in its meditative tone.
13. Kafka (1991)
With Kafka, Soderbergh crafts a surreal mystery loosely inspired by the works of Franz Kafka. Jeremy Irons stars as the titular character, a meek insurance clerk who stumbles into a shadowy conspiracy. The film blends Kafkaesque paranoia with noir elements, creating a world that feels both eerie and oppressive.
Shot in moody black and white with bursts of color, it’s a visually striking movie that mirrors the themes of confusion and dread. While it’s one of Soderbergh’s more obscure works, it’s a compelling exploration of power, bureaucracy, and the human condition. Fans of surreal thrillers will find plenty to appreciate.
12. Sex, Lies, and Videotape (1989)
This one? A complete game-changer. Soderbergh took the indie world by storm with this film, making us rethink what we know about relationships, secrets, and self-discovery. The plot revolves around a guy named Graham (James Spader) who’s returned to his hometown and gets caught up in a love triangle that gets more twisted by the minute. It’s all about intimacy, vulnerability, and well… videotapes. It feels raw, real, and almost uncomfortably intimate.
Why should you watch it? Well, it’s not just a movie; it’s a slice of late ’80s indie cinema that plays with emotions and builds tension. You’ll remember the characters and their messy lives long after the credits roll.
11. The Underneath (1995)
Soderbergh’s venture into neo-noir isn’t his brightest, but it still has something interesting going on. Peter Gallagher stars as a gambler who returns to his hometown only to find himself tangled in a messy web of betrayal, love, and crime. The film attempts to juggle a lot, from color manipulation to non-linear storytelling.
While it doesn’t quite hit the mark, it still has that Soderbergh vibe, with a deep dive into human emotions. It’s one of those movies that leaves you feeling like you’ve seen a story unfold in an unusual, almost frustrating way. Although not a must-watch, it still is an intriguing look at what would come next in Soderbergh’s career.
10. Gray’s Anatomy (1996)
No, it’s not the medical drama you’re thinking of. Soderbergh’s Gray’s Anatomy is an experimental, quirky film that focuses on a man’s musings about his life, his body, and the nature of illness. Based on the real-life monologue by Spalding Gray, the film weaves Gray’s personal reflections with Soderbergh’s calm, cinematic touch.
It’s not fast-paced or plot-driven. Instead, it’s reflective and kind of meditative, exploring mortality in an oddly intimate way. The beauty here lies in the simplicity of the dialogue and the way Soderbergh frames it. Watch it for the philosophical pondering that doesn’t rush and if you’re into something thought-provoking but not in your face.
9. Ocean’s Thirteen (2007)
The final chapter of the Ocean’s trilogy. It’s slick, stylish, and definitely entertaining, but there’s something about it that feels like a victory lap for the entire cast. This time, Danny Ocean (George Clooney) and his crew are back at it to take down a ruthless casino owner. The plot is all about revenge, money, and, of course, heists.
Why watch it? Because it’s full of charm, humor, and snappy dialogue. The gang is together one last time, and you’ll appreciate the easy camaraderie and the smooth action. It’s a fitting conclusion, even if it doesn’t quite have the same sparkle as the first two.
8. Che: Part Two (2008)
Soderbergh’s follow-up to Che: Part One digs deeper into the struggles of Che Guevara as he attempts to spark a revolution in Bolivia. While the first part focuses on his earlier years, this film portrays his decline and the eventual collapse of his mission.
It’s a slow burn, no doubt, but if you’re into epic political dramas and don’t mind a bit of historical deep dive, this one’s worth it. Benicio del Toro’s performance is exceptional. Watch this one if you’re in the mood for a film that’s more about political ideologies than action, with a pace that requires patience and a keen interest in history.
7. Behind the Candelabra (2013)
What happens when a movie combines the glitz of Hollywood with the eccentricities of a larger-than-life performer? Behind the Candelabra tells the true story of Liberace’s relationship with his lover, Scott Thorson, in the ‘70s and ‘80s. Matt Damon and Michael Douglas are on fire here, playing characters that are both fascinating and weirdly tragic.
The film is a wild ride of luxury, fame, and darker undertones of manipulation and control. It’s also got that perfect mix of camp and drama that makes it unforgettable. If you’re into the strange, colorful world of showbiz, this one’s for you.
6. Unsane (2018)
This film plays with your mind in all the right ways. Unsane follows a woman (Claire Foy) who, after being involuntarily committed to a mental institution, starts to wonder if she’s being haunted by a stalker. The catch? It’s filmed entirely on an iPhone. That’s right, the whole thing looks raw and unpolished, adding an almost claustrophobic vibe to the experience. It’s a psychological thriller with a twist of paranoia, and the iPhone aspect makes it feel intensely personal. Watch it if you’re craving something different. It’s an unsettling ride that’ll keep you questioning reality.
5. High Flying Bird (2019)
When you combine sports, business, and a dash of power dynamics, you get High Flying Bird. Set during a pro basketball lockout, it follows a sports agent (André Holland) as he navigates the tension between the players, team owners, and corporate interests. Filmed almost entirely on an iPhone (again!), the film has a fast-paced, slick energy that mirrors the business world it portrays. It’s a different angle on sports movies, where the drama isn’t about slam dunks but about negotiation and manipulation behind the scenes. Watch it for the smart dialogue and the unexpected turn it takes in discussing race, power, and sports culture.
4. Let Them All Talk (2020)
Meryl Streep, a cruise, and some soul-searching, what’s not to love? This film follows a famous author (Streep) as she embarks on a trip with her friends and estranged nephew, leading to some serious emotional reckoning. The film is surprisingly quiet, taking its time with conversations that feel personal and introspective.
There’s no big plot or dramatic twists, just a group of people figuring themselves out as they travel. Watch it if you’re into character-driven stories that unfold slowly and leave you with a sense of calm introspection. Plus, it’s Meryl, so there’s that!
3. No Sudden Move (2021)
If you love a good neo-noir crime thriller, then No Sudden Move is right up your alley. Set in 1950s Detroit, this film follows a group of criminals who are blackmailed into a scheme that spirals out of control. The cast? Star-studded, with Don Cheadle, Benicio del Toro, and Brendan Fraser, among others.
Soderbergh’s direction here is sharp, with an air of suspense that keeps building. It’s a smart, twisty thriller that feels fresh while still being nostalgic. Watch it for the slow-burn tension, complex characters, and the 1950s setting that feels like a stylish throwback to classic crime flicks.
2. Magic Mike’s Last Dance (2023)
The Magic Mike trilogy has come full circle, and it’s here for one final dance. Channing Tatum’s Mike Lane is back, this time bringing his moves to London. This installment mixes flashy dance sequences with the typical emotional baggage and personal growth that you’d expect from a movie about male strippers.
It’s fun, it’s wild, and it’s a grand finale to a story about performance, fame, and finding one’s purpose. The dance numbers are as high-energy as ever, and there’s a sense of closure as the characters embrace their futures. Watch this if you’re in the mood for something light, with a bit of emotional depth and lots of glitter.
1. Presence (2024)
Did Steven Soderbergh direct a supernatural horror thriller? Yes, please! Presence isn’t your typical spooky flick; it’s a bold, first-person perspective dive into paranoia and ghostly happenings. Written by the brilliant David Koepp and starring Lucy Liu, Julia Fox, and Chris Sullivan, this movie screams intrigue. A suburban family moves into a seemingly ordinary house, only to discover they’re not alone. Creepy? Absolutely.
Premiering at Sundance, Presence has already caught the buzz, and with Soderbergh behind the camera, you know it’ll be smart, stylish, and spine-tingling. Shot in Cranford, New Jersey, the intimate setting and unique filming style make it a cinematic experiment worth experiencing. Those hoping to stream will have to wait longer. But when it releases, this haunting thriller is sure to keep you up at night!
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