Embark on a cinematic journey through Paul Le Mat’s career as we count the top 10 movies showcasing his versatile acting stint.
Paul Le Mat is best known for his role as ‘Luther Strickler’ in the movie “Back to the Future” (1985).
In addition to his film work, Le Mat has also had a successful career in voice acting, providing voices for various animated shows and video games.
He is also a trained martial artist and stunt performer.
| Movies | Release Date |
|---|---|
| Beyond Belief: Fact or Fiction | May 25, 1997 |
| The Twilight Zone | October 2, 1959 |
| American Graffiti | August 1, 1973 |
| Lonesome Dove: The Outlaw Years | September 21, 1995 |
| Lonesome Dove: The Series | February 5, 1989 |
| The Ray Bradbury Theater | May 21, 1985 |
| Murder, She Wrote | September 30, 1984 |
| The Burning Bed | October 8, 1984 |
| The Long Shot | April 18, 2004 |
| Puppet Master | October 12, 1989 |
10. American History X (1998)
“American History X” is a movie about Derek Vinyard, a former neo-Nazi who goes to prison for killing two black youths who tried to steal his car.
In prison, Derek begins to rethink his beliefs and changes his ways after his release.
American History X (1998)
A powerful and thought-provoking film that explores the journey of a neo-Nazi skinhead, Derek Vinyard, played by Edward Norton, from hater to reformed individual after spending time in prison.
Genres
Crime Drama| Released Date | October 30, 1998 |
| Casts | Edward Norton Edward Furlong Beverly D’Angelo |
| Writers | David McKenna |
| Directors | Tony Kaye |
In the movie, Le Mat plays the character Dave Massey, the leader of the Humans-Against-Racism group and a former convict who has become a reformed man.
Massey acts as a mentor to Edward Norton’s character, Derek Vinyard, who recently completed a prison term for Neo-Nazi activities.
Though Le Mat is an actor with no significant role in American history, his portrayal in “American History X” is essential.
It sheds light on the complexities of racial reconciliation and the consequences of hate-driven ideology.
9. Beyond Belief: Fact or Fiction (1997)
“Beyond Belief: Fact or Fiction” is an American television anthology series that aired on the Fox network from 1997 to 2002.
Created by Lynn Lehmann and produced by Dick Clark Productions, the show is hosted by James Brolin in the first season and later by Jonathan Frakes.
Beyond Belief: Fact or Fiction (1997)
In 2024, a breakthrough in artificial intelligence was announced: the Q-AGI, named “Quantum Euriqa,” surpassed human cognition in various cognitive tasks, including understanding, learning, creating, and solving complex problems.
Genres
Mystry Thriller Fantasy| Released Date | May 25, 1997 |
| Casts | Jonathan Frakes Don LaFontaine Campbell Lane |
| Writers | Barry Adelman Robert Tralins Mike Scott |
| Directors | Al Schwartz Skip Schoolnik Tony Randel |
The Beyond Belief: Fact or Fiction cast featuring Paul Le Mat can be both fact and fiction, depending on the specific episodes and seasons of the show you are referring to.
Paul Le Mat was indeed a regular guest on the show from its debut in 1997 until its final season in 2002. He is portrayed as Professor Sheldon Ludovic.
However, the show presented a mix of factual cases and fictional stories.
It’s possible that Paul Le Mat appeared in some episodes based on real-life events, while his appearances in other episodes were works of fiction.
8. American Graffiti (1973)
“American Graffiti” is a movie set on the last day of summer vacation in 1962.
It marked the directorial debut of George Lucas and was a significant commercial and critical success.
While cruising the streets of a small California town, friends Curt (Richard Dreyfuss), Steve (Ronny Howard), Terry (Charles Martin Smith), and John (Paul Le Mat) listen to classic rock ‘n’roll tunes from a mysterious disc jockey, Wolfman Jack.
American Graffiti (1973)
The film, set in 1962, follows a group of high school graduates as they spend a night cruising around their small California town before heading off to college or the military.
Genres
Comedy Drama| Released Date | August 1, 1973 |
| Casts | Richard Dreyfuss Ron Howard Paul Le Mat |
| Writers | George Lucas Gloria Katz Willard Huyck |
| Directors | George Luca |
In the movie “American Graffiti” (1973), Paul Le Mat plays the role of John Milner.
John Milner is a tritagonist and a drag racing champion from Modesto, California.
He is known for his hot-rod enthusiasm and rebellious nature, often represented by his white 1932 Ford Deauville.
Milter’s character symbolizes the youth culture on the brink of disappearing.
7. Lonesome Dove: The Outlaw Years (1995)
Paul Le Mat portrayed Josiah Peale in the television series Lonesome Dove: The Outlaw Years (1995-1996).
Le Mat also appeared in the 1989 miniseries Lonesome Dove and its sequel, but his character didn’t appear in those versions.
The series also stars Robert Urich, Dale Midkiff, and Scott Bairstow.
According to IMDb, the series follows Newt Call, portrayed by Robert Duvall.
Lonesome Dove: The Outlaw Years (1995)
After two years of bounty hunting, womanizing, and drinking, Newt tries to forget the painful memories of his late wife, Hannah, whom he found many years ago.
Genres
Western| Released Date | February 5, 1989 |
| Casts | Scott Bairstow Eric McCormack Kelly Rowan |
| Writers | Steven Baum Tony DiFranco Rick Drew |
| Directors | Allan Kroeker |
In the series, Newt becomes attracted to Hannah, the daughter of local newspaper publisher Josiah Peale (Paul Le Mat).
Paul Le Mat’s role as a prominent actor was also recognized in films such as “American Graffiti” (1973).
6. Lonesome Dove: The Series (1989)
Paul Le Mat portrayed Josiah Peale in “Lonesome Dove: The Series,” which aired from 1994 to 1995.
This role continued his character from the acclaimed 1989 miniseries “Lonesome Dove.”
The series follows the adventures of the characters in a post-Civil War Western setting.
“Lonesome Dove: The Series” can be purchased on platforms like Amazon, and additional information about Paul Le Mat’s role can be found on IMDb and other entertainment websites.
Lonesome Dove: The Series (1989)
Lonesome Dove: The Series” is an American Western drama television series that premiered in first-run syndication on September 26, 1994. It was based on the popular 1989 television miniseries “Lonesome Dove,” which was a four-part adaptation of Larry McMurtry’s 1985 novel
Genres
Western| Released Date | September 21, 1995 |
| Casts | Scott Bairstow Christianne Hirt Eric McCormack |
| Writers | Larry McMurtry Brian Suskind Steven Baum |
| Directors | Donald Shebib Sidney J. Furie Mark Sobel |
The series delves deep into the relationships between the characters, exploring their shared history and individual struggles.
Themes such as old age, death, unrequited love, and enduring friendship are woven throughout the narrative, providing a rich and emotional backdrop to their journey.
As the characters face the harsh realities of the frontier, they also reflect on their pasts, grapple with their personal demons, and strengthen their bonds with one another.
5. The Ray Bradbury Theater (1985)
The Ray Bradbury Theater is an anthology series that aired from 1985 to 1992.
Paul Le Mat appeared in the television series “The Ray Bradbury Theater” in the episode “The Jar” in 1992.
He played the character Charlie. The show featured other notable actors like Richard Kiley, Shelley Duvall, and Eileen Brennan.
The Ray Bradbury Theater (1985)
Lonesome Dove: The Series” is an American Western drama television series that premiered in first-run syndication on September 26, 1994. It was based on the popular 1989 television miniseries “Lonesome Dove,” which was a four-part adaptation of Larry McMurtry’s 1985 novel
Genres
Western| Released Date | May 21, 1985 |
| Casts | Scott Bairstow Christianne Hirt Eric McCormack |
| Writers | Larry McMurtry Brian Suskind Steven Baum |
| Directors | Donald Shebib Sidney J. Furie Mark Sobel |
Le Mat’s performance in this episode is part of his broader work in the series.
Fans can watch his performance in “The Ray Bradbury Theater” on streaming platforms and DVD versions of the show.
His role in “The Jar” is well-regarded and contributes to the series’ reputation for quality storytelling and acting.
4. Murder, She Wrote (1984)
“Murder, She Wrote” is a popular television series that follows the adventures of Jessica Fletcher, a mystery writer and amateur detective.
Angela Lansbury portrays Jessica, a middle-aged widow living in the quaint town of Cabot Cove, Maine.
Murder, She Wrote (1984)
An exciting story will take place in the small town of Cabotville, where Axel Leigh writes a murder mystery series called “Dance of Death” and plays the embittered amateur murderer Richard Queen.
Genres
Crime Drama Mystry| Released Date | September 30, 1984 |
| Casts | Angela Lansbury William Windom Ron Masak |
| Writers | Peter S. Fischer William Link Richard Levinson |
| Directors | Paul Lazarus Anthony Pullen Shaw Walter Grauman |
Despite its idyllic appearance, Cabot Cove has an unusually high number of murders, making it the unofficial murder capital of the United States.
Jessica’s keen observational skills and sharp intellect help her solve various crimes.
Each episode features a new mystery, often involving friends, neighbors, or strangers who find themselves entangled in criminal activities.
Jessica’s background as a successful mystery novelist gives her unique insights into solving real-life cases. She often outsmarts local law enforcement and outwits the criminals.
3. The Burning Bed (1984)
“The Burning Bed” is a powerful drama based on a true story, starring Farrah Fawcett as Francine Hughes.
Francine endures nearly a decade of severe physical and emotional abuse from her husband, Mickey (Paul Le Mat).
The Burning Bed (1984)
The story is about Hughes going to trial for killing her husband, James Berlin “Mickey” Hughes. She set fire to the bed he was sleeping in at their home in Dansville, Michigan, on March 9, 1977.
Genres
Crime Biography Drama| Released Date | October 8, 1984 |
| Casts | Farrah Fawcett Paul Le Mat Richard Masur |
| Writers | Rose Leiman Goldemberg Faith McNulty |
| Directors | Robert Greenwald |
Paul Le Mat portrayed Mickey Hughes in the television film The Burning Bed based on real events.
The movie, released in 1984, received critical acclaim and featured actress Farrah Fawcett in the lead role.
Le Mat’s performance was notable for portraying an abusive husband, a role that earned him recognition.
He had also worked frequently in television, including a notable appearance as Farrah Fawcett’s abusive husband in the movie.
2. The Long Shot (2004)
The Long Shot, a 2004 American sports dramedy film, features Paul Le Mat in one of its many memorable roles.
In the sequel to the box-office hit “The Long Shot” (2004), our beloved characters are back for another heartwarming and hilarious adventure
Le Mat played the character of Marvin, the coach of Troy Bolton (Zac Efron), and Gabriella Montez (Vanessa Hudgens) in their first high school musical performance.
The Long Shot (2004)
Sixteen years have passed since Sterling’s underdog high school basketball team, led by the charismatic and awkward Sean Anderson (Johnny Knoxville) and the sweet and determined Pascale Hughes (Francesca Eastwood).
Genres
Drama| Released Date | April 18, 2004 |
| Casts | Julie Benz Marsha Mason Paul Le Mat |
| Writers | David Alexander |
| Directors | Georg Stanford Brown |
Marvin is a wise director. He is dedicated and talented. Marvin encourages the two lead characters.
They pursue their dreams. Marvin helps them overcome numerous obstacles. Together, they put on a show-stopping performance.
Despite the challenges, Marvin’s unwavering support and wisdom play integral roles in the overall narrative, making his character an essential contributor to the film’s success.
1. Puppet Master (1989)
John Fanelli portrayed Paul Le Mat as the Puppet Master in the 1987 horror movie Puppet Master.
The Puppet Master is a mysterious figure who has the ability to bring to life a series of evil, murderous puppets.
His character is a significant antagonist in the series, often providing the puppets with instructions and motivations for their deadly actions.
Puppet Master (1989)
The movie revolves around a puppeteer named Andre Toulon, who brings his puppets to life using the souls of Nazis.
Genres
Fantasy Horror Sci-Fi| Released Date | October 12, 1989 |
| Casts | Paul Le Mat William Hickey Irene Miracle |
| Writers | Charles Band |
| Directors | David Schmoeller |
The puppets, including Blade, Pinhead, Tunneler, and Leech Woman, are the main characters.
The film has received mixed reviews, but many fans appreciate its unique blend of horror and puppetry.
In the original film, the Puppet Master was a Nazi scientist who fled to the United States after World War II.
He spent decades developing and refining his techniques to bring his creations to life, using their miniature size for criminal activities such as blackmail, theft, and murder.
Conclusion
Paul Le Mat has captivated audiences with his versatile acting and memorable roles throughout his career.
From his breakout performance in “American Graffiti” to his heartfelt portrayal in “Melvin and Howard,” Le Mat’s filmography showcases a range of characters and stories.
This list of his top 10 movies highlights the standout films that define his legacy, featuring his unique ability to bring depth and authenticity to every role.
Whether he stars in a drama, comedy, or action film, Paul Le Mat’s work resonates with fans and critics alike.
