Thomas Brodie-Sangster, a name synonymous with versatility and charm in the acting world, has carved a unique niche for himself in film and television. Born on May 16, 1990, in London, England, Brodie-Sangster has captivated audiences from a young age with his remarkable talent and distinctive presence. Known for his ability to seamlessly transition between diverse roles, he has become a favorite among fans and critics. His ability to bring depth and authenticity to each character he plays has won him accolades and a dedicated fan base across the globe.
In this article, we dive into the world of Thomas Brodie-Sangster, exploring the top 15 movies and TV shows that have defined his career. Whether you’re a long-time admirer or a newcomer to his work, this list will provide a comprehensive look at the roles that have showcased his evolution as an actor and solidified his status as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.
Top 15 Thomas Brodie-Sangster Movies and TV Shows
This list celebrates his achievements and offers a guide for those looking to explore his diverse and impressive body of work.
1Game of Thrones (2013-2014)
| Release Date | 17 April 2011 |
| Director | David Benioff |
| Cast | Peter Dinklage, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, Lena Headey, Emilia Clarke, Kit Harington |
| Rating | R |
| IMDB | 9.2/10 |
In the epic fantasy series Game of Thrones (2013-2014), Thomas Brodie-Sangster took on the role of Jojen Reed, a character pivotal to the show’s intricate plot. Jojen, a young man with prophetic abilities, becomes a crucial guide to Bran Stark, one of the series’ central characters. His ability to see events before they happen, known as “greensight” in the Game of Thrones universe, adds a layer of mystical intrigue to the storyline.
Brodie-Sangster’s portrayal of Jojen Reed was a testament to his acting skills and significant for being part of one of the most popular TV series of all time. His character’s journey, intertwined with the fate of key characters, played a vital role in unfolding the series’ complex narrative. The show’s massive global fan base and critical acclaim make his involvement in Game of Thrones a notable highlight in his career.
2The Queen's Gambit (2020)
| Release Date | 23 October 2020 |
| Director | Scott Frank |
| Cast | Anya Taylor, Harry Melling, Thomas Brodie-Sangster, Marielle Heller, Moses Ingram |
| Rating | TV-MA |
| IMDB | 8.5/10 |
The Queen’s Gambit, a critically acclaimed Netflix miniseries released in 2020, marked another significant milestone in Thomas Brodie-Sangster’s career. In this series, he portrayed Benny Watts, a charismatic and skilled chess player. Set during the Cold War era, the show revolves around a young chess prodigy, Beth Harmon, played by Anya Taylor-Joy, as she navigates the male-dominated world of chess.
Brodie-Sangster’s character, Benny Watts, is known for his sharp wit, distinctive cowboy hat, and masterful chess strategies. His interactions with Beth Harmon are competitive and collaborative, adding depth to the storyline. The Queen’s Gambit received widespread acclaim for its storytelling, visual style, and performances, including Brodie-Sangster’s. His role in this series showcased his versatility as an actor and contributed to the show’s global success and cultural impact.
3Phineas and Ferb (2007-2015)
| Release Date | 17 August 2007 |
| Director | Dan Povenmire |
| Cast | Dan Povenmire, Vincent Martella, Jeff, Ashley Tisdale, Alyson Stoner |
| Rating | TV-G |
| IMDB | 8.1/10 |
Phineas and Ferb (2007-2015), a highly popular animated series, featured Thomas Brodie-Sangster as the voice of Ferb Fletcher. This Disney Channel show, known for its witty humor and creative adventures, follows stepbrothers Phineas and Ferb during their summer vacation. Ferb, characterized by his few words but expressive actions, became an iconic character in animated television.
Brodie-Sangster’s voice acting for Ferb Fletcher was pivotal in bringing the character’s unique personality to life. Despite Ferb’s limited dialogue, Brodie-Sangster’s performance added a significant layer of charm and intrigue to the character. Phineas and Ferb enjoyed immense popularity among children and adults alike and received critical acclaim, including several Emmy nominations. Brodie-Sangster’s role in this series demonstrated his versatility as a voice actor, showcasing a different aspect of his talent beyond live-action performances.
4Godless (2017)
| Release Date | 22 November 2017 |
| Director | Scott Frank |
| Cast | Michelle Dockery, Merritt Wever, Jeff Daniels, Scoot McNair, Jack O'Connell |
| Rating | TV-MA |
| IMDB | 8.2/10 |
In the 2017 Netflix original series Godless, Thomas Brodie-Sangster took on the role of Whitey Winn, a young sharpshooting deputy in the Western drama. Set in the 1880s, the series revolves around the small mining town of La Belle, which is mysteriously governed predominantly by women. Brodie-Sangster’s character, Whitey Winn, is known for his quick draw and youthful bravado, adding a dynamic layer to the show’s gritty and tense atmosphere.
Godless was acclaimed for its storytelling, cinematography, and ensemble cast. Brodie-Sangster’s performance as Whitey Winn was particularly noted for bringing a blend of innocence and toughness to the character, contributing significantly to the narrative’s depth. His involvement in Godless highlighted his versatility as an actor and his ability to stand out in an ensemble cast, further cementing his status in the industry. The series received numerous accolades, including Emmy nominations, underscoring its impact and Brodie-Sangster’s role in its success.
5Nowhere Boy (2009)
| Release Date | 25 December 2009 |
| Director | Sam Taylor-Johnson |
| Cast | Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Kristin Scott Thomas, Thomas Brodie, Anne-Marie Duff, Ophelia Lovibond |
| Rating | R |
| IMDB | 7.1/10 |
In the 2009 biographical drama Nowhere Boy, Thomas Brodie-Sangster portrayed Paul McCartney, one of the most iconic musicians of the 20th century. The film delves into the teenage years of John Lennon, exploring the complex relationships and events that shaped the future Beatles frontman. Brodie-Sangster’s role as McCartney is pivotal in depicting the early formation of one of the most influential bands in music history.
Brodie-Sangster’s portrayal of Paul McCartney was notable for its authenticity and depth. He captured the essence of McCartney’s youth, showcasing his musical talent and the early dynamics between McCartney and Lennon. Nowhere Boy received critical acclaim for its direction, screenplay, and performances, with Brodie-Sangster’s portrayal being a standout. This role demonstrated his remarkable ability to embody real-life figures, adding a significant feather to his acting cap. His performance contributed to the film’s success and brought a key part of music history to the screen.
6Love Actually (2003)
| Release Date | 6 November 2003 |
| Director | Richard Curtis |
| Cast | Hugh Grant, Emma Thompson, Colin Firth, Liam Neeson, Keira Knightley |
| Rating | R |
| IMDB | 761/10 |
In the 2003 romantic comedy Love Actually, Thomas Brodie-Sangster emerged as a standout talent with his portrayal of Sam. The film, an ensemble piece that weaves together various love stories, features Brodie-Sangster as a young boy grappling with the loss of his mother and experiencing his first crush. His character’s storyline is one of the film’s most heartfelt and endearing segments.
Sam’s journey of coping with grief and navigating the complexities of young love captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. Brodie-Sangster’s performance was notable for its sincerity and depth, remarkable for an actor his age. Love Actually became a modern classic in the romantic comedy genre, and Brodie-Sangster’s role significantly contributed to its success. This film was a turning point in his career, establishing him as a talented child actor and setting the stage for his future successes in film and television.
7The Maze Runner (2014)
| Release Date | 19 September 2014 |
| Director | Wes Ball |
| Cast | Dylan O'Brien, Thomas Brodie-Sangster, Kaya Scodelario, Will Poulter, Ki Hong Lee |
| Rating | PG-13 |
| IMDB | 6.8/10 |
The Maze Runner (2014), a dystopian thriller based on James Dashner’s novel, featured Thomas Brodie-Sangster in the role of Newt. In this film, he plays one of the lead characters, a calm and level-headed teenager who helps lead a group of youths trapped in a mysterious and deadly maze. Newt’s character is integral to the plot, often serving as the voice of reason and a source of strength for the group.
Brodie-Sangster’s portrayal of Newt was widely praised for its complexity and emotional depth. He brought a mix of vulnerability and resilience to the character, resonating strongly with the audience, especially the younger demographic. The Maze Runner was a significant film for Brodie-Sangster, showcasing his ability to handle complex, action-oriented roles. The movie’s success led to sequels in which he reprised his role, further establishing him as a versatile actor capable of delivering strong performances in high-stakes, action-packed scenarios. His contribution was crucial in making The Maze Runner a memorable and engaging film within the young adult genre.
8Nanny McPhee (2005)
| Release Date | 5 May 2006 |
| Director | Kirk Jones |
| Cast | Emma Thompson, Colin Firth, Thomas Brodie-Sangster, Kelly Macdonald, Raphaël Coleman |
| Rating | PG |
| IMDB | 6.6/10 |
In the 2005 family fantasy film Nanny McPhee, Thomas Brodie-Sangster played the role of Simon Brown, the eldest of seven children. This film, based on the “Nurse Matilda” books by Christianna Brand, revolves around a magical nanny who uses her mystical abilities to tame unruly children. As Simon, Brodie-Sangster portrayed a mischievous yet vulnerable character, leading his siblings in their antics against their nannies.
Brodie-Sangster’s performance as Simon Brown was critical to the film’s charm and humor. His ability to balance mischief with moments of genuine emotion added depth to the character and resonated with audiences. Nanny McPhee was a significant film in Brodie-Sangster’s early career, showcasing his talent in a leading role at a young age. The film’s success and performance helped establish him as a promising young actor in the film industry, paving the way for his future roles in cinema and television.
9Wolf Hall (2015)
| Release Date | 21 January 2015 |
| Director | Peter Kosminsky |
| Cast | Mark Rylance, Damian Lewis, Claire Foy, Bernard Hill |
| Rating | 21+ |
| IMDB | 8.1/10 |
In the 2015 historical drama series Wolf Hall, Thomas Brodie-Sangster took on the role of Rafe Sadler, a key advisor in the court of King Henry VIII. This critically acclaimed series, based on Hilary Mantel’s novels, delves into the complex and tumultuous period of English history, focusing on the rise of Thomas Cromwell in the Tudor court. As Rafe Sadler, Brodie-Sangster portrayed a character deeply entwined in the political machinations and intrigues of the time.
Brodie-Sangster’s performance in Wolf Hall was notable for its subtlety and depth. He brought a sense of intelligence and quiet strength to his character, making Rafe Sadler a memorable and significant figure in the series. Wolf Hall received widespread acclaim for its writing, direction, and performances, and Brodie-Sangster’s role was integral to its success. His portrayal in this series showcased his versatility as an actor and his ability to hold his own in a cast of seasoned performers, further cementing his reputation in the industry.
10Death of a Superhero (2011)
| Release Date | 30 August 2012 |
| Director | Ian Fitzgibbon |
| Cast | Thomas Brodie-Sangster, Andy Serkis, Sharon Horgan, Michael McElhatton, Aisling Loftus |
| Rating | NR |
| IMDB | 7/10 |
In the 2011 film Death of a Superhero, Thomas Brodie-Sangster delivered a critically acclaimed performance as a terminally ill teenager, Donald Clarke. This poignant narrative explores the themes of life, death, and escapism through the lens of a young artist. Donald, facing his mortality, retreats into a vivid imaginary world, creating superhero drawings where he envisions himself as an invincible figure, contrasting sharply with his real-life vulnerability.
Brodie-Sangster’s portrayal of Donald Clarke was deeply moving and showcased his exceptional ability to convey complex emotions. His performance brought to life the inner turmoil of a character grappling with the harsh realities of a terminal illness while seeking refuge in a fantastical world of his own creation. Death of a Superhero was lauded for its heartfelt storytelling and powerful performances, with Brodie-Sangster’s role particularly noteworthy. His nuanced depiction of Donald Clarke demonstrated his range as an actor and his capacity to handle roles that require a profound emotional depth, earning him accolades in the realm of independent cinema.
11Bright Star (2009)
| Release Date | 6 November 2009 |
| Director | Jane Campion |
| Cast | Ben Whishaw, Abbie Cornish, Paul Schneider, Edie Martin, Thomas Brodie-Sangster |
| Rating | PG |
| IMDB | 6.9/10 |
In the 2009 historical drama Bright Star, Thomas Brodie-Sangster played the role of Samuel Brawne, in a film that poignantly depicts the last three years of the renowned poet John Keats’s life. Directed by Jane Campion, the film focuses on the passionate and ill-fated romance between Keats and Fanny Brawne, with Brodie-Sangster’s character being Fanny’s younger brother.
Brodie-Sangster’s portrayal of Samuel Brawne added a layer of authenticity and depth to the film’s portrayal of the period. His performance, though in a supporting role, was integral to the film’s exploration of family dynamics and societal norms of the early 19th century. Bright Star was celebrated for its lyrical storytelling, exquisite cinematography, and the performances of its ensemble cast. As part of this historical biopic, Brodie-Sangster demonstrated his ability to contribute significantly to a film that delicately balances historical accuracy with emotional storytelling, further showcasing his versatility as an actor.
12Maze Runner: The Scorch Trials (2015)
| Release Date | 18 September 2015 |
| Director | Wes Ball |
| Cast | Thomas Brodie-Sangster, Dylan O'Brien, Ki Hong Lee, Kaya Scodelario, Rosa Salazar |
| Rating | PG-13 |
| IMDB | 6.3/10 |
In Maze Runner: The Scorch Trials (2015), the second installment of the popular dystopian franchise, Thomas Brodie-Sangster reprised his role as Newt. This sequel to “The Maze Runner” escalates the stakes for the group of teens who have escaped the maze, only to face new challenges in the desolate landscape known as the Scorch. Newt’s character remains a pillar of strength and loyalty, crucial to the group’s survival and unity.
Brodie-Sangster’s portrayal of Newt in “The Scorch Trials” deepens the character’s complexity and resilience. His performance was key in portraying the characters’ emotional and physical challenges in this harsh new environment. The film was well-received for its action-packed sequences and strong character development, with Brodie-Sangster’s role being a standout. His continued presence in the Maze Runner series not only solidified his importance in the franchise but also showcased his ability to evolve and grow with his character, impacting the series’ fans and contributing to its success.
13Maze Runner: The Death Cure (2018)
| Release Date | 26 January 2018 |
| Director | Wes Ball |
| Cast | Dylan O'Brien, Thomas Brodie-Sangster, Kaya Scodelario, Ki Hong Lee, Rosa Salazar |
| Rating | PG-13 |
| IMDB | 6.2/10 |
Maze Runner: The Death Cure (2018) marks the climactic finale of the Maze Runner trilogy, with Thomas Brodie-Sangster returning as Newt. This final installment brings the epic saga to a close, as the group of Gladers confronts the last and most dangerous mission yet. In this concluding chapter, they must break into the legendary Last City, a WCKD-controlled labyrinth that may be the deadliest maze of all.
Brodie-Sangster’s portrayal of Newt reaches new heights in this film as his character undergoes significant development and faces profound challenges. His performance captures the essence of Newt’s struggle, bravery, and the deep bonds he shares with his fellow Gladers. The significance of The Death Cure lies in its resolution of the intricate plot and character arcs, with Brodie-Sangster’s role being pivotal in bringing emotional depth and resolution to Newt’s journey. The film not only concludes the story of the Maze Runner series but also showcases Brodie-Sangster’s growth as an actor, as he skillfully portrays his character’s complexities and final evolution.
14Red Nose Day Actually (2017)
| Release Date | 24 March 2017 |
| Director | Richard Curtis, Mat Whitecross |
| Cast | Hugh Grant, Liam Neeson, Andrew Lincoln, Keira Knightley, Colin Firth |
| Rating | TV-PG |
| IMDB | 7.1/10 |
In 2017, Thomas Brodie-Sangster reprised his beloved role as Sam in Red Nose Day Actually, a short sequel to the iconic film Love Actually. Created for the charity event Red Nose Day, this short film revisits the original movie’s characters 14 years later, providing a glimpse into their lives since the events of the 2003 romantic comedy.
Brodie-Sangster’s return as Sam was a delightful treat for fans of Love Actually. His character, once a young boy dealing with his first crush and the loss of his mother, is now shown as a young man, bringing a sense of nostalgia and continuity to the story. Red Nose Day Actually served as a reunion for the beloved characters and supported a charitable cause, demonstrating the enduring impact of Love Actually and the affection held for its characters. Brodie-Sangster’s participation in this short sequel was significant, as it bridged the past and present, allowing audiences to reconnect with Sam and celebrate the journey of the character and the actor over the years.
15Feather Boy (TV Series 2004)
| Release Date | 16 March 2004 |
| Director | Dermot Boyd |
| Cast | Lindsey Coulson, Ronald Pickup, Tasha Bertram, Sheila Hancock, Daisy Head |
| Rating | 10 and up |
| IMDB | 7.3/10 |
In 2004, Thomas Brodie-Sangster appeared in the TV series Feather Boy, a significant early role in his acting career. This British television drama, based on the novel by Nicky Singer, revolves around a young boy named Robert Nobel, portrayed by Brodie-Sangster. The story follows Robert’s journey as he forms an unlikely friendship with an elderly lady and gets involved in a school project about a mysterious old house.
Brodie-Sangster’s portrayal of Robert Nobel in Feather Boy was notable for its depth and sensitivity. His character, often bullied and considered an outsider, finds solace and purpose in the unfolding mystery of the old house, leading to a journey of self-discovery and courage. This role was pivotal in showcasing Brodie-Sangster’s talent at a young age, demonstrating his ability to carry complex emotional narratives. Feather Boy was well-received for its engaging storyline and strong performances, particularly by Brodie-Sangster, who effectively conveyed the nuances of a young boy on the brink of adolescence, grappling with personal challenges and the adventure of the unknown.
Conclusion
Thomas Brodie-Sangster’s remarkable versatility and acting depth make him a must-watch talent. From captivating audiences as a child actor in Love Actually to his compelling performances in The Maze Runner series and Game of Thrones, Brodie-Sangster has consistently demonstrated his ability to bring a unique and memorable presence to film and television. His diverse filmography offers something for everyone: drama, fantasy, or action. We encourage you to explore his works and discover the range of his acting prowess. Share with us in the comments: What’s your favorite Thomas Brodie-Sangster movie or TV show? And don’t forget to share this article with fellow fans and followers of this extraordinary actor!
