Most commercially successful films tend to have big budgets, large cast and action taking place over several locations. But there are some films which take the risk of featuring just two actors, often limiting the action to one location and placing the emphasis on dialogue and the delivery of memorable performances. These ten films are as notable for their captivating and often poignant content, as they are for the skillful, powerful performances delivered by just the two actors who carry the weight of the entire film.

10. Hell In The Pacific

This 1968 film is set during World War II and tells the story of two soldiers, an American pilot (Lee Marvin) and a Japanese navy captain (Toshiro Mifune), as they fight for survival after becoming stranded on a deserted island in the Pacific Island. They must put aside their hostility and attempt to work with each other if they are to survive, whilst drawing audiences in with their engaging character portrayals.

9. Paranormal Activity

This film has become a horror success. The plot centers around a couple, following their move to a suburban house, as they are faced with increasingly demonic forces in their new home. “Despite its low-budget, this film succeeds in creating suspense, terror and keeping viewers gripped to the very end” says Donald Pennington, an arts blogger at Draftbeyond and Lastminutewriting.

8. My Dinner With Andre

Set over the course of a dinner, the film focuses on two friends (played by Wallace Shawn and Andre Gregory), as they discuss the nature of life. This is a film which artfully uses captivating and noteworthy dialogue to ensure the audience remain engaged until the last frame.

7. Before Sunrise

The first in the 'Before' trilogy, Before Sunrise is the story of two strangers who meet whilst travelling on a train in Europe. Despite deciding to spend the day exploring together, they know this may be their only night together. The strength and success of this film lies in its realistic conversation and relatable characters.

6. The Sunset Limited

Performed by Samuel L Jackson and Tommy Lee Jones, The Sunset Limited is a film adaption of a play by the same title. It explores the philosophical debate of what makes life worth living, as Jackson's character tries to persuade Jones' that he shouldn't end his own life, all in the confines of a New York apartment. Captivating performances by both actors make this film worth watching.

5. Sleuth

Set in grounds of an aging writer's estate, the plot follows the confrontation between the aging writer and his wife's younger lover. Thrilling and full of suspense, the 1972 film staring Laurence Olivier and Michael Cain, was remade in 2002 with Caine as the writer and Jude Law as the lover. Sleuth is a thriller which keeps audiences gripped until the final twist.

4. Misery

One of the best known horror films, Misery tell the story of a writer who is rescued from a car crash and cared for by one of his fans, only to discover that he is now her captive and subject to her violent abuse. The tension and exceptional performances in this film have made it a horror classic.

3. Gerry

This is the first film in the 'Death' trilogy and focuses on the friendship of two young men as they wander into the desert and become lost. “The film explores what happens when people are tested to their limits. The powerful dialogue keeps the audience hooked, but equally long stretches of silence heighten the sense of despair felt by the two characters and make the film more believable” explains Margie Burke, a movies blogger at Writinity and Researchpapersuk.

2. Gravity

Set in outer space, Gravity follows two astronauts (Sandra Bullock and George Clooney) as they try to work together to return to Earth after becoming stranded in space following an accident. Whilst the tension and fear felt by the characters captivates the audience, it is the visually impressive work by director Alfonso Cuaron which makes this film one to watch.

1. Antichrist

This raw and dark film delves into the reality of loss and grief. Following the death of their son, who falls to his death whilst his parents are making love, the couple retreat to their cabin. Despite their efforts to repair their lives, this film unflinchingly explores the brutal and violent unravelling of the characters' psyches. Hailed as one of the most evocative and unique two-man films, it is well-worth watching.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Ashley Halsey, a professional writer with Lucky Assignments and Gum Essays , is involved in many lifestyle and movie projects all over the United States. A true foodie, she enjoys discovering new restaurants and tasting local cuisines everywhere she goes.