War Movies’ Secret Cameos: Iconic Actors in Minor Roles
War movies have played host to some of Hollywood’s biggest stars, even when they’re not taking the lead. From John Krasinski’s appearance in Sam Mendes’ 2005 film, “Jarhead,” to Billy Boyd’s cameo in “Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World,” these minor roles offer a glimpse into a bygone era. The phenomenon has been ongoing for decades, with stars such as Harrison Ford, Laurence Olivier, and Johnny Depp all making cameo appearances in war films.
From “Platoon” (1986) to “Defiance” (2008), these roles show that even the smallest part can be a sign of a star’s emergence or a nod to a specific film. In 2008’s “Platoon,” Johnny Depp, in a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it bow, plays Private Lerner, a background character in Oliver Stone’s influential Vietnam War film. Almost two decades later, it remains one of Depp’s most obscure roles, lost among his iconic pirate Captain Jack Sparrow from Disney’s “Pirates of the Caribbean” series.
Another notable example is 1998’s “Saving Private Ryan,” Steven Spielberg’s World War II epic, which features Brian Cranston, known for his portrayal of Walter White in the hit TV series “Breaking Bad,” as a soldier in the opening battle scene. The war movie has become a testament to Spielberg’s mastery, as it won five Oscars and earned widespread critical acclaim. Meanwhile, Cranston has continued to rack up notable roles, including 2015’s “Trumbo,” for which he won a Golden Globe award for Best Actor.
Additional actors to make minor roles in war films include Judt Greer, star of “Three Kings,” Harrison Ford, in 1979’s “Apocalypse Now,” and George Mackay, who joined “Defiance” with other Hollywood heavyweights before playing the lead in “1917.” Billy Boyd, best known for playing hobbit Peregrin Took in Peter Jackson’s “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy, could also be seen in Edward Zwick’s 2008 war film “Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World,” coxswain Barrett Bonden.
These minor appearances provide a fascinating glimpse into a star’s development as a performer, and war films, in particular, seem to be a domain where these cameos unfold, allowing actors to further develop their craft. While often overshadowed by major productions, these minor roles play a crucial part in highlighting a star’s range, sometimes foreshadowing more significant roles to come, or simply adding diversity to their filmography.
Overall, these cameos represent a testament to Hollywood’s versatility and a celebration of an actor’s dedication to their craft.