Before Henry Cavill became synonymous with the Man of Steel, the British actor took on a variety of roles that shaped his career. While his portrayal of Superman catapulted him into global fame, his journey to stardom began with a string of lesser-known roles that many might have forgotten. Here’s a look back at the first ten films of Henry Cavill that paved his way to becoming one of Hollywood’s most recognizable faces.

1. Laguna (2001)

In his first feature film, Laguna, Cavill played the role of Thomas Aprea, a teenager caught in the web of a family crime drama. Though the film flew under the radar, it marked the young actor’s cinematic debut. His performance as the troubled youth hinted at his potential, even in this early stage.

2. The Count of Monte Cristo (2002)

One of Cavill’s first major film appearances came in The Count of Monte Cristo, a classic adventure film based on the novel by Alexandre Dumas. Cavill played Albert Mondego, the son of the main antagonist. While not the lead, this role introduced him to a broader audience and demonstrated his ability to hold his own alongside seasoned actors like Guy Pearce and Jim Caviezel.

3. I Capture the Castle (2003)

In this romantic drama, Cavill took on the role of Stephen Colley, a devoted farmhand hopelessly in love with the film’s leading lady, played by Romola Garai. This period film allowed Cavill to show off his range in a touching, grounded performance, reminding fans of his versatility long before his days of capes and superpowers.

4. Red Riding Hood (2006)

Cavill’s appearance in Red Riding Hood, a modern adaptation of the classic fairy tale, has largely slipped under the radar. He played The Hunter, a brooding figure caught in a gothic romance. Though the film didn’t receive much attention, it provided Cavill with experience in playing darker, moodier characters—a skill he would later perfect in more famous roles.

5. Hellraiser: Hellworld (2005)

One of Cavill’s more unexpected roles was in the horror genre. In Hellraiser: Hellworld, the eighth installment of the long-running Hellraiser series, Cavill played Mike, a cocky gamer who attends a deadly party. While the film didn’t break new ground in the horror scene, Cavill’s turn as a brash and doomed character showed his willingness to take risks early in his career.

6. Tristan & Isolde (2006)

In Tristan & Isolde, a medieval romance based on the legendary story, Cavill took on the role of Melot, a knight who plays a crucial role in the film’s tragic love story. Once again, Cavill wasn’t the lead, but his presence in the film added depth to the ensemble cast. His strong performance here foreshadowed his ability to command attention in period dramas.

7. Stardust (2007)

Before Cavill suited up as Superman, he was seen in Stardust, a fantasy adventure where he played the small but memorable role of Humphrey, the rival of the main character, played by Charlie Cox. Cavill’s character was more comedic and light-hearted, a departure from his usual serious roles. This fantasy flick allowed him to experiment with humor, reminding us that his talents go beyond drama and action.

8. Blood Creek (2009)

In Blood Creek, a horror-thriller directed by Joel Schumacher, Cavill played Evan Marshall, a man seeking revenge for his brother’s kidnapping in a story involving Nazi occultism. While not a major hit, this film gave Cavill an opportunity to embrace a grittier, darker role. His transition from vulnerable to vengeful was a clear indicator of his growing confidence on screen.

9. Whatever Works (2009)

In this Woody Allen comedy, Cavill took on a charming supporting role as Randy James, a love interest to Evan Rachel Wood’s character. Cavill’s appearance in a light-hearted romantic comedy was a significant departure from his usual action and drama films, showcasing his versatility as an actor.

10. Immortals (2011)

While Immortals might not have the same level of recognition as Man of Steel, it was the film that cemented Cavill’s reputation as an action star. As Theseus, Cavill played the lead in this visually stunning film about Greek mythology. His physical transformation and commanding presence in the role paved the way for his future superhero roles. Immortals gave him the opportunity to prove that he could carry a major blockbuster film—setting the stage for Superman’s cape to be draped across his shoulders.

Final Thoughts

While Henry Cavill’s portrayal of Superman remains his most iconic role to date, his early films reveal the diversity of his talents. From romantic dramas to horror and action-packed adventures, Cavill’s journey to stardom was filled with a wide range of characters that helped him build the foundation for his eventual Hollywood dominance. If you haven’t revisited these early gems, now’s the perfect time to watch the evolution of Cavill’s career from rookie to Superman.