Few figures in modern entertainment have mastered the tightrope walk between outrage and profound social critique quite like Sacha Baron Cohen. A comedian with the mind of an academic, his work is a cunning mirror held up to the cultural absurdities of our time.
Through a gallery of unforgettable, often offensive and always hilarious alter egos like Ali G, Borat and Bruno, he does more than just provoke laughter; he expertly crafts elaborate, unscripted dramas where the unsuspecting public and powerful figures become the true performers.
Borat (2006)
(Source: IMDb)
The era-defining work. Using the mockumentary format, Baron Cohen unleashes his Kazakh reporter on the United States, ruthlessly exposing American bigotry and hypocrisy through genuinely unscripted interactions.
Borat Subsequent Moviefilm (2020)
(Source: IMDb)
Fourteen years later, Borat returns with an even bolder, politically charged satire, proving the character’s enduring ability to lay bare the divisions of modern society.
The Dictator (2012)
(Source: IMDb)
Though it’s the only fully scripted film starring one of his main characters, the portrayal of General Aladeen, a paranoid and misogynistic dictator of the Republic of Wadiya, is a hilarious takedown of authoritarianism and Western democracy.
Brüno (2009)
(Source: IMDb)
The extravagant and offensive Austrian fashion reporter travels to the U.S. in search of fame. The film uses shock comedy to expose prejudice within the world of fashion, reality television, and homophobia.
Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby (2006)
(Source: IMDb)
In a crucial supporting role, Baron Cohen plays Jean Girard, the openly gay French Formula One racing driver and rival to Ricky Bobby, stealing every scene with his sophisticated brand of humor in this hit American comedy.
Ali G Indahouse (2002)
(Source: IMDb)
The first feature film for his original character, Ali G, a wannabe gangster from Staines. Though less critically acclaimed than Borat, it cemented Baron Cohen’s ability to create cult characters and launched his humor onto the global stage.
The Trial of the Chicago 7 (2020)
(Source: IMDb)
While a historical drama, his role as Yippie founder Abbie Hoffman is infused with Baron Cohen’s signature subversive wit and earned him an Academy Award nomination. His performance captures the essence of a comedian-activist who used laughter to challenge the establishment.
The Brothers Grimsby (2016)
(Source: IMDb)
A return to scripted farce, Baron Cohen plays Nobby Butcher, a dimwitted football hooligan who partners with his spy brother (Mark Strong). The film is a mix of high-concept action and outrageous, boundary-pushing gags.
Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (2007)
(Source: IMDb)
Baron Cohen demonstrates his dramatic and vocal versatility as the rival con-artist barber, Adolfo Pirelli, in Tim Burton’s dark and macabre musical, proving his range beyond pure comedy.
Madagascar (2005)
(Source: IMDb)
His voice work as King Julien, the narcissistic, party-loving lemur, showcases his talent for physical comedy and improvisation, even in the animated, family-friendly format, making the character an instant classic.
