Meet the Cast of The Usual Suspects

Released on August 16, 1995
Drama Thriller Crime Betrayal Los Angeles

The Usual Suspects is a captivating and suspenseful crime thriller that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The movie is directed by Bryan Singer and features an ensemble cast including Gabriel Byrne as Dean Keaton, Stephen Baldwin as Michael McManus, Benicio Del Toro as Fred Fenster, Kevin Pollak as Todd Hockney, and Kevin Spacey as Roger "Verbal" Kint. The plot revolves around a group of career criminals who become embroiled in a complex and deadly scheme, orchestrated by the mysterious and elusive crime lord, Keyser Soze.

The movie begins with the aftermath of a violent explosion on a boat in San Pedro harbor, which leaves only a few survivors, including Verbal Kint, a small-time crook with cerebral palsy. Kint is taken into custody and interrogated by US Customs Agent Dave Kujan, played by Chazz Palminteri. Kint begins to weave an intricate and unbelievable tale of how he and his four partners, all career criminals, were brought together by a series of circumstances to pull off a multi-million dollar heist. Kint describes how they were each arrested and brought to the same police lineup, where they met for the first time and formed a bond.

As Kint's story unfolds, he describes their meeting with a mysterious stranger who offers them a chance to make a substantial amount of money by hijacking a truck carrying illegal drugs. The group agrees, and the heist is carried out with precision and skill. However, things take a dark turn when they discover that the truck was actually carrying a group of men who were being smuggled into the country. The group is then approached by Keyser Soze, who offers them an even larger sum of money to carry out a hit on a rival gang. The group agrees, but things go awry, and the boat explosion leaves many dead, including most of Kint's partners. As Kujan becomes more and more engrossed in Kint's story, it becomes clear that there is more to Keyser Soze and the events leading up to the explosion than meets the eye. The movie's shocking twist ending leaves viewers questioning everything they have just seen and is a testament to Singer's masterful storytelling.

Full Cast of The Usual Suspects

Stephen Baldwin

as McManus

Stephen Baldwin delivers a captivating performance as Michael McManus in the critically acclaimed film 'The Usual Suspects'. His portrayal of the cunning and charismatic criminal mastermind is both chilling and engaging. Baldwin's ability to convey McManus's intelligence and ruthlessness, while also maintaining an air of unpredictability, makes for a compelling character that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. His performance is a standout in a film filled with exceptional acting, and it solidifies Baldwin's place as a versatile and talented actor.

Gabriel Byrne

as Keaton

Gabriel Byrne's portrayal of Dean Keaton in "The Usual Suspects" is nothing short of captivating. Byrne brings a depth and complexity to the character, expertly balancing Keaton's tough, no-nonsense exterior with the subtle hints of vulnerability and regret that lie beneath. His performance is understated yet powerful, making Keaton a compelling and enigmatic figure in the film's intricate narrative. Byrne's ability to convey so much with so little, through his nuanced expressions and measured delivery, adds to the overall mystique of "The Usual Suspects" and leaves a lasting impression on viewers.

Benicio del Toro

as Fenster

Benicio del Toro's performance as Fred Fenster in "The Usual Suspects" is a standout, showcasing his exceptional acting skills. Del Toro's portrayal of Fenster, a criminal with a speech impediment, is both convincing and intriguing. His unique delivery of lines and body language adds depth to the character, making him one of the most memorable in the film. Despite his limited screen time, del Toro's performance leaves a lasting impression, contributing significantly to the overall suspense and mystery of the movie.

Kevin Pollak

as Hockney

Kevin Pollak delivers a standout performance as Todd Hockney in "The Usual Suspects." His portrayal of the hardened criminal with a dry wit and sharp intellect adds a layer of complexity to the character. Pollak's on-screen presence is commanding, making Hockney a formidable force among the group of criminals. His performance is a testament to his acting skills, as he seamlessly blends toughness with humor, creating a character that is both intimidating and entertaining.

Kevin Spacey

as Verbal

Kevin Spacey delivers a mesmerizing performance as the enigmatic and seemingly harmless Roger 'Verbal' Kint in "The Usual Suspects." His portrayal of a crippled, small-time con man is both convincing and captivating, as he expertly weaves a web of lies and half-truths that keep both the audience and the characters in the film guessing. Spacey's masterful use of subtle facial expressions and nuanced body language adds depth to his character, making it impossible to look away from the screen. His performance is a testament to his talent and versatility as an actor, and it is no wonder that he won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for this role.

Chazz Palminteri

as Dave Kujan

Chazz Palminteri delivers a compelling performance as US Customs Agent Dave Kujan in 'The Usual Suspects'. His portrayal of the dogged investigator is both intense and nuanced, as he skillfully navigates the film's intricate plot. Palminteri's ability to convey Kujan's determination and skepticism is a testament to his talent, making him a standout character in this ensemble cast. His scenes with Kevin Spacey's Verbal Kint are particularly memorable, as the two engage in a verbal chess match that forms the backbone of the film's suspenseful narrative.

Pete Postlethwaite

as Kobayashi

Peter Postlethwaite's portrayal of Kobayashi in 'The Usual Suspects' is nothing short of mesmerizing. With his calm and collected demeanor, he effortlessly commands the screen, leaving viewers hanging on his every word. Postlethwaite's ability to convey a sense of menace and authority, while still maintaining an air of mystery, is truly impressive. His performance is a crucial element in the film's intricate web of deception, making Kobayashi one of the most memorable characters in this modern film noir classic.