TOP 10 MOVIES

“Mr. Holland’s Opus” (1995):

The title music teacher, who’s determined to create a timeless composition, is among Dreyfuss’ signature roles.

“Once Around” (1991): Dreyfuss effectively has his “brash” quotient set on “high” as a salesman who irritates the close family of his new love (Holly Hunter).

“Stakeout” (1987): In the same year Mel Gibson and Danny Glover scored buddycop success in “Lethal Weapon,” Dreyfuss and Emilio Estevez also did here.

“Stand by Me” (1986): Largely in a prolonged-flashback voiceover, Dreyfuss adds much to the Rob Reiner-directed Stephen King story of an adventure among boyhood pals.

“The Big Fix” (1978): Some of Dreyfuss’ best moments in this light mystery, about a radical turned detective, are quiet ones as the character tearfully watches home movies of his past.

“The Goodbye Girl” (1977): Oscar came calling for Dreyfuss for his work as a struggling actor sharing an apartment with its existing tenant (Marsha Mason, then-wife of the tale’s writer, Neil Simon).

“Close Encounters of the Third Kind” (1977): Dreyfuss reteamed with director Steven Spielberg, with mashed potatoes and aliens thrown in for good measure, in this sci-fi classic.

“Jaws” (1975): Stardom was cemented for Dreyfuss in the role of shark expert Matt Hooper, who knew enough to be scared at the right moments, in the blockbuster that also established Spielberg’s career.

“The Apprenticeship of

Duddy Kravitz” (1974): The title role of a Montreal hustler gave Dreyfuss another significant step toward lasting recognition and fame.

“American Graffiti” (1973): As Curt, the member of a group of early ‘60s highschool pals who seemed most likely to succeed despite himself, Dreyfuss had the perfect role for

his wit and energy.