Orlando Bloom’s Best Movie Roles from the Early 2000s

Before his off-screen life made headlines, Orlando Bloom was best known for dominating the big screen in epic roles that defined a generation. With his chiseled features and quiet intensity, Bloom was the blueprint for the sensitive action star in the early aughts, playing everything from elven archers to chaotic pirates. While he has since dabbled in smaller indie films and TV projects, his early career remains marked by unforgettable roles that helped define a generation of epic blockbusters.

Of course, no Orlando Bloom retrospective is complete without mentioning Legolas, the stoic, sharp-eyed elf in The Lord of the Rings trilogy—a role that catapulted him into global fame. Just a few years later, he cemented his status as a Hollywood leading man by playing Will Turner in Pirates of the Caribbean, opposite Johnny Depp. These roles weren’t just hits—they became cultural touchstones, and Bloom’s performances helped anchor the larger-than-life worlds around them.

Now, over two decades after his breakout, Bloom is returning to the big screen in a fresh new role. In Deep Cover, out May 30, he plays an improv teacher whose students find themselves infiltrating London’s criminal underworld by impersonating dangerous criminals—proving once again that Bloom is never afraid to mix things up.

In the meantime, scroll to discover some of Orlando Bloom's most iconic movie roles from the early 2000s. 

The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001)

Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (2003)

In Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (2003), Orlando Bloom starred as Will Turner, a straight-laced blacksmith turned reluctant pirate. His chemistry with Keira Knightley and dynamic with Johnny Depp’s Captain Jack Sparrow helped anchor the film’s emotional core, solidifying Bloom’s status as a leading man in one of the decade’s most beloved franchises.

Troy (2004)

In Troy (2004), Orlando Bloom took on the role of Paris, the impulsive Trojan prince whose love affair with Helen sparks the legendary war. Unlike his heroic turns in previous films, Bloom portrayed Paris as more naive and emotionally driven—a character whose actions have devastating consequences. The role showed a different side of the actor, trading swordplay for vulnerability in a historical film.

Kingdom of Heaven (2005) 

In Kingdom of Heaven (2005), Orlando Bloom starred as Balian of Ibelin, a humble blacksmith who rises to lead during the Crusades. The role marked one of his most serious and grounded performances, showcasing his ability to carry a historical epic with emotional depth. As Balian navigates questions of faith, loyalty, and leadership, Bloom delivers a mature presence at the center of Ridley Scott’s film.

Elizabethtown (2005)

In Elizabethtown (2005), Orlando Bloom swapped swords for sneakers as Drew Baylor, a down-on-his-luck shoe designer grappling with failure and family loss. The role marked a softer, more introspective turn for Bloom, who played the emotionally closed-off protagonist opposite Kirsten Dunst’s optimistic Claire. While the film received mixed reviews, Bloom’s performance showcased his range beyond action and adventure, diving into the quirks and heartbreaks of a modern romantic dramedy.

Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest (2006)

In Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest (2006), Orlando Bloom returned as Will Turner, diving deeper into the chaos of the franchise. This time, his character is caught in a tangled web of loyalty, love, and cursed pirate lore, all while trying to save his father from eternal servitude aboard the Flying Dutchman. Bloom brings a sharper edge to Will, evolving him from noble blacksmith to a pirate with a personal mission.