Hey guys! So, you're probably wondering what Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, the guy who absolutely crushed it as Jaime Lannister in Game of Thrones, was up to in the year 2017. Well, buckle up, because we're about to take a trip down memory lane and explore his cinematic ventures during that year. While 2017 might not have been his busiest year in terms of sheer volume of releases, the projects he did put out were definitely worth talking about. We'll be looking at the films he starred in, the roles he played, and what made them stand out. It's always fascinating to see how actors transition between massive, long-running TV shows and individual film projects, and Nikolaj is no exception. His ability to portray complex, often morally grey characters is something that has captivated audiences for years, and 2017 offered him the chance to showcase this talent on the big screen once again. So, let's get into it and see what made his 2017 filmography a unique chapter in his already impressive career.

Diving into the 2017 Releases

Alright, let's get down to business and talk about the specific films Nikolaj Coster-Waldau graced us with in 2017. It's important to remember that sometimes a film can be produced and completed in one year but might not see a wide release until the next, or vice versa. However, for the purposes of this discussion, we're focusing on films that had their primary release or significant festival premieres in 2017. The first major film we need to highlight is Small Crimes. This crime thriller saw Nikolaj taking on a very different kind of character than the noble (or not-so-noble) knight we knew from Westeros. In Small Crimes, he plays Joe Rourke, a recently released convict trying to go straight and reconnect with his estranged family. The twist? His past isn't quite ready to let him go, and he finds himself entangled in the dangerous underworld he's trying to escape. This role was a fantastic opportunity for Nikolaj to explore themes of redemption, desperation, and the cyclical nature of crime. The film itself is gritty and suspenseful, offering a much more grounded and intense viewing experience compared to the epic fantasy of Game of Thrones. His performance in Small Crimes was lauded for its raw intensity and the subtle way he conveyed Rourke's inner turmoil. It’s a performance that really shows his range, proving he’s not just a one-trick pony, but a versatile actor capable of handling dark, complex narratives. The film garnered attention for its smart writing and compelling performances, making it a significant entry in Nikolaj's filmography for 2017. It’s the kind of movie that sticks with you, leaving you thinking about the choices characters make and the consequences they face. The supporting cast also did a stellar job, creating a believable and tense atmosphere that perfectly complements Nikolaj's central performance.

Small Crimes: A Gritty Thriller

Let's really sink our teeth into Small Crimes, guys. This film, released in 2017, is a prime example of Nikolaj Coster-Waldau stepping outside his comfort zone and delivering a performance that's both gripping and unnerving. He plays Joe Rourke, a man fresh out of prison, looking for a clean slate. But as we all know, the past has a funny way of catching up, especially when you're dealing with the criminal element. This movie isn't your typical feel-good redemption story; it's a dark, often brutal, examination of loyalty, desperation, and the pervasive influence of the criminal underworld. Nikolaj’s portrayal of Rourke is masterful. He captures the character’s weariness, his desperate hope for a new beginning, and the underlying menace that he can’t quite shake. You can see the weight of his past actions etched on his face, and his interactions with other characters are fraught with a palpable tension. The film is praised for its realistic portrayal of life after incarceration and the challenges faced by those trying to reintegrate into society. It doesn't shy away from the harsh realities, and Nikolaj’s performance is the anchor that holds it all together. He conveys so much with just a look or a subtle gesture, making Rourke a character you can't take your eyes off, even when you're not sure if you should be rooting for him. The dialogue is sharp and the plot twists keep you on the edge of your seat. It's a testament to Nikolaj's acting chops that he can completely transform himself from the often charismatic, sometimes arrogant Jaime Lannister into this complex, troubled man. Small Crimes is definitely a must-watch for anyone who appreciates a well-crafted crime drama with stellar acting. It’s the kind of film that makes you think about the nature of good and evil and whether true redemption is ever truly possible. The supporting cast, including the brilliant Macon Blair, adds further depth to the narrative, creating a rich tapestry of flawed characters all caught in a web of circumstance.

Shot Caller: Another Intense Role

But wait, there's more! 2017 also saw Nikolaj Coster-Waldau in Shot Caller. Now, this is another film that really delves into the darker side of human nature, and Nikolaj plays a character who is significantly involved in the prison and gang system. While his role isn't as central as in Small Crimes, his presence is undeniably impactful. In Shot Caller, he plays Jacob, a violent prison gang leader who becomes a mentor figure to the film's protagonist, Money (played by the phenomenal Lakeith Stanfield). This is a stark contrast to his role in Small Crimes and further demonstrates his versatility. Jacob is a hardened criminal, a man who has embraced the brutality of his environment. Nikolaj embodies this character with a chilling conviction, showing the charisma that can exist even within such a violent persona, making him both dangerous and strangely compelling. The film itself is a powerful and often disturbing look at the brutal realities of prison life and the transformation of a man forced into a criminal lifestyle. Nikolaj’s performance, though not the lead, is a crucial element in the film's narrative, highlighting the corrupting influence of the prison system and the creation of hardened individuals. His scenes are charged with an intensity that demands attention, and he holds his own against a truly standout performance from Stanfield. Shot Caller is praised for its authenticity and its unflinching portrayal of the consequences of violence and the loss of self. It's a film that really gets under your skin, and Nikolaj's contribution is a significant part of that visceral experience. It’s a film that makes you question the system and the individuals it creates, and Nikolaj’s performance as Jacob is a key piece of that puzzle, showcasing his ability to inhabit characters who operate far from the heroic archetype.

Beyond the Blockbusters: Other Appearances and Activities

While Small Crimes and Shot Caller were his notable film releases in 2017, it's also worth mentioning that actors of Nikolaj Coster-Waldau's caliber are often involved in other projects, even if they don't result in a major film release that same year. Think about festivals, potential voice work, or even early development for future projects. For guys who are as dedicated to their craft as Nikolaj, the work doesn't stop just because a film isn't hitting theaters. Sometimes, a film might have had its debut at a festival in late 2017 but its wider release is pushed to the following year. It's also possible he was involved in independent films or short projects that don't always get the same level of mainstream attention. The year 2017 was, of course, a very significant year for Game of Thrones fans, as it marked the beginning of the end for the beloved series. While his primary focus was likely on wrapping up his iconic role as Jaime Lannister, it's always interesting to see how actors balance their major commitments with other creative endeavors. This period would have been crucial for Nikolaj in terms of solidifying his post-Game of Thrones career path, exploring different genres and character types to show the breadth of his talent. We might not have specific titles to list here for every single thing he might have been involved in, but it's important to acknowledge that an actor's work extends beyond the films we see on screen. Think of it as laying the groundwork for future successes. The sheer popularity of Game of Thrones also meant that Nikolaj was likely in high demand for interviews, promotional events, and public appearances throughout 2017. This in itself is a significant part of an actor's professional life, connecting with fans and engaging with the media. It’s a busy life, and he navigated it with his usual professionalism and charm. So, while the list of his 2017 films might seem shorter than in some other years, it was undoubtedly a pivotal time for him as an artist, balancing massive success with exploring new creative territories.

The Impact of Game of Thrones

Now, you can't talk about Nikolaj Coster-Waldau in 2017 without acknowledging the colossal elephant in the room: Game of Thrones. By 2017, the show was in its seventh season, and Jaime Lannister was a character who had undergone a fascinating and often tumultuous evolution. This was a character who started as a villain, the Kingslayer, but slowly, painstakingly, revealed layers of complexity, moral ambiguity, and even a twisted sense of honor. Nikolaj's portrayal of Jaime was nothing short of masterful. He navigated the character's journey from arrogant nobleman to a man wrestling with his conscience, his family loyalties, and his own identity with incredible skill. The dynamics between Jaime and Cersei, Jaime and Brienne, and Jaime's internal conflicts were all brought to life by Nikolaj's nuanced performance. The sheer demand of a show like Game of Thrones, with its grueling shooting schedules and the intense emotional and physical demands of the role, undoubtedly shaped Nikolaj's year. While he was delivering incredible performances on set, he was also very much