Farrell struck gold when he was cast in the Steven Spielberg film Minority Report (2002) that same year. Co-starring in the war film Hart's War (2002) opposite Bruce Willis, Farrell played the young officer captured by the enemy. Immediately, Farrell returned to the war drama film that had made him famous.

The film was a box-office flop and a critical failure. Farrell followed up with American Outlaws (2001), where he played the notorious outlaw Jesse James with Scott Caan, son of legendary actor James Caan, in the role of Cole Younger.

It was Farrell's first big role on film, and certainly not his last. The film was praised by critics but made little money at the box office. Farrell played the arrogant soldier Boz, drafted into the army and completely spiteful of authority. Starring Farrell among a number of other budding young actors, the film portrays a group of new recruits being trained for the war in Vietnam. Exchanging his thick Dublin accent for a light Texas drawl, Farrell acted in the gritty Tigerland (2000), directed by Joel Schumacher. Farrell was soon to move on to bigger things. Farrell had previously been in The War Zone (1999), directed by Tim Roth and had appeared in the independent film Drinking Crude (1997). 'Ballykissangel' was not his first onscreen role. After dropping out of the Gaiety School of Acting, Farrell was cast in Ballykissangel (1996), a BBC television drama. Farrell auditioned for a part in the Irish boy band Boyzone, unsuccessfully. His father and uncle were both professional athletes, and briefly it looked like Farrell would follow in their footsteps.

Farrell was born on in Castleknock, Dublin, Ireland to Rita (Monaghan) and Eamon Farrell. His film presence has been filled with memorable roles that range from an inwardly tortured hit man, to an adventurous explorer, a determined-but-failing writer, and the greatest military leader in history. Colin Farrell is one of Ireland's biggest stars in Hollywood and abroad.

Corel 2021