- Roy Batty in Blade Runner (1982): Hauer's portrayal of the replicant Roy Batty in Ridley Scott's sci-fi classic is considered one of the greatest performances in the genre. Batty is a complex and tragic figure, a sentient being who struggles with his own mortality and questions the meaning of life. Hauer's charismatic performance and iconic monologue have made him a fan favorite and solidified his status as a sci-fi icon.
- Jeroen in Soldier of Orange (1977): In Paul Verhoeven's war drama, Hauer plays Jeroen, a Dutch student who joins the resistance against the Nazi occupation during World War II. Jeroen is a symbol of bravery, resilience, and hope in the face of oppression, and Hauer's powerful performance earned him international recognition.
- Erik Ponti in The Hitcher (1986): Hauer's portrayal of the villainous hitchhiker in Robert Harmon's psychological thriller The Hitcher cemented his status as a villainous icon. With his creepy charm and unhinged intensity, Hauer's performance adds a layer of terror and menace to the film, making him one of the most memorable villains in horror history.
- John Ryder in Blind Fury (1989): Hauer plays a Vietnam veteran who returns home blind and becomes a formidable vigilante in Philip Noyce's action-thriller. Hauer's portrayal of a disabled but still capable hero made Blind Fury a cult classic and showcased his versatility as an actor.
- Etienne Navarre in Ladyhawke (1985): Hauer stars as the cursed warrior, Etienne Navarre, in Richard Donner's fantasy adventure film. Navarre is separated from his true love, Isabeau (Michelle Pfeiffer), due to a spell that transforms him into a wolf during the day and her into a hawk at night. Hauer's chemistry with Pfeiffer and his commitment to the role made Ladyhawke a fan-favorite fantasy romance.