Tom Hanks' First Major Role Was in This Fantasy Film That's Even More Depressing Than 'The NeverEnding Story'

Tom Hanksmight have landed the role of "America's Dad," yet he's also starred in some very, very dark films. Philadelphia tackles the fallout of the AIDS crisis. Cast Awayshows how solitude can wear on a man's soul. Saving Private Ryandoesn't flinch from showcasing the horrors of war. Yet it's Hanks' debut film, Mazes and Monsters, that stands out due to his incredible performance. Mazes and Monsters is also infamous for being the kind of fantasy film that eclipses the dark moments of The NeverEnding Story; keep in mind, that film has an emotionally scarring scene where the protagonist loses his horse.