Though the temptation to appear in US commercials must be overwhelming, many big Hollywood names refuse to do so, preferring to maintain their credibility by... being complete idiots abroad. Cue Nic Cage headbutting spacemen, Sean Connery driving with a rabbit and Pierce Brosnan advertising women's cosmetics. Stick in a few "ones you do when you're young / old / really need the money" and you've got Empire's favourite 50 adverts featuring movie stars...

WORDS ALASTAIR PLUMB