Is Jonathan Demme A-List?
No — Jonathan Demme is currently ranked B tier — a well-known figure with a strong career but not quite a household name.
Reached A-list in 1991
Directs 'Silence of the Lambs'
Lost A-list status in 1993
Dropped to B tier — Directs 'Philadelphia'
Ranking Timeline
Directs 'Caged Heat'
Early work with Roger Corman.
Directs 'Melvin and Howard'
Critical success, improves reputation.
Directs 'Stop Making Sense'
Critically acclaimed concert film.
Directs 'Silence of the Lambs'
Demme directs a critically acclaimed and huge commercial success.
Directs 'Philadelphia'
Commercial & critical success, exploring social issues.
Directs 'The Manchurian Candidate'
High-profile remake.
Demme Dies
Demme passes away, remembered for versatile directing and influence.
Legacy as Influential Director
Legacy remains strong for his versatile work.
Last updated: February 25, 2026