Michael B. Jordan continues to make a major impact in Hollywood, with his star rising steadily through powerful performances and notable projects. The 38-year-old actor recently collaborated again with Ryan Coogler on the highly anticipated film Sinners, while also multitasking as both director and lead actor on the upcoming remake of The Thomas Crown Affair, set for release in 2027. Beyond his well-known roles in the Creed series and as Erik Killmonger in Marvel’s Black Panther, Jordan has an impressive collection of underrated films that showcase his range and talent.
For those eager to explore more of Michael B Jordan underrated movies, here are seven films that deserve your attention, each shedding light on different facets of his acting career and growth.
A Closer Look at ‘That Awkward Moment’ (2014)
Jordan stars in That Awkward Moment, a romantic comedy directed by Tom Gormican, who later gained acclaim for The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent. This film follows three friends, each navigating complex dating scenarios: Zac Efron’s Jason prefers casual relationships, Miles Teller’s Daniel struggles with newly realized feelings for a close female friend, and Michael B. Jordan’s Mikey copes with the shock of his wife asking for a divorce.
Though the film itself garnered mostly negative reviews, the chemistry among the three leads was widely praised. Critics and viewers alike applauded their believable and committed performances. This dynamic makes the film stand out as a unique offering in Jordan’s largely dramatic filmography, presenting him in a comedic and relatable light.
Exploring the Dystopian World of ‘Fahrenheit 451’ (2018)
In the HBO adaptation of Ray Bradbury’s renowned novel, Michael B. Jordan plays Guy Montag, a fireman tasked with burning books in a society where literature is banned. Directed by Ramin Bahrani with a screenplay co-written by Amir Naderi, the film explores Montag’s growing rebellion against an oppressive regime as he begins questioning the status quo. The talented cast features Michael Shannon, Sofia Boutella, Lilly Singh, and Martin Donovan alongside Jordan.
While the movie did not receive unanimous critical acclaim for its execution, Jordan and Shannon’s performances were widely appreciated. The project earned four Primetime Emmy Award nominations, and Jordan was honored with an NAACP Image Award for his role, underlining the significance of his work in this challenging adaptation.
The Historical Impact of ‘Red Tails’ (2012)
Jordan appears in Red Tails, a war film that chronicles the bravery of the Tuskegee Airmen, an African American group of pilots in the U.S. Air Force during World War II. Directed by Anthony Hemingway and adapted from John B. Holway’s book Red Tails, Black Wings, the screenplay was co-crafted by John Ridley and Aaron McGruder. Jordan takes on the role of Flight Officer Maurice “Bumps” Wilson, joining a cast that includes Cuba Gooding Jr., David Oyelowo, Terrence Howard, and Leslie Odom Jr.
The film’s reception was mixed; some critics felt it did not fully realize its potential, yet its portrayal of an often-overlooked chapter in American history makes it an important watch. The movie received multiple NAACP Image Awards nominations, winning Outstanding Motion Picture and Outstanding Independent Motion Picture. Hemingway’s direction was recognized with a Golden Camera nomination at Cannes.
Heartfelt Moments in ‘A Journal for Jordan’ (2021)
Based on Dana Canedy’s memoir, A Journal for Jordan is a romantic drama that reflects on love and fatherhood amid the turmoil of war. Michael B. Jordan stars as 1st Sergeant Charles Monroe King, a soldier in Iraq who writes journal entries for his infant son to read in the future. Directed by Denzel Washington, the film features a screenplay by Virgil Williams, with Chanté Adams portraying Dana Canedy.
The film divides critics but leaves a heartfelt impression on many viewers. RogerEbert.com praised it as a film that
wears its heart on its sleeve, unpretentious and sincere as a homemade valentine.
—RogerEbert.com The movie received three NAACP Image Award nominations and maintains a strong viewer rating on Rotten Tomatoes, underscoring its emotional resonance.
Michael B. Jordan’s Voice Work in ‘Justice League: The Flashpoint Paradox’ (2013)
Jordan lends his voice to Victor Stone, also known as Cyborg, in the animated superhero film Justice League: The Flashpoint Paradox. This adaptation of Geoff Johns and Andy Kubert’s comic storyline focuses on Barry Allen facing an alternate timeline where only he notices the altered reality. Directed by Jay Oliva and written by Jim Krieg, the film features voice performances from Justin Chambers as The Flash, Kevin Conroy as Batman, and Sam Daly as Superman.
Highly regarded by fans and critics, the film holds a perfect 100% on Rotten Tomatoes for critics and 93% from audiences, alongside an 8.1 out of 10 rating on IMDb. Many consider it superior to the original comic arc, making it a must-watch for superhero enthusiasts and Jordan fans alike.
The Tension and Power Struggles in ‘Chronicle’ (2012)
Jordan stars alongside Dane DeHaan and Alex Russell in Chronicle, an indie sci-fi film told through found footage. Directed by Josh Trank, the story follows three teenagers who gain supernatural powers after encountering a mysterious object in the woods. What starts as an exciting discovery quickly turns darker as the consequences of their actions escalate.
The film was a critical and commercial success, praised for the strong performances of its young cast. Roger Ebert awarded the film 3.5 out of 4 stars, calling it
uncommonly entertaining
with a narrative that
turns dark and disturbing
as it progresses. —RogerEbert.com With an 85% critics’ score on Rotten Tomatoes, Chronicle helped bolster Jordan’s early career with a compelling and intense role.
Revisiting ‘Just Mercy’ (2019), a Landmark Legal Drama
Though Just Mercy was widely acclaimed upon its release, its impact is sometimes overshadowed by Jordan’s more recent blockbusters. The film, based on Bryan Stevenson’s memoir, features Jordan as defense attorney Bryan Stevenson, who fights to exonerate Walter McMillian, a man wrongfully sentenced to death row. Directed by Destin Daniel Cretton with a screenplay by Cretton and Andrew Lanham, the movie also stars Jamie Foxx and Brie Larson.
Just Mercy earned multiple NAACP Image Awards, including wins for Jordan as Outstanding Actor and Foxx as Outstanding Supporting Actor, while also securing five nominations in total. The movie holds an 85% rating with critics and an impressive 99% from audiences on Rotten Tomatoes, highlighting its enduring significance as a socially conscious and gripping courtroom drama.
These seven lesser-known films demonstrate Michael B. Jordan’s versatility and dedication to his craft, offering fans a deeper look at his range beyond high-profile projects. As he continues to take on ambitious roles and directorial challenges, the variety and depth of his work ensure he remains a formidable force in the film industry.
