Chris Pratt has ascended from his role as the lovable Andy Dwyer on “Parks and Recreation” to becoming a leading movie star known for major franchises. His various sequel roles have received differing reactions, making a ranking of his films essential to understanding the trajectory of his sequel performances and their impact in Hollywood.
From his breakthrough as Star-Lord in the Marvel Cinematic Universe to his role as Owen Grady in the Jurassic World series, Pratt’s sequels reflect a range of storytelling and character development. While some films have capitalized on his charisma and expanding franchises, others have fallen short of expectations.
Least Favorable: Final Jurassic World Installment Underwhelms
“Jurassic World Dominion” (2022) marks what appears to be the concluding chapter for Chris Pratt as Owen Grady in the dinosaur franchise. This movie attempts to unite both the new Jurassic World cast and original Jurassic Park actors, including Sam Neill, Laura Dern, and Jeff Goldblum. Despite this nostalgia, the film struggles, presenting a storyline involving genetically modified locusts and human cloning that feels disconnected from the core dinosaur theme.
Pratt reprises his role as Owen but the character is underdeveloped, focusing more on style than substance. The promising premise of dinosaurs living among humans remains largely unexplored, which contributes to the film‘s disappointing reception as the weakest in the series.
Thor and Star-Lord Share the Screen Briefly
In “Thor: Love and Thunder” (2022), Chris Pratt appears as Star-Lord, albeit in a limited capacity, reflecting a brief interaction between Thor and the Guardians of the Galaxy. This film, directed again by Taika Waititi, blends comedy with action but suffers from a tone that diminishes the stakes. Thor reconnects with Jane Foster, played by Natalie Portman, and confronts the villain Gorr the God Butcher, portrayed by Christian Bale.
Pratt’s cameo does not provide the expected banter and camaraderie fans hoped for, as the story centers on Thor‘s journey, leaving the Guardians‘ presence minimal and largely unnoticed.
Returning to Jurassic World: More Dinosaur Action but Flawed Plot
In “Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom” (2018), Pratt solidified his role as Owen Grady, working alongside Bryce Dallas Howard’s Claire Temple to rescue dinosaurs from an imminent island disaster. While the opening horror sequence delivers tension, the overall story weakens with off-island subplots, including black market dealings and cloning schemes, that detract from the dinosaur action.
Owen’s character gains some personality but remains lackluster as a lead. Despite this, sequences focusing on practical effects and dinosaur encounters provide entertainment for franchise fans.
Animated Adventures in The Lego Universe
“The Lego Movie Part 2: The Second Part”
(2019) showcases Pratt’s voice work, where he voices both Emmet Brickowski and Rex Dangervest, a satirical fusion of several of his blockbuster personas. The sequel follows Emmet and friends confronting an alien threat, introducing a mysterious hero that adds layers to the playful narrative.
Though it struggles to replicate the original’s groundbreaking charm, this vibrant animated sequel entertains with humor and numerous callbacks, rewarding repeat viewers eager to catch its references.
Jurassic World Revival Sparks Franchise Revival
After a 15-year gap since the last Jurassic Park film, 2015’s “Jurassic World” resurrected the franchise with Chris Pratt as Owen Grady, bringing dinosaurs and humans back into dangerous proximity. The concept of a functioning dinosaur theme park comes to life, though predictably, chaos ensues when the Indominus Rex escapes containment.
Pratt’s Owen is more style than depth but effectively anchors the movie with action sequences involving dinosaurs and motorcycles. Despite heavy CGI use, the film delivers thrilling moments that satisfy fans eager for large-scale dinosaur thrills.
A Critical Marvel Milestone with Limited Pratt Screen Time
“Avengers: Endgame” (2019) represents a pivotal MCU sequel with a sprawling storyline that resolves multiple character arcs established over the years. Although Pratt’s presence as Peter Quill / Star-Lord is modest, he participates in the film’s climactic scenes.
The movie excels at uniting diverse Marvel heroes in a shared quest to reverse catastrophic events, delivering humor, emotion, and spectacle. Its sweeping narrative cements it as one of the MCU’s most triumphant sequels.
Emotional Farewell for the Guardians
“Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3”
(2023) offers an emotional and satisfying conclusion for the beloved team. The film highlights Rocket’s complicated past and pits the group against the new threat of the High Evolutionary. Character arcs for the Guardians receive thoughtful closure.
Pratt’s portrayal of Peter Quill explores his complex relationship with Gamora and his growth beyond past wounds. Directed by James Gunn, the film balances touching moments with dynamic action, celebrating the Guardians’ unique bond.
Exploring Star-Lord’s Heritage and Team Dynamics
The 2017 sequel,
“Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2,”
delves into Peter Quill’s confrontation with his celestial father, Ego, played by Kurt Russell. While the sequel lacks the fresh spark of the original, it remains a humorous, heartfelt team adventure.
Chris Pratt continues to shine in this role, blending humor, action, and depth. James Gunn’s direction ensures the story remains character-driven amidst dazzling visual effects.
Introducing the Guardians to a Larger Universe
“Avengers: Infinity War” (2018) brings the Guardians into a wider Marvel conflict as Thanos sets out to acquire the Infinity Stones. Pratt’s Peter Quill plays a substantial role alongside other Avengers like Tony Stark and Thor. The movie features thrilling action and unexpected emotional developments, particularly in Quill and Gamora’s relationship.
This fast-paced installment culminates in a shocking conclusion that reshaped the MCU‘s narrative, maintaining its emotional resonance years later.
