Dwayne Johnson is widely recognized for playing similar roles across his films—physically dominant characters with remarkable strength who rarely face defeat and often save the day by the story’s conclusion. This trend continues even when he enters franchise sequels, frequently replacing original leads or matching their prominence. Aside from a few films like The Mummy Returns and Fast Five, Johnson almost never plays villains and almost always emerges victorious.
Although he has built a strong reputation through numerous franchise roles, most of Johnson’s live-action movies have received mixed or negative reviews from critics. However, one standout film from 2019 bucks this trend despite Johnson having a smaller role.
“Fighting With My Family” Stands Out as Johnson’s Top Live-Action Film
Among his live-action work, Fighting With My Family has earned the highest approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, a notable achievement given the usual critical reception of his blockbuster films. The movie is a biographical sports drama focusing on Paige, the youngest female WWE champion, whose real name is Saraya Bevis.
Florence Pugh stars as Paige, with Jack Lowden portraying her brother, both navigating their entry into WWE wrestling. The story highlights Paige’s rise to fame alongside her brother’s struggle to find comparable success. Strong performances from Lena Headey and Vince Vaughn, who play their parents, contribute depth to this family-centered narrative.
Dwayne Johnson appears as himself, representing his wrestling career, and this supporting role helps anchor the film’s authentic WWE backdrop. The combination of heartfelt storytelling and engaging performances makes Fighting With My Family Johnson’s highest-rated live-action movie.
Johnson’s Voice Role in “Moana” Earns Unmatched Praise in Animation
While Fighting With My Family leads his live-action offerings, Johnson’s highest-rated overall film is actually the animated Disney hit Moana. Playing the demigod Maui, Johnson delivers a charismatic and lively vocal performance that elevates the story’s appeal.
Moana follows the courageous titular character, voiced by Auli’i Cravalho, who embarks on a mission to restore balance to her island by returning a stolen relic to the goddess Te Fiti. Maui, who originally took the relic, becomes both a reluctant companion and an essential figure on her journey.
The film features energetic songs by Lin-Manuel Miranda, including the enduringly popular “You’re Welcome,” performed by Johnson. His portrayal captures Maui’s boastful yet evolving personality, adding humor and warmth that complement the movie’s adventurous spirit.
What These Films Reveal About Johnson’s Range and Appeal
Dwayne Johnson’s career largely revolves around action-packed roles with a familiar heroic mold. However, his involvement in films like Fighting With My Family and Moana showcases a wider range, blending drama, comedy, and voice acting. These projects highlight his ability to connect with audiences beyond typical blockbuster action and demonstrate his impact in family-oriented stories and animation.
As Johnson continues to expand his filmography, these standout titles hint at promising directions that may earn even greater critical recognition. Fans and critics alike will likely watch closely to see if this trend continues as he takes on more diverse roles.
