Chris Pratt’s rise from television to becoming a major Hollywood movie star has been nothing short of remarkable. After gaining fame as Andy Dwyer on the sitcom Parks and Recreation in 2009, he quickly transitioned into films, captivating audiences with his versatile performances. This list highlights the best Chris Pratt movies that showcase his talent across diverse genres and roles.
10. The Complexities of ‘Passengers’ (2016)
Although visually impressive and featuring a compelling plot, Passengers doesn’t represent Chris Pratt at his finest. He plays Jim, an engineer who awakens prematurely from hibernation aboard a spaceship. Despite a steady performance, Pratt’s chemistry with Jennifer Lawrence’s Aurora falls short of creating the emotional spark the story demands. While the fate of their characters suits the narrative, the overall portrayal lacks the emotional depth expected from such a dramatic setup, placing this film lower in Pratt’s movie hierarchy.
9. Revisiting the Western with ‘The Magnificent Seven’ (2016)
The remake of The Magnificent Seven offers an enjoyable Western experience but struggles to match the impact of the iconic 1960 version. Pratt takes on the role of Joshua Faraday, a character reminiscent of the original’s Vin Tanner, originally played by Steve McQueen. Although Pratt delivers a sound performance and impressively handles firearms with ease, he shares significant screen time with heavy hitters like Denzel Washington, making it tough for him to stand out. His portrayal of a villain brings a fresh twist to his usual roles, adding an interesting, if not entirely memorable, dimension.
8. Family Adventure in ‘Onward’ (2020)
Onward, available on Disney+, is a heartwarming animated film where Pratt voices Barley Lightfoot, an elf embarking on a magical journey with his younger brother Ian, voiced by Tom Holland. Their dynamic offers touching sibling moments, blending playful and parental roles that create memorable dialogue. However, compared to Pratt’s other animation work such as The Lego Movie, his role here doesn’t break new ground. Released during the early days of the COVID-19 lockdown, Onward may gain more appreciation as audiences revisit it in the future.
7. A Subtle Turn in ‘Her’ (2013)
Chris Pratt surprises in the critically acclaimed film Her, where he steps away from his more boisterous characters to embody Paul, a supportive friend and co-worker of Joaquin Phoenix’s Theodore. His restrained and thoughtful performance adds depth to the futuristic drama, proving Pratt’s range extends beyond leading roles. Though not the primary focus, his nuanced portrayal complements the film’s introspective tone without overshadowing its main narrative.
6. Bringing Mario to Life in ‘The Super Mario Bros. Movie’ (2023)
Voicing the legendary video game character Mario is no small task, yet Pratt infuses the role with energy and enthusiasm in The Super Mario Bros. Movie. While some fans were initially surprised by his decision not to use an Italian accent, his lively performance captures much of Mario’s charm. Although his contribution is limited to voice acting, this role highlights Pratt’s adaptability. Still, without a physical presence to enhance emotional cues, this film ranks lower among his best offerings.
5. Portraying Vulnerability in ‘Moneyball’ (2011)
In Moneyball, Pratt plays Scott Hatteberg, a veteran baseball player grappling with uncertainty about his future career. Though a supporting role with brief screen time, Pratt delivers a sensitive and compelling portrayal. His softer depiction contrasts with his more assertive roles, allowing him to display emotional depth. Acting alongside stars like Brad Pitt and Philip Seymour Hoffman, Pratt holds his ground and leaves a lasting impression despite sharing the spotlight.
4. Leading the Action in ‘Jurassic World’ (2015)
Christopher Pratt’s performance as Owen Grady in Jurassic World firmly establishes him as a credible action star beyond his Marvel roles. Playing an ex-Navy soldier with a special connection to velociraptors, Pratt conveys a convincing bond with the creatures, even when interacting with CGI. His role revitalizes the Jurassic Park legacy by offering a new lead who balances toughness with charisma. Although subsequent sequels have had mixed reviews, Pratt’s work in this film remains one of his standout achievements.
3. Voice Acting Brilliance in ‘The Lego Movie’ (2014)
Pratt’s breakout voice role as Emmett Brickowski, a lively construction worker caught in an epic Lego adventure, showcases his vibrant energy and comedic timing. The character’s curious and naive personality suits Pratt’s enthusiastic delivery perfectly, making this animated film a fan favorite. Even without physical appearance, his expressive voice acting carries the story and maintains audience engagement throughout the film’s whimsical journey.
2. Intensity in ‘Zero Dark Thirty’ (2013)
Though not a leading part, Pratt’s role as DEVGRU operator Justin Lenihan in Zero Dark Thirty highlights his dramatic and physical acting strengths. His portrayal of a focused and resolute Navy SEAL offers a layer of authenticity and intensity that stands out despite limited character development. This role helped cement Pratt’s reputation as a capable action star in heavy-duty roles. The film’s controversial take on the Osama bin Laden hunt does not diminish the accolades the cast has received for their performances.
1. Defining Stardom with ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ (2014)
Guardians of the Galaxy is undoubtedly the film that propelled Chris Pratt into the stratosphere of Hollywood stardom. His portrayal of Peter Quill, also known as Star-Lord, blends humor, charm, and a love for classic music, creating an iconic character beloved by fans worldwide. Pratt’s natural charisma and rapport with co-stars elevate the entire film, making it an exhilarating and entertaining ride. This role defines Pratt’s career and solidifies his status among top action stars in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
From television beginnings to blockbuster hits, Chris Pratt has crafted a diverse filmography demonstrating his range and appeal. His performances span across genres, each showcasing a different facet of his talent. Whether through voice work or intense action scenes, Pratt continues to captivate viewers and leave a significant mark on Hollywood.
