12 Best Charlie Hunnam Movies And TV Shows, Ranked

Charlie Hunnam has been making a name for himself in Hollywood since he was a young British actor seeking his major debut. Although he may be particularly recognized for his portrayal of Jax Teller in “Sons of Anarchy” or as Raleigh Beckett in “Pacific Rim,” he’s successfully built a substantial career that has grown even more intriguing as he’s expanded his acting repertoire beyond those roles. The actor has appeared in a variety of projects, from high-octane action films to introspective historical dramas and eerie gothic horror movies. He hasn’t limited himself to big-budget studio productions either; some of his finest work can be found in independent films and various television series. From critically acclaimed shows to box office hits, Hunnam has consistently striven to demonstrate that he’s capable of more than just riding a motorcycle, handling firearms, and delivering tough dialogue.

What are some of the actor’s standout performances that you might want to prioritize watching, and where can you dive into their streaming catalog for an enjoyable experience? Here is a curated list of Hunnum’s finest onscreen works, arranged from least captivating to most compelling based on personal preference.

12. Undeclared

A comedy series titled “Undeclared,” which aired on Fox during the early 2000s and was produced by Judd Apatow, follows the lives of students in college. This show served as a stepping stone for many future stars in the entertainment industry. Originally a spin-off from “Freaks and Geeks,” it switches the setting from high school to a university in California, where chaos reigns supreme. Charlie Hunnam portrays Lloyd Haythe, an arrogant theater major with a penchant for romancing women only to kick his roommate, Steven (Jay Baruchel), out of their shared space during his amorous escapades. Despite Lloyd’s inconsiderate behavior, he forms a genuine friendship with Steven and becomes a romantic guide for him and their circle of friends.

After the success of “Queer as Folk” catapulted Hunnam into prominence in America, “Undeclared” served as his next significant milestone. Since Apatow’s career took off, the sitcom has garnered a massive cult following. However, despite its enduring popularity, the actor has shown no inclination towards revisiting comedy, even declining the role of Aldous Snow in Apatow’s “Forgetting Sarah Marshall.

Cast: Jay Baruchel, Charlie Hunnam, Seth Rogen, Jason Segel, Monica Keegan
Director: various
Rating: TV-PG
Runtime: 30 Minutes per episode (total number of episodes: 17)
Where to watch: Prime Video

11. King Arthur: Legend of the Sword

As a devoted admirer, I’ve joined Guy Ritchie’s talented roster of actors, and my first major role under his direction was the gritty reimagining of King Arthur legend. Although the grandiose fantasy didn’t ignite the global cinema landscape (regrettably failing to recoup its production costs), it’s now generally recognized as a solid adaptation of an ancient tale – even if I can’t help but wish for a second chance to reprise that experience. If you insist on labeling it a historical flop, I won’t argue, but let me assure you, it’s an enjoyable watch and seems somewhat underappreciated in my filmography at this juncture.

In this retelling, I, Arthur, am the son of King Uther Pendragon, ruler of Britain. When Uther falls in a siege on Camelot and loses his throne, I escape to Londinium for safety. There, I gradually earn respect as a minor chieftain, but it becomes clear that the spirits of the past won’t rest until I reclaim my family’s crown – a feat that requires defeating my own ruthless uncle, Vortigern. To accomplish this, I rally a resistance movement, one that might just cost me my life. It’s not brain science, but it’s a thrilling, fast-paced action movie.

Cast: Charlie Hunnam, Jude Law, Djimon Hounsou
Director: Guy Ritchie
Rating: PG-13
Runtime: 121 minutes
Where to watch: Prime Video, Google Play

10. Papillon

Revisiting a well-known film can be risky business, yet director Michael Noer successfully delivered an entertaining movie with “Papillon,” a fresh interpretation of the 1973 prison drama starring Steve McQueen and Dustin Hoffman. In this modern version, Charlie Hunnam steps into the lead role as Henri “Papillon” Charrière. Although Hunnam falls short in comparison to McQueen’s intensity from the original, the overall film is a captivating action adventure that leaves viewers cheering for its protagonists.

Named “Butterfly” due to his chest tattoo, Papillon is condemned to spend his life at the Devil’s Island penal colony in French Guiana following a murder charge, despite being an innocent safecracker. The officials disregard his innocence. During their journey to detention, Papillon befriends Louis Dega, a forger, who later becomes his ally in their attempt to flee the horrors of the penal colony and reach freedom.

Cast: Charlie Hunnam, Rami Malek
Director: Michael Noer
Rating: R
Runtime: 133 minutes
Where to watch: Prime Video, YouTube, Apple TV +

9. The Gentlemen

A quintessential action-packed film, brimming with firearms, explosions, and underworld figures, “The Gentlemen” offers a delightful, robust, beer-soaked entertainment experience. It’s swift, clever, and brutal – in essence, everything you’d anticipate from this genre, delivered by Hunnam, and crafted by Ritchie.

Michael “Mickey” Pearson, portrayed by Matthew McConaughey, is a prominent figure in the marijuana industry, planning to exit this business following Britain’s legalization of cannabis. His intention is to sell his enterprise to an ethical individual with a clean record. The transformed business would operate as a legitimate dispensary, allowing Pearson to retire peacefully and spend quality time with his wife. However, his decision triggers a swarm of unsavory characters, including ex-YouTubers, Chinese gangsters, and assorted eccentrics, who are after both Pearson’s unique strain of marijuana and his business empire. As Pearson navigates through the chaos to protect his ill-acquired wealth, Hunnam plays the role of Raymond, Pearson’s trusted associate.

Cast: Matthew McConaughey, Colin Farrell, Charlie Hunnam
Director: Guy Ritchie
Rating: R
Runtime: 113 minutes
Where to watch: Netflix

8. The Lost City of Z

As a passionate gamer, I’d say diving into the captivating historical adventure “The Lost City of Z” is like embarking on an epic quest in a forgotten video game level. This movie, set amidst the lush Amazonian jungle and steeped in real-life history, has somehow slipped through the cracks in Prime Video’s collection.

In this tale, Charlie Hunnam plays the role of a talented yet socially constrained explorer who finds himself consumed by an obsession that threatens to swallow him whole as he ventures deeper into a world untouched by time. The mysteries and perils he encounters are beyond his initial comprehension, making each step of his journey a testament to courage and resilience.

Idris Elba portrays Percy Fawcett, a historical figure known for being an archaeologist and geographer, who often encounters rejection from high-class social circles he associates with. Following an assignment by the Royal Geographical Society to resolve a border dispute between Brazil and Bolivia in the Amazon rainforest, his team achieves success. However, stories of a mysterious, hidden city within the dense jungle begin to circulate, piquing Fawcett’s interest. He organizes an expedition with the aim of discovering this lost city and gains financial support from James Murray (Angus Macfadyen). Known as “The Lost City of Z,” the expedition embarks on its quest, but as time passes and Fawcett’s reputation flourishes, so does the risk.

Cast: Charlie Hunnam, Tom Holland, Robert Pattinson
Director: James Gray
Rating: PG-13
Runtime: 141 minutes
Where to watch: Amazon’s Prime Video

7. Shantaram

In a follow-up to his role in “Sons of Anarchy,” Charlie Hunnam found himself once again embroiled in illegal activities on the small screen, this time in the series “Shantaram.” The character he plays, Dale Conti, was a real person who served prison time for a string of armed robberies while attempting to work as a medical intern in Australia. After managing to escape and make his way to Bombay, Conti assumes a new identity, Lindsay “Linbaba” Ford, to practice medicine. However, even with this fresh start, Lindsay/Dale’s fear of being discovered as a fugitive proves overwhelming, and it isn’t long before he encounters trouble.

As a devoted fan, I must say that despite the heartbreaking fact that the series was abruptly cancelled after just one season, Hunnam truly brought Conti to life as a character worthy of our support and admiration. The show masterfully crafted an intense, suspenseful environment that kept us hooked, making us care deeply about the outcome of each episode. Unfortunately, it left us hanging on a cliffhanger, which was frustratingly unresolved.

Cast: Charlie Hunnam, Tom Holland, Robert Pattinson
Director: Various
Rating: TV-MA
Runtime: 1 hour each (total number of episodes: 12)
Where to watch: Apple TV +

6. Queer as Folk (UK)

Charlie Hunnam made a significant debut in the UK when he took on the role of Nathan Maloney at eighteen, starring in the British adaptation of “Queer as Folk.” As a schoolboy exploring his sexuality and learning about love, Nathan navigated the vibrant Manchester gay scene. Despite his air of self-assurance, Nathan was an inexperienced young man who was unfamiliar with one-night stands. Additionally, he found himself attracted to Stuart Alan Jones (played by Aidan Gillen), a womanizing advertising executive, which ultimately led him to heartbreak.

Viewers might not recognize the UK series because the American adaptation has been on for a longer period and became culturally significant in the U.S. for introducing gay characters. However, the original series is equally raw and authentic when it comes to character development, and Hunnam demonstrates his acting prowess in each episode.

Cast: Aidan Gillen, Craig Kelly, Charlie Hunnam, Denise Black
Director: various
Rating: TV-MA
Runtime: Episode lengths vary (total number of episodes: 10)
Where to watch: Tubi, Pluto, Roku Channel, Prime Video

5. Jungleland

The movie “Jungleland” tells a heartwarming story about two siblings, boxing, and their unbreakable bond. This film showcases Charlie Hunnam’s less flashy, more subtle acting skills. Regrettably, this movie wasn’t given the attention it deserved when it was first released. If you’re a fan of Charlie Hunnam, don’t miss out on this overlooked gem in his collection of films.

Walter “Lion” Kaminski, portrayed by Jack O’Connell, and his brother Stanley (Robert Hunnam) are facing numerous troubles. Stanley acts as Walter’s boxing manager, but after a decline in success, Walter resorts to underground boxing matches. During the day, they work together at a factory in Massachusetts along with their pet dog Ash. Stanley owes money to a gangster named Pepper (Jonathan Majors), who forces Stanley to allow betting on Walter’s fights. Angered by this situation, Walter purposely loses one fight. Despite their worsening circumstances, the brothers’ relationship remains strong. To repay their debt, they are tasked with driving a girl named Sky (Jessica Barden) to Reno and later, Walter is entered into a high-stakes underground boxing match.

Cast: Charlie Hunnam, Jack O’Connell
Director: Max Winkler
Rating: R
Runtime: 90 minutes
Where to watch: Pluto

4. Crimson Peak

Many film enthusiasts are probably familiar with this well-known horror movie gem, regardless if they’re fans of Charlie Hunnam or not. This intriguing blend of Victorian insanity, incestuous undertones, and romance creates a captivating experience full of monsters and chaos. In this film, the real adversary is not so much a shuffling monster as it is greed and cowardice. It’s a delightful romp that offers Hunnam ample opportunity to portray the heroic character, while also allowing him to showcase his depth.

In simpler terms, Edith Cushing (played by Mia Wasikowska) is a rich heiress and author who’s captivated by Thomas Sharpe (portrayed by Tom Hiddleston), a baronet seeking financial aid from her father for one of his projects. However, her father, who disliked Thomas intensely and had him investigated due to his questionable past in England, is tragically murdered. Edith then marries Thomas and moves with him to Allerdale Hall, their decaying family estate. There, she uncovers several secrets about Thomas, including a suspicious bond with his sister Lucille (Jessica Chastain), and begins to question whether her decisions might not have been wiser if she had chosen her childhood friend Dr. Alan McMichael (Charles Hunnam) instead. As her life hangs in the balance, Edith must decide whom to trust and discover if perhaps Dr. McMichael was the better romantic choice all along.

Cast: Mia Wasikowska, Jessica Chastain, Tom Hiddleston, Charlie Hunnam
Director: Guillermo del Toro
Rating: R
Runtime: 119 minutes
Where to watch: Google Play, Amazon Prime

3. Pacific Rim

If most people other than diehard “Sons of Anarchy” viewers recognize Charlie Hunnam, it’s likely from the science fiction blockbuster “Pacific Rim.” This film, filled with mech suits, has significantly boosted his film career standing. Indeed, it’s an engaging epic that emphasizes the themes of partnership, love overcoming adversity, and the significance of human relationships. Over time, it has evolved into a modern classic, making it essential viewing for sci-fi enthusiasts, cult movie fans, and admirers of Charlie Hunnam alike.

Raleigh Becket (portrayed by Hunnam) is a team member aboard the Jaeger, a massive robot designed for defending our nation against colossal alien creatures called Kaiju. Unfortunately, his brother, Yancy (Diego Klattenhoff), lost his life in service, leaving Raleigh both emotionally scarred and physically wounded. Unlike single pilots, it’s healthier for Jaegers to be operated by at least two individuals who share a deep emotional bond. This connection allows them to enter the Drift – an intricate mental process that enables two Jaeger captains to synchronize their thoughts, making them operate the robot as if they were one entity. Whether this bond is based on kinship, friendship, camaraderie, or love, it’s vital for controlling these titanic machines effectively.

In Raleigh’s story, Stacker Pentecost, a seasoned military commander, recognizes Raleigh’s abilities after he resigns from being a pilot. Their paths cross in Hong Kong, where Pentecost’s adopted daughter, Mako Mori, is introduced to Raleigh. As they connect, Raleigh discovers they share the rare ability to sync effectively while piloting a Jaeger together. However, Pentecost is cautious about his daughter and her partnership with Raleigh, who are both novices in this field. Can they unite their efforts to finally vanquish the Kaiju threat?

Cast: Charlie Hunnam, Idris Elba, Rinko Kikuchi
Director: Guillermo del Toro
Rating: PG-13
Runtime: 132 minutes
Where to watch: Netflix

2. Sons of Anarchy

Jaxson “Jax” Teller is a deeply complex individual, wrestling with his allegiance to a father he can’t recall and a motorcycle club that was part of his birthright. Frequently, Jax finds himself in a challenging predicament, torn between the tough personality of his mother, Gemma (Katey Sagal); the desire for a life filled with freedom and joy alongside his beloved Tara Knowles (Maggie Siff); and the values advocated by Clay Morrow (Ron Perlman), his stepfather who leads SAM-CRO, and those left behind by his deceased father.

The television series “Sons of Anarchy” is intricately structured over a complex timeline, filled with intense family emotions and nuanced themes of love, loyalty, camaraderie, and paternity. It’s a prolonged, challenging viewing experience that delves deep into the realm of tragedy, yet manages to be exceptionally moving in its execution. Given its roots in “Hamlet,” you can expect an unfavorable conclusion, but Hunnam and his cast lead you on a gripping journey that justifies every minute invested.

Cast: Ron Perlman, Katey Sagal, Charlie Hunnam
Director: various
Rating: TV-MA
Runtime: Episode lengths vary (total number of episodes: 92)
Where to watch: Hulu, Disney+

1. Nicholas Nickleby

As a devoted fan, I must confess that among Charlie Hunnam’s impressive body of work, it’s his debut role in “Nicholas Nickleby” that truly stands out for me. At the tender age of 22, he took center stage in this film adaptation of Charles Dickens’ timeless novel. In this portrayal, Hunnam masterfully brings to life a young man striving for a better future for his loved ones. The outcome is a captivating film that provides an unusual delight – enjoyment for viewers from all age groups, a quality not always found in many of his other projects.

Title character Nicholas Nickleby (portrayed by Hunnam) grew up affluently in the countryside, but upon his father’s demise, the family plunges into poverty. His sister Kate (Romola Garai), mother (Stella Gonet), and he are under the cruel care of their uncle (Christopher Plummer). He manages to secure jobs for them; Kate becomes a seamstress while Nicholas takes up tutoring at Dotheboys Hall in Yorkshire. As he uncovers the harsh environment at the school, he flees with a servant boy named Smike (Jamie Bell), venturing to London to save Kate. Throughout this journey, Nicholas learns to assert himself, find his purpose, and even discovers true love.

Cast: Charlie Hunnam, Nathan Lane, Jim Broadbent
Director: Douglas McGrath
Rating: G
Runtime: 132 minutes
Where to watch: Pluto, Roku Channel, Tubi

2025-07-23 15:32