As a movie enthusiast and someone who’s had the pleasure of witnessing Glen Powell’s meteoric rise in Hollywood, I must say, it’s been quite the rollercoaster ride! From his charming rom-com roles to his action-packed performances, he’s proven time and again that he’s got what it takes to captivate audiences.
Previously, it would have been unimaginable that the tall, charismatic actor who starred as Chad in Scream Queens would become one of the top leading men in Hollywood. However, we’re currently experiencing a surge of popularity for Glen Powell, affectionately known as the “Glenaissance,” as this versatile actor has proven himself to be a draw at the box office, seamlessly adapting to roles spanning various genres, including action, comedy, romance, and many more.
From his breakout turn in the 2016 historical drama, Hidden Figures, to his scene-stealing performance as the self-absorbed Hangman in Top Gun: Maverick, the actor has proved himself appealing and versatile in equal measure. Powell is now preparing to dip his toes into the world of television once again with an upcoming leading role in Hulu’s Chad Powers. And there is no better time for fans to take a look at 10 of Glen Powell’s best movies to date.
10 ‘The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Society’ (2018)
The story, The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society, unfolds in 1946, following a spirited author named Juliet Ashton who receives an intriguing letter from Dawsey Adams, revealing a clandestine book club established during the Guernsey Island’s Nazi occupation. Intrigued, Juliet embarks on a journey to the island and encounters its eccentric members, eventually experiencing love, heartbreak, and victory in this post-World War II setting.
Delightful and Nostalgic Period Piece
Under Mike Newell’s direction, this movie beautifully portrays the allure and historical impact of post-World War II era. It offers a heartfelt storyline that makes it an uplifting historical drama. The main characters are played by Lily James, Michiel Huisman, and Glen Powell, with Powell portraying Mark Reynolds, Juliet’s initial love interest, whom she leaves behind for a more profound life chapter.
9 ‘Devotion’ (2022)
According to the narrative penned by author and military historian Adam Makos, the book titled Devotion recounts the real-life account of Jesse Brown and Tom Hudner, two exceptional fighter pilots during the Korean War. This dynamic duo not only forged an unconventional bond amidst racial discrimination but also grappled with the complexities of aerial combat and the brutal realities of war. Their camaraderie transformed them into an indomitable team in the skies, playing a crucial role in shaping the tumultuous course of the conflict.
A Tale of Friendship and Sacrifice
Devotion is among the few movies of the year that flew under the radar. It was also a post-COVID-19 box-office bomb, recouping only $21.8 million worldwide against a $90 million budget. Regardless, the movie deserves another chance for the dynamic between Jonathan Majors and Glen Powell. Powell delivers an earnest and inspiring performance as Hudner, and combined with the stunning aerial sequences and gut-wrenching moments of war, the film is overall quite moving.
8 ‘Hidden Figures’ (2016)
A historical drama titled “Hidden Figures” is helmed by Theodore Melfi. This film transports you into the racially divided and predominantly male environment of 1960s NASA, where three brilliant African American women – Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson – excel as mathematicians. In this era fraught with racial bias, sexism, and skepticism from their peers, these remarkable women persevere and make invaluable contributions that prove crucial for the United States to triumph in the Space Race.
Celebrates Forgotten Heroes
The movie, titled “Hidden Figures,” showcases Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, and Janelle Monáe, and is a heartening tale that honors ordinary individuals who surpass expectations and etch their names into history. It garnered widespread acclaim for its compelling narrative, powerful acting, and the significant roles played by these three remarkable women. In this film, John Glenn, portrayed by Kevin Costner, is an astronaut whose reliance on Johnson’s calculations played a crucial part in the mission’s spaceflight and ultimate victory.
7 ‘Apollo 10½: A Space Age Childhood’ (2022)
Under the guidance of Richard Linklater, who penned, helmed, and oversaw production, the animated film titled “Apollo 10 1/2: A Space Age Childhood” marks his third foray into animation. Employing the same rotoscoping technique used in “Waking Life” and “A Scanner Darkly,” it transports viewers on an adventure through the life of a boy named Stan, who is swept up in a thrilling whirlwind when chosen to be the first person to touch down on the moon. Additionally, the movie provides a glimpse into the mission control’s viewpoint as it tells this same story.
Nostalgic Ode to Childhood
Linklater carefully crafts the film as a fictional story about growing up, filled with creativity, cultural relevance, family appeal, and portraying an important moment in space exploration history. The movie’s distinctive animation combines with its emotional plot to create a blend of nostalgic and educational experiences. Milo Coy lends his voice to the character of young Stan, Jack Black voices adult Stan, while Glen Powell plays Bostick, one of the NASA astronauts.
6 ‘Everybody Wants Some!!’ (2016)
“Everybody Wants Some!!”: The season of 1980 is in full bloom, and a lively gang of college baseball players are ready for an unforgettable journey. Our protagonist Jake Bradford, a freshman pitcher, settles into a house with his new teammates just before the academic year begins. Throughout the weekend, they forge friendships through parties, mischief, and chasing romance, all while juggling their aspirations and individual traits.
A Nostalgic Trip to Youth
Directed by Linklater as well, but less famously known than “Dazed and Confused” or the “Before” trilogy, this film captures the essence of youth, energy, camaraderie, and brotherhood. It essentially portrays a transitional phase in the lives of a baseball team as they navigate through the ups and downs of college life. The role of Jake, played by Powell, serves as an ideal platform to display his charm, comedic skills, emotional depth, and relatability.
5 ‘Anyone But You’ (2023)
In the realm of romantic comedies slated for 2023, Anyone But You is a captivating tale centered around Bea, a law student at Boston University, and Ben, a Goldman Sachs employee. Their paths cross initially at a coffee shop, leading to an unforgettable first date. However, due to a misunderstanding, they grow apart. Fate brings them back together, and what starts as a complicated, antagonistic friendship evolves into a passionate romance.
Lighthearted Rom-Com
As a movie aficionado, I must say that “Anyone But You” is a delightful rom-com that truly shines due to the outstanding chemistry between Glen Powell and Sydney Sweeney. The script brims with sharp wit and playful exchanges, transforming even the most overused romantic comedy tropes into something fresh, heartfelt, and laugh-out-loud funny.
4 ‘Set It Up’ (2018)
In 2018, the witty and endearing romantic comedy titled “Set It Up” made its way onto Netflix but has somehow flown under the radar in Glen Powell’s filmography. The story revolves around two assistants, Harper and Charlie, who are exhausted by their demanding bosses and the scarcity of free time. In an effort to alleviate their own misery, they concoct a scheme to arrange dates for their bosses, Kirsten and Rick. As Kirsten and Rick become smitten with these staged meetings, Harper and Charlie unexpectedly find themselves falling for each other as well.
Witty Rom-Com Worthy of More Recognition
In contrast to some of his other romantic comedies, the film “Set It Up” effectively utilizes its actors’ natural rapport by embedding them within a traditional storyline but injecting novelty and originality to avoid predictability. Powell perfectly embodies the charming, sharp-tongued character of Charlie, while Zoey Deutch shines as Harper, displaying a captivating energy. The characters’ skepticism swiftly transforms into affection, making “Set It Up” an impressive and successful film.
3 ‘Top Gun: Maverick’ (2022)
In the follow-up to the 1986 movie titled “Top Gun: Maverick”, Tom Cruise once again assumes the character of the renowned fighter pilot, Pete “Maverick” Mitchell. However, after years of absence, he is summoned back to mentor a fresh group of exceptional aviators. One of these pilots is Bradley “Rooster” Bradshaw, the son of Maverick’s deceased comrade, Goose. This character compels Maverick to grapple with his past and ready the pilots for a perilous assignment.
A Visually Stunning, Action-Packed Blockbuster
With a staggering global gross of $1.496 billion, Top Gun: Maverick has undeniably taken the crown as the standout action movie of the year. Not only did it captivate audiences with its adrenaline-pumping flight sequences and emotional resonance, but it also garnered critical acclaim for these very elements, along with its stellar performances. Portraying Jake “Hangman” Seresin, Powell embodied a cocky yet confident pilot who added both tension and camaraderie to the team through his rivalry with Rooster and unwavering commitment to the mission.
2 ‘Hit Man’ (2023)
In their latest joint project titled “Hit Man“, renowned director Richard Linklater and actor Glen Powell present an engaging blend of crime and comedy. The story revolves around a character named Gary Johnson, who appears to be an ordinary, peaceful philosophy professor. However, unbeknownst to many, he secretly works as a professional hitman.
Filled With Dark Humor and Clever Twists
Following numerous romantic roles, Glen Powell seamlessly switches to portraying a ruthless assassin in “Hit Man”. The film demonstrates his transformation from an unwilling killer to a self-assured undercover agent, presenting a blend of intensity and charm. His on-screen relationship with Adria Arjona is intriguing, while the compelling script and overall storyline make for an engaging watch, marking significant milestones in both Linklater’s and Powell’s careers.
1 ‘Twisters’ (2024)
As a passionate cinephile, I’d say that “Twisters,” under the skilled direction of Lee Isaac Chung, offers an adrenaline-pumping and emotionally intense ride through the realm of disaster thrillers. The narrative revolves around a band of daring storm chasers who brave the challenge of confronting the deadliest tornado outbreak on record. At the helm is Kate Carter, a seasoned professional with a dark history connected to this perilous occupation. Yet, her resolve remains unyielding as she strives to anticipate and master these colossal twisters. However, she’s met with competition in the form of Tyler Owens, a charismatic YouTube storm chaser who ventures to Oklahoma for an exhilarating and, dare I say, reckless encounter that promises to be unforgettable.
A Thrilling and Visually Stunning Blockbuster
In a captivating blend of pulse-pounding action and deeply moving narrative, Twisters transports audiences into the tumultuous realm of nature’s wrath. Daisy Edgar-Jones and Glen Powell deliver outstanding performances, with the latter imbuing each scene with his striking self-assurance and charm. The film’s visually stunning special effects garnered universal praise for their authenticity and intensity. In summary, Twisters was lauded by critics as a “stirring example of summer blockbuster cinema.
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2024-12-07 03:35