Chris Pratt has evolved into one of the most beloved actors in Hollywood, known for his versatility across genres, from comedy to action-packed blockbusters. Rising to fame through a mix of charming goofiness and rugged action-hero appeal, Pratt has proven his star power in a variety of roles, from quirky characters on television to leading men in some of the highest-grossing franchises of all time. Below, we’ll dive into 10 of Chris Pratt’s best films, from his early breakout roles to his iconic performances in major franchises like Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy and Jurassic World. These films represent the highlights of Pratt’s impressive and dynamic filmography, showcasing his talent for both humor and heroism.
1. Guardians of the Galaxy (2014)
When Chris Pratt was cast as Peter Quill, aka Star-Lord, in Guardians of the Galaxy, some fans and critics raised an eyebrow. Known primarily for his role as the lovable goofball Andy Dwyer on NBC’s Parks and Recreation, Pratt didn’t seem like the obvious choice to play a cocky space adventurer. However, Pratt proved his doubters wrong, transforming himself into a shredded, charismatic leading man who could pull off both physical action scenes and the comedic timing required for the film’s quirky tone.
Directed by James Gunn, Guardians of the Galaxy was a fresh take on the superhero genre, filled with irreverent humor, a memorable 1970s soundtrack, and visually stunning space battles. The film introduced a whole new team of heroes to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), and Pratt’s Peter Quill quickly became a fan favorite. His combination of roguish charm, quick wit, and unexpected vulnerability made Star-Lord one of the MCU’s most endearing characters.
The movie itself was a critical and commercial success, praised for its unique blend of comedy, heart, and action. Pratt’s performance was a revelation, proving that he could carry a major franchise on his shoulders. Guardians of the Galaxy is essential viewing for any Chris Pratt fan, not only because it marked his transformation into a leading man but also because it’s one of the most entertaining entries in the MCU.
2. Jurassic World (2015)
Following the enormous success of Guardians of the Galaxy, Chris Pratt solidified his status as a box-office draw with Jurassic World, a reboot of the beloved Jurassic Park franchise. In the film, Pratt plays Owen Grady, a skilled animal trainer working with Velociraptors at the dinosaur theme park. Owen is a more serious and grounded character than Star-Lord, but Pratt brings his signature likability and charm to the role.
Jurassic World takes place 22 years after the events of the original Jurassic Park, with the dinosaur theme park now fully operational. However, things quickly spiral out of control when a genetically modified super-dinosaur, the Indominus Rex, escapes its enclosure, wreaking havoc on the park and its visitors. Owen must team up with park operations manager Claire Dearing (Bryce Dallas Howard) to stop the dinosaur threat.
The film was a massive success, earning over $1.6 billion worldwide and becoming one of the highest-grossing films of all time. Pratt’s portrayal of Owen Grady was praised for balancing the intense action sequences with moments of humor and heart. His on-screen chemistry with Bryce Dallas Howard added depth to the film’s human element, while his interactions with the raptors highlighted the movie’s theme of the relationship between humans and nature.
Jurassic World is a thrilling, action-packed adventure that successfully revitalized the Jurassic Park franchise for a new generation of audiences. Pratt’s performance as Owen Grady cemented his status as a leading action star, and the film’s success paved the way for further installments in the series.
3. The Lego Movie (2014)
Before he became Star-Lord or tamed Velociraptors, Chris Pratt voiced the lead character, Emmet Brickowski, in The Lego Movie. This animated hit was a surprising success, blending sharp humor, clever writing, and a heartfelt message about creativity and individuality. Pratt’s voice work as the everyman Emmet was one of the film’s highlights, bringing a delightful naivety and enthusiasm to the character.
Emmet is an ordinary Lego minifigure living in a world of conformity who accidentally stumbles upon a powerful artifact known as the “Piece of Resistance.” He is mistakenly identified as “The Special,” the one destined to save the Lego universe from the evil Lord Business (voiced by Will Ferrell). Along the way, Emmet teams up with a colorful cast of characters, including the tough and capable Wyldstyle (Elizabeth Banks) and Batman (Will Arnett).
The Lego Movie was praised for its unique animation style, witty script, and strong voice cast. Pratt’s portrayal of Emmet was particularly well-received, with many noting how his comedic timing and sincere delivery elevated the character. The film’s success led to several sequels and spin-offs, but the original remains the best entry in the series, thanks in large part to Pratt’s standout performance.
4. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 (2017)
Chris Pratt returned as Peter Quill in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, the highly anticipated sequel to the 2014 hit. This time around, the story delves deeper into Quill’s backstory, as he learns more about his true parentage and grapples with the emotional weight of his newfound knowledge.
The film introduces Kurt Russell as Ego the Living Planet, Quill’s long-lost father, whose god-like powers and mysterious motivations drive much of the plot. As Peter navigates his complex feelings towards Ego, the rest of the Guardians team deals with their own personal struggles, from Rocket’s feelings of isolation to Gamora’s tense relationship with her sister Nebula.
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 received praise for its emotional depth and strong character development, particularly for Peter Quill. Pratt was once again lauded for his ability to balance humor and heart, delivering a performance that showcased both Quill’s cocky, devil-may-care attitude and his vulnerability as he confronts painful truths about his past.
The sequel also features more of the stunning visuals, thrilling action sequences, and iconic soundtrack that made the first film a hit. Pratt’s chemistry with the rest of the cast, particularly Zoe Saldana (Gamora) and Dave Bautista (Drax), remains a key part of the film’s charm, making Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 another must-watch in Pratt’s filmography.
5. The Magnificent Seven (2016)
In The Magnificent Seven, a remake of the classic 1960 Western, Chris Pratt takes on the role of Joshua Faraday, a charming but deadly gambler who joins a group of outlaws, bounty hunters, and sharpshooters to defend a small town from a ruthless industrialist. The film, directed by Antoine Fuqua, is a modern retelling of the original, with a star-studded cast that includes Denzel Washington, Ethan Hawke, and Vincent D’Onofrio.
Pratt’s portrayal of Faraday is one of the film’s highlights, as he brings his trademark wit and charisma to the role of the gunslinger. While the character is a bit more lighthearted than some of the other members of the group, Pratt still manages to convey a sense of danger and unpredictability, making Faraday a compelling addition to the ensemble.
The Magnificent Seven received mixed reviews from critics, but Pratt’s performance was widely praised, with many noting how his charm and screen presence helped elevate the film. The movie is a fun, action-packed Western that showcases Pratt’s ability to shine in an ensemble cast, holding his own alongside some of Hollywood’s biggest names.
6. Passengers (2016)
In Passengers, Chris Pratt stars alongside Jennifer Lawrence in a sci-fi romance set aboard a spaceship traveling to a distant colony planet. The film follows Jim Preston (Pratt), a mechanic who wakes up from cryogenic sleep 90 years too early during the journey. Stranded on the ship with no way to return to stasis, Jim faces a life of solitude until he makes the controversial decision to wake up another passenger, Aurora Lane (Lawrence).
The movie explores themes of loneliness, love, and ethical dilemmas, as Jim and Aurora form a bond while dealing with the consequences of Jim’s actions and the impending failure of the ship’s systems. Pratt’s performance as Jim was praised for its emotional depth, as he portrays a man grappling with isolation, guilt, and the desire for companionship.
Passengers received mixed reviews upon release, with some critics taking issue with the film’s ethical questions. However, Pratt’s chemistry with Lawrence and his ability to convey both the charm and internal conflict of his character were highlights of the film. For fans of Chris Pratt, Passengers offers a different kind of performance, one that leans more into drama and romance than action and comedy.
7. The Kid (2019)
In The Kid, Chris Pratt takes on a darker, grittier role as Grant Cutler, a ruthless outlaw in this Western directed by Vincent D’Onofrio. The film follows a young boy named Rio (Jake Schur) who is on the run after killing his abusive father. Along the way, Rio encounters legendary outlaw Billy the Kid (Dane DeHaan) and Sheriff Pat Garrett (Ethan Hawke), who is hunting Billy down.
Pratt’s character, Cutler, is a far cry from the charming, heroic figures he typically plays. As Rio’s dangerous and unrelenting uncle, Cutler is a menacing presence throughout the film, hunting Rio and his sister relentlessly across the frontier. This marks a notable departure for Pratt, showcasing his ability to portray a villainous and more morally complex character than audiences are used to seeing from him. The role highlights Pratt’s range as an actor, proving that he’s capable of tackling darker, more intense roles.
Although The Kid was not a major box-office hit, it was praised for its performances, particularly Pratt’s turn as the villainous Cutler. His portrayal of a dangerous and unhinged outlaw demonstrated that he could shed his likable, easygoing persona to deliver a gritty and menacing performance. For those interested in seeing a different side of Pratt, The Kid is definitely worth a watch.
8. Onward (2020)
In Onward, a Pixar animated film, Chris Pratt reunites with his Marvel co-star Tom Holland, lending his voice to the character of Barley Lightfoot, a boisterous and optimistic older brother. The film is set in a fantasy world where magic once existed but has largely faded away, replaced by modern technology. Barley and his younger brother Ian (voiced by Holland) embark on a quest to find a magical artifact that will allow them to spend one last day with their deceased father.
Pratt brings his signature charm and enthusiasm to the role of Barley, a well-meaning but somewhat bumbling character who has a deep love for his family and a passion for adventure. The film’s emotional core lies in the relationship between the two brothers, and Pratt’s voice performance brings warmth and heart to the character, complementing Holland’s more reserved portrayal of Ian.
Onward received praise for its heartfelt story, imaginative world-building, and strong voice cast. Pratt and Holland’s on-screen chemistry translates seamlessly to their animated counterparts, making their relationship one of the most memorable aspects of the film. Pratt’s portrayal of Barley is both humorous and touching, adding another standout performance to his growing resume of animated films.
9. The Tomorrow War (2021)
In The Tomorrow War, Chris Pratt takes on the role of Dan Forester, a high school teacher and former Green Beret who is recruited to fight in a futuristic war against an alien invasion. The film’s premise revolves around a group of time travelers who arrive from the year 2051 to warn humanity about an impending alien threat. To prevent the extinction of mankind, people from the present are drafted to fight in the future.
Pratt’s portrayal of Dan Forester is one of his most intense and emotionally charged performances to date. The character is a loving father and husband who is forced to leave his family behind to fight in a war he doesn’t fully understand. Pratt brings a strong emotional depth to the role, balancing the physical demands of the action sequences with moments of vulnerability as Dan confronts his fears and doubts.
The Tomorrow War is a sci-fi action thriller with explosive set pieces and high-stakes drama. Pratt’s performance anchors the film, as he convincingly portrays a man driven by the desire to protect his family and save the future. While the film received mixed reviews for its plot and pacing, Pratt’s leading role was widely praised for his commitment to the character and his ability to carry the film through its more emotional beats.
10. Zero Dark Thirty (2012)
Before becoming a household name, Chris Pratt appeared in Kathryn Bigelow’s critically acclaimed Zero Dark Thirty, a gripping account of the decade-long hunt for Osama bin Laden. Although Pratt plays a supporting role as one of the Navy SEALs involved in the final raid, his performance is notable for marking one of his first serious, dramatic roles in a high-profile film.
Pratt’s portrayal of Justin, one of the members of SEAL Team 6, is understated but effective. While his screen time is limited compared to the film’s leads, including Jessica Chastain as CIA operative Maya, Pratt’s presence adds to the tension and realism of the climactic raid sequence. The film itself was praised for its meticulous attention to detail and intense storytelling, and Pratt’s participation in such a significant project helped raise his profile as a versatile actor.
Zero Dark Thirty is a departure from Pratt’s more comedic and action-oriented roles, showcasing his ability to adapt to more grounded, real-life stories. While his role may not be as prominent as others on this list, the film is a must-watch for anyone interested in seeing Pratt in a different light, contributing to one of the most powerful films of the past decade.
Conclusion
Chris Pratt’s career trajectory has been nothing short of remarkable, with a diverse filmography that showcases his ability to thrive in both comedic and action-packed roles. From his breakout role as the charming and humorous Star-Lord in Guardians of the Galaxy to his more dramatic turns in films like Passengers and The Kid, Pratt has consistently proven that he can carry a wide variety of films on his shoulders.
Whether he’s leading a ragtag group of space misfits, battling dinosaurs, or lending his voice to animated characters, Pratt brings a unique combination of charisma, humor, and heart to every role he plays. His performances have earned him a spot among Hollywood’s top leading men, and with several major franchises under his belt, Pratt’s star shows no signs of dimming anytime soon.
For fans of Chris Pratt, the ten films listed above represent the best of his work, highlighting his versatility and talent across multiple genres. Whether you’re in the mood for a high-octane action movie, a heartfelt animated adventure, or a gripping drama, these films offer something for everyone and are a testament to Pratt’s enduring appeal as one of today’s most beloved actors.