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Glen Powell’s newest cinematic venture, titled “The Running Man,” was released on Friday, inviting audiences to compare it against the body of work that has steadily built his reputation in Hollywood. Curiously, one of his most financially successful productions, the romantic comedy “Anyone But You,” finds itself positioned near the lower ranks of critical evaluations, despite its popularity among moviegoers. At the opposite end of the spectrum resides the resoundingly acclaimed and culturally defining “Top Gun: Maverick.” For anyone who feels as though Glen Powell’s face seems to appear everywhere in recent years, that impression would be entirely justified.

Powell’s ascent within the entertainment industry has been astonishingly swift. His status as a major leading man arguably began in 2022, marked by his standout supporting performance in the highly anticipated and much-delayed sequel “Top Gun: Maverick.” His portrayal of the confident pilot Lieutenant Jake “Hangman” Seresin, coupled with what the actor has described as Tom Cruise’s demanding yet inspirational mentorship, appears to have set the trajectory for the next phase of his career. Seizing the momentum from that breakout role, Powell moved seamlessly into a succession of diverse projects—including the clever romantic comedy “Anyone But You,” which paired him with Sydney Sweeney, and later, the Netflix dark comedy “Hit Man,” marking his third creative collaboration with veteran filmmaker Richard Linklater.

Building upon these major successes, Powell continues to reinforce his growing stature with a slate of ambitious projects: the dynamic blockbuster adaptation of “The Running Man,” directed by Edgar Wright, and the Hulu original series “Chad Powers,” where he takes on another bold transformation. The following comprehensive guide ranks every Glen Powell film and television appearance from least to most favorably reviewed, based on aggregated critic scores from Rotten Tomatoes.

Caralynn Matassa contributed to a previous iteration of this article.

20. “Misconduct” Lionsgate In this 2016 legal thriller, Powell assumed a supporting role in what would ultimately become a largely overlooked film. Despite the prestige of having two Oscar-winning legends—Anthony Hopkins and Al Pacino—among the cast, the project still faltered both critically and commercially. Rotten Tomatoes score: 7%.

19. “Ride Along 2” Universal Pictures For this sequel to the 2014 buddy-cop comedy “Ride Along,” Powell appeared as Troy, an unscrupulous drug dealer with an array of conspicuous fake tattoos. The film, featuring headliners Ice Cube and Kevin Hart, catered to fans of the original’s humor but failed to earn much admiration from critics. Rotten Tomatoes score: 15%.

18. “The Expendables 3” Lionsgate Powell found himself surrounded by some of the most iconic action veterans in Hollywood—Sylvester Stallone, Jason Statham, and Dolph Lundgren—when he joined the third installment of “The Expendables.” Released in 2014, this continuation of the franchise delivered high-octane spectacle but didn’t resonate as strongly as its predecessors. Rotten Tomatoes score: 32%.

17. “Sand Castle” Netflix In the 2017 Netflix military drama “Sand Castle,” Powell portrayed the unlucky Sergeant Chutsky, appearing alongside Nicholas Hoult and Henry Cavill. The film offered a reflective take on the Iraq War, emphasizing the futility and chaos of conflict, although it received only moderate critical commendation. Rotten Tomatoes score: 47%.

16. “Anyone But You” Sony Teaming again with director Will Gluck, Powell starred opposite Sydney Sweeney in a modern romantic comedy brimming with chemistry and witty repartee. Anticipated as a potential catalyst for a rom-com revival, the film nevertheless elicited mixed reviews from critics despite its undeniable charm and box-office performance. Rotten Tomatoes score: 53%.

15. “Chad Powers” Daniel Delgado/Disney Loosely inspired by an online comedic skit created by retired Super Bowl champion Eli Manning, this Hulu original reimagines Powell as a fallen college quarterback desperate for redemption. Disguising himself to earn a spot on a new team and reclaim his dignity, the protagonist’s farcical yet heartfelt journey is underscored by themes of perseverance and second chances. Rotten Tomatoes score: 57%.

14. “The Running Man” Paramount Pictures Collaborating with filmmaker Edgar Wright, Powell revisits the dystopian tension of the 1980s classic originally fronted by Arnold Schwarzenegger. Adapted from Stephen King’s gripping novel, the movie follows Powell as an unemployed construction worker who volunteers for a deadly televised contest, wagering his life for a billion-dollar prize and a better future for his family. Rotten Tomatoes score: 63%.

13. “Sex Ed” MarVista Entertainment Not to be mistaken for the similarly named streaming series, this 2014 independent comedy featured Powell as the roommate of Haley Joel Osment’s character. The film told a quirky, small-scale story exploring youth, awkward professional aspirations, and unexpected personal growth. Rotten Tomatoes score: 64%.

12. “Twisters” Melinda Sue Gordon/Universal Pictures, Warner Bros. Pictures, and Amblin Entertainment In this follow-up to the 1990s disaster epic “Twister,” Powell portrays a bold, social media-savvy storm chaser driven by adrenaline and notoriety. The film struck a balance between breathtaking visual effects and lighthearted adventure, earning generally favorable critical reactions. Rotten Tomatoes score: 75%.

11. “Scream Queens” Fox Powell became a fan favorite through his portrayal of Chad Radwell—the self-absorbed yet oddly captivating frat boy of Ryan Murphy’s campy horror-comedy series. The show blended sharp satire with slasher tropes and has since gained cult status for its tongue-in-cheek absurdity. Rotten Tomatoes score: 77%.

10. “Devotion” Columbia Pictures Hot on the heels of his high-flying performance in “Top Gun: Maverick,” Powell starred in the 2022 war drama “Devotion,” a biographical account honoring real Korean War heroes. He played Lieutenant Tom Hudner with respectful nuance, embodying bravery and moral conviction in the face of immense adversity. Rotten Tomatoes score: 81%.

9. “The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society” Netflix Opposite Lily James, Powell played the American love interest in this adaptation of the beloved 2008 historical novel by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows. The 2018 film blended romance, literature, and post-war reflection, drawing plaudits for its emotional authenticity. Rotten Tomatoes score: 82%.

8. “The Lying Game” The CW Before his film career soared, Powell appeared in this teen drama featuring the tangled fates of separated twin sisters. His role, though brief, contributed to his growing résumé of versatile television appearances. Rotten Tomatoes score: 83%.

7. “Everybody Wants Some!!” Paramount Pictures marking Powell’s first collaboration with acclaimed director Richard Linklater. Set amidst 1980s Texas college life, the film delivered a nostalgic yet energetic ensemble narrative that charmed critics and audiences alike. Powell’s portrayal of Finnegan, the charismatic and philosophical baseball player, remains a highlight of his early work. Rotten Tomatoes score: 87%.

6. “Apollo 10 1/2: A Space Age Childhood” Netflix Continuing his creative synergy with Linklater, Powell lent his voice to Bostick, a NASA official, in this animated coming-of-age adventure inspired by the first Moon landing. The 2022 film interwove memory, imagination, and history, evoking both nostalgia and wonder. Rotten Tomatoes score: 91%.

4 (tie). “Set It Up” Netflix Preceding his headline-making chemistry with Sydney Sweeney, Powell showcased his comedic timing and romantic hero persona opposite Zoey Deutch in “Set It Up.” The charming 2018 Netflix rom-com about two overworked assistants orchestrating love for their demanding bosses quickly became a streaming favorite. Rotten Tomatoes score: 92%.

4 (tie). “Jurassic World: Camp Cretaceous” Netflix Within the animated extension of the iconic “Jurassic Park” universe, Powell voiced camp counselor Dave, bringing warmth and humor to a story that introduced younger audiences to the thrills of prehistoric adventure. The series ran from 2020 through 2022 and garnered widespread approval. Rotten Tomatoes score: 92%.

3. “Hidden Figures” 20th Century Studios In the Oscar-nominated historical biopic “Hidden Figures,” Powell portrayed astronaut John Glenn—the first American to orbit Earth—embodying an era of courage and inclusivity. The film celebrated the contributions of three Black mathematicians whose work proved essential to the U.S. space program. Rotten Tomatoes score: 93%.

2. “Hit Man” Matt Lankes/Netflix Powell co-wrote this film alongside director Richard Linklater, drawing inspiration from a true story. He stars as Gary Johnson, a mild-mannered professor who doubles as a fake contract killer for the New Orleans Police Department. Both critics and viewers hailed the 2023 Netflix release for its blend of dark humor, inventive narrative, and Powell’s magnetic central performance. Rotten Tomatoes score: 95%.

1. “Top Gun: Maverick” Paramount Pictures The crowning achievement of Powell’s career thus far, “Top Gun: Maverick” not only revitalized a legendary franchise but also introduced him as one of Hollywood’s most promising new stars. His portrayal of the supremely confident fighter pilot Hangman added depth and swagger to a film that redefined blockbuster filmmaking. Rotten Tomatoes score: 96%.

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