The Best James Franco Movies

Ranker Film
Updated August 11, 2023 5.4K votes 1.0K voters 98.5K views
Over 1.0K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best James Franco Movies
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Vote for your favorite movies, regardless of critic reviews or how big the role was.

Over a thousand movie fans have come together to vote on this list of James Franco's best and worst films. From his breakout role in Freaks and Geeks to his Oscar-nominated performance in 127 Hours, Franco has proven himself as one of the most versatile actors of our time.

But what sets these movies apart from others in his filmography? Is it the range of characters he portrays, or perhaps the critical reception they received? Or maybe it's just because they're downright entertaining. Whatever the reason, we've compiled a comprehensive ranking that is sure to spark some debate among fans.

At the top of the list, you'll find Franco's most iconic performances - roles that have cemented him as a Hollywood heavyweight. But don't overlook some hidden gems scattered throughout, including indie darlings and lesser-known flicks that showcase his acting chops.

So grab some popcorn and settle into your favorite armchair for this cinematic journey through Franco's career. And be sure to vote up your favorites on this list - who knows, your vote could help determine which film takes home the number one spot.

Most divisive: Good Time Max
Ranked by
  • 127 Hours
    1

    127 Hours

    James Franco, Amber Tamblyn, Kate Mara
    236 votes
    • Released: 2010
    • Directed by: Danny Boyle
    A visceral journey of survival, 127 Hours unfolds the tale of Aron Ralston (James Franco), an adventurous mountaineer. His solitary expedition in Utah's Canyonlands National Park morphs into a nightmare when he finds himself trapped by a fallen boulder. Over five agonizing days, Ralston confronts his life, his choices, and his dire predicament, leading to a desperate self-rescue operation. This intense biographical drama, directed by Danny Boyle, won multiple awards for its raw depiction of human endurance and resilience. It's a stark illustration of how an ordinary hike can spiral into an extraordinary fight for life.

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  • Pineapple Express
    2

    Pineapple Express

    Seth Rogen, James Franco, Gary Cole
    246 votes
    • Released: 2008
    • Directed by: David Gordon Green
    Dale Denton (Seth Rogen), a process server, enjoys his routine life of serving subpoenas and smoking pot. His peaceful existence takes a turn when he witnesses a murder by his drug dealer's boss, Ted Jones (Gary Cole). In panic, Dale leaves behind a rare strain of marijuana named 'Pineapple Express'. Realizing the unique weed can be traced back to him, Dale ropes in his dealer, Saul Silver (James Franco), to flee from the hitmen. This action-comedy film directed by David Gordon Green is an exhilarating ride of friendship, drug haze, and survival.
  • This Is the End
    3

    This Is the End

    Samantha Ressler, Douglas M. Griffin
    211 votes
    • Released: 2013
    • Directed by: Seth Rogen, Evan Goldberg
    In the comedic horror film This Is the End, Hollywood's funny guys find themselves facing an apocalypse of biblical proportions. Seth Rogen (as himself) hosts a party with his fellow actors, including Jay Baruchel (as himself), James Franco (as himself), and Jonah Hill (as himself). The gathering, intended for fun, takes a terrifying turn when cataclysmic events begin to unfold. As society crumbles outside their fortress home, friendships are tested while they struggle for survival. With demons roaming the earth and supplies dwindling, these actors must confront their worst nightmares in a world where fame is meaningless.

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  • Spider-Man 2
    4

    Spider-Man 2

    Tobey Maguire, Kirsten Dunst, James Franco
    152 votes
    • Released: 2004
    • Directed by: Sam Raimi
    Spider-Man 2, a superhero flick directed by Sam Raimi, unravels the complex life of Peter Parker (Tobey Maguire). As Spider-Man, he battles with the duality of his existence - saving New York City while juggling college and love. His world intensifies with the emergence of Dr. Otto Octavius (Alfred Molina), a brilliant scientist turned villain 'Doc Ock' after a failed experiment. Amidst personal struggles and high-stakes action, Parker must find balance. This film won an Oscar for Best Visual Effects, highlighting its impressive cinematic prowess.

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  • Spider-Man
    5

    Spider-Man

    Tobey Maguire, Willem Dafoe, Kirsten Dunst
    139 votes
    • Released: 2002
    • Directed by: Sam Raimi
    In Spider-Man, we follow the extraordinary journey of Peter Parker (Tobey Maguire), an ordinary high school student. After a bite from a genetically modified spider, Parker gains superhuman abilities and becomes Spider-Man. The film also stars Kirsten Dunst as Mary Jane Watson, his love interest, and Willem Dafoe as the Green Goblin, the villain. Directed by Sam Raimi, this action-packed superhero flick weaves a tale of power, responsibility, and the struggle between identity and duty. Winner of the Best Visual Effects at the BAFTA Awards, Spider-Man is a visually stunning spectacle with unforgettable characters and a compelling narrative.

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  • Interview
    6

    Interview

    Sienna Miller, Steve Buscemi, Michael Buscemi
    142 votes
    • Released: 2007
    • Directed by: Steve Buscemi
    Pierre Peders (Steve Buscemi), a political reporter, receives an unwelcome assignment from his editor: Write a puff piece on Katya (Sienna Miller), a sexy starlet whose love life provides plentiful tabloid fodder. The pair manage to alienate each other within minutes, then Pierre is injured in an accident, and Katya brings him back to her apartment. An unusual encounter unfolds for the jaded journalist and the woman who may not be as stupid as she seems.

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