Austin Butler has steadily risen to fame, establishing himself as a versatile and talented actor. His filmography spans a variety of genres, showcasing his ability to tackle diverse roles with depth and authenticity. Ranking his top ten movies involves considering factors such as critical acclaim, box office success, and the impact of his performances. Critics' reviews and audience reception also play a crucial role in this ranking, highlighting the films where Butler's acting skills truly shine and contribute significantly to the narrative.
In evaluating Austin Butler's top ten movies, it's essential to recognize both his leading and supporting roles. His ability to stand out in ensemble casts and his magnetic screen presence in lead roles demonstrate his range and commitment to his craft. This list takes into account the influence of his performances on the films' overall success and the lasting impression they leave on audiences. By examining his most notable works, we can appreciate the trajectory of his career and his evolution as an actor.
10 'Dude' (2018)
Character Played: Thomas Daniels
In the coming-of-age comedy Dude, Austin Butler plays Thomas, a high school student navigating the complexities of adolescence alongside his friends. The film explores themes of friendship, loss, and the transition to adulthood, with Butler's character providing both comedic relief and emotional depth. His performance adds to the film's exploration of teenage life and its various challenges.
Dude showcases Butler's ability to engage with contemporary, relatable characters. His portrayal of Thomas is both humorous and heartfelt, contributing to the film's balance of comedy and drama. The movie's focus on the experiences of young adults allows Butler to demonstrate his capability to connect with audiences through realistic and compelling performances.
Dude
Comedy
Drama
- Release Date
- April 20, 2018
- Director
- Olivia Milch
- Cast
- Lucy Hale , Kathryn Prescott , Awkwafina , Alexandra Shipp , Alex Wolff
- Runtime
- 1 hr 37 min
9 'The Intruders' (2015)
Character Played: Noah Henry
The Intruders is a psychological thriller that centers on Rose, a young woman who moves into a new house with her father after her mother's death. Rose begins to experience unsettling occurrences and becomes convinced that the house is haunted. As she digs deeper, she uncovers disturbing secrets about the house's history and its previous occupants. Austin Butler plays Noah Henry, a mysterious young man who becomes entangled in Rose's quest to uncover the truth.
Austin Butler took on a more serious and intense role in this film, showcasing his ability to handle darker, more complex characters. This film is significant for Butler's career as it allowed him to transition from his earlier, lighter roles to more mature and dramatic performances. His portrayal of Noah Henry demonstrated his range and depth as an actor, proving he could effectively contribute to a suspenseful and eerie narrative. This role helped to broaden his appeal and opened doors to more diverse opportunities in the thriller and horror genres.
8 'Sharpay's Fabulous Adventure' (2011)
Character Played: Peyton Leverett
Sharpay's Fabulous Adventure is a spin-off of the High School Musical series, Austin Butler plays Peyton Leverett, an aspiring filmmaker who befriends the titular character, Sharpay Evans. The film follows Sharpay as she navigates the ups and downs of pursuing a Broadway career, with Butler's character offering support and friendship. His performance is charming and supportive, adding to the film's feel-good atmosphere.
Butler's role in Sharpay's Fabulous Adventure showcases his ability to complement leading characters and enhance their story arcs. His portrayal of Peyton Leverett is warm and engaging, contributing to the film's positive and uplifting tone. While the movie is primarily aimed at fans of the "High School Musical" franchise, Butler's performance helps to make it enjoyable for a broader audience.
7 'Aliens in the Attic' (2009)
Character Played: Jake Pearson
Aliens in the Attic is a family-friendly sci-fi adventure in which Austin Butler plays Jake Pearson, a teenager who, along with his siblings and cousins, defends their vacation home from an alien invasion. The film blends comedy, action, and sci-fi elements, providing Butler with a platform to display his youthful energy and charm. His character is a central figure in the kids' resistance against the alien threat.
This film highlights Butler's ability to engage with younger audiences and participate in lighthearted, entertaining projects. His performance as Jake Pearson is both dynamic and relatable, adding to the film's appeal. While the movie is geared towards a younger demographic, Butler's role is essential in driving the narrative and providing a fun, adventurous experience for viewers.
6 'Yoga Hosers' (2016)
Character Played: Hunter Calloway
In Kevin Smith's Yoga Hosers, Austin Butler plays Hunter Calloway, a high school heartthrob and aspiring musician. The film is a quirky horror-comedy that follows two teenage girls as they battle evil forces in their small town. Butler's character adds a dose of teenage charm and musical talent to the storyline, contributing to the film's youthful, irreverent spirit.
This role allowed Butler to explore a lighter, more comedic performance, contrasting with some of his more intense parts which he's played before. His portrayal of Hunter Calloway is both endearing and humorous, reflecting the film's campy tone. While the movie itself received mixed reviews, Butler's performance was appreciated for its charm and fun, demonstrating his ability to embrace different types of characters and genres.
Yoga Hosers
R
Comedy
Fantasy
Horror
Where to Watch
*Availability in US
- stream
- rent
- buy
- Release Date
- July 8, 2016
- Director
- Kevin Smith
- Cast
- Lily-Rose Melody Depp , Harley Quinn Smith , Adam Brody , Harley Morenstein , Ashley Greene , Jack Depp
- Runtime
- 88
- Studio
- Starstream Entertainment
5 'Dune: Part Two' (2024)
Character Played: Feyd-Rautha Harkonnen
Dune: Part Two continues the epic sci-fi saga based on Frank Herbert's classic novel. In this installment, Paul Atreides, now fully embracing his role as the prophesied leader, Muad'Dib, seeks to avenge his family's downfall and liberate the desert planet of Arrakis from the tyrannical rule of House Harkonnen. As he allies with the native Fremen, Paul must navigate political intrigue, massive battles, and his growing mystical powers to fulfill his destiny and bring peace to the galaxy.
Austin Butler's role as Feyd-Rautha Harkonnen in "Dune: Part Two" is a significant milestone in his career. Portraying a pivotal character in such a high-profile, big-budget film solidifies Butler's status as a leading actor in Hollywood.This role allows him to showcase his versatility and depth as an actor, stepping into a complex character within a beloved and critically acclaimed franchise. Dune: Part Two not only elevates his visibility but also demonstrates his ability to hold his own among a star-studded ensemble cast, marking a new era in his professional journey.
Dune: Part Two
PG-13
Sci-Fi
Drama
Action
Adventure
Where to Watch
*Availability in US
- stream
- rent
- buy
- Release Date
- March 1, 2024
- Director
- Denis Villeneuve
- Cast
- Timothee Chalamet , Stellan Skarsgård , Florence Pugh , Zendaya , Rebecca Ferguson , Javier Bardem
- Runtime
- 166 minutes
- Main Genre
- Sci-Fi
4 'The Dead Don't Die' (2019)
Character Played: Jack
The Dead Don't Die is a horror-comedy directed by Jim Jarmusch, Austin Butler stars as Jack, a rebellious youth caught in the midst of a zombie apocalypse. The film features an ensemble cast, including Bill Murray, Adam Driver, and Tilda Swinton, with Butler's character adding a youthful, rebellious element to the mix. His performance balances humor and horror, contributing to the film's offbeat charm.
This role helped Butler show his ability to adapt to various genres and tones. The film's unique blend of deadpan comedy and horror elements provides Butler with an opportunity to showcase his comedic timing and dramatic skills. Although the movie received mixed reviews, Butler's performance was noted for its energy and engagement, proving his capacity to stand out in an eclectic ensemble.
The Dead Don't Die
R
Horror
Comedy
Fantasy
Where to Watch
*Availability in US
- stream
- rent
- buy
Not available
- Release Date
- June 14, 2019
- Director
- Jim Jarmusch
- Cast
- Bill Murray , Adam Driver , Tilda Swinton , Tom Waits
- Runtime
- 104 minutes
- Main Genre
- Horror
3 'Once Upon a Time in Hollywood' (2019)
Character Played: Tex Watson
In Quentin Tarantino'sOnce Upon a Time in Hollywood Austin Butler plays Tex Watson, a member of the Manson Family. Although his screen time is limited, Butler's performance has a lasting impact. His portrayal of Watson is chilling and intense, capturing the menacing aura of the infamous cult member. The film itself is a love letter to 1960s Hollywood, blending fact and fiction in Tarantino's signature style, with Butler contributing to its ensemble cast.
Butler's role in this film showcases his ability to make a strong impression even in smaller roles. Working alongside A-list actors such as Leonardo DiCaprio and Brad Pitt, Butler holds his own, demonstrating his potential to thrive in high-profile projects. His convincing performance as Tex Watson adds a layer of authenticity to the film's depiction of the Manson Family, further cementing his versatility as an actor.
Once Upon a Time in Hollywood
R
Crime
Drama
Where to Watch
*Availability in US
- stream
- rent
- buy
- Release Date
- July 24, 2019
- Director
- Quentin Tarantino
- Cast
- Margot Robbie , Brad Pitt , Leonardo DiCaprio , Damon Herriman , Dakota Fanning , Sydney Sweeney
- Runtime
- 165
2 'The Bikeriders' (2024)
Character Played: Benny Bauer
The Bikeriders is a drama that immerses viewers in the 1960s Midwest motorcycle culture. The film follows the rise of a fictional motorcycle club, exploring the lives and dynamics of its members as they navigate loyalty, brotherhood, and the changing social landscape. The story is inspired by the photography of Danny Lyon and delves into the gritty reality of biker life, capturing the essence of freedom and rebellion that defines the era.
Austin Butler plays a key role that underscores his ability to tackle diverse and challenging characters. This film is significant for Butler's career as it highlights his range and willingness to delve into intense, character-driven narratives. Working alongside a talented cast and a reputable director, Butler's performance in this period drama reinforces his status as a versatile actor capable of taking on complex roles. This project further expands his filmography and showcases his dedication to selecting roles that push his artistic boundaries.
The Bikeriders
R
Drama
Crime
- Release Date
- June 21, 2024
- Director
- Jeff Nichols
- Cast
- Jodie Comer , Austin Butler , Tom Hardy , Michael Shannon , Mike Faist , Norman Reedus
- Runtime
- 116 Minutes
- Main Genre
- Drama
1 'Elvis' (2022)
Character Played: Elvis
In Elvis, Austin Butler takes on the monumental task of portraying the legendary Elvis Presley. His performance is nothing short of transformative, capturing the essence of Elvis's charisma and complexity. The film, directed by Baz Luhrmann, delves into the life and career of the iconic singer, with Butler delivering a performance that is both electrifying and poignant. Critics praised Butler's dedication to the role, noting his impressive vocal and physical resemblance to Elvis, which brought authenticity to the portrayal.
Butler's performance in Elvis not only garnered critical acclaim but also resonated with audiences, contributing to the film's box office success. His ability to convey the highs and lows of Elvis's life, from his meteoric rise to his personal struggles, demonstrates Butler's range and depth as an actor. This role has solidified his status as a leading man in Hollywood and showcased his potential for future biographical dramas.
Elvis
PG-13
Biography
Musical
Drama
Where to Watch
*Availability in US
- stream
- rent
- buy
- Release Date
- June 24, 2022
- Director
- Baz Luhrmann
- Cast
- Tom Hanks , Austin Butler , Olivia DeJonge , Helen Thomson
- Runtime
- 159 minutes
- Main Genre
- Drama
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