James Marsden's 10 Best Movies, Ranked (2024)

Summary

  • With his charming charisma, James Marsden continues to captivate audiences on the big and small screen.
  • Marsden is equally adept at drama, comedy, action and romance, seamlessly moving between genres.
  • After three decades in the business, the incredibly talented James Marsden has carved out his place among Hollywood’s elite.

James Marsden has over 30 years of experience starring in Hollywood’s best movies. With his boyish good looks and charming charisma, Marsden continues to captivate audiences on the big and small screen. After getting his start on sitcoms in the 1990s, the Oklahoma native set his sights on becoming a versatile film actor. He soon landed roles in major studio films like Disturbing Behavior, multiple X-Men movies, and the musical Hairspray, where he displayed his singing talent. Marsden is equally adept at drama, comedy, action and romance, seamlessly moving between genres.

His standout performances have earned him multiple SAG award nominations since 2008. Recently, audiences saw him showcase his comedic chops in the new Amazon series Jury Duty. After three decades in the business, the incredibly talented Marsden has carved out his place among Hollywood’s A-list. His name attached to a project guarantees audiences they’re in for an entertaining story brought to life by one of the industry’s most gifted stars.

10 Sonic The Hedgehog (2020)

James Marsden portrays Tom Wachowski

Sonic the Hedgehog

PG

Release Date
February 12, 2020

Director
Jeff Fowler
Cast
Jim Carrey , James Marsden , Neal McDonough , Tika Sumpter , Ben Schwartz , Adam Pally

Sonic the Hedgehog sees Marsden take on the role of small-town sheriff Tom Wachowski, who becomes an unlikely ally to the speedy video game icon. After teaming up, the duo embarks on an action-packed quest to prevent the villainous Dr. Robotnik from harnessing Sonic’s supersonic powers. Marsden brings heart and humor to the film as a surrogate father figure for Sonic. Their endearing odd couple dynamic earned acclaim from critics, as did the movie’s visual effects and Marsden’s chemistry with co-stars. With charm and wit, Marsden helps ground this family-friendly adaptation and makes it one of his most entertaining roles.

9 Superman Returns (2006)

James Marsden portrays Richard White

James Marsden's 10 Best Movies, Ranked (1)
Superman Returns

Release Date
June 28, 2006

Director
Bryn Singer
Cast
Brandon Routh , Kevin Spacey , Kate Bosworth , James Marsden , Parker Posey , Frank Langella , Sam Huntington , Eva Marie Saint

Though James Marsden only had a supporting role in 2006’s Superman Returns, he makes an impression as Richard White, the fiancé to Lois Lane, played by Kate Bosworth. Armed with charm and subtle humor, Marsden fleshes out Richard beyond the script. He elucidates the complex emotional dynamics between Lois, Superman and an increasingly uneasy Richard. Among the iconic performances by Kevin Spacey’s Superman villain Lex Luthor, Marsden still captures attention even on the fringes. While limited in screen time, he optimizes his moments to bring Richard to life. His deft and charismatic supporting role serves the grander narrative while allowing Marsden’s talent for emotional connection to shine through.

8 Heights (2005)

James Marsden portrays Jonathan

James Marsden's 10 Best Movies, Ranked (2)

Marsden brings nuance and sympathy to the “other man” role that is usually rooted against.

As an actor often typecast as the “safe” romantic option, James Marsden exceeded expectations in 2005’s indie film Heights. He plays Jonathan, a lawyer who crosses paths with Isabel on the eve of her wedding. Their chance encounter sparks an emotional journey questioning the meaning of love and fulfillment. Marsden brings nuance and sympathy to the “other man” role that is usually rooted against. With emotional intimacy and an intuitive grasp of his character’s complexities, he makes Jonathan a winning character with layers and dimensions. Allowing his natural sensitivity and talent for human connection to inform the performance, Marsden makes great use of his moments on screen.

7 The Notebook (2004)

James Marsden portrays Lon Hammond

The Notebook

PG-13

Release Date
June 25, 2004

Director
Nick Cassavetes
Cast
Ryan Gosling , Rachel McAdams , James Garner , Gena Rowlands , James Marsden , Kevin Connolly , Sam Shepard , Joan Allen

In the classic 2004 romantic drama The Notebook, James Marsden brings his signature charm to the role of Lon Hammond, the devoted fiancé to Allie, played by Rachel McAdams. Though the central love story belongs to Allie and Ryan Gosling’s Noah, Marsden lifts Lon beyond a one-dimensional rival. His nuanced performance reveals genuine affection in Lon’s proposal to Allie, despite her admission of a lingering past love. When she ultimately leaves him heartbroken at the altar, Marsden expresses a profound sadness and pain. His emotional depth in the role is essential to heightening the drama. Subtle but powerful, Marsden wins sympathy, while highlighting the deep conflict within Allie.

Related

Allie and Noah's ending in The Notebook left a few questions unanswered, and the streaming version's alternate ending only adds to the confusion.

6 Robot And Frank (2012)

James Marsden portrays Hunter

James Marsden's 10 Best Movies, Ranked (4)

In the clever 2012 sci-fi drama Robot & Frank, James Marsden reteams with Frank Langella after their time together in The Box, this time playing his son Hunter, who gifts a caretaking robot to his father. Once a renowned burglar, Frank finds a new purpose, training the amenable android as his criminal accomplice. With understated humor, Marsden conveys exasperation, yet devotion to his ailing father, unlocking their complicated relationship. Marsden elevates the father-son dynamics while allowing Langella’s wit to shine. Their entertaining rapport enlivens this tale of technology and morality. By anchoring the film’s levity, Marsden delivers a stellar performance as the emotionally torn son in one of his most thoughtful films.

5 Hairspray (2007)

James Marsden portrays Corny Collins

James Marsden's 10 Best Movies, Ranked (5)

Considered one the best musicals of the 21st century, Hairspray brought together an A-list ensemble cast including John Travolta, Zac Efron and Queen Latifah, but among the standouts is James Marsden as charismatic TV dance host Corny Collins. Set in 1960s Baltimore, the film centers on Tracy Turnblad, an enthusiastic teen who earns a spot dancing on Corny’s popular local music program and becomes an icon for desegregation. Marsden captures Corny’s upbeat charm and principled opposition to the show’s racist policies with infectiously fun energy and optimistic zeal. Marsden’s committed performance helped support the film’s historical commentary within its playful, campy tone, making this a standout in Marden’s filmography.

4 27 Dresses (2008)

James Marsden portrays Kevin

Leading man-caliber magnetism and comedic chops make this one of Marsden’s most winning movie roles, outshining a thin script.

The often overlooked romcom 27 Dresses sees James Marsden shine opposite Katherine Heigl. As cynical wedding journalist Kevin, tasked with profiling Heigl’s Jane, Marsden brings wit, charm and irresistible chemistry. His impromptu dance with Jane to “Bennie and the Jets” becomes an endearing, hilarious highlight, with Marsden fully committed to the moment. Despite a formulaic plot, Marsden elevates the material with his grounded screen presence. This 2000s rom-com couple’s chemistry steals the film, proving Marsden can energize even the most clichéd of plots. Leading man-caliber magnetism and comedic chops make this one of Marsden’s most winning movie roles, outshining a thin script. He makes the predictable wildly enjoyable.

3 Enchanted (2007)

James Marsden portrays Prince Edwards

James Marsden's 10 Best Movies, Ranked (6)
Enchanted

PG

Release Date
November 21, 2007

Director
Kevin Lima
Cast
Patrick Dempsey , Amy Adams , Timothy Spall , Susan Sarandon , Idina Menzel , James Marsden

The classic “fish out of water” tale Enchanted, stars Amy Adams as Giselle, a bright-eyed princess banished from animated Andalasia to modern day Manhattan by the evil Queen Narissa right before her wedding. Goofy, yet dashing Prince Edward bravely follows her in the hopes of rescuing his confused bride from the harsh real world and bringing her safely home. Marsden hilariously weaponizes the stereotypical gallant Disney prince, walking the tightrope between satire and sincerity with major skill. While easily a vain, hollow role in less skilled hands, Marsden brings surprising spirit, finding humanity and redemption in Edward’s fumbling, but determined white knight.

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2 X-Men (2000)

James Marsden plays Cyclops

James Marsden's 10 Best Movies, Ranked (8)
X-Men

PG-13

Release Date
July 14, 2000

Director
Bryan Singer
Cast
Hugh Jackman , Patrick Stewart , Ian McKellen , Anna Paquin , Halle Berry , Famke Janssen , James Marsden , Ray Park , Rebecca Romijn

Of his many beloved roles, James Marsden’s role as mutant hero Cyclops in four blockbuster X-Men films cements his place in pop culture history. The 2000’s X-Men cast starring Halle Berry, Anna Paquin and Hugh Jackman, Marsden faced a huge challenge in conveying the character without the crucial tool of visible eyes. Marsden, however, was able to ground the often stoic Cyclops with conviction. Despite limited emotional expression, he nails the essence of steadfast righteousness and restraint that is integral to the character. Among the franchise’s best blockbusters, Marsden plays a crucial role in carving an iconic character.

1 The Tale of The Princess Kaguya (2013)

James Marsden plays Prince Ishitsukuri

James Marsden's 10 Best Movies, Ranked (9)

Though brief, James Marsden’s voice performance as Prince Ishitsukuri in the critically acclaimed anime The Tale of The Princess Kaguya represents some of his most artful, nuanced acting. As an arrogant nobleman captivated by the ethereal title princess, Marsden captures the prince’s profound longing underneath superficial entitlement. His line delivery in the English adaptation enhances the film’s dreamy watercolor aesthetic and emotional potency. Considered one of the legendary Studio Ghibli’s finest artistic achievements, Princess Kaguya demonstrates JamesMarsden’s versatility crossing into acclaimed foreign animation. Though a small role, his heartrending presence matches the visual poetry shot-for-shot, cementing why the magical film remains his best work to date.

James Marsden's 10 Best Movies, Ranked (2024)

FAQs

What is James Marsden best known for? ›

James Paul Marsden (born September 18, 1973) is an American actor, singer and former Versace model. He is best known for playing the superhero Cyclops in the three X-Men films and for his roles in other commercially successful films such as Hop, Superman Returns, Hairspray, Enchanted, The Box, and 27 Dresses.

Who was James Marsden's best man? ›

James Marsden who Brian Peck was recently best man at his wedding apparently.

Is James Marsden in a relationship? ›

James has been linked to British singer-songwriter Emma Deign since then, who is known by her stage name, Edei. The duo started dating from 2015 until earlier this year. He also shares 11-year-old son William with his ex-girlfriend, Brazilian model Rose Costa.

Who played Eddie on The Nanny? ›

The Nanny (TV Series 1993–1999) - James Marsden as Eddie - IMDb.

Why did James Marsden leave Party of Five? ›

“'Party of Five' … I think I was meant to be a regular on the show, but they didn't know if they were getting picked up for a second season and I was offered another TV show,” Marsden recalled. “So I took ['Second Noah'] in sort of a gamble, not knowing if 'Party of Five” was going to be picked up.

Was James Marsden in Modern Family? ›

Marsden made an appearance on Modern Family in January 2011, playing a squatter.

Are James Marsden and Hugh Jackman friends? ›

Jackman and Marsden have been friends for nearly 20 years now, While promoting X-Men: Days of Future Past in 2014, James Marsden spoke about his love of working with Hugh Jackman, noting that the actor is almost too nice and that he's still looking to find a flaw.

Did James Marsden apologize? ›

Related to James Marsden Apology Brian Peck

James Marsden wrote letters to the judge saying that Brian Peck was innocent. James Marsden did not apologize to Brian Peck.

Who defended Brian Peck? ›

James Marsden is the most famous person to write a letter defending Brian Peck. There's been some misinformation about why he defended him and a lot of hate towards him. Some people are saying James was a complete adult when he met peck and couldn't have been a victim himself and they're still close etc.

Is James Marsden a nice guy? ›

You see, the real James Marsden is a very nice guy. When he signed on to the unusual project, he had one main priority: “It was imperative to me from the beginning that I don't wanna be a part of a prank show,” he says. “It's mean-spirited to turn the screws to [Gladden] or make him the butt of the joke.”

Does James Marsden know martial arts? ›

Abilities. Acting: James is a very talented and charming actor. He plays various roles (usually the heroine) in many films. Martial Arts: James is a talented martial artist when it comes to fighting off villains for the Power Rangers.

What superhero did James Marsden play? ›

James Marsden embodied the character Scott Summers, better known as Cyclops, in the first three movies of the X-Men franchise. He also had a cameo as the character in the franchise past his appearance in these three movies.

Who was pregnant on The Nanny? ›

During the show's fifth season run, Lauren Lane and Rachel Chagall became pregnant. But unlike other sitcoms that hid their pregnant actresses behind props, or had them sitting all the time, producers of this show made no attempt to hide or explain the growing bellies, except for one episode where C.C.

Did The Nanny marry her boss? ›

However, in season 5 episode 14, Maxwell tells Fran that he loves her and does not take it back, having done so earlier; the couple's engagement follows, ending the romantic tension between them. Following several snafus, they are finally married in the season 5 finale.

Does James Marsden have a son? ›

What is James Harris known for? ›

Harris was officially the first African American to discover a new element, and he did it as the only person in his lab without a PhD as well. After changing the bombarding element from carbon to nitrogen in 1970, Harris and Ghiorso discovered element 105, commonly referred to today as Dubnium.

Are Jason and James Marsden related? ›

Is commonly confused as being brother of actor James Marsden. Although the two are not related, they are actually good friends, and their respective wives have been friends since they were six years old.

Does James Marsden have a twin brother? ›

What movies did Michael Marsden play in? ›

He has appeared in films such as Black Hawk Down, Helen of Troy, Anacondas: The Hunt for the Blood Orchid, Tamara, Resident Evil: Extinction, Rambo, Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen, and Atlas Shrugged.

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