6 best Zac Efron movies to watch before 'A Family Affair' hits Netflix
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Zac Efron has come a long way since his days as a teen heartthrob, transforming into a versatile actor who continues to captivate audiences worldwide. He first captured hearts with his charming role as Troy Bolton in Disney's 'High School Musical', where his boy-next-door appeal, impressive acting skills, and undeniable good looks made him a household name.
Over the years, Efron has proven himself to be much more than just a teenage sensation, taking on a variety of roles that showcase his range and depth as an actor. His work in movies like 'Hairspray' and '17 Again' highlights his knack for blending humor and heart.
As Efron prepares to grace the screen once again in the highly anticipated Netflix film 'A Family Affair', alongside Nicole Kidman and Joey King, it's the perfect time to revisit some of his best performances. Here are six must-watch Zac Efron movies before 'A Family Affair' hits Netflix.
The High School Musical franchise (2006-2008)
'The High School Musical franchise', beloved by many fans, is filled with unique characters and memorable moments. 'High School Musical 3: Senior Year' brings these characters back in fresh and exciting ways, offering plenty of dramatic scenes and engaging musical numbers that fans adore. Zac Efron's portrayal of Troy Bolton remains iconic, his energy and charm making it hard to imagine anyone else in the role.
'High School Musical 2', while sometimes considered a guilty pleasure, has a loyal fan base that defends its place in the franchise. Efron reprises his role with the same lighthearted spirit that made the original so popular. Despite being viewed by some as the weakest of the trilogy, the sequel still offers relatable and enjoyable moments, with the original cast returning alongside a new set of catchy tunes.
High School Musical, the film that started it all, set the gold standard for teen musicals. Its catchy music, entertaining performances, and captivating plot have made it a timeless favorite. The film captures the distinct style of the late 2000s, acting as a nostalgic time capsule for many viewers. Its charm and nostalgia continue to hold a special place in the hearts of fans. 'The High School Musical franchise' is available for streaming on Prime Video on a rent basis.
Hairspray (2007)
Directed by Adam Shankman, 'Hairspray' features Zac Efron as the charming Link Larkin, in a role that highlights his comedic and musical talents. Based on the popular Broadway musical, Hairspray is set in 1962 in Baltimore and centers around Tracy Turnblad, portrayed by Nikki Blonsky.
Tracy becomes an overnight sensation after winning a spot on 'The Corny Collins Show', but her newfound fame brings numerous challenges. Brittany Snow plays Amber, the lead female dancer and Tracy's nemesis. Efron's character, inspired by Elvis Presley, is Amber's boyfriend who is also drawn to Tracy.
Efron's performance adds vibrant energy and a touch of humor to the film. 'Hairspray' captures the era's essence with its lively music and dance numbers, making it a memorable and entertaining watch. 'Hairspray' is available for streaming on Prime Video and Apple TV+,
Baywatch (2017)
'Baywatch' marked one of Zac Efron's first major ventures into mainstream action-comedy since his 'High School Musical' days, showcasing a stark contrast in his career. The film, co-starring Dwayne Johnson and Alexandra Daddario, is a non-stop thrill ride from beginning to end.
Embracing its absurd plot with a sense of humor, 'Baywatch' never takes itself too seriously, which adds to its charm. The chemistry between Efron, Johnson, and Daddario is palpable, bringing energy and life to every scene, elevating the film beyond its straightforward screenplay and direction.
'Baywatch' is available for streaming on Prime Video on a rental basis.
The Greatest Showman (2017)
'The Greatest Showman', featuring Zac Efron, Hugh Jackman, and Zendaya, quickly became one of the most successful film musicals of the 2010s. The movie captivated audiences with its catchy music and fascinating story, solidifying its place in pop culture.
Few films have achieved the level of popularity seen by 'The Greatest Showman', which tells the entertaining story of P T Barnum and his rise to fame as America's first circus showman. Jackman’s performance as Barnum is immensely engaging, bringing a thrilling burst of energy to the film.
Efron and Zendaya also shine in their roles, contributing to the film’s overall charm and appeal. With its vibrant musical numbers and heartfelt narrative, 'The Greatest Showman' remains a beloved and highly enjoyable cinematic experience. 'The Greatest Showman' is available for streaming on Prime Video on a rental basis.
17 Again (2019)
'17 Again', featuring Zac Efron, Leslie Mann, Thomas Lennon, and Matthew Perry, is a beloved teenage drama that showcases Efron's captivating charm. Efron plays the teenage version of Mike, portrayed by Perry, a middle-aged man who magically transforms back into his 17-year-old self.
This transformation allows Mike to rewrite his past, but he quickly discovers that high school life is far more complicated than he remembered. The film effectively highlights Efron's talents beyond his singing and dancing roots, emphasizing his strong acting skills.
With a perfect blend of humor and heartfelt moments, '17 Again' offers a nostalgic experience, balancing comedy with meaningful life lessons. This feel-good movie stands out as a fun and engaging watch, leaving a lasting impression on audiences of all ages. '17 Again' is available for streaming on Prime Video on a rent basis.
The Iron Claw (2023)
One of Zac Efron’s standout films is 'The Iron Claw' (2023), where he stars alongside Jeremy Allen White, Lily James, Maura Tierney, Harris Dickinson, and Holt McCallany. This biographical drama showcases Efron in the role of wrestling icon Kevin Von Erich, capturing the complexity of his character with perfection.
The film portrays the relentless drive of Kevin's father, pushing him and his brothers, Kerry, David, and Mike, to win the NWA World Heavyweight Championship. 'The Iron Claw' delves deep into the brothers' lives, highlighting their dedication and the extreme sacrifices they make, shedding blood, sweat, and tears to achieve their father's dream.
The film explores themes of obsession, masculinity, and legacy within a patriarchal family structure. It vividly depicts the brothers' intense pressures and the emotional and physical toll of their journey, making it a compelling watch that underscores the high stakes of their ambition. 'The Iron Claw' is available for streaming on Prime Video and Apple TV+.
'A Family Affair' trailer