From 'Anyone But You' to 'Set It Up': 6 best Glen Powell movies and TV shows you must watch before 'Hit Man' drops on Netflix
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Glen Powell, 35, has dedicated himself to building a successful career since 2003. His recent films have garnered considerable attention, reflecting his diligent efforts. Among his notable works is the latest film, 'Hit Man', which will be released on Netflix on Friday, May 24.
Directed by Richard Linklater, 'Hit Man' promises a perfect mix of thrilling action and witty romantic comedy. Glen Powell stars as Gary Johnson, who pretends to be a hitman to catch criminals. The plot thickens when he starts to fall for one of his clients.
This intriguing premise, combined with Powell's versatile acting, has caught the attention of movie fans. While waiting for 'Hit Man' to air on Netflix, here are 6 best Glen Powell films that highlight his impressive range.
1) Anyone But You (2023)
One of 2023's standout romantic comedies is Will Gluck's fresh take on William Shakespeare's 'Much Ado About Nothing'. 'Anyone But You' stars Glen Powell and 'Euphoria's Sydney Sweeney, following Ben and Bea's unexpected reunion at a destination wedding in Australia.
Forced to put their past behind them, they pretend to be a couple.
Directed by Will Gluck, the movie delves into the dynamics of modern relationships, blending humor and romance. It offers just enough clichéd moments to keep fans of the genre entertained, while still appealing to those who prefer less cheesy love stories.
The chemistry between Powell and Sweeney adds a spark to the film, making it a must-watch for rom-com enthusiasts.
'Anyone But You' is available to stream on Netflix.
2) Sex Ed (2014)
In 'Sex Ed', Haley Joel Osment's character Eddie takes a job at an inner-city middle school and discovers his students lack any sexual education. Despite his own romantic inexperience and his crush on a student's older sister, Eddie tries to teach his uninformed students about sex.
Glen Powell plays JT, Eddie's (Osment) friend and roommate at the start of 'Sex Ed'. JT doesn't always understand boundaries, but he's a supportive friend who encourages Eddie to pursue his goals.
Powell's performance is hilarious, and his chemistry with Osment is a highlight of the film.
'Sex Ed' is available to stream on Prime Video & Peacock.
3) Top Gun: Maverick (2022)
Set 30 years after the original, 'Top Gun: Maverick' is an impressive sequel following Tom Cruise's character as he returns to the United States Navy Strike Fighter Tactics Instructor Program.
He faces his past while leading TOP GUN's elite graduates on a challenging mission, including Lt. Nick 'Goose' Bradshaw's son, played by Miles Teller.
Directed by Joseph Kosinski, 'Maverick' is an action-packed film with gripping sequences and a compelling story. It stands as one of the best fighter plane movies, possibly surpassing the original.
Glen Powell portrays the bad boy Jake Seresin, a role that has become one of his most memorable performances.
'Top Gun: Maverick' is available to stream on Prime Video and Netflix.
4) Everybody Wants Some!! (2016)
Richard Linklater's 'Everybody Wants Some!!' might not top his best work like the Before trilogy, but it's a solid comedy. Set in the early 1980s, the 2016 film follows a group of college baseball players navigating adulthood.
Like other Linklater films, it's presented in an engaging slice-of-life style, reminiscent of classics like Stand by Me.
'Everybody Wants Some!!' is a feel-good hangout movie that immerses viewers in a nostalgic coming-of-age journey, finding joy in the ordinary. This unofficial sequel to 'Dazed & Confused' features one of Glen Powell's early roles.
Powell's role as Finnegan stands out in the film. Each character has flaws, yet they remain somewhat likable.
While many viewers enjoy the movie, it may not appeal to everyone. It seems targeted at audiences who can reminisce about the 'typical college experience' depicted in the film.
'Everybody Wants Some!!' is available to stream on Showtime.
5) Hidden Figures (2016)
'Hidden Figures' tells the stories of three Black women who worked at NASA and played crucial roles in John Glenn's historic orbit of Earth.
Based on true events, the film sheds light on the overlooked heroes of the space race. Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson were astrophysicists who broke barriers at NASA.
John Glenn relied on Johnson's math and supported her when others doubted her abilities. While Glen Powell's role as an astronaut is minor, he delivers memorable lines.
Unfortunately, the real John Glenn passed away before the movie's release, but his legacy, along with those of Johnson, Vaughan, and Jackson, will endure for generations.
'Hidden Figures' is available to stream on Disney+.
6) Set It Up (2018)
In 'Set It Up', a romantic comedy, two personal assistants scheme to set up their demanding bosses to ease their workload. Powell portrays Charlie opposite Zoey Deutch's Harper.
Charlie, a busy assistant, struggles to find time for his girlfriend or any fun outside of work. This role is arguably Powell's most significant to date, and he excels in it.
His chemistry with Deutch is undeniable, leading to an upcoming romantic comedy titled 'Most Dangerous Game' written by the same author as 'Set It Up'. While 'Anyone But You' receives mixed reviews, 'Set It Up' is perhaps Powell's best romantic comedy yet.
Starring Zoey Deutch, the film showcases the bond between two overworked assistants as they try to matchmake their bosses.
Directed by Claire Scanlon in 2018, this movie is considered one of the best romantic comedies of the 2010s. While it may not reach the level of iconic rom-coms, 'Set It Up' is a delightful and entertaining choice that promises to ward off boredom.
'Set It Up' is available to stream on Netflix.
'Hit Man' trailer
'Hit Man' will be released on Netflix on Friday, May 24.
