By Bemi Brooks 
Hook: Ever watch an actor and think, “Where have I seen them before?” That’s Glen Powell in a nutshell. From “that charming background guy” to stealing scenes in Top Gun: Maverick and rom-coms, his journey’s pure Hollywood hustle. Let’s unpack his filmography!
Who Is Glen Powell? (Way More Than Just a Smile!)
Texas-born, charismatic, and relentlessly driven, Glen Powell’s a classic “overnight success, 20 years in the making.” He landed his first role at 13 (!), grinding through tiny parts like a lab tech in Spy Kids 3 (2003) and a nameless trader in The Dark Knight Rises (2012).
Think of his career like a skyscraper: You only see the glitzy top floors (Top Gun, anyone?), but the foundation was poured role by role, year after year. That persistence? It’s why his success feels so earned.
The Breakout: When Hollywood Finally Leaned In
2016’s Hidden Figures was Powell’s “aha!” moment. As astronaut John Glenn, he blended charm with quiet gravitas, proving he could hold his own alongside Taraji P. Henson and Octavia Spencer. Hollywood took notes.
Then came 2018’s Set It Up (Netflix). Starring opposite Zoey Deutch, Powell unleashed killer comedic timing and rom-com leading man energy. This sleeper hit screamed: “He’s not just a side character anymore.”
This trio of work cemented him as more than a supporting player in Glen Powell movies.
Must-Watch Glen Powell Movies (Your Essential Checklist)
Here’s your curated Glen Powell starter pack:
- 🔥 Top Gun: Maverick (2022): As Lt. Jake “Hangman” Seresin, Powell oozed arrogant charm. The role catapulted him into the stratosphere. Pure star power.
- 💘 Anyone But You (2023): Paired with Sydney Sweeney, this rom-com smashed box offices. Powell proved he’s the genre’s new golden boy – witty, warm, and endlessly watchable.
- ✍️ Hit Man (2023): Co-written by Powell! This Golden Globe-nominated gem sees him as a professor posing as a hitman. Sharp, sexy, and smart – it showcases his range and writing chops.
- 🌪️ Twisters (2024): High-octane disaster sequel. Powell’s leading-man status in big-budget action? Locked in.
Honorable Mentions:
- Everybody Wants Some!! (2016): Cult classic ensemble comedy.
- Devotion (2022): Solid war drama showcasing his dramatic side.
Glen Powell’s Evolution: From Bit Parts to Leading Man
| Era | Film Example | Role Type | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Early Days | Spy Kids 3 (2003) | Bit Part/Cameo | Humble beginnings |
| Breakout | Hidden Figures (2016) | Key Supporting | “He can really act!” moment |
| Leading Man | Set It Up (2018) | Romantic Co-Lead | Rom-Com Star Potential Realized |
| Superstar | Top Gun: Maverick (2022) | Breakout Blockbuster | Global Fame Explodes |
| Auteur | Hit Man (2023) | Writer/Star | Critical Acclaim & Creative Control |
Why Are Glen Powell Movies So Damn Watchable?
- The Charm Offensive: That grin? The effortless swagger? He makes likability look easy – even when playing cocky pilots (Hangman, we see you).
- Surprising Range: Astronaut, fake hitman, rom-com dreamboat, tornado chaser. He dodges typecasting like a pro.
- Brains Behind the Beauty: Hit Man wasn’t a fluke. He’s a sharp screenwriter who understands story.
- Relatability Factor: He feels like your funniest, most confident friend – not some untouchable A-lister.
Is he just a rom-com/action guy now?
Hit Man blew that idea away. Expect more surprises – he’s actively pushing boundaries.
What’s Next? Glen Powell Beyond Twisters
Powell’s playing the long game:
- 🔥 Confirmed: Untitled Amazon MGM firefighter drama (expect intensity and heroism).
- 🚀 Rumors: Top Gun 3 is practically buzzing on the tarmac. More producing/writing projects are also in development.
The Takeaway: He’s not just chasing fame; he’s meticulously building a diverse, lasting career.
Conclusion & Your Glen Powell Action Plan
Glen Powell’s rise is a masterclass in grit. He transformed from “that guy” to a leading man we genuinely root for. Ready to dive in?
- Start with the Breakout: Double-feature Hidden Figures & Set It Up. See the range bloom.
- Feel the Star Power: Binge Top Gun: Maverick and Anyone But You. Pure, high-octane entertainment.
- See the Depth: Don’t skip Hit Man. It’s his most fascinating, layered work yet.
Over to you! What’s your favorite Glen Powell movie? Did I miss a hidden gem? Share your thoughts below – let’s geek out!
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FAQs
Q: What was Glen Powell’s first movie?
A: A blink-and-you-miss-it role as “Long-Fingered Boy” in *Spy Kids 3-D: Game Over* (2003). Talk about humble beginnings!
Q: What movie made Glen Powell famous?
A: Hidden Figures (2016) got him serious notice, but Top Gun: Maverick (2022) launched him into global superstardom.
Q: Did Glen Powell write any movies?
A: Yes! He co-wrote and stars in the critically acclaimed Hit Man (2023), snagging a Golden Globe nomination.
Q: What’s Glen Powell’s newest movie?
A: He stars in the disaster thriller Twisters (July 2024), followed by an upcoming firefighter drama for Amazon MGM.
Q: What’s Glen Powell’s best comedy?
A: Set It Up (2018) is a rom-com gem, Anyone But You (2023) was a smash hit, and Hit Man is packed with darkly hilarious moments.
Q: Did Glen Powell play a real person?
A: Twice! He portrayed astronaut John Glenn in Hidden Figures (2016) and real-life Navy hero Tom Hudner in Devotion (2022).
Q: Does Glen Powell sing in Anyone But You?
A: Oh yes! He delivers an iconically awkward (and hilarious) karaoke rendition of “Unwritten” by Natasha Bedingfield. Trust me, it’s a scene-stealer.