The 10 Best Michael B. Jordan Movies, Ranked
This list has been updated by Charlene Badasie.
Michael B. Jordan has, over the past decade or so, established himself as one of the defining screen presences of modern Hollywood. From starring in franchise blockbusters to more character-driven projects, he's built a filmography that feels commercially savvy and personally curated. But before all of that, Jordan's path to stardom was not that glamorous.
Like many actors, he worked his way up by working in television and taking smaller movie roles. That momentum hasn't really slowed since. If anything, it's diversified, with projects spanning action thrillers, social dramas, and even the occasional experimental misfire. This list ranks his 10 best movies, which can be found on platforms like Netflix, HBO Max and Disney+, based on overall quality and how effectively Jordan uses his screen time.
That Awkward Moment follows Mikey (Jordan), Jason (Zac Efron), and Daniel (Miles Teller), who are dealing with the complications of modern dating in New York City. After Mikey's marriage falls apart, the trio makes a pact to stay single, which quickly proves unrealistic. The film leans heavily on familiar rom-com tropes, and not all of them have aged particularly well.
Still, Jordan brings a sincerity to Mikey that gives the story a bit more emotional grounding than it might otherwise have. It's an early glimpse of his ability to elevate material, even when the script feels a little uneven. It lands at number 10 because Jordan shares the spotlight and isn't given enough space to truly stand out. Fans of movies like Crazy, Stupid, Love (2011) will love it.
Blackout is a retelling of the real-life Northeast Blackout of 2003 in New York City. The story chronicles the lives of the residents of a "forgotten" Brooklyn neighborhood during two days. With a focus on different families and individuals, the movie is more about the emotional fallout from the power outage as opposed to what caused the disaster.
Blackout is an entertaining, character-driven drama that works within its story limits. Jordan's role as C.J. is relatively small, but he brings natural emotion and authenticity to the character. But it's Jordan's limited screen time and the film's narrow scope that keep it from ranking higher than number nine. Still, the movie is ideal for anyone who enjoys movies with a dose of realism.
Chronicle follows teenagers, Andrew (Dane DeHaan), Matt (Alex Russell), and Steve (Jordan), who are bestowed with telekinetic powers after finding a strange object underground. Their friendship becomes stronger as they experiment with their abilities. But when Andrew's behavior becomes unstable, the situation and their relationship takes a dangerous turn.
As Steve, Jordan is the charismatic glue that holds the group together in the film's early scenes. He brings an easy confidence that contrasts nicely with the story's eventual darker tone. Although he isn't the central character, his performance gives the movie an edge, which earns it the eighth spot on the list. Chronicle is ideal for fans of unconventional stories like Cloverfield (2008).
Black Panther: Wakanda Forever begins after the sudden death of King T'Challa (Chadwick Boseman). The story follows the people of Wakanda as they deal with their grief and a new threat from Namor (Tenoch Huerta). At the same time, Shuri (Letitia Wright) questions her beliefs, while struggling to step into her brother's role as protector. She eventually encounters Erik Killmonger (Jordan), whose perspective complicates her decisions.
Jordan's return as Killmonger is brief, but he injects a sense of moral ambiguity into a single scene that has a major effect on the whole story. It takes up the seventh spot because of the strength of his cameo, even though his screen time is extremely limited. Black Panther: Wakanda Forever is great for fans of emotionally driven superhero films like Avengers: Endgame (2019).
Without Remorse tells the story of John Kelly (Jordan), a Navy SEAL seeking justice after his wife is killed in a targeted attack. As he investigates, he uncovers a larger international conspiracy involving CIA agent Robert Ritter (Jamie Bell). Kelly's mission becomes increasingly personal as the truth begins to unravel. Jordan fully commits to the physicality of the role while delivering a brilliant performance.
Even when the plot becomes a bit formulaic, he keeps things engaging through his presence alone. Without Remorse finds itself at number six because Jordan leads the film, even though the material doesn't quite match his level at times. The movie is ideal for fans of action thrillers like 2013's Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit.
Black Panther follows T'Challa (Chadwick Boseman) as he takes the throne of Wakanda while facing a challenge from Erik Killmonger (Jordan). Killmonger's connection to Wakanda's past fuels a deeply personal conflict. And the battle between them becomes as ideological as it is physical. Jordan's Killmonger is layered, intense, and, at times, surprisingly sympathetic.
He gives the character a clear emotional foundation that elevates the entire film. There are moments where he arguably becomes the most compelling figure on screen. But the movie only manages fifth place because, despite Jordan's standout performance, he remains a supporting character within a larger story. It's perfect for viewers who enjoy complex superhero stories.
Fahrenheit 451 is set in a dystopian future, where Guy Montag (Jordan) works as a fireman who is tasked with burning books to suppress knowledge. Under the command of Captain John Beatty (Michael Shannon), he begins to question the system he serves. His growing doubts lead him down a dangerous path of self-discovery.
Jordan takes on a more introspective role in Fahrenheit 451, and it's an interesting change. He captures Montag's internal conflict with a slow intensity, even when the film itself feels uneven. It doesn't always fully come together, but his performance remains engaging. It ranks in fourth place because Jordan is so compelling. It's ideal for fans of philosophical sci-fi movies.
Just Mercy follows Bryan Stevenson (Jordan), a young lawyer fighting to defend Walter McMillian (Jamie Foxx), a man wrongly convicted of murder. As Stevenson navigates a systemic injustice, he faces resistance at every turn. Despite the challenges, the case becomes the defining moment of his entire career.
Just Mercy showcases one of Jordan's most thoughtful performances. He avoids overplaying the role, instead letting the weight of the story speak through subtle choices. It's a performance that builds gradually, but leaves a lasting impression, which is why it lands at number three. The movie is perfect for anyone who appreciates legal dramas like 2006's The Pursuit of Happyness.
Creed follows Adonis Johnson (Jordan), the son of Apollo Creed, as he trains under Rocky Balboa (Sylvester Stallone). Determined to prove himself, Adonis steps into the boxing world while dealing with the various pressures that come with his family legacy. His journey is as much about finding your place in the world as it is about competition.
Jordan delivers one of his all-time best performances in Creed. He handles the physical demands with ease while bringing emotional depth to Adonis' story. It's also the role that established him as a leading man. The movie earns second place because of Jordan's commanding performance. It's perfect for anyone who loves a good underdog sports drama.
Sinners follows twin brothers Elijah and Elias Moore (both played by Jordan), who return to their hometown to escape their past in the Chicago mob. But their plans for a fresh start get complicated when the brothers encounter a supernatural evil (vampires). This movie sees Jordan at his most controlled and complete as a performer.
He balances intensity and vulnerability in a way that feels effortless, even when the material becomes complex. It's the kind of performance that dominates every scene, which is likely what earned him the Academy Award for Best Actor for his work in the film. It takes the top spot for its story and because Jordan is incredible in a dual role.
