Owen Wilson’s 10 Best Movies And TV Shows

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The exceptional comedic performances by Owen Wilson, born on November 18, 1968, in Dallas, Texas, demonstrate that he offers more than just humor. Known as the middle brother of actors Luke Wilson and Andrew Wilson, Wilson’s big break came with the movie “Bottle Rocket,” which he co-wrote with his roommate Wes Anderson. This modest film paved the way for a prosperous career in Hollywood.

Apart from his frequent collaborations with Anderson, Wilson is also recognized as a part of the informal comedy group often referred to as the Frat Pack, comprising actors like Vince Vaughn, Jack Black, Ben Stiller (with whom he frequently works), and others. Known for his side-splitting comedies, Wilson has also graced major film franchises such as Marvel Cinematic Universe and Pixar productions. Although there are more significant projects coming up in the future, some of Wilson’s best movies and TV series so far include several classics.

10. Cars (2006)

As Lightning McQueen

In Hollywood, Owen Wilson’s distinctive voice is instantly recognizable, making him an ideal choice for voicing a Pixar character. Taking on the lead role in “Cars,” Wilson brings Lightning McQueen to life – a rookie racecar whose talent is rivaled only by his arrogance. On the brink of the biggest race of his career, McQueen encounters a roadblock: a quirky little town along Route 66. Here, he learns valuable lessons about humility from the vibrant inhabitants.

Wilson’s impressive performance is a major factor behind McQueen’s widespread popularity among young viewers in Pixar’s productions. While Mater, voiced by Larry the Cable Guy, provides comic relief in the movie, it’s McQueen’s journey of redemption that truly makes ‘Cars’ resonate with audiences. Despite not having the same level of originality and complexity as other Pixar films, ‘Cars’ was extremely successful, with Wilson leading two more installments within the series.

9. The Darjeeling Limited (2007)

As Francis Whitman

In general, The Darjeeling Limited isn’t often cited as one of the top collaborations between Owen Wilson and Wes Anderson, but it’s become known for being under-appreciated, while also showcasing a standout performance from Wilson. The film stars Wilson along with other frequent Anderson cast members, Jason Schwartzman and Adrien Brody, who portray three troubled brothers setting off on a train trip across India to rekindle their bonds and locate their long-lost mother.

In his genuine and side-splitting portrayal, Wilson embodies the older sibling who, surprisingly, slips into a boss-like demeanor without a second thought. Beneath this veneer of control lies a hidden melancholy. The trio’s on-screen camaraderie is remarkable, particularly given their ease with Anderson’s unique narrative style. This results in a comedy about brotherhood that rings painfully true and is rich with both laughter and emotion.

8. Shanghai Noon (2000)

As Roy O’Bannon

In the realm of buddy movies, Owen Wilson truly shines and “Shanghai Noon” stands out as a topnotch demonstration of his foray into action comedy partnerships. This film is an entertaining and intelligent reinterpretation of the Western genre, featuring Jackie Chan as a character from the Chinese Imperial Guard on a mission to America to rescue a kidnapped princess from a villainous crime boss. During this adventure, he teams up with a roguish outlaw (played by Wilson) who’s chasing after his own riches.

In the “Rush Hour” films, Chiang and Chris Tucker make a fantastic duo. However, when it comes to on-screen chemistry, Wilson might just be his best costar throughout his entire acting career. Their comedic timing together is simply brilliant, and they each bring unique flair to the Western genre. Additionally, the film offers some thrilling action scenes that showcase Chan’s exceptional abilities.

7. The Life Aquatic With Steve Zissou (2004)

As Ned Plimpton

In a departure from their usual collaborative process, The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou marked Wes Anderson’s first film not co-written by Owen Wilson. However, this change didn’t hinder their creative synergy as they still managed to deliver an exceptional production. Bill Murray takes on the lead role as the enigmatic Steve Zissou, a self-absorbed and quirky oceanographer reminiscent of Jacques Cousteau. Following the tragic incident of his friend being devoured by a rare shark, Zissou embarks on a quest to avenge his loss while also reconnecting with the son he was unaware of, portrayed by Owen Wilson.

In one of Anderson’s career highlights, Murray and Wilson, his longtime collaborators, delightfully play the roles of a father-son duo on screen. The ensemble cast, typical of Anderson’s work, includes actors like Willem Dafoe, Cate Blanchett, and Jeff Goldblum. This whimsical and humorous adventure comedy offers unexpectedly poignant moments in its climax.

6. Bottle Rocket (1996)

As Dignan

Following the completion of their short movie titled “Bottle Rocket,” Wes Anderson and Owen Wilson broadened the concept for a full-length film, which significantly contributed to their success in Hollywood. In this film, “Bottle Rocket,” Luke Wilson portrays Anthony, a young man who has just been discharged from a psychiatric facility and is promptly enlisted by his buddy, Dignan (Owen Wilson), who aspires to be a criminal, for a series of heists. Their bond is strained when Anthony encounters love during their escapades.

The film offers a laugh-out-loud take on the usual crime comedy genre, featuring characters that appear overly familiar with these types of films and allow their enthusiasm to get the best of them. Owen Wilson delivers uproarious and endearing performances as a character trying to portray an outlaw yet struggling to conceal his personal insecurities. Despite its modest scale, it serves as an excellent platform for showcasing both Wilson’s and Anderson’s skills.

5. Loki (2021-2023)

As Mobius M. Mobius

In the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Owen Wilson may not initially spring to mind as an actor cast in these roles, but he swiftly became a fan favorite by portraying the character Morbius. This is through his appearance in the Disney+ series “Loki,” where Tom Hiddleston showcases his skills as Loki, the Trickster God, post his time-travel escape in “Avengers: Endgame.” The TVA, a powerful organization, marks Loki as their target due to this incident. Wilson’s character, Morbius, collaborates with Loki to hunt down a renegade version of the Asgardian troublemaker.

Wilson effectively infuses his unique brand of wit and amusement into the character, which surprisingly complements this sci-fi/fantasy milieu exceptionally well. He particularly shines when interacting with Hiddleston, offering Loki a contrasting character never witnessed before. Generally recognized as one of the standout aspects of the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s Disney+ series, Loki offers an intelligent, thought-provoking, and enjoyable Marvel adventure that sets itself apart from others in its genre.

4. Wedding Crashers (2005)

As John Beckwith

Among the well-known actors often referred to as the Hollywood Frat Pack, Wilson is known for appearing in several popular comedies from the early 2000s, with “Wedding Crashers” being a standout. In this film, Wilson and Vince Vaughn made a great comedic duo, playing best friends who spent their adulthood attending weddings not for love, but to enjoy free drinks, food, and the company of women. However, Wilson’s plan is threatened when he develops feelings for an engaged woman, portrayed by Rachel McAdams.

The duo of Wilson and Vaughn is simply hilarious! Their comedic styles complement each other beautifully – Wilson’s understated humor blending seamlessly with Vaughn’s fast-paced delivery. Moreover, Wilson shares an excellent rapport with McAdams, adding a touch of sweetness to the chaos in the R-rated action. This movie was a massive success, and fans are eagerly waiting for news about a potential Wedding Crashers 2.

3. Zoolander (2001)

As Hansel

In their filmography, Owen Wilson and Ben Stiller have teamed up more than any other duo, with a total of 12 movies to date. However, when fans think about their most iconic on-screen collaboration, it’s often the hilarious comedy “Zoolander” that springs to mind first. In this film, Ben Stiller plays Zoolander, a not-so-bright male model whose fame is threatened by the rising star Hansel, played by Owen Wilson. The story unfolds as Zoolander becomes embroiled in an assassination plot.

In this movie, I can’t help but feel that Ben Stiller and Owen Wilson are absolutely shining at the pinnacle of their comedic prowess. Their dynamic as witless rivals is hilarious, but it’s their friendship that truly crackes me up later on. Wilson, in particular, delivers a barrage of big laughs with his dim-witted character. The line he delivers about Sting being an inspiration, specifically, left me in stitches (“The music he’s created over the years, I don’t really listen to it, but the fact that he’s making it, I respect that.”).

2. Midnight In Paris (2011)

As Gil Pender

Prior to Woody Allen’s Hollywood career being marred by controversies, he produced one of his finest films, with Owen Wilson delivering an outstanding performance in it. This film, titled “Midnight in Paris,” showcases Wilson as Gil, a writer enamored with nostalgia, who travels to Paris with his fiancée (Rachel McAdams), only to discover a hidden passageway that transports him back to the 1920s every night at midnight. During this time, he encounters renowned figures such as Ernest Hemingway, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and Salvador Dalí, all while pondering his place in the modern era.

As a movie enthusiast, I’d put it this way: The time-travel concept in this film is straightforwardly laid out, establishing a hilarious and endearing fish-out-of-water tale that also subtly critiques the dangers of nostalgia. The actor’s performance is crucial in maintaining the delicate balance between the absurdity of the premise and the heartfelt themes of the narrative. He’s genuinely funny and captivating, and his acting earned him a well-deserved Golden Globe nomination.

1. The Royal Tenenbaums (2001)

As Eli Cash

The Royal Tenenbaums is considered Owen Wilson’s most significant writing accomplishment, receiving an Oscar nomination alongside Wes Anderson. Notably, it also showcases Wilson’s finest acting performance. In the film, Gene Hackman portrays Royal Tenenbaum, a self-absorbed and deceitful patriarch whose offspring are all gifted individuals who have become troubled adults. With no other options, Royal feigns a terminal illness to secure a place back in his estranged family’s home.

In a captivating performance, Wilson shines in his part as Eli Cash, an eccentric, longtime family friend who happens to be a drug-addled author. His humorous portrayal is unforgettable amidst the stellar ensemble of this film. This masterpiece by Wes Anderson, considered his finest work, showcases his distinctive style, wit, and talent for evoking powerful emotions.

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2025-04-22 20:19