Dwayne Johnson, globally known as The Rock, has achieved what very few professional wrestlers ever managed: a smooth, credible transition into mainstream Hollywood stardom. While wrestling has always involved storytelling and performance, history shows that charisma inside the ring doesn’t automatically translate to success on the big screen. Names like Hulk Hogan and Roddy Piper paved the way but struggled to sustain consistent cinematic careers.
Johnson, however, emerged during WWE’s “Attitude Era,” a time when performers needed emotional range, sharp dialogue delivery, and a deeper connection with audiences. His natural magnetism, combined with disciplined work ethic and adaptability, turned him into a bankable movie star and cultural icon.
Below, we rank Dwayne Johnson’s 10 best movies, starting from #1 (the best) and moving down to #10, based on performance, cultural impact, rewatch value, and critical reception.
1. Moana (2016)
When discussing Dwayne Johnson’s finest cinematic achievement, Moana stands comfortably at the top. More than just another animated hit, this Disney masterpiece is a timeless story that blends mythology, identity, culture, and breathtaking visuals.
Johnson voices Maui, a Polynesian demigod whose arrogance masks deep insecurity. Despite his towering presence and booming confidence, Maui is deeply flawed—making him one of Johnson’s most layered performances. His vocal work brings warmth, humor, and emotional weight to the character, especially in the show-stopping musical number “You’re Welcome.”
Unlike many of his live-action roles, Johnson does not dominate the film. Instead, he supports Auliʻi Cravalho’s Moana, allowing her journey to shine. This restraint highlights Johnson’s growth as a performer—understanding when to step back rather than steal focus.
With unforgettable music, cultural authenticity, and emotional storytelling, Moana is not only Johnson’s best film but one of Disney’s modern classics.
2. The Rundown (2003)
Before franchise domination and family-friendly blockbusters, The Rundown showcased Dwayne Johnson as a legitimate action star with range. Directed by Peter Berg, this gritty yet comedic adventure film positioned Johnson as a bounty hunter with unexpected humor and vulnerability.
Johnson’s character isn’t invincible or overly polished. He struggles, cracks jokes under pressure, and displays excellent physical comedy—especially in scenes involving jungle chaos and unexpected animal encounters. His chemistry with Seann William Scott adds levity, while Christopher Walken delivers a memorable villain performance.
Often seen as a “passing of the torch” moment—symbolized by Arnold Schwarzenegger’s cameo—the film hinted at Johnson’s potential to carry action cinema forward. Though it underperformed initially, The Rundown has grown into a cult favorite and remains one of Johnson’s most respected early roles.
3. Jumanji: The Next Level (2019)
In Jumanji: The Next Level, Dwayne Johnson does something audiences rarely get to see—he disappears into another actor’s persona. Tasked with playing Danny DeVito’s personality trapped inside his muscular avatar, Johnson delivers one of the most impressive comedic performances of his career.
His mannerisms, speech patterns, and timing are shockingly accurate, proving he is far more than an action star playing himself. The film builds on the success of Welcome to the Jungle while expanding the game-world mechanics and emotional depth.
Johnson’s chemistry with Kevin Hart, who simultaneously channels Danny Glover, elevates the film beyond typical sequel territory. It’s playful, self-aware, and surprisingly heartfelt—solidifying Johnson’s reputation as a capable comedic actor with genuine range.
4. G.I. Joe: Retaliation (2013)
Among live-action toy adaptations, G.I. Joe: Retaliation stands as the most faithful to its source material. Dwayne Johnson steps into the role of Roadblock, bringing authenticity, authority, and gravitas to the character.
Unlike the first film, this sequel embraces real-world stakes, grounded combat, and darker themes. The iconic ninja cliff fight—choreographed like a deadly ballet—remains one of the most memorable action sequences in the franchise.
Johnson’s presence stabilizes the ensemble cast, which includes Bruce Willis, Ray Park, and Adrianne Palicki. His performance balances military discipline with human vulnerability, proving he can elevate franchise films with commitment and presence.
5. Red One (2024)
At first glance, Red One feels like a risky experiment—a massive holiday action fantasy filled with CGI, folklore, and unconventional storytelling. Surprisingly, it works.
Johnson plays Callum Drift, Santa Claus’s head of security in a world where Christmas mythology is real, dangerous, and morally complex. Instead of dominating the screen, Johnson wisely plays the straight man to the film’s wild imagination, allowing Chris Evans to shine in a rare against-type role.
What makes Red One stand out is its confidence. The story doesn’t over-explain its mythology, trusting audiences to keep up. Johnson’s restrained performance demonstrates maturity and understanding of ensemble storytelling—a quality that strengthens the film rather than overpowering it.
6. Furious 7 (2015)
While Fast Five introduced Luke Hobbs, Furious 7 fully unleashed him. Dwayne Johnson’s performance in this installment embraces the franchise’s unapologetic absurdity—making it unforgettable.
From flexing out of a cast to taking down helicopters, Johnson delivers action moments that redefine cinematic excess. Yet beneath the spectacle, the film carries emotional weight, particularly as it serves as a farewell to Paul Walker.
Johnson’s chemistry with Vin Diesel and rivalry with Jason Statham add tension and excitement. Furious 7 represents the perfect balance of heart, chaos, and self-aware machismo—and Johnson is central to that success.
7. Central Intelligence (2016)
In Central Intelligence, Johnson flips expectations by playing a character defined by lingering insecurity rather than physical dominance. As Robbie Weirdicht, a former bullied teen turned CIA agent, Johnson explores emotional vulnerability beneath a hyper-muscular exterior.
His dynamic with Kevin Hart is layered—not just big guy vs. small guy humor, but genuine emotional exchange. Johnson convincingly portrays someone still haunted by adolescent trauma, adding depth to what could have been a shallow comedy.
This performance proves Johnson can anchor character-driven humor while still delivering action—a rare balance in modern comedies.
8. Rampage (2018)
Based loosely on the classic arcade game, Rampage is elevated creature-feature chaos done right. Johnson plays a primatologist protecting his genetically mutated gorilla friend, George, from global destruction.
The emotional bond between man and ape anchors the spectacle, making the CGI monsters more than mindless destruction tools. Johnson’s performance is sincere, grounded, and refreshingly self-aware.
While unapologetically schlocky, Rampage succeeds because Johnson commits fully—treating the ridiculous premise with just enough seriousness to make it entertaining.
9. Pain & Gain (2013)
Pain & Gain is easily Johnson’s darkest and most uncomfortable role—and that’s exactly why it stands out. Directed by Michael Bay, the film tells a morally disturbing true-crime story filled with greed, stupidity, and violence.
Johnson plays Paul Doyle, a deeply flawed, drug-addicted ex-con with twisted moral reasoning. The role strips away his heroic image, revealing raw vulnerability and emotional instability.
Though the film is divisive, Johnson’s fearless performance earned critical praise. It remains one of the few times he abandoned likability entirely—and the result is compelling.
10. The Scorpion King (2002)
Though not his strongest film, The Scorpion King deserves recognition as the launchpad of Johnson’s movie career. Emerging from The Mummy Returns, the film gave him his first opportunity to carry a major production.
While the story is simple and historically inaccurate, Johnson’s charisma shines through. He avoids leaning too heavily on his wrestling persona, delivering a surprisingly sincere performance that hinted at future potential.
It may be rough around the edges, but The Scorpion King set the foundation for everything that followed.
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson Upcoming Movies
🎬 1. Jumanji 3 (Final Installment) – December 11, 2026
Dwayne Johnson has officially begun production on the new Jumanji movie, marking it as the final chapter of the rebooted franchise. The film reunites the beloved core cast—Kevin Hart, Jack Black, Karen Gillan, and Johnson—with returning younger actors from earlier installments. Johnson has also revealed a meaningful tribute to the late Robin Williams by wearing a necklace with classic Jumanji dice during filming, honoring Williams’ legacy. The Times of India+1
🎥 2. Moana (Live-Action) – July 10, 2026
Johnson is set to reprise his role as Maui in the Moana live-action adaptation, produced by Walt Disney Studios. The movie stars Catherine Lagaʻaia as Moana and features Johnson’s character traveling with her on another ocean-spanning adventure. This film brings new life to the beloved 2016 animated classic. Wikipedia
🥊 3. The Smashing Machine – October 3, 2025
In this biographical sports drama, Johnson portrays UFC legend Mark Kerr in a gritty, emotional story about the fighter’s life, struggles, and triumphs. Directed by Benny Safdie, the film has already premiered at major festivals and earned critical praise for Johnson’s transformative performance. Wikipedia
🎞️ 4. Breakthrough (Project with A24)
Dwayne Johnson is reportedly set to star in an intense psychological thriller titled Breakthrough, produced in collaboration with A24, where he plays a complex guru figure. This project represents a new genre direction for Johnson and is part of his expanding portfolio beyond blockbuster action roles. The Times of India
⭐ Other Potential Future Projects (In Development or Rumored)
- Lizard Music – An adaptation of Daniel Pinkwater’s novel, reuniting Johnson with director Benny Safdie for a quirky, imaginative adventure. ComingSoon
- Hawaiian Mob Movie – A planned collaboration with Martin Scorsese where Johnson would play a powerful figure in Hawaii’s criminal underworld. ComingSoon
📌 Summary of Johnson’s Upcoming Films
| Title | Expected Release | Role/Note |
|---|---|---|
| Jumanji 3 | Dec 11, 2026 | Final franchise installment, starring role The Times of India |
| Moana (Live-Action) | July 10, 2026 | Reprises Maui Wikipedia |
| The Smashing Machine | Oct 3, 2025 | Biographical drama Wikipedia |
| Breakthrough | TBA | Psychological thriller with A24 The Times of India |
| Lizard Music | TBA | Creative adventure in development ComingSoon |
| Hawaiian Mob Movie | TBA | Rumored project with Scorsese ComingSoon |
Final Thoughts
Dwayne Johnson’s career is a masterclass in reinvention. From wrestling superstardom to Hollywood dominance, his best films showcase versatility, discipline, and emotional intelligence—not just physical strength.
Whether voicing a demigod, leading an ensemble cast, or embracing flawed characters, Johnson’s greatest success comes when he collaborates rather than dominates. These ten films represent the strongest examples of that balance—and why The Rock remains one of cinema’s most enduring stars.