Somehow, Paul Rudd has managed to decipher the code to aging. Years and years into his career, he still has that easy smile, that effortless charm, and that laid-back quality that made him so lovable in the first place. Whether he’s donning a suit to play a pint-sized superhero, firing off one-liners in offbeat comedies, or surprising us with a more dramatic performance, Rudd has managed to build a filmography that is both diverse and entertaining. With so many amazing performances under his belt, it’s hard to pick and choose. However, some performances are just a little bit brighter than the rest. In the spirit of fun (and a little bit of suspense), here’s a countdown ranking of the top 10 Paul Rudd movies – because let’s be honest, everything’s more exciting when you’re counting down from ten.
10. The Fundamentals of Caring (2016)
This highly acclaimed indie film shows that Paul Rudd is more than just a comedic genius with impeccable timing – he also has the dramatic range to match. In this film, Rudd stars as Ben, a struggling writer who takes a caregiver position, and he brings a level of depth and complexity to a narrative that combines humor with heart in equal measure. As the story progresses, Rudd is able to shift seamlessly between humor and pathos.
9. Clueless (1995)
The film that made one generation swoon over Paul Rudd. As Josh, Cher’s down-to-earth ex-stepbrother, he’s the quick-witted, sarcastic foil to the Beverly Hills mayhem. Own it—you wondered about the entire “ex-stepbrother” premise, but Rudd’s charisma pulled it off.
8. Ant-Man (2015)
Who would have thought Rudd would star in a Marvel blockbuster? As Scott Lang, the world’s most human Avenger, he’s a thief and a loving father who just wants to be a better man. Rudd captures the right amount of humor and humanity, making an offbeat character into a fan favorite.
7. Wet Hot American Summer (2001)
Long before he was MCU’s lovable Howard Stark, Rudd was Andy—the arrogant camp counselor with fabulous hair and poor table manners. This cult classic is absolute madness, and Rudd’s scenery-chewing turn is one of its most hilarious moments. His atrociously bad boyfriend bit? Legendary.
6. Forgetting Sarah Marshall (2008)
Rudd’s contribution as Kunu, the surfer-dude instructor, is limited, yet indelible. His spaced-out monologues command every scene and demonstrate that he can topple a supporting actor as effortlessly as a lead.
5. Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy (2004)
As Brian Fantana, Rudd brought one of his most quotable performances. With the mustache, the machismo, and that fabled cologne, he’s an absurd but vital member of Channel 4 News. Sixty percent of the time, this film is hilarious every time.
4. Avengers: Endgame (2019)
In the MCU’s grandest affair, Ant-Man wasn’t only comic relief—he was the man with the scheme. Rudd walks the walk of emotional beats with comedy, and Scott Lang becomes the heart of the film. And only he could make a taco-eating scene become one of the most human MCU moments.
3. The 40-Year-Old Virgin (2005)
A comedy masterwork filled to the brim with talent, and yet Rudd is still able to outshine as David, the heartbroken buddy with too much baggage. From the ex-obsession to the classic Michael McDonald skit, Rudd hits every cringe-worthy, laugh-out-loud moment.
2. Knocked Up (2007)
As snarky but endearing dad Pete, Rudd achieves complete chemistry with Leslie Mann—so much so, they received their own spin-off (This Is 40). He acquires the everyman feel, whether sneaking away for fantasy baseball or attempting to hold his family intact.
1. The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012)
Rudd’s most unassuming performance could be his best. As Mr. Anderson, the nurturing teacher, he utters one of the film’s most quotable lines—”We accept the love we think we deserve”—with such authenticity that it lingers long after the credits roll. It’s evidence that occasionally the smallest performances leave the biggest impression.
Paul Rudd’s career is a combination of laugh-out-loud comedies, sentimental dramas, and blockbuster extravaganzas. Whether he’s having us laugh, weep, or root for the underdog, he’s demonstrated time and again why he’s Hollywood’s most popular (and timeless) star.