Seth Rogen best movies have defined a generation of comedy and drama fans, delivering laughter, depth, and unforgettable performances. From his early days working with Judd Apatow and Evan Goldberg to his more recent roles in acclaimed dramas and major animated hits, Rogen’s journey spans countless memorable films and TV projects.
Over the years, Rogen has seamlessly moved between funny and serious roles, working with standout talents like Jonah Hill, Jack Black, Katherine Heigl, and directors such as Judd Apatow and Steven Spielberg. His impact across genres, both in front of and behind the camera, has given audiences some of the most enduring and entertaining films and shows of the past two decades. Below, his top 12 essential titles are ranked, each serving as a testament to his versatility, unique comedic voice, and emotional range.
12. Rogen’s Memorable Turn in “Dumb Money” (2023)
In the summer of 2020, Reddit user and YouTuber Keith Gill triggered chaos on Wall Street through a bold investment in GameStop, setting the stage for a widespread examination of market manipulation and privilege. This story became the backbone for 2023’s “Dumb Money,” where Paul Dano plays Gill. Seth Rogen takes on the atypical role of Gabe Plotkin, a real-life hedge fund manager who found himself on the losing side of the GameStop saga, ultimately losing hundreds of millions of dollars.
Playing against type as Plotkin, Rogen delivers a performance full of jittery tension. While “Dumb Money” wasn’t a box office success initially, its popularity skyrocketed on Netflix, giving audiences a chance to appreciate one of Rogen’s most overlooked roles.
Cast: Seth Rogen, Paul Dano, Pete Davidson
Director: Craig Gillespie
Rating: R
Runtime: 104 minutes
Where to watch: Disney+
11. Bringing Depth to “Steve Jobs” (2015)
The production of “Steve Jobs” was infamously complicated, with changes in directors and actors as well as competition from other films about the Apple co-founder. Ultimately, Danny Boyle directed the project, with Michael Fassbender starring as Jobs. The film’s critical success owes much to Seth Rogen’s portrayal of Steve Wozniak, Jobs’ longtime collaborator and friend.
Rogen, more commonly associated with humor, impressively commits to the intensity and gravity required for Wozniak, moving away from comedic relief to dramatic confrontation. His clashes with Fassbender’s Jobs reveal the full scope of Rogen’s acting talent, making this among his most acclaimed dramatic performances, second only to his role in “The Fabelmans.”
Cast: Seth Rogen, Michael Fassbender, Kate Winslet
Director: Danny Boyle
Rating: R
Runtime: 122 minutes
Where to watch: Prime Video, Apple TV
10. “Superbad”: Rogen’s Teen Comedy Masterpiece (2007)
Widely hailed as one of the funniest films ever made, “Superbad” was conceived by Seth Rogen and his childhood friend Evan Goldberg during their teen years, drawing inspiration from their own misadventures. Despite only playing a supporting role—Officer Michaels—Rogen’s off-screen contributions as co-writer fueled the film’s raunchy humor and heart.
Jonah Hill and Michael Cera lead the cast as stand-ins for the writers, embarking on a wild high school quest. The film’s relentless humor and improvisational style solidified its place among Rogen’s best, even though his on-screen time is limited.
Cast: Jonah Hill, Michael Cera, Emma Stone, Christopher Mintz-Plasse, Seth Rogen
Director: Greg Mottola
Rating: R
Runtime: 113 minutes
Where to watch: Prime Video, Apple TV
9. Animated Success in “Kung Fu Panda” (2008)
“Kung Fu Panda” stands among the top DreamWorks Animation releases and is widely regarded as one of the best-animated movies of its era. The film’s appeal spans all ages, combining classic martial arts tropes with a star-studded voice cast. Seth Rogen lends his voice to Master Mantis, providing a reserved, dry performance that sets it apart from his more boisterous roles.
While kids may not have recognized Rogen’s voice in 2008, especially after his string of R-rated hits, adults would appreciate his subtle comedic touch alongside the likes of Jack Black and Dustin Hoffman. The movie’s success led to sequels, but the original remains a standout, in part due to Rogen’s involvement as Mantis.
Cast: Seth Rogen, Jack Black, Dustin Hoffman
Directors: John Stevenson, Mark Osborne
Rating: PG
Runtime: 92 minutes
Where to watch: Prime Video, Apple TV
8. “The 40-Year-Old Virgin”: Breakout Ensemble Success (2005)
When “The 40-Year-Old Virgin” debuted in 2005, neither Seth Rogen nor writer-director Judd Apatow expected it to become a mainstream phenomenon. The film, while centered on Steve Carell’s awkward protagonist Andy, features Rogen as Cal, one of Andy’s well-meaning but overzealous co-workers.
Rogen’s deadpan wit and natural presence in ensemble scenes marked him as a rising comedic star. His performance, combined with those of Paul Rudd, Catherine Keener, and Romany Malco, drive much of the film’s laugh-out-loud moments—making it a pivotal film in his early career.
Cast: Steve Carell, Paul Rudd, Seth Rogen, Catherine Keener
Director: Judd Apatow
Rating: R
Runtime: 116 minutes
Where to watch: Prime Video, Apple TV
7. Finding Heart in “50/50” (2011)
For his first true dramedy that leaned heavily into serious territory, Seth Rogen joined Joseph Gordon-Levitt in “50/50.” Inspired by the real-life cancer battle of writer Will Reiser, the film sees Rogen playing Kyle, the supportive friend who injects humor even in dark moments.
Although best known for comedic roles, Rogen demonstrated remarkable range, earning praise during awards season for blending levity with emotional depth. His performance in “50/50” confirmed that comedic actors could excel in dramatic narratives, further expanding Rogen’s reputation in Hollywood.
Cast: Seth Rogen, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Anna Kendrick
Director: Jonathan Levine
Rating: R
Runtime: 100 minutes
Where to watch: Peacock
6. Rediscovering TV with “Platonic” (2023–2025)
Despite an early career in television, Seth Rogen returned to the small screen with the Apple TV+ comedy “Platonic.” Teaming up with Rose Byrne, Rogen plays Will, an old friend who rekindles his platonic relationship with Sylvia (Byrne) after drifting apart over the years.
The series turns the typical romance trope on its head, focusing on the truth and humor that can exist in enduring friendships without turning romantic. As co-creator Francesca Delbanco explained,
I love ‘will they/won’t they’ kind of shows and movies. It’s one of my favorite genres. But it’s just not what we’re doing on this one.
– Francesca Delbanco, Co-creator. The result is a fresh twist on the modern sitcom, with Rogen’s comedic timing and chemistry with Byrne spotlighted throughout the show’s episodes.
Cast: Seth Rogen, Rose Byrne, Luke Macfarlane
Creators: Francesca Delbanco, Nicholas Stoller
Years aired: 2023-2025
Number of episodes: 20
Where to watch: Apple TV
5. Revisiting Cult Classics with “The Disaster Artist” (2017)
“The Disaster Artist” explores the bizarre creation of the infamous movie “The Room.” With James Franco directing and starring as Tommy Wiseau, Rogen appears as Sandy Schklair—the film’s credited script supervisor, who also claimed to have taken on directing duties during the chaotic production. Rogen’s performance helps capture the frantic energy of the behind-the-scenes circus that made “The Room” a cult hit.
The film is a polished, funny, and affectionate account of creative misadventure, marking a highlight in Rogen’s collaborations with James Franco. Notably, “The Disaster Artist” became one of their last projects together before Franco faced damaging allegations in 2018.
Cast: Seth Rogen, James Franco, Dave Franco, Ari Graynor
Director: James Franco
Rating: R
Runtime: 103 minutes
Where to watch: Cinemax (via Prime Video)
4. Star Power and Growth in “Knocked Up” (2007)
Following the surprise success of “The 40-Year-Old Virgin,” Judd Apatow directed “Knocked Up,” entrusting Rogen with the leading role of Ben, whose casual lifestyle is upended when a one-night stand with Allison (Katherine Heigl) results in pregnancy. The film balances crude humor with genuine heart, cementing a new standard for modern romantic comedies.
Rogen’s portrayal of Ben demonstrated a surprising range, seamlessly shifting between immature antics and unexpected warmth. Alongside standout turns from Heigl, Paul Rudd, and Leslie Mann, “Knocked Up” became a box office hit and a defining entry in Rogen’s career as a leading man.
Cast: Seth Rogen, Katherine Heigl, Leslie Mann, Paul Rudd
Director: Judd Apatow
Rating: R
Runtime: 129 minutes
Where to watch: Netflix
3. Satirical Wit in “The Studio” (2025)
Building on the success of his previous Apple TV+ efforts, Rogen co-created, produced, directed, and starred in “The Studio.” This 2025 release serves as both a tribute and critique of Hollywood, featuring a dynamic cast including Catherine O’Hara, Ike Barinholtz, and Bryan Cranston. The show’s promotional materials teased star-studded cameos, but its core strength lies in the camaraderie and storytelling among its main characters.
Rogen takes the role of a man managing a failing movie studio, struggling to restore its former glory. NPR’s Eric Deggans captured the essence well, writing that the series
feels like the culmination of everything Rogen has endured in a career ranging from writing for The Simpsons to co-directing a movie that sparked threats of war from the North Korean government.
– Eric Deggans, NPR. Drawing on Rogen’s history of industry successes and setbacks, “The Studio” provides a self-aware journey through the highs and lows of show business.
Cast: Seth Rogen, Catherine O’Hara, Ike Barinholtz
Creators: Seth Rogen, Evan Goldberg, Peter Huyck, Alex Gregory, Frida Perez
Year aired: 2025
Number of episodes: 10
Where to watch: Apple TV
2. Dramatic Excellence in “The Fabelmans” (2022)
“The Fabelmans,” Steven Spielberg’s semi-autobiographical film, gave Rogen the meaty role of Bennie, a character inspired by Bernie Adler—who had a major impact on Spielberg’s family life and filmmaking aspirations. Playing opposite Michelle Williams and Paul Dano, Rogen brings compassion and complexity to a character who’s both a confidant and catalyst for change in the young protagonist’s life.
Rogen’s work in “The Fabelmans” is a far cry from his typical comedic persona, showcasing a depth and maturity that signals a new chapter in his acting career.
Cast: Gabriel LaBelle, Seth Rogen, Michelle Williams, Paul Dano
Director: Steven Spielberg
Rating: PG-13
Runtime: 151 minutes
Where to watch: Amazon, Apple TV
1. Redefining Animation with “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem” (2023)
Despite numerous attempts to reignite the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT) franchise, none matched the critical or fan fervor of the original 1990 film—until 2023’s
“Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem.”
With Seth Rogen as co-writer and the vocal embodiment of fan-favorite villain Bebop, the film combined nostalgia with modern storytelling.
Rogen’s contributions as a life-long TMNT enthusiast and sharp comedic writer breathed new life into the series. The film received the highest reviews of any TMNT film and marked a high point in Rogen’s career, both as a writer and actor. Through his voice work and creative direction, Rogen helped set a new bar for animated adaptations, charming longtime fans while captivating new generations.
Cast: Seth Rogen, Ayo Edebiri, Micah Abbey, Brady Noon
Director: Jeff Rowe
Rating: PG
Runtime: 99 minutes
Where to watch: Netflix, Paramount+
The Enduring Legacy of Seth Rogen’s Career
Seth Rogen’s remarkable rise from scene-stealing comedian to respected creative powerhouse underscores his impact on modern entertainment. His wide-ranging work, including “Room.”, “Disaster Artist,” and major blockbusters, reflects a passion and intensity that continue to energize audiences. Collaborations with industry giants like Judd Apatow, Evan Goldberg, and even Steven Spielberg have allowed Rogen to explore new territory and raise the bar for comedic and dramatic storytelling alike.
Looking ahead, Rogen’s creative ventures—whether writing, producing, or starring—promise to keep his work fresh and relevant for years to come. As Hollywood evolves, so will the best films and shows delivered by Seth Rogen, ensuring his place as a defining voice across genres.
