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Best Joe Johnston Movies
13th Nov 2025
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Get ready to journey through a career brimming with imaginative storytelling and visual flair! This list celebrates the best films directed by Joe Johnston, the filmmaker responsible for bringing childhood adventures and thrilling sci-fi concepts to life. From beloved comic book adaptations to heartwarming tales of discovery, Johnston's filmography has captivated audiences for decades. Now, it's your turn to weigh in! Use the drag-and-drop feature to rearrange the titles below and create your ultimate ranking of Joe Johnston's cinematic triumphs. Consider the storytelling, the visuals, the performances, and the overall impact each film has made. Share your personal top picks and see how your choices compare with others!
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#5.
The Rocketeer (1991)
5/13
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"The Rocketeer (1991)" bursts onto the screen straight from the pages of a pulp comic, a vibrant recreation of 1930s Hollywood brimming with gangsters, Nazi spies, and the burgeoning Age of Aviation. When young pilot Cliff Secord accidentally discovers a top-secret rocket-pack, he transforms into The Rocketeer. Aided by his wise-cracking mechanic/mentor, Peevy, Cliff must navigate the dangerous world of Hollywood, battling villains and dodging treachery as he strives to protect his girlfriend, Jenny, and prevent the rocket technology from falling into the wrong hands – namely, the Nazis. "The Rocketeer" is a quintessential Joe Johnston film for several reasons. It showcases his knack for visually stunning period pieces, evident in his later work like "Captain America: The First Avenger". More than just aesthetics, Johnston flawlessly captures the adventurous spirit and earnest heroism of the pulp era, injecting genuine heart and a sense of wonder into the film. The practical effects are a testament to Johnston's dedication to grounded filmmaking. It's a joyful, thrilling adventure that's both a loving homage to classic serials and a testament to Johnston's ability to craft exciting, family-friendly entertainment with genuine personality, making it a standout in his filmography.
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October Sky (1999)
#11.0"October Sky" (1999) is a heartwarming and inspiring biographical drama based on the true story of Homer Hickam, a coal miner's son living in 1950s Coalwood, West Virginia. Witnessing the launch of Sputnik ignites within him a burning passion for rocketry, leading him and his friends to build their own rockets, defying the expectations and limitations of their small, mining-dependent town. Facing skepticism, financial constraints, and the disapproval of his father, John, a hardworking mine superintendent who desires Homer to follow in his footsteps, Homer perseveres. His journey is a testament to the power of dreams, the importance of education, and the courage to break free from predetermined paths, ultimately leading him to a career at NASA. "October Sky" earns its place among Joe Johnston's best films due to his masterful storytelling and visual sensibilities. Johnston expertly captures the atmosphere of 1950s small-town America, balancing the gritty realities of coal mining life with the optimistic spirit of the space race. He skillfully portrays the complex relationship between Homer and his father, delivering a powerful and emotionally resonant father-son dynamic. Furthermore, Johnston's experience with special effects shines through in the meticulously crafted rocket launches, adding a layer of authenticity and visual spectacle that elevates the film beyond a simple coming-of-age story. The film is a testament to Johnston's talent for creating compelling narratives with heart, humor, and visual flair.
Jumanji (1995)
#22.0"Jumanji (1995)" tells the story of siblings Judy and Peter Shepherd who stumble upon an old board game in their newly inherited home. Unbeknownst to them, this isn't just any game; it's Jumanji, a portal to a chaotic and dangerous world. Each roll of the dice unleashes wild animals, monstrous plants, and perilous challenges into their small town, culminating in the re-emergence of Alan Parrish, a man trapped inside the game for 26 years after playing it as a child. Now, they must finish the game together, navigating the escalating chaos to restore order and free Alan from his decades-long imprisonment. "Jumanji" absolutely earns its place among Joe Johnston's best work. Johnston, already renowned for his visual effects prowess and ability to blend adventure with grounded characters, truly shines here. He masterfully balances the whimsical nature of the fantasy elements with genuine stakes and emotional weight. The seamless integration of practical effects and early CGI was groundbreaking for its time, creating memorable creature encounters and thrilling set pieces. More importantly, Johnston captures the heartfelt core of the story, focusing on family, courage, and the importance of confronting one's fears, making "Jumanji" a timeless adventure for all ages.
Captain America: The First Avenger (2011)
#33.0"Captain America: The First Avenger" (2011) transports viewers back to the tumultuous years of World War II, where we meet Steve Rogers, a frail but determined young man from Brooklyn. Frustrated by his inability to enlist, Rogers undergoes a radical transformation, becoming the super-soldier known as Captain America. He's thrust into the heart of the conflict, tasked with thwarting the nefarious plans of the Red Skull, Hitler's ruthless head of weaponry. The Red Skull and his organization, HYDRA, seek to weaponize a mysterious and powerful artifact, threatening global domination and necessitating Rogers' intervention to safeguard the world from unimaginable destruction. "Captain America: The First Avenger" earns its place among Joe Johnston's best works for its pitch-perfect blend of period adventure and comic book spectacle. Johnston, known for his expertise in crafting visually engaging and technically proficient films with a focus on historical settings (think "The Rocketeer" and "October Sky"), masterfully recreates the WWII era, imbuing it with a sense of both authenticity and fantastical elements. The film's success lies in Johnston's ability to balance the hero's origin story with thrilling action sequences, all while maintaining a strong narrative core and compelling character development, proving his skill in bringing larger-than-life stories to the big screen with a grounded sensibility.
Hidalgo (2004)
#44.0"Hidalgo" (2004) is a sweeping, turn-of-the-century adventure film set in 1890 that follows Frank Hopkins, a half-Native American Pony Express courier, and his mustang, Hidalgo. Enticed by the promise of a lucrative prize, Hopkins accepts an invitation to participate in the "Ocean of Fire," a legendary and perilous 3,000-mile endurance race across the Arabian desert. He and Hidalgo find themselves pitted against seasoned Arabian horses and Bedouin riders in a breathtaking and often treacherous competition, facing sandstorms, sabotage, and cultural clashes as they navigate the harsh landscape. The film offers a visually stunning and historically inspired narrative about overcoming adversity and the bond between man and animal. "Hidalgo" earns its place amongst the best of Joe Johnston's filmography because it showcases his mastery of visual storytelling and his knack for crafting engaging adventure narratives. The film's epic scope and stunning desert landscapes are beautifully captured, reminiscent of his work on "The Rocketeer," another visually rich period piece. Furthermore, Johnston's skillful handling of action sequences, combined with a focus on character development and emotional resonance, elevates "Hidalgo" beyond a simple horse-racing movie. The film displays a strong sense of adventure, a keen eye for detail, and a commitment to creating a genuinely entertaining and immersive cinematic experience, characteristics consistently found in Johnston's most successful works.
The Rocketeer (1991)
#55.0"The Rocketeer (1991)" bursts onto the screen straight from the pages of a pulp comic, a vibrant recreation of 1930s Hollywood brimming with gangsters, Nazi spies, and the burgeoning Age of Aviation. When young pilot Cliff Secord accidentally discovers a top-secret rocket-pack, he transforms into The Rocketeer. Aided by his wise-cracking mechanic/mentor, Peevy, Cliff must navigate the dangerous world of Hollywood, battling villains and dodging treachery as he strives to protect his girlfriend, Jenny, and prevent the rocket technology from falling into the wrong hands – namely, the Nazis. "The Rocketeer" is a quintessential Joe Johnston film for several reasons. It showcases his knack for visually stunning period pieces, evident in his later work like "Captain America: The First Avenger". More than just aesthetics, Johnston flawlessly captures the adventurous spirit and earnest heroism of the pulp era, injecting genuine heart and a sense of wonder into the film. The practical effects are a testament to Johnston's dedication to grounded filmmaking. It's a joyful, thrilling adventure that's both a loving homage to classic serials and a testament to Johnston's ability to craft exciting, family-friendly entertainment with genuine personality, making it a standout in his filmography.
Honey, I Shrunk the Kids (1989)
#66.0"Honey, I Shrunk the Kids," released in 1989, follows the chaotic misadventures of Wayne Szalinski, a quirky inventor whose latest creation, a shrinking ray, actually works. Unfortunately, its first victims are his own teenage children and the two youngsters next door. Accidentally zapped down to insect size, the four teens find themselves lost in their own backyard, now a treacherous jungle filled with colossal blades of grass, monstrous insects, and deadly dangers lurking at every turn. As the teens struggle to survive and signal for help, Wayne frantically searches for them, completely unaware of the miniature drama unfolding beneath his feet. "Honey, I Shrunk the Kids" firmly earns its place among Joe Johnston's best films due to his masterful blend of family-friendly adventure, innovative special effects, and genuine heart. Johnston's knack for crafting visually engaging worlds, evident in his later works, is on full display here. He takes the familiar suburban landscape and transforms it into an awe-inspiring and perilous environment. While the premise may be fantastical, the film's emotional core, focusing on family bonds and overcoming adversity, resonates deeply. It's a perfect example of Johnston's ability to create entertaining and memorable experiences for audiences of all ages.
The Pagemaster (1994)
#77.0"The Pagemaster" (1994) tells the story of Tyler, a young boy paralyzed by his anxieties and obsessed with safety. During a storm, he seeks shelter in a grand but foreboding library, where a strange accident catapults him into the animated world of books. Now, he must embark on an epic quest to find his way back home, navigating treacherous landscapes and encountering iconic literary characters brought to life, including the spirited Fantasy, the daring Adventure, and the chilling Horror. Facing his deepest fears and learning to embrace the unknown, Tyler discovers the power of courage and imagination within himself. "The Pagemaster" earns its place among Joe Johnston's best works not only for its innovative blend of live-action and animation, a technique Johnston had previously explored in "Honey, I Shrunk the Kids," but also for its heartfelt exploration of childhood anxieties and the transformative power of stories. Johnston, known for his visually dynamic and engaging family films, directs with a sense of wonder, crafting a film that is both thrilling and emotionally resonant. The film's strong thematic core, coupled with its imaginative visuals and endearing characters, solidifies "The Pagemaster" as a quintessential Joe Johnston film, showcasing his ability to create entertaining and thought-provoking adventures for audiences of all ages.
Jurassic Park III (2001)
#88.0In need of funds for research, Dr. Alan Grant reluctantly accepts a lucrative offer from Paul and Amanda Kirby, a supposedly wealthy couple, to guide them on an aerial tour of Isla Sorna, the infamous Site B where InGen bred dinosaurs. Unbeknownst to Grant, the Kirbys are actually seeking their son, Eric, who went missing while illegally paragliding over the island. It isn't long before their plane crashes, and all hell breaks loose. Stranded and desperate, the wayfarers must navigate the perilous terrain, battling a host of new and terrifying dinosaurs, including the massive Spinosaurus, while attempting to locate Eric and find a way off the deadly island. "Jurassic Park III" earns its spot on a "Best Joe Johnston Movies" list because it exemplifies his strengths as a director of thrilling, effects-driven adventure films. Johnston masterfully injects a sense of relentless tension and suspense, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats with expertly choreographed action sequences and creature encounters. While not reaching the critical acclaim of the original, the film showcases Johnston's ability to create a visually compelling and entertaining spectacle, highlighting the dinosaurs' power and ferocity while maintaining a brisk pace and engaging the viewer with its core survival narrative. The film delivers on the promise of dinosaur mayhem, a signature element consistently found in the director's filmography.
The Wolfman (2010)
#99.0"The Wolfman (2010)" plunges viewers into a gothic reimagining of the classic monster tale. Lawrence Talbot, haunted by his past and seeking reconciliation with his estranged father in Victorian London, becomes embroiled in a terrifying mystery. A savage attack leaves him cursed, transforming under the full moon into a ravenous beast with an insatiable hunger for human flesh. As Talbot grapples with his monstrous alter ego, he must unravel the secrets surrounding the werewolf's origin and fight to protect those he cares for from the escalating carnage. This dark and atmospheric film showcases chilling practical effects and a compelling narrative exploring themes of family, madness, and the primal nature lurking within us all. "The Wolfman" earns its place among Joe Johnston's best works for several reasons. Firstly, Johnston's meticulous attention to detail, evident in the film's stunning production design and costume work, creates a genuinely immersive Victorian setting. Secondly, he masterfully blends classic horror tropes with a contemporary sensibility, resulting in a visually arresting and suspenseful experience. While the film had a troubled production history and faced some criticism, Johnston managed to deliver a visually impressive and genuinely frightening monster movie, showcasing his talent for crafting engaging genre films with a strong visual flair, a quality that defines many of his most successful projects. The practical effects, particularly the werewolf transformation, are a testament to his commitment to practical filmmaking and elevate the movie beyond typical CGI-heavy horror.
Not Safe for Work (2014)
#1010.0"Not Safe for Work (2014)" plunges viewers into the terrifying reality of corporate espionage gone horribly wrong. An ambitious young lawyer, Tom Miller, finds himself trapped inside his law firm's high-rise office building after hours. Little does he know, a ruthless killer is also roaming the halls, methodically eliminating anyone connected to a sensitive case. With no escape and nowhere to hide, Tom must use his wits and resourcefulness to survive the night, uncovering a conspiracy that reaches the highest levels of power while desperately trying to evade becoming the next victim. While "Not Safe for Work" may not be the most celebrated entry in Joe Johnston's filmography, it showcases his masterful ability to build suspense and maintain a relentless pace, hallmarks of his best work. Johnston effectively utilizes the claustrophobic office environment, creating a palpable sense of dread as the audience is kept on the edge of their seat, unsure of what lurks around the next corner. His direction expertly ratchets up the tension, and while the film might not reach the iconic status of "Captain America: The First Avenger" or "The Rocketeer", it's a solid and underrated thriller demonstrating Johnston's consistent command of genre filmmaking and his knack for crafting compelling narratives within confined spaces, earning it a worthy spot among his best.
The Nutcracker and the Four Realms (2018)
#1111.0While not a universally acclaimed film, *The Nutcracker and the Four Realms (2018)* deserves a place among Joe Johnston's best work due to its undeniable charm and visual splendor, hallmarks of his directorial style. The film, which Johnston stepped in to finish after Lasse Hallström’s initial direction, showcases his talent for creating immersive fantasy worlds. He expertly crafts a balance between the fantastical realms and the grounded reality of Clara's grief, something that often underpins the emotional core of his films, like *October Sky*. The film's practical effects and creature design, combined with its lavish set pieces, echo the sense of wonder Johnston previously brought to films like *Jumanji* and *Honey, I Shrunk the Kids*. Furthermore, *The Nutcracker and the Four Realms* highlights Johnston's ability to take on complex projects and deliver a visually captivating and narratively coherent final product. He skillfully blends action, adventure, and heartwarming family themes, demonstrating his consistent versatility as a director. Although often perceived as a "work-for-hire" project, Johnston infused his trademark visual flair and attention to detail, elevating the film beyond a simple adaptation. The result is a visually rich and engaging fantasy adventure that underscores his reputation for creating accessible and entertaining films, thus earning its spot among his most notable achievements.
Shrunk
#1212.0"Shrunk," while not directly directed by Joe Johnston, absolutely deserves a place in a list of his best movies due to his integral involvement as Visual Effects Art Director. His innovative contributions to the film's groundbreaking visual effects are undeniable and fundamentally shaped the movie's whimsical charm and enduring appeal. From the ingenious design of the oversized world, meticulously rendered to believable detail, to the seamless integration of the miniature characters with the real-world environments, Johnston's artistry was instrumental in bringing the fantastical concept to life. "Shrunk" isn't just a fun family film; it's a testament to Johnston's visionary eye for visual storytelling and his mastery of special effects, hallmarks that would later define his directorial successes. Furthermore, "Shrunk" prefigures many of the themes and styles Johnston would later explore in his own directorial work. The film's emphasis on adventure, scientific exploration, and the strength of family resonates with his later projects like "Jumanji" and "Captain America: The First Avenger." The blend of fantastical elements with relatable human emotions, the attention to practical effects alongside cutting-edge technology, and the creation of a richly detailed world – all these elements present in "Shrunk" foreshadowed the director he would become. It's a vital piece in understanding the evolution of Joe Johnston's career and a showcase of his talent long before he stepped behind the camera.
The Chronicles of Narnia: The Silver Chair
#1313.0While *The Chronicles of Narnia: The Silver Chair* isn't a Joe Johnston film in reality, let's imagine it was, and how it would perfectly fit his established directorial style. If Joe Johnston helmed this adaptation, we could expect a visually captivating rendition of the classic tale. Johnston is known for his proficiency in practical effects, seamlessly blending them with CGI, which would be crucial in bringing the fantastical creatures and landscapes of Narnia to life. His background in visual effects and production design, evident in films like *Honey, I Shrunk the Kids* and *Jumanji*, would guarantee a believable and immersive world, staying true to the imaginative spirit of C.S. Lewis's writing. Furthermore, Johnston's track record reveals a talent for crafting compelling adventure stories with strong character development. He often focuses on underdog protagonists facing extraordinary circumstances, a theme resonating strongly with Eustace Scrubb and Jill Pole's journey in *The Silver Chair*. His ability to balance thrilling action sequences with heartfelt emotional moments, as demonstrated in *Captain America: The First Avenger*, would make the perilous quest for Prince Rilian a deeply engaging experience. Johnston's nuanced approach to storytelling, coupled with his visual flair, would elevate *The Silver Chair* into a truly memorable and masterful adaptation, earning it a well-deserved spot among his best works.
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