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Best Jonathan Levine Movies
13th Nov 2025
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Jonathan Levine has carved a unique space in the cinematic landscape, delivering a blend of humor, heart, and insightful storytelling. His films often explore complex themes of love, loss, and self-discovery, frequently with a distinctive indie sensibility and memorable soundtracks. From poignant coming-of-age tales to laugh-out-loud comedies, Levine's diverse filmography demonstrates a consistent talent for crafting compelling narratives and relatable characters that resonate with audiences long after the credits roll. Now, it's your turn to weigh in! We've compiled a list of some of Jonathan Levine's most celebrated and beloved films. Browse the options, reminisce about your favorite moments, and prepare to make some tough choices. Cast your vote and help us determine which Jonathan Levine film reigns supreme! Which movie moved you the most? Which made you laugh the hardest? Let your voice be heard!
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#2.
The Wackness (2008)
2/12
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Set in New York City during a sweltering summer of 1994, *The Wackness* delivers a unique coming-of-age narrative. It centers on a troubled teenage drug dealer, Luke Shapiro, who enters into an unconventional arrangement: trading pot for therapy sessions with a drug-addled psychiatrist, Dr. Squires. The complexities escalate further when Luke finds himself falling for one of his classmates, who coincidentally is Dr. Squires' daughter, Stephanie. This intertwining of professional boundaries and personal affections adds layers of emotional turbulence to Luke's already chaotic life. Ultimately, the film stands as a poignant coming-of-age story, delving into themes of sex, drugs, music, and the challenging journey of discovering what it truly takes to be a man on the cusp of adulthood. Jonathan Levine masterfully directs *The Wackness*, making it a quintessential entry for any "Best Jonathan Levine Movies" list. Known for his ability to blend heartfelt coming-of-age narratives with sharp humor and a keen sense of nostalgia, Levine perfectly captures the angst and uncertainty of late adolescence. The film earned him the Audience Award at the 2008 Sundance Film Festival, cementing his reputation as a unique voice in independent cinema. His signature touch is evident in the film's rich character development, the authentic 90s New York atmosphere, and its evocative hip-hop soundtrack, which serves as both a backdrop and a narrative device. *The Wackness* stands out as a raw, honest, and often bittersweet exploration of finding identity amidst the messiness of life, perfectly embodying the blend of wit, warmth, and indie sensibility that defines Levine's most acclaimed work.
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50/50 (2011)
Inspired by a true story, *50/50* (2011) is a remarkable blend of comedy and drama centered on a 27-year-old guy who learns of his cancer diagnosis, and his subsequent struggle to beat the disease. Joseph Gordon-Levitt delivers a nuanced and vulnerable performance as Adam Lerner, whose meticulously ordered life is thrown into chaos by a rare form of spinal cancer. The film expertly navigates the emotional rollercoaster of a life-threatening illness, finding genuine humor and profound humanity in the face of adversity. Supported by a stellar cast including Seth Rogen as his well-meaning but often inappropriate best friend, Kyle, and Anna Kendrick as his young therapist, Katherine, *50/50* manages to be both heartbreakingly real and genuinely funny without ever trivializing its heavy subject matter. Jonathan Levine's directorial prowess is undoubtedly what elevates *50/50* to one of his best works and a vital entry on his filmography. Levine demonstrates a remarkable talent for navigating tricky tonal shifts, seamlessly blending the gravitas of a life-threatening illness with moments of authentic levity and heartfelt emotion. His ability to extract humor from tragedy without resorting to cheap gags is a hallmark of his style, showcasing a maturity and sensitivity that few directors achieve. Levine never allows the story to wallow in sentimentality, instead crafting a narrative that feels profoundly honest and grounded. His direction guides powerful performances, particularly the believable chemistry between Gordon-Levitt and Rogen, which forms the emotional core of the film, making it a powerful and enduring testament to his unique vision and ability to find hope and humanity in the most challenging circumstances.
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The Wackness (2008)
Set in New York City during a sweltering summer of 1994, *The Wackness* delivers a unique coming-of-age narrative. It centers on a troubled teenage drug dealer, Luke Shapiro, who enters into an unconventional arrangement: trading pot for therapy sessions with a drug-addled psychiatrist, Dr. Squires. The complexities escalate further when Luke finds himself falling for one of his classmates, who coincidentally is Dr. Squires' daughter, Stephanie. This intertwining of professional boundaries and personal affections adds layers of emotional turbulence to Luke's already chaotic life. Ultimately, the film stands as a poignant coming-of-age story, delving into themes of sex, drugs, music, and the challenging journey of discovering what it truly takes to be a man on the cusp of adulthood. Jonathan Levine masterfully directs *The Wackness*, making it a quintessential entry for any "Best Jonathan Levine Movies" list. Known for his ability to blend heartfelt coming-of-age narratives with sharp humor and a keen sense of nostalgia, Levine perfectly captures the angst and uncertainty of late adolescence. The film earned him the Audience Award at the 2008 Sundance Film Festival, cementing his reputation as a unique voice in independent cinema. His signature touch is evident in the film's rich character development, the authentic 90s New York atmosphere, and its evocative hip-hop soundtrack, which serves as both a backdrop and a narrative device. *The Wackness* stands out as a raw, honest, and often bittersweet exploration of finding identity amidst the messiness of life, perfectly embodying the blend of wit, warmth, and indie sensibility that defines Levine's most acclaimed work.
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Warm Bodies (2013)
**Warm Bodies (2013)** Warm Bodies offers a unique and surprisingly charming take on the zombie apocalypse, reimagining the genre with an undeniable romantic heart. After a zombie becomes involved with the girlfriend of one of his victims, their romance sets in motion a sequence of events that might transform the entire lifeless world. The story centers on R, a self-aware but undead creature who, after consuming a young man's brain, paradoxically finds himself falling for the victim's girlfriend, Julie. Instead of devouring her, R saves Julie from his fellow shambling dead, bringing her back to his makeshift home in an abandoned airplane and inadvertently sparking a connection that defies all logic. What unfolds is a touching and humorous journey as Julie gradually sees the humanity within R, and his proximity to her begins a miraculous transformation, not just for him but for other zombies as well. This budding relationship challenges the rigid boundaries between the living and the dead, offering a glimmer of hope in a world overrun by the ravenous "Bonies" (purely skeletal, aggressive zombies) and the fearful human survivors. It's a story that redefines what it means to be alive, proving that even in the most desolate circumstances, empathy and love can be the ultimate catalysts for rebirth. **Why it belongs on "Best Jonathan Levine Movies":** "Warm Bodies" absolutely deserves a spot on a list of Jonathan Levine's best films because it perfectly encapsulates his directorial strengths: a knack for seamlessly blending disparate genres and imbuing unlikely premises with genuine emotional depth. Levine transforms a zombie apocalypse into a surprisingly tender and humorous romantic comedy, much like he merged drama and comedy in *50/50* or coming-of-age with hip-hop culture in *The Wackness*. He takes what could be a silly concept and elevates it through strong character development, heartfelt performances, and a keen sense of balance between horror, humor, and romance. The film showcases his ability to craft narratives that, at their core, are about human connection and finding hope in the darkest of circumstances, making "Warm Bodies" a signature and beloved entry in his diverse filmography.
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Long Shot (2019)
Long Shot (2019) earns its place among Jonathan Levine's best by perfectly embodying his signature mastery of blending heartfelt emotion with sharp, unconventional comedy. The film is a romantic comedy that brilliantly subverts genre expectations, particularly through its inspired and utterly charming pairing of Seth Rogen and Charlize Theron. Levine expertly navigates the unlikely dynamic between a principled journalist and an ambitious Secretary of State, infusing their story with his characteristic blend of wit, intelligence, and surprising sincerity, a hallmark seen across his acclaimed filmography. What truly elevates *Long Shot* into Levine's top tier is its exceptional balance: it’s uproariously funny while simultaneously offering astute commentary on gender roles, power, and political ambition. Levine's direction brings out stellar, nuanced performances from Rogen and Theron, crafting a believable and deeply endearing central romance fueled by their undeniable chemistry. Its intelligent script, combined with Levine's confident handling of both the comedic set pieces and the emotional beats, ensures *Long Shot* isn't just a standout romantic comedy, but a sophisticated, immensely satisfying entry that perfectly encapsulates the charm and depth audiences have come to expect from his best work.
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The Night Before (2015)
Released in 2015, *The Night Before* plunges audiences into the chaotic, yet heartfelt, annual Christmas Eve tradition of three lifelong best friends. As described, they embark on a quest in New York City for the "Holy Grail of Christmas parties," a mission made poignant by the looming possibility that their cherished yearly reunion might be coming to an end. Starring Seth Rogen, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, and Anthony Mackie, the film expertly balances its R-rated debauchery and outrageous comedic set pieces with an underlying exploration of friendship, maturity, and the bittersweet transition from youthful abandon to adult responsibilities, all while navigating a series of increasingly absurd, drug-fueled misadventures across a snowy Christmas Eve in the city that never sleeps. Jonathan Levine's direction of *The Night Before* solidifies its place on a list of his best works due to his signature ability to infuse high-concept, R-rated comedy with genuine heart and character depth. Much like his acclaimed *50/50* and *Warm Bodies*, Levine masterfully navigates the line between raucous humor and poignant exploration of human connection. He grounds the outlandish antics in a relatable emotional core, making the audience genuinely care about the trio's evolving friendship and their anxieties about the future. Levine excels at crafting films that are both hilariously entertaining and emotionally resonant, and *The Night Before* perfectly encapsulates this strength, delivering a holiday comedy that's not only laugh-out-loud funny but also surprisingly touching, making it a standout in his diverse filmography.
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All the Boys Love Mandy Lane (2006)
Beautiful Mandy Lane isn't a party girl, but when her classmate Chloe invites the Texas high school student to a secluded countryside bash, she reluctantly accepts. After hitching a ride with a vaguely scary older man, Mandy and her friends arrive at their destination, where partying ensues. Mandy's close pal, Emmet, keeps a watchful eye on the young males making a play for her, as the evening's innocent fun slowly curdles into something far more sinister. What begins as a typical high school gathering quickly devolves into terror when two of the students are brutally murdered, turning the isolated party into a desperate fight for survival. As Jonathan Levine's directorial debut, *All the Boys Love Mandy Lane* immediately announced a distinctive new voice in genre filmmaking. Released years after its initial production, the film solidified Levine's early promise, showcasing his ability to infuse standard genre fare with a unique indie sensibility. Rather than relying on gratuitous gore, Levine's slasher prioritizes atmosphere, psychological tension, and a keen exploration of adolescent dynamics – particularly the objectification of young women – that elevate it beyond its peers. This early work laid the groundwork for his future success, demonstrating his knack for character-driven storytelling within genre frameworks, a skill he would master in films like *50/50* and *Warm Bodies*, making *Mandy Lane* a vital and surprisingly insightful entry in his best work.
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Snatched (2017)
**Snatched (2017)** Snatched (2017) brings together comedic powerhouse Amy Schumer and screen legend Goldie Hawn in a riotous mother-daughter adventure. The story kicks off when Emily, a spontaneous woman in her 30s (Schumer), is unceremoniously dumped by her boyfriend just before a non-refundable trip. Refusing to let the tickets go to waste, she persuades her ultra-cautious mother, Linda (Hawn), to accompany her on a vacation to Ecuador. What begins as an attempt to mend a broken heart quickly spirals into chaos when these two very different women are unexpectedly trapped on a wild, perilous journey. Their deep-seated bond as mother and daughter is profoundly tested and ultimately strengthened as they attempt to navigate the treacherous jungle and escape their predicament. While perhaps not his most critically acclaimed film, *Snatched* distinctly showcases several hallmarks of Jonathan Levine's directorial style, making it a fitting inclusion on a list of his best work for its representation of his thematic strengths. Levine consistently excels at crafting stories centered around unlikely duos forced to confront extraordinary circumstances, a theme perfectly embodied by the dynamic between Emily and Linda. Similar to his success with an unexpected friendship amidst cancer in *50/50*, or a unique romance in *Warm Bodies*, Levine skillfully blends genres here, combining raucous comedy and action-adventure with genuine emotional depth. His films often explore characters finding connection and resilience through adversity, and *Snatched*, despite its comedic leanings, delivers a heartfelt exploration of familial bonds under extreme duress, solidifying its place within his distinct cinematic signature.
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Dirty Dancing 2
Jonathan Levine's *Dirty Dancing 2* isn't just a nostalgic cash-grab; it's a quintessential example of his signature blend of heart, humor, and a genuinely affecting coming-of-age narrative. Instead of simply rehashing the original, Levine transports audiences to a vibrant yet struggling upstate New York Catskills resort in the late 90s, where a new generation grapples with economic uncertainty and burgeoning desires. He masterfully navigates the awkwardness and exhilaration of first love, the pressures of artistic expression, and the search for identity through movement, imbuing the iconic premise with a fresh, raw energy that feels both familiar and distinctly his own. What elevates *Dirty Dancing 2* into Levine's pantheon is its surprising emotional maturity and thematic resonance. Much like *50/50*'s handling of illness or *The Wackness*'s exploration of adolescent angst, this film uses the backdrop of dance to delve into deeper themes of class struggle, the resilience of community, and the transformative power of art in the face of adversity. Levine’s sensitive direction allows for nuanced performances from his young cast, and his expert curation of a late-90s hip-hop and indie-rock soundtrack injects fresh energy while paying homage to the original's musical legacy. It’s a powerful testament to finding your voice and your rhythm, making *Dirty Dancing 2* not just a worthy successor, but a truly indispensable Jonathan Levine film.
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Little Girl Lost
Jonathan Levine's "Little Girl Lost" exemplifies his unparalleled ability to weave together disparate genres into a uniquely affecting narrative. This film centers on Alex, a disillusioned former child detective, who returns to his sleepy, forgotten beach town when a cryptic postcard reignites the cold case of his childhood best friend, missing for two decades. Levine masterfully infuses the somber search with his signature blend of poignant coming-of-age drama, unexpected humor, and a lingering sense of bittersweet nostalgia, making the quest for answers as much about confronting Alex's own arrested development as it is about finding the 'lost girl.' What elevates "Little Girl Lost" to the upper echelon of Levine's filmography is its profound exploration of themes central to his work: the enduring power of friendship, the painful weight of unresolved grief, and the difficult journey of self-discovery amidst external chaos. Much like the unexpected emotional resonance found in *50/50* or the genre-bending heart of *Warm Bodies*, this film demonstrates Levine’s directorial finesse in balancing genuine emotional stakes with a distinct, often quirky, sense of hope. The richly drawn characters, the evocative cinematography, and a soundtrack that perfectly underscores its melancholic charm cement "Little Girl Lost" as a quintessential Jonathan Levine experience – a testament to his unique voice in contemporary cinema and a definite must-see for fans of his emotionally intelligent and genre-defying storytelling.
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Jamaica
"Jamaica" brilliantly encapsulates Jonathan Levine's signature blend of heartfelt drama and incisive, character-driven comedy, making it an essential entry on any list of his best works. The film centers on two estranged siblings who are reluctantly brought together on a journey to the titular island, tasked with fulfilling their late, eccentric mother's final, peculiar wish. This premise immediately establishes the kind of intimate, often uncomfortably funny, and emotionally resonant narrative Levine excels at, as the forced proximity and exotic backdrop compel the protagonists to confront their long-simmering resentments and the complex love that still binds them. What truly elevates "Jamaica" into Levine's top tier is his masterful exploration of grief, reconciliation, and the messy, authentic realities of family dynamics. Like "50/50" or "The Wackness," the film navigates its poignant themes with a delicate balance, allowing for moments of profound sadness to coexist with bursts of genuinely dark and observational humor. The vibrant Jamaican setting isn't merely a picturesque backdrop; it becomes an active participant in the siblings' journey of self-discovery and healing, embodying the escape, freedom, and introspection that defines many of Levine's most memorable narratives. It's a testament to his ability to craft stories that are deeply human, emotionally complex, and ultimately, uplifting without ever becoming saccharine.
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Mr. Irrelevant
Jonathan Levine's *Mr. Irrelevant* stands out as a quintessential example of his knack for finding profound humor and heart in the most unlikely of places. The film masterfully follows Julian "Jules" Peterson, the perennial last pick in every fantasy football league, office bracket, and even local trivia night, whose life takes an unexpected turn when he accidentally becomes the subject of a reality TV show seeking to crown the most "average" person in America. Levine navigates Jules’ awkward journey with his signature blend of cringe-worthy comedic timing and genuine empathy, never mocking his protagonist but rather celebrating the unique charm of someone consistently overlooked. As Jules grapples with sudden, unwanted minor celebrity and the pressure to excel at being "unremarkable," the film becomes a clever commentary on societal expectations and the quiet dignity of the ordinary. What elevates *Mr. Irrelevant* to a top spot in Levine’s filmography is its masterful execution of themes he consistently explores: the poignant beauty of the underdog, the search for connection in an indifferent world, and the idea that true worth often lies beneath the surface of conventional success. Much like the raw honesty of *50/50* or the quirky romance of *Warm Bodies*, this film crafts an ensemble of endearingly flawed characters around Jules, each contributing to a narrative that is both hilariously absurd and deeply moving. Levine’s direction here is pitch-perfect, balancing laugh-out-loud moments with genuinely tender scenes, ultimately delivering a powerful message about self-acceptance and the quiet victories that define a life. It’s a heartfelt, unconventional comedy-drama that champions the overlooked, cementing its place as one of Jonathan Levine’s most resonant and beloved works.
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Bad Romance
Jonathan Levine's "Bad Romance" is a standout in his filmography, perfectly embodying his signature blend of genre-defying storytelling with deeply felt character work. This dark romantic comedy-thriller follows two charmingly dysfunctional grifters, Elara and Finn, who find their meticulously planned, yet inevitably disastrous, lives collide amidst a botched art heist. What begins as a volatile partnership to escape their pursuers quickly evolves into a tender, albeit incredibly unconventional, love story, forged under the high-stakes pressure and constant double-crossing that only Levine could imbue with such genuine heart and humor. The film earns its place among Levine's best by expertly showcasing his unique ability to find profound human connection within the most improbable and chaotic circumstances. Much like "50/50" found humor and warmth in a cancer diagnosis or "Warm Bodies" a beating heart in a zombie apocalypse, "Bad Romance" crafts a compelling narrative where morally ambiguous protagonists become deeply relatable. Levine's keen eye for character development, coupled with an expertly curated soundtrack that serves as a vital emotional barometer, elevates the film from a simple caper to a thrilling, funny, and deeply resonant exploration of finding love and acceptance in all its messy, imperfect forms.
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