The Best Movies With Rowan Atkinson

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Updated May 1, 2024 118.3K views 24 items
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The filmography of Rowan Atkinson movies includes an impressive assortment of cinematic gems, ranging from classic comedies to thought-provoking dramas that showcase the actor's remarkable versatility. With a striking mix of comedy and drama, Atkinson proved his versatility and secured his position as a beloved figure in cinema. This comprehensive compilation of the best Atkinson movies showcases his true artistry and highlights the unforgettable roles that have left a lasting impression on audiences worldwide. 

Each entry in the collection of Atkinson films explores the actor's distinctive performance and unique contribution to the cinematic experience. These movies encapsulate the undeniable charm of Atkinson, showcasing his wide-ranging talent through diverse characters and captivating plots. The selection emphasizes not only the quality of the films but also their significance in shaping Atkinson's illustrious career while pleasing ardent fans and casual viewers alike. 

A prime example is the action-comedy hit Johnny English, where Atkinson's portrayal of the bumbling yet endearing secret agent garnered widespread acclaim from audiences and critics alike. Another fan-favorite is Mr. Bean's Holiday, which sees Atkinson reprising his beloved character in a hilarious adventure throughout France. Lastly, in Rat Race, Atkinson's shone in an ensemble cast, as he navigated a madcap race for fortune with an eccentric group of competitors. Each of these movies highlights a different aspect of Atkinson's incredible range, illustrating how he has seamlessly transitioned between various genres and styles. 

With an astonishing variety of roles and genres, the compilation of top Rowan Atkinson films reveals the actor's extraordinary range and offers an in-depth exploration of his remarkable contribution to the world of cinema. From light-hearted comedies to thought-provoking dramas, Atkinson's diverse roles cemented his status as an accomplished performer in the world of film. As fans delve into this captivating assortment of Rowan Atkinson films, they will surely discover new favorites and appreciate the timeless charm and ingenuity of this extraordinary artist. 

Latest additions: Wonka
Over 1.6K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Movies With Rowan Atkinson
  • Johnny English
    1
    Rowan Atkinson, John Malkovich, Natalie Imbruglia
    556 votes

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Action, Adventure, Crime
    Reasons to Watch if you Love Rowan Atkinson: Rowan Atkinson's impeccable comedic timing and charm are on full display in this spy comedy that showcases his genius for physical humor and slapstick. Playing an incompetent secret agent, Atkinson's antics will delight those who yearn to see him in a leading role outside of the iconic Mr. Bean character.

    Pascal Sauvage (John Malkovich), a villain intent on stealing Britain's Crown Jewels, has murdered the country's top undercover agents, and mediocre spy Johnny English (Rowan Atkinson) is ordered to prevent further mayhem. But even with help from quick-thinking sidekick Bough (Ben Miller), the goofy agent lands himself in one precarious situation after another. Only when he meets up with Interpol crime-fighter Lorna Campbell (Natalie Imbruglia) is Johnny able to chip away at Pascal's defenses.
  • Bean
    2
    Rowan Atkinson, Peter MacNicol, Pamela Reed
    651 votes

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Family, Adventure
    Reasons to Watch if you Love Rowan Atkinson: The 1997 film adaptation of the classic British television series provides fans with more hilarious escapades from Rowan Atkinson's renowned character, Mr. Bean, making it a must-watch for any admirer of his work. With a bigger budget and a larger scale setting in Los Angeles, Bean offers even more opportunities for Atkinson to showcase his mastery of comic mishaps.

    At the Royal National Gallery in London, the bumbling Mr. Bean (Rowan Atkinson) is a guard with good intentions who always seems to destroy anything he touches. Unless, of course, he's sleeping on the job. With the chairman (John Mills) blocking Bean's firing, the board decides to send him to a Los Angeles art gallery under false credentials. When Bean arrives, his chaos-causing ways are as sharp as ever, and curator David Langley (Peter MacNicol) has the unenviable task of keeping Bean in line.
  • Mr. Bean's Holiday
    3
    Rowan Atkinson, Emma de Caunes, Willem Dafoe
    758 votes

    For Fans Of: Family, Adventure, Comedy
    Reasons to Watch if you Love Rowan Atkinson: This film offers a delightful adventure featuring Rowan Atkinson's beloved and bumbling alter-ego, Mr. Bean, as he navigates his way through France on vacation. With ingenious visual gags and Atkinson's unmatched physical comedy skills, this movie guarantees laughter from start to finish for fans of the actor.

    When London's wet weather becomes too much to bear, pratfall-prone Mr. Bean (Rowan Atkinson) heads to the French Riviera for some fun in the sun. As usual, his plans do not go smoothly, and he is mistaken for both a kidnapper and an award-winning filmmaker when he arrives with a Romanian director's son and an aspiring actress in tow.
  • Johnny English Reborn
    4

    Johnny English Reborn

    Rowan Atkinson, Gillian Anderson, Dominic West
    621 votes

    For Fans Of: Action, Adventure, Comedy, Crime
    Reasons to Watch if you Love Rowan Atkinson: In this sequel to the original Johnny English film, Rowan Atkinson returns as the hilariously inept spy in an action-packed adventure filled with laughs and well-executed stunts. His performance is incredibly engaging as he balances both wit and physical comedy while taking down villains with remarkable clumsiness.

    After a disastrous mission in Mozambique, British agent Johnny English (Rowan Atkinson) has retreated to a Tibetan monastery to try to forget his shame. But when he receives an urgent call from MI-7 to lead a mission that only he can handle, English is back in action. Using his questionable combat skills and an assortment of high-tech gadgets, English, along with his new partner, Agent Tucker (Daniel Kaluuya), must foil a plot to kill the Chinese premier.
  • Blackadder's Christmas Carol
    5

    Blackadder's Christmas Carol

    Hugh Laurie, Stephen Fry, Rowan Atkinson
    186 votes

    For Fans Of: Comedy, History, Christmas
    Reasons to Watch if you Love Rowan Atkinson: As part of the much-loved British sitcom series Blackadder, this festive special episode shows off Rowan Atkinson's talent for hilarious banter and absurd situations while putting a unique spin on Charles Dickens' classic tale. Fans will relish seeing their favorite characters engage in holiday antics while experiencing some heartfelt moments mixed with trademark wit.

    Blackadder's Christmas Carol is a one-off episode of Blackadder, a parody of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol. It is set between Blackadder the Third and Blackadder Goes Forth, and is narrated by Hugh Laurie. Produced by the BBC, it was first broadcast on BBC One on 23 December 1988.
  • Rowan Atkinson Live!
    6

    Rowan Atkinson Live!

    211 votes

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Stand-up
    Reasons to Watch if you Love Rowan Atkinson: This rare opportunity to experience Rowan Atkinson perform live on stage is not one to be missed for any fan of his incredible comedic talents. Showcased in various sketches, Atkinson's chameleon-like ability to embody wholly different characters and situations will leave viewers amazed and in stitches.

    Rowan Atkinson Live! is a 1992 comedy documentary film written by Rowan Atkinson, Richard Curtis and Ben Elton and directed by Thomas Schlamme.
  • Johnny English Strikes Again
    7
    Rowan Atkinson, Ben Miller, Emma Thompson
    149 votes

    For Fans Of: Action, Adventure, Comedy, Crime
    Reasons to Watch if you Love Rowan Atkinson: In the third installment of the popular spy comedy franchise, Rowan Atkinson's charm and slapstick mastery are on full display as he bumbles through another top-secret mission. Fans can expect a thrilling ride filled with laughter, action sequences, and Atkinson proving once again that no one does clumsy heroics better than him.

    The new adventure begins when a cyberattack reveals the identities of all active undercover agents in Britain, leaving Johnny English as the secret service's last hope. Called out of retirement, English dives headfirst into action with the mission to find the mastermind hacker. As a man with few skills and analogue methods, Johnny English must overcome the challenges of modern technology to make this mission a success.
  • Blackadder: Back & Forth
    8
    Kate Moss, Hugh Laurie, Colin Firth
    180 votes

    For Fans Of: Comedy, History, Science Fiction
    Reasons to Watch if you Love Rowan Atkinson: Fans of Rowan Atkinson's beloved Blackadder series will revel in this time-traveling special that brings together their favorite characters from past installments. With its sharp wit and clever writing, viewers can expect plenty of humorous moments showcasing Atkinson's signature sarcastic delivery as Edmund Blackadder.

    Blackadder: Back & Forth is a 1999 short comedy history film written by Richard Curtis, Ben Elton and directed by Paul Weiland.
  • Rat Race
    9
    Rowan Atkinson, John Cleese, Whoopi Goldberg
    296 votes

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Adventure
    Reasons to Watch if you Love Rowan Atkinson: This hilarious ensemble comedy features Rowan Atkinson among a star-studded cast racing across the country to claim a large fortune. As an eccentric Italian tourist named Enrico Pollini, Atkinson delivers a standout performance filled with his unique flair for physical humor that will have fans chuckling throughout the film.

    In the 2001 comedy Rat Race, eccentric casino tycoon Donald Sinclair (John Cleese) devises a wild game for his high-rolling patrons. A locker at a train station contains $2 million in cash, and a handful of lucky gamblers are given its key. Unaware they're part of an elaborate betting scheme, contestants including Nick Schaffer (Breckin Meyer), Vera Baker (Whoopi Goldberg), and Duane Cody (Seth Green) embark on a frantic, cross-country race to claim the fortune. Directed by Jerry Zucker, the film is a riotous romp full of unexpected twists, showcasing an ensemble cast in a madcap chase that spans the length and breadth of America.
  • Keeping Mum
    10
    Rowan Atkinson, Kristin Scott Thomas, Maggie Smith
    155 votes

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Crime, Thriller
    Reasons to Watch if you Love Rowan Atkinson: Rowan Atkinson takes on a more serious role as Reverend Walter Goodfellow but still shows off his comedic talent in this darkly funny British film about a small town with big secrets. Viewers will enjoy seeing a different side of their favorite actor while still appreciating his effortless humor and wit.

    Walter Goodfellow (Rowan Atkinson), vicar of the British village Little Wallop, is busy composing the perfect sermon. So busy, in fact, that he fails to notice his bored wife's (Kristin Scott Thomas) flirtation with her American golf instructor (Patrick Swayze), his daughter's revolving set of boyfriends, or his son's status as the favorite target of bullies. Enter Grace Hawkins (Maggie Smith), the new housekeeper, who has a drastic solution to the family's problems.
  • The Lion King
    11
    Matthew Broderick, Jeremy Irons, James Earl Jones
    261 votes

    For Fans Of: Animation, Adventure, Musical, Drama, Family
    Reasons to Watch if you Love Rowan Atkinson: Though not primarily known for voice acting roles, Rowan Atkinson voices Zazu - the loyal hornbill advisor to Mufasa - in this timeless Disney classic. His distinctive vocal talents bring an added layer of humor and personality to an already beloved character in this animated masterpiece.

    In The Lion King, a young lion prince named Simba (voiced by Jonathan Taylor Thomas when young and Matthew Broderick as an adult) is destined to become king of the Pride Lands. His wicked uncle Scar (Jeremy Irons), however, has other plans. The film, an animated musical drama produced by Walt Disney Feature Animation, presents a tale of betrayal, exile and ultimately redemption. Aided by a meerkat Timon (Nathan Lane) and a warthog Pumbaa (Ernie Sabella), Simba reclaims his birthright. It won two Academy Awards in 1995 for Best Original Score and Best Original Song.
  • Love Actually
    12
    Hugh Grant, Laura Linney, Colin Firth
    159 votes

    For Fans Of: Romance, Comedy, Drama, Christmas
    Reasons to Watch if you Love Rowan Atkinson: In this feel-good romantic comedy, Rowan Atkinson makes a brief but memorable appearance as a department store sales assistant, showcasing his keen ability to make any role hilarious. Fans will appreciate the subtle comic relief he provides in this heartwarming ensemble film.

    In the heartwarming film Love Actually, nine intertwined stories explore the complexities of love during the festive Christmas season. The ensemble cast includes characters like Prime Minister David (Hugh Grant), writer Jamie (Colin Firth), and aging rock star Billy Mack (Bill Nighy). Their tales of romance, heartbreak, and discovery unfold against a backdrop of London's charming streets and homes. Directed by Richard Curtis, this multi-narrative comedy-drama offers a humorous and touching exploration of love's many forms. Its deft storytelling and memorable performances earned it a BAFTA Award for Best Supporting Actor for Bill Nighy.
  • Four Weddings and a Funeral
    13
    Hugh Grant, Andie MacDowell, Kristin Scott Thomas
    155 votes

    For Fans Of: Romance, Comedy, Drama
    Reasons to Watch if you Love Rowan Atkinson: Though Rowan Atkinson's role is relatively small in this iconic British romantic comedy, his scene-stealing performance as an inexperienced priest during one of the titular weddings perfectly showcases his comedic prowess. His brief but unforgettable appearance is sure to delight fans and add an extra layer of humor to the film.

    Four Weddings and a Funeral is a captivating British romantic comedy. Charles, portrayed by Hugh Grant, is a charming yet commitment-phobic bachelor who finds himself smitten with an American beauty, Carrie (Andie MacDowell). As the title suggests, the film follows their serendipitous encounters at four weddings and a funeral, over which their love story unfolds. A delightful blend of humor and sentimentality, this film was a box-office hit and received two Academy Award nominations. With its clever script and engaging performances, Four Weddings and a Funeral remains an iconic entry in the rom-com genre.
  • The Witches
    14
    Anjelica Huston, Mai Zetterling, Jasen Fisher
    108 votes

    For Fans Of: Fantasy, Adventure, Family, Horror
    Reasons to Watch if you Love Rowan Atkinson: In this adaptation of Roald Dahl's dark children's novel, Rowan Atkinson plays the hotel manager Mr. Stringer, displaying his talent for playing eccentric characters with impeccable comedic timing. Fans will enjoy seeing him go head-to-head against the sinister witches in this thrilling family film.

    In The Witches, a young boy (Jasen Fisher) stumbles upon a secret convention of witches, led by the Grand High Witch (Anjelica Huston). Unbeknownst to humans, these witches despise children and concoct a plan to turn them into mice. The boy, transformed into a mouse himself, must thwart their sinister scheme. This dark fantasy comedy is based on Roald Dahl's classic novel and directed by Nicolas Roeg. It's a tantalizing tale of magic and mischief that blurs the line between childhood fears and fairy-tale fantasies.
  • Scooby-Doo
    15
    Freddie Prinze, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Matthew Lillard
    225 votes

    For Fans Of: Adventure, Comedy, Mystery, Family
    Reasons to Watch if you Love Rowan Atkinson: Rowan Atkinson takes on another voice acting role as Emile Mondavarious, the owner of Spooky Island in this live-action adaptation of the beloved animated series. His quirky performance adds an extra level of intrigue and humor to this family-friendly mystery adventure.

    In the 2002 family-friendly adventure Scooby-Doo, Shaggy (Matthew Lillard) and his loyal Great Dane, Scooby-Doo, join forces with Fred (Freddie Prinze Jr.), Daphne (Sarah Michelle Gellar), and Velma (Linda Cardellini). They form Mystery Inc., a team of amateur sleuths. When the group is invited to Spooky Island, an amusement park that boasts chilling rides and eerie attractions, they find themselves in a real-life mystery. As strange events unfold, our heroes must unravel the spooky secrets behind the island's eccentric owner, Emile Mondavarious (Rowan Atkinson). The film beautifully combines comedy and suspense in its lively narrative.
  • Hot Shots! Part Deux
    16
    Charlie Sheen, Lloyd Bridges, Valeria Golino
    89 votes

    For Fans Of: Action, Comedy, War
    Reasons to Watch if you Love Rowan Atkinson: Rowan Atkinson has a cameo in this action-comedy spoof playing Dexter Hayman, adding another dimension of hilarity with his brilliant facial expressions and physical comedy skills. While it's not a starring role, fans will appreciate seeing him shine even in smaller parts within an ensemble cast.

    After multiple special teams fail to rescue a growing population of hostages held by Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein (Jerry Haleva), retired Navy pilot and American hero Topper Harley (Charlie Sheen) is called back to active duty once again. On orders from President Benson (Lloyd Bridges), Harley and his partners, Harbinger (Miguel Ferrer) and Rabinowitz, parachute into Iraq and struggle to free the hostages -- including the husband (Rowan Atkinson) of Harley's old flame, Ramada (Valeria Golino).
  • Never Say Never Again
    17
    Sean Connery, Klaus Maria Brandauer, Barbara Carrera
    122 votes

    For Fans Of: Action, Adventure, Thriller
    Reasons to Watch if you Love Rowan Atkinson: Fans can see Rowan Atkinson play a supporting role alongside Sean Connery's James Bond in this action-packed espionage thriller from 1983. As Nigel Small-Fawcett, Atkinson brings his signature wit and charm to a more serious genre while still delivering laughs throughout his scenes.

    An aging James Bond (Sean Connery) makes an uncharacteristic mistake during a routine training mission, leading M (Edward Fox) to believe that the legendary British Intelligence spy is now past his prime. M indefinitely suspends Bond from active duty. However, when SPECTRE member Fatima Bush (Barbara Carrera) and her fellow terrorists successfully steal two nuclear missiles from the U.S. military, M must reinstate Bond, as he is the only agent who can beat SPECTRE at their own game of espionage.
  • Spider-Plant Man
    18

    Spider-Plant Man

    Rowan Atkinson, Simon Pegg, Rachel Stevens
    90 votes

    For Fans Of: Short, Comedy, Superhero
    Reasons to Watch if you Love Rowan Atkinson: In this affectionate spoof of superhero movies, Rowan Atkinson stars as the titular Spider-Plant Man, a clumsy gardener-turned-vigilante who must save the world from an evil villain. Bringing his comedic genius to this parody, fans are in for a treat watching Atkinson navigate superhero tropes with hilarious results.

    Spider-Plant Man is a British parody short film which parodies the Spider-Man 2002 film adaptation, made for the Comic Relief 2005 appeal and aired on BBC One on 11 March 2005. It featured Rowan Atkinson as Peter Piper/Spider-Plant Man and Rachel Stevens as his love-interest Jane-Mary. Jim Broadbent also made an appearance, portraying Batman, and Tony Robinson as Robin.
  • The Tall Guy
    19
    Emma Thompson, Jeff Goldblum, Rowan Atkinson
    64 votes

    For Fans Of: Romance, Comedy
    Reasons to Watch if you Love Rowan Atkinson: Rowan Atkinson takes on a supporting role in this 1989 British romantic comedy, playing Ron Anderson - the antagonist and star of a West End musical. Viewers will enjoy seeing him display his theatrical talents while still providing his unmistakable humor throughout the film.

    The Tall Guy is a 1989 romantic comedy and the feature film debut of screenwriter Richard Curtis and director Mel Smith. It was produced by London Weekend Television for theatrical release and stars Jeff Goldblum, Emma Thompson, and Rowan Atkinson. Curtis's script draws from his experiences as straight man to long-time collaborator Rowan Atkinson.
  • Bernard and the Genie
    20
    Lenny Henry, Rowan Atkinson, Alan Cumming
    67 votes

    For Fans Of: Fantasy, Comedy
    Reasons to Watch if you Love Rowan Atkinson: In this holiday TV movie, Rowan Atkinson portrays a greedy art dealer who gets his comeuppance in unexpected ways, allowing him to showcase both his comedic skills and knack for playing more villainous characters. Fans will enjoy watching him bring humor and charm even to an unlikable character in this magical tale.

    Christmas nears, and art dealer Bernard (Alan Cumming) is having the worst day of his life: his lover leaves him, and his conniving boss, Charles (Rowan Atkinson), fires him for having high principles. Bernard's luck takes an upswing, though, when he finds an old lamp and out pops Josephus (Lenny Henry), a hip genie. After the initial culture shock, Bernard and Josephus quickly bond. But when Bernard wishes for the "Mona Lisa," these unlikely pals find themselves pursued by the police.
  • Maybe Baby
    21
    Hugh Laurie, Emma Thompson, Rowan Atkinson
    68 votes

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Romance
    Reasons to Watch if you Love Rowan Atkinson: Rowan Atkinson's brief but memorable cameo as Mr. James in this British romantic comedy shows off his ability to steal any scene he's in with his impeccable timing and physical humor. His performance adds an extra layer of hilarity to this heartfelt story of love and family.

    Maybe Baby is a 2000 British comedy film starring Hugh Laurie and Joely Richardson. It was written and directed by Ben Elton, based upon his novel Inconceivable.
  • Dead on Time
    22
    Rowan Atkinson, Greta Scacchi
    78 votes

    For Fans Of: Short, Comedy
    Reasons to Watch if you Love Rowan Atkinson: This 1983 short film features Rowan Atkinson as Bernard Fripp, bringing his unique brand of physical comedy to bear on a man desperate not to be late for anything ever again—even death itself! Fans won't want to miss this early example of Atkinson's comic genius at work.

    Dead on Time is a 1983 British short film directed by Lyndall Hobbs and written by Richard Curtis and Rowan Atkinson. The film is a comedy which tells the story of Bernard Fripp a man who, on attending a routine check-up, is diagnosed by his doctor as having a rare disease leaving him only 30 minutes to live. By the time he leaves the surgery, he only has 24 minutes left, in which he attempts to live life to the full; taking out his life savings, trying to make peace with God
  • The Appointments of Dennis Jennings
    23
    Rowan Atkinson, David Hyde Pierce, Laurie Metcalf
    55 votes

    For Fans Of: Short, Comedy, Drama
    Reasons to Watch if you Love Rowan Atkinson: In this Academy Award-winning short film, Rowan Atkinson plays Dr. Schooner, showcasing his talent for portraying subtly humorous yet sinister characters. Though it's not a starring role, fans will appreciate how he skillfully brings levity even within darker subject matter.

    The Appointments of Dennis Jennings is a 1988 American short comedy film, starring and co-written by Steven Wright, which won the Academy Award for Live Action Short Film at the 61st Academy Awards in 1988.
  • Wonka
    24
    Timothée Chalamet, Calah Lane, Hugh Grant
    7 votes

    For Fans Of: Biographical, Drama, Family, Music.
    Reasons to Watch if you Love Rowan Atkinson: Though unreleased until 2023, this upcoming prequel to Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory will feature Rowan Atkinson as a new character named Artie Weasley. Anticipation is high for how he will bring his legendary comedic skills to this reimagining of a beloved story, making it a must-watch for any fan.

    Armed with nothing but a hatful of dreams, young chocolatier Willy Wonka manages to change the world, one delectable bite at a time.