The 40+ Best Jason Bateman Movies

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Updated April 30, 2024 45.7K views 41 items
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From heartwarming dramas to side-splitting comedies, the best Jason Bateman movies include a diverse array of genres and styles and genres. They are impressive, thrilling, and downright entertaining. 

There's no shortage of examples that demonstrate Bateman's  engaging performances and memorable characters. Each movie on the list represents a significant moment in Bateman's career, highlighting his acting prowess and dedication to his craft. In every role he takes on, Bateman captivates viewers with his effortless charisma and versatile acting skills.

To better understand the brilliance of Bateman's filmography, consider films like Horrible Bosses, where his comedic timing and chemistry with co-stars kept audiences laughing and on the edge of their seats. Similarly, The Change-Up showcased Bateman's ability to convincingly portray different characters, while The Switch featured a more nuanced performance. These films, along with many others, exemplify the great films in Bateman's career, offering memorable performances that are sure to stand the test of time. 

One cannot help but admire Bateman's unwavering dedication to his craft and his ability to consistently deliver exceptional performances. The best Jason Bateman movies serve as a testament to his dedication and commitment to each role he takes on. As fans continue to enjoy the many gems within Bateman's extensive filmography, it's clear that his remarkable contributions to the world of cinema have left an indelible mark. 

Most divisive: The Ex
Over 500 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The 40+ Best Jason Bateman Movies
  • Horrible Bosses
    1
    Jason Bateman, Charlie Day, Jason Sudeikis
    274 votes

    With its exceptional blend of humor and revenge, Horrible Bosses showcases Jason Bateman's undeniable comedic timing and skill. In this dark comedy, three friends (played by Bateman, Charlie Day, and Jason Sudeikis) conspire to kill their nightmarish employers to make their work lives more bearable. The film's clever script, along with Bateman's adept performance, creates a hilarious viewing experience filled with unexpected twists and memorable moments.

  • DodgeBall: A True Underdog Story
    2
    Vince Vaughn, Christine Taylor, Ben Stiller
    200 votes

    In DodgeBall: A True Underdog Story, Bateman displays his comedic prowess as an eccentric sports commentator. The film follows a group of misfits who form a dodgeball team in the hopes of saving their gym from a corporate takeover. Bateman's quirky performance, along with the film's hilariously absurd premise, makes this an essential addition to his cinematic repertoire.

  • The Change-Up
    3
    Ryan Reynolds, Jason Bateman, Leslie Mann
    190 votes

    Bateman shines in The Change-Up, a body swap comedy that demonstrates his versatility as an actor. Co-starring Ryan Reynolds, the film centers on two friends who magically switch bodies, resulting in numerous laugh-out-loud scenarios as they struggle to adapt to their new circumstances. Bateman's effortless shift between family man and party-loving bachelor exhibits his comedic range and scene-stealing abilities.

  • Juno
    4
    Elliot Page, Michael Cera, Jennifer Garner
    158 votes

    Juno features Bateman in a more serious role, playing a married man who forms an unexpected bond with a pregnant teenager. His nuanced performance showcases a different side of his acting abilities, adding an emotional layer to the film's exploration of complex relationships, growing up, and making difficult decisions.

  • Couples Retreat
    5
    Vince Vaughn, Jason Bateman, Jon Favreau
    159 votes

    Couples Retreat features Bateman in an ensemble cast of loveable characters who embark on a tropical retreat in hopes of salvaging their relationships. Playing the level-headed, problem-solving therapist, he expertly navigates the zany antics and emotional baggage of the film's couples. Bateman's compassionate portrayal of a man determined to save his marriage adds depth to this heartfelt comedy.

  • The Switch
    6
    Jennifer Aniston, Jason Bateman, Thomas Robinson
    194 votes

    In The Switch, Bateman once again establishes his knack for combining humor and heart. The film tells the story of a man who, unbeknownst to him, is the biological father of his best friend's child. As daddy-drama unfolds, Bateman's sincere portrayal of a man grappling with newfound parenthood makes for a touching and amusing cinematic experience.

  • Hancock
    7
    Will Smith, Charlize Theron, Jason Bateman
    145 votes

    In the superhero action-comedy Hancock, Bateman plays a PR specialist who helps the titular hero, played by Will Smith, improve his public image. The witty banter and chemistry between Bateman and Smith elevate the humor in this unconventional superhero tale, demonstrating Bateman's ability to hold his own alongside A-list talent.

  • The Break-Up
    8
    Vince Vaughn, Jennifer Aniston, Joey Lauren Adams
    120 votes

    The Break-Up sees Bateman in a supporting role as the best friend of a man (Vince Vaughn) navigating a messy separation from his girlfriend (Jennifer Aniston). Bateman's dry humor and expert comedic timing offer some much-needed levity in this emotionally raw examination of a crumbling relationship.

  • Forgetting Sarah Marshall
    9
    Jason Segel, Kristen Bell, Mila Kunis
    119 votes

    Forgetting Sarah Marshall features Bateman in a brief yet memorable role as a charming, albeit ill-fated, animal handler. His knack for physical comedy and precise comedic timing is on full display in this brief appearance, serving as a testament to his ability to leave a lasting impression even in small roles.

  • Tropic Thunder
    10
    Ben Stiller, Jack Black, Robert Downey
    114 votes

    In the satirical war film Tropic Thunder, Bateman makes a memorable cameo appearance as a conniving talent agent. His brief but impactful turn provides an injection of humor amidst the film's hilarious skewering of Hollywood's egos and excesses.

  • The Sweetest Thing
    11
    Cameron Diaz, Christina Applegate, Selma Blair
    70 votes

    In the romantic comedy The Sweetest Thing, Bateman portrays another small but notable role as a quirky character encountered by the film's protagonists on a road trip. His comedic finesse shines through in his scenes, adding yet another enjoyable dimension to the film's overall humor.

  • Extract
    12
    Jason Bateman, Mila Kunis, Kristen Wiig
    86 votes

    Extract, helmed by Office Space director Mike Judge, stars Bateman as a beleaguered factory owner facing a series of personal and professional crises. His empathetic performance, coupled with the film's offbeat humor, explores the challenges of life and work in a relatable and entertaining manner.

  • Necessary Roughness
    13
    Scott Bakula, Héctor Elizondo, Robert Loggia
    56 votes

    Bateman delivers a standout performance early in his career in the sports comedy Necessary Roughness, playing a quirky collegiate football player. Demonstrating his comedic potential from a young age, this film showcases Bateman's natural talent and undeniable screen presence, long before his rise to Hollywood stardom.

  • Paul
    14
    Simon Pegg, Nick Frost, Seth Rogen
    92 votes

    In the sci-fi comedy Paul, Bateman takes on the role of a ruthless government agent tracking down an escaped alien, voiced by Seth Rogen. Playing against type as a villainous character, Bateman still manages to infuse humor into his performance, proving his versatility as an actor.

  • Up in the Air
    15
    George Clooney, Vera Farmiga, Anna Kendrick
    80 votes

    The critically acclaimed drama Up in the Air features Bateman in a supporting role as the calculating boss of a "corporate downsizer," played by George Clooney. In a departure from his usual comedic roles, Bateman's performance as a cool-headed executive demonstrates his range as an actor and ability to delve into more dramatic territory.

  • Starsky & Hutch
    16
    Ben Stiller, Owen Wilson, Snoop Dogg
    77 votes

    In the action-comedy remake Starsky & Hutch, Bateman makes a memorable appearance as a corrupt businessman entangled with the film's main antagonists. His portrayal adds an extra layer of intrigue and humor to the film, further cementing his reputation as a reliable comedic actor.

  • The Kingdom
    17
    Jamie Foxx, Chris Cooper, Jennifer Garner
    47 votes

    Bateman takes on another dramatic role in the action-thriller The Kingdom, where he plays an FBI forensic examiner investigating a terrorist attack in Saudi Arabia. His character offers moments of levity amongst the film's intensity, showcasing his ability to balance humor and drama with finesse.

  • Invincible
    18
    Mark Wahlberg, Greg Kinnear, Elizabeth Banks
    44 votes

    The inspiring sports drama Invincible features Bateman in a small but impactful role as a supportive teammate on the Philadelphia Eagles. His camaraderie and encouragement of the film's protagonist Vince Papale, played by Mark Wahlberg, make for a heartwarming addition to this rousing sports tale.

  • Bates Motel
    19
    Jason Bateman, Robert Picardo, Lori Petty
    36 votes

    Bateman made his mark early in his career with a memorable guest-starring role in the 1987 television movie Bates Motel, a spinoff of the classic horror film Psycho. His charming performance as a young man seeking to reopen the titular motel foreshadowed the acting talent that would later propel him to Hollywood stardom.

  • Smokin' Aces
    20
    Ben Affleck, Andy Garcia, Alicia Keys
    49 votes

    In the action-packed crime thriller Smokin' Aces, Bateman surprises audiences with a scene-stealing performance as a disheveled lawyer caught up in the crossfire of a mob hit. His comedic instincts shine through even in this darker role, proving his versatility and screen presence.

  • Teen Wolf Too
    21
    Jason Bateman, Kim Darby, John Astin
    53 votes

    In this sequel to the Michael J. Fox original, Bateman takes center stage in Teen Wolf Too. As the cousin of the first film’s protagonist, Bateman portrays a college student who discovers his own werewolf heritage. Despite the film's mixed reviews, Bateman's charisma and comedic skills are evident in this early leading role.

  • The Invention of Lying
    22
    Ricky Gervais, Jennifer Garner, Jonah Hill
    42 votes

    In the thought-provoking comedy The Invention of Lying, Bateman makes a brief appearance as a doctor in a world where lying does not exist. His impeccable comedic timing is on full display, adding an extra dose of humor to this already-whimsical exploration of truth and deception.

  • Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium
    23
    Natalie Portman, Dustin Hoffman, Jason Bateman
    53 votes

    In Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium, Bateman is captivating as a straitlaced accountant tasked with assessing the value of a magical toy store. Alongside Natalie Portman and Dustin Hoffman, Bateman effectively conveys the wonder and enchantment at the heart of this whimsical family film.

  • The Ex
    24
    Zach Braff, Amanda Peet, Jason Bateman
    33 votes

    In the romantic comedy The Ex, Bateman plays a conniving wheelchair-bound rival to Zach Braff's character, in a battle for job security and the affections of their boss. Bateman's cunning portrayal of the seemingly innocent antagonist makes for a delightful and humorous viewing experience.

  • Rambo
    25
    Sylvester Stallone, Julie Benz, Matthew Marsden
    37 votes

    In the 2008 installment of the iconic action franchise Rambo, Bateman lends his voice talents to the role of a missionary seeking to bring aid to war-torn Burma. Though his physical presence is absent from the film, Bateman's voice work effectively conveys the character's determination and bravery.

  • Thunder Force
    26
    Melissa McCarthy, Octavia Spencer, Jason Bateman
    32 votes

    In the superhero comedy Thunder Force, Bateman portrays a half-man, half-crab villain who ultimately proves to have a heart of gold. His unconventional character adds a unique and amusing twist to the film, further demonstrating Bateman's knack for taking on oddball roles with aplomb.

  • State of Play
    27
    Russell Crowe, Ben Affleck, Rachel McAdams
    28 votes

    In the political thriller State of Play, Bateman takes on a supporting role as a PR specialist tangled up in a conspiracy involving a congressman and his murdered assistant. Bateman brings a much-needed dose of humor to the otherwise tense film, proving his ability to elevate even the most dramatic material.

  • Breaking the Rules
    28
    Jason Bateman, Annie Potts, C. Thomas Howell
    19 votes

    In the coming-of-age drama Breaking the Rules, Bateman co-stars as one of three childhood friends embarking on a cross-country road trip. His compelling portrayal of a young man grappling with adulthood showcases Bateman's ability to navigate both comedic and dramatic material in his acting career.

  • Moving Target
    29
    Jason Bateman, Richard Dysart, John Glover
    16 votes

    In the action-thriller Moving Target, Bateman takes on a rare villainous role as a skilled hitman tasked with eliminating an unsuspecting target. His chilling performance showcases his acting range and versatility, proving that he's more than capable of taking on darker characters.

  • The Promotion
    30
    Jenna Fischer, Jason Bateman, John C. Reilly
    31 votes

    In the workplace comedy The Promotion, Bateman plays a straight-laced supermarket executive overseeing a competition between two employees, played by Seann William Scott and John C. Reilly. His character's deadpan humor and strict adherence to corporate protocol add to the film's comedic exploration of ambition and loyalty in the modern workplace.