The Best Elizabeth Banks Movies

Ranker Film
Updated April 12, 2024 27.8K views
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Vote for your favorite movies, regardless of critic reviews or how big the role was.
Latest additions: Migration, The Beanie Bubble
Most divisive: Meet Bill
Over 200 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Elizabeth Banks Movies

List of the best Elizabeth Banks movies, ranked best to worst with movie trailers when available. Elizabeth Banks's highest grossing movies have received a lot of accolades over the years, earning millions upon millions around the world. The order of these top Elizabeth Banks movies is decided by how many votes they receive, so only highly rated Elizabeth Banks movies will be at the top of the list. Elizabeth Banks has been in a lot of films, so people often debate each other over what the greatest Elizabeth Banks movie of all time is. If you and a friend are arguing about this then use this list of the most entertaining Elizabeth Banks films to end the squabble once and for all.

If you think the best Elizabeth Banks role isn't at the top, then upvote it so it has the chance to become number one. The greatest Elizabeth Banks performances didn't necessarily come from the best movies, but in most cases they go hand in hand.

In 2017, Elizabeth Banks stars as Rita RepulsaĀ in the new Power Rangers movie.Ā 

List films include Zack and Miri Make a Porno, Pitch Perfect, Spider-Man, and many additional films as well.

"This list answers the questions, "What are the best Elizabeth Banks movies?" and "What are the greatest Elizabeth Banks roles of all time?"

Steven Spielberg and Judd Apatow are among those who have directed Elizabeth Banks at one point or another during their careers in the film industry. If Elizabeth Banks movies are your thing, then check out the greatest movies by Piper Perabo and Michelle Monaghan too.

  • Migration
    1
    Kumail Nanjiani, Elizabeth Banks, Keegan-Michael Key
    4 votes
    A family of ducks decides to leave the safety of a New England pond for an adventurous trip to Jamaica. However, their well-laid plans quickly go awry when they get lost and wind up in New York City. The experience soon inspires them to expand their horizons, open themselves up to new friends, and accomplish more than they ever thought possible.
  • The Beanie Bubble
    2
    Elizabeth Banks, Sarah Snook, Zach Galifianakis
    4 votes
    A struggling toy salesman named Ty Warner embarks on a creative collaboration with three women, which turns into one of the biggest toy crazes in the world.
  • Walk of Shame
    3
    Elizabeth Banks, James Marsden, Gillian Jacobs
    26 votes
    Meghan (Elizabeth Banks) is an aspiring news anchor in the cutthroat world of Los Angeles television. After an audition for her dream job ends in failure, she goes out for an uncharacteristic night of partying. The next morning, she awakes in a stranger's bed and hears a phone message from her agent telling her the job is hers if she can make it across town by 5:00 pm. Stranded in an unknown area without money, phone or transportation, she races to the most important interview of her life.
  • Zack and Miri Make a Porno
    4
    Seth Rogen, Elizabeth Banks, Traci Lords
    47 votes
    In Zack and Miri Make a Porno, Zack (Seth Rogen) and Miri (Elizabeth Banks) are lifelong friends, now roommates, grappling with the harsh reality of mounting debt. In a desperate attempt to pay their bills, they decide to make an adult film. As they embark on this unconventional endeavor, the duo navigates through a series of comedic mishaps while also exploring new dimensions of their relationship. Directed by Kevin Smith, this comedy explores themes of friendship, love, and the lengths people will go to survive. Despite its provocative title, the movie is as much about heartfelt connections as it is about risquƩ business ventures.
  • Pitch Perfect
    5
    Anna Kendrick, Skylar Astin, Rebel Wilson
    44 votes
    College student Beca (Anna Kendrick) knows she does not want to be part of a clique, but that's exactly where she finds herself after arriving at her new school. Thrust in among mean gals, nice gals and just plain weird gals, Beca finds that the only thing they have in common is how well they sing together. She takes the women of the group out of their comfort zone of traditional arrangements and into a world of amazing harmonic combinations in a fight to the top of college music competitions.
  • Spider-Man
    6
    Tobey Maguire, Willem Dafoe, Kirsten Dunst
    35 votes
    In Spider-Man, we follow the extraordinary journey of Peter Parker (Tobey Maguire), an ordinary high school student. After a bite from a genetically modified spider, Parker gains superhuman abilities and becomes Spider-Man. The film also stars Kirsten Dunst as Mary Jane Watson, his love interest, and Willem Dafoe as the Green Goblin, the villain. Directed by Sam Raimi, this action-packed superhero flick weaves a tale of power, responsibility, and the struggle between identity and duty. Winner of the Best Visual Effects at the BAFTA Awards, Spider-Man is a visually stunning spectacle with unforgettable characters and a compelling narrative.
  • Invincible
    7
    Mark Wahlberg, Greg Kinnear, Elizabeth Banks
    35 votes
    Invincible, a sports drama, is based on the true story of Vince Papale (Mark Wahlberg), a 30-year-old bartender who defies all odds. Set in the 1970s Philadelphia, Papale, devoid of any professional football training, auditions for his beloved NFL team - the Philadelphia Eagles. With Coach Dick Vermeil (Greg Kinnear) at the helm, Papale's dream takes flight. The movie chronicles Papale's journey from an underdog to a celebrated footballer while exploring themes of perseverance and determination. Directed by Ericson Core, this biographical gem won accolades for its compelling portrayal of an ordinary man's extraordinary leap of faith.
  • Catch Me If You Can
    8
    Leonardo DiCaprio, Tom Hanks, Christopher Walken
    29 votes
    In the thrilling film Catch Me If You Can, we follow the intriguing escapades of Frank Abagnale Jr. (Leonardo DiCaprio), a master of deception and a skilled forger. With his cunning, he successfully poses as a pilot, doctor, and lawyer, all while cashing millions in fraudulent checks. Hot on his heels is seasoned FBI agent Carl Hanratty (Tom Hanks), who's made it his mission to capture him. Navigating through this cat-and-mouse game, the movie explores themes of identity and deception. Directed by Steven Spielberg, this biographical crime film was nominated for two Academy Awards.
  • Wet Hot American Summer
    9
    Janeane Garofalo, David Hyde Pierce, Michael Showalter
    24 votes
    In the eccentric comedy, Wet Hot American Summer, a group of camp counselors, led by Beth (Janeane Garofalo) and Coop (Michael Showalter), navigate their way through the last day at Camp Firewood in 1981. Misadventures abound as they deal with heartbreaks, rivalries, and a looming talent show. Their quirky journey is peppered with appearances from the likes of McKinley (Michael Ian Black) and Ben (Bradley Cooper). This offbeat romp, directed by David Wain, weaves an unpredictable tapestry of humor and nostalgia without resorting to clichƩs. The film has since garnered cult status for its unique comedic style and memorable characters.
  • The Next Three Days
    10
    Russell Crowe, Elizabeth Banks, Brian Dennehy
    25 votes
    Life for John and Lara Brennan (Russell Crowe, Elizabeth Banks) is miserable after she is convicted of a murder she says she did not commit. Three years later while struggling with the demands of work and raising his son alone, John is still trying to establish her innocence. When her final appeal is rejected, Lara becomes suicidal, forcing John to exercise the only option he has left: Break her out of prison.
  • Definitely, Maybe
    11
    Ryan Reynolds, Isla Fisher, Abigail Breslin
    43 votes
    Will Hayes (Ryan Reynolds), a thirtysomething Manhattanite, is in the middle of divorce proceedings when his young daughter (Abigail Breslin) asks him about his life before marriage, including how he met and fell in love with her mother. Will flashes back to 1992 and recounts his romances with three women, changing their names so that his daughter must guess which one became his wife.
  • Man on a Ledge
    12
    Sam Worthington, Elizabeth Banks, Jamie Bell
    20 votes
    When disgraced ex-cop Nick Cassidy (Sam Worthington) steps onto the ledge of the highest floor of New York's famous Roosevelt Hotel, more than just his life is at risk; he threatens to bring the city to its knees. There are some very nervous people around with some very big secrets to hide. As police negotiator Lydia Spencer (Elizabeth Banks) tries to talk Nick in from the ledge, she begins to suspect that he has an ulterior motive behind his actions.
  • The 40-Year-Old Virgin
    13
    Steve Carell, Catherine Keener, Paul Rudd
    32 votes
    The 40-Year-Old Virgin is a comedic exploration of late-blooming adulthood, starring Steve Carell as Andy Stitzer, a man who has managed to avoid life's intimate interactions. The movie, directed by Judd Apatow, follows the journey of Andy as his friends David (Paul Rudd), Jay (Romany Malco), and Cal (Seth Rogen) discover his secret and embark on a mission to end his virgin status. Through their misadventures and Andy's burgeoning relationship with Trish (Catherine Keener), the film delves into themes of friendship, love, and the pressures of societal norms. This light-hearted comedy won an MTV Movie Award for Best Comedic Performance by Carell.
  • Spider-Man 2
    14
    Tobey Maguire, Kirsten Dunst, James Franco
    25 votes
    Spider-Man 2, a superhero flick directed by Sam Raimi, unravels the complex life of Peter Parker (Tobey Maguire). As Spider-Man, he battles with the duality of his existence - saving New York City while juggling college and love. His world intensifies with the emergence of Dr. Otto Octavius (Alfred Molina), a brilliant scientist turned villain 'Doc Ock' after a failed experiment. Amidst personal struggles and high-stakes action, Parker must find balance. This film won an Oscar for Best Visual Effects, highlighting its impressive cinematic prowess.
  • People Like Us
    15
    Chris Pine, Elizabeth Banks, Olivia Wilde
    20 votes
    On the day his latest deal collapses, fast-talking-salesman Sam (Chris Pine) receives the news that his father has died. Reluctantly, Sam returns home to settle the estate of his father. In the course of carrying out the man's last wishes, Sam is surprised to learn of the existence of a 30-year-old sister, named Frankie (Elizabeth Banks). As the sister and brother get to know each other, Sam must re-examine both his perceptions about his family and the life choices that he has made.
  • Role Models
    16
    Seann William Scott, Paul Rudd, Christopher Mintz-Plasse
    21 votes
    After salesmen Danny (Paul Rudd) and Wheeler (Seann William Scott) trash a company truck, the court gives them a choice: jail time or community service in a mentoring program. Thinking to take the easy way out, the two overgrown adolescents find themselves paired with a teenager (Christopher Mintz-Plasse), who is experiencing the pangs of first love, and a foul-mouthed fifth-grader (Bobb'e J. Thompson), who needs an attitude adjustment.
  • Seabiscuit
    17
    Tobey Maguire, Jeff Bridges, Chris Cooper
    34 votes
    In the midst of the Great Depression, a businessman (Jeff Bridges) coping with the tragic death of his son, a jockey with a history of brutal injuries (Tobey Maguire) and a down-and-out horse trainer (Chris Cooper) team up to help Seabiscuit, a temperamental, undersized racehorse. At first the horse struggles to win, but eventually Seabiscuit becomes one of the most successful thoroughbreds of all time, and inspires a nation at a time when it needs it most.
  • Brightburn
    18
    Elizabeth Banks, David Denman, Jackson A. Dunn
    6 votes
    After a difficult struggle with fertility, Tori Breyer's dreams of motherhood come true with the arrival of a mysterious baby boy. Brandon appears to be everything Tori and her husband, Kyle, ever wanted -- bright, talented and curious about the world. But as Brandon nears puberty, powerful darkness manifests within him, and Tori becomes consumed by terrible doubts about her son. Once Brandon begins to act on his twisted urges, those closest to him find themselves in grave danger.
  • The Uninvited
    19
    Elizabeth Banks, Emily Browning, Arielle Kebbel
    15 votes
    After spending time in a psychiatric facility, young Anna (Emily Browning) finds significant changes in store at home. Her widowed father (David Strathairn) is now engaged to her mother's former nurse, Rachel (Elizabeth Banks). One night, the ghost of Anna's mother appears, screaming for revenge and accusing Rachel of murder. Anna and her sister, Alex (Arielle Kebbel), start to investigate, but they may be unprepared for the lethal battle of wills that ensues.
  • The Hunger Games: Mockingjay, Part 1
    20
    Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth
    40 votes
    The Hunger Games: Mockingjay, Part 1 unfolds as Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence) becomes the face of a mass rebellion against the autocratic Capitol. After surviving back-to-back Hunger Games, she's thrust into the role of the Mockingjay, an emblem of hope for the oppressed districts. Peeta Mellark (Josh Hutcherson), her fellow tribute and complicated ally, remains captive under President Snow's (Donald Sutherland) ruthless regime. The film is a high-stakes dystopian drama, filled with political intrigue and action. It marks a shift from survival games to full-blown warfare, setting the stage for an epic showdown in its sequel.
  • What to Expect When You're Expecting
    21
    Cameron Diaz, Jennifer Lopez, Elizabeth Banks
    29 votes
    Challenges of impending parenthood turn the lives of five couples upside down. Two celebrities are unprepared for the surprise demands of pregnancy; hormones wreak havoc on a baby-crazy author, while her husband tries not to be outdone by his father, who's expecting twins with his young trophy wife; a photographer's husband isn't sure about his wife's adoption plans; a one-time hook-up results in a surprise pregnancy for rival food-truck owners.
  • Spider-Man 3
    22
    Tobey Maguire, Kirsten Dunst, James Franco
    23 votes
    In Spider-Man 3, Peter Parker (Tobey Maguire), our friendly neighborhood Spider-Man, faces a web of challenges. His love for Mary Jane Watson (Kirsten Dunst) is tested as new villains emerge. The Sandman (Thomas Haden Church), an escaped convict with the power to shape-shift into sand, and Venom (Topher Grace), a sinister alien symbiote that amplifies its host's darkest traits, are the formidable foes. As Peter grapples with his personal demons, he must also confront these threats to protect New York City. This action-packed superhero drama, directed by Sam Raimi, showcases a complex narrative of redemption and responsibility while maintaining its comic book roots.
  • Power Rangers
    23

    Power Rangers

    Dacre Montgomery, Naomi Scott, RJ Cyler
    14 votes
    Five ordinary teens must become something extraordinary when they learn that their small town of Angel Grove - and the world - is on the verge of being obliterated by an alien threat. Chosen by destiny, our heroes quickly discover they are the only ones who can save the planet. But to do so, they will have to overcome their real-life issues and before it's too late, band together as the Power Rangers.
  • Slither
    24
    Nathan Fillion, Elizabeth Banks, Michael Rooker
    25 votes
    In the genre-bending film, Slither, a meteorite crash-lands in a small town, carrying an alien parasite. This creature takes over Grant Grant (Michael Rooker), a prominent local businessman, turning him into a horrific monster. The town's sheriff, Bill Pardy (Nathan Fillion), and Grant's wife, Starla (Elizabeth Banks), find themselves battling not only Grant's transformation but also the growing horde of mind-controlled townsfolk. As the infection spreads, they must uncover a way to stop it before their quaint town is consumed entirely by this alien horror. The movie expertly weaves together elements of science fiction, horror, and dark comedy to create an unforgettable cinematic experience.
  • The Hunger Games: Catching Fire
    25
    Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth
    13 votes
    The sequel to The Hunger Games further explores the dystopian world of Panem. Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence) and Peeta Mellark (Josh Hutcherson) return as victors of the 74th Hunger Games, only to be thrust back into the arena for the Quarter Quell, a special edition of the deadly competition. As they fight against new adversaries and old allies alike, elements of rebellion start to simmer in the districts. The movie won accolades for its visual effects and engrossing storyline, while marking a significant step forward in the franchise's narrative arc. The film is a potent mix of action, adventure, and political intrigue that keeps viewers on edge throughout its runtime. Despite facing an even darker reality, Katniss remains resolute in her quest for survival and justice.
  • Shaft
    26
    Samuel L. Jackson, Vanessa Williams, Jeffrey Wright
    19 votes
    Crooked cops on the take -- small-time drug lords -- sleazy informers and sadistic rich kids ready to kill --- for police detective John Shaft, its just another night in the underbelly of New York City, another shift facing down cops and criminals who want him dead and a legal system that thrives on money, not justice.
  • Big Breaks
    27

    Big Breaks

    Elizabeth Banks, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Jane Lynch
    15 votes
    Big Breaks is a 2009 comedy short film directed by David Krumholtz.
  • The Baxter
    28
    Michael Showalter, Elizabeth Banks, Michelle Williams
    17 votes
    Elliot Sherman (Michael Showalter) has had terrible luck with women during his life, losing three of them to ex-boyfriends in outlandish situations. Now, a week before he is to marry Caroline (Elizabeth Banks), she mentions an old high-school boyfriend, Bradley (Justin Theroux), and Elliot worries that the curse is about to strike again. A co-worker named Cecil (Michelle Williams) attempts to reassure him, but trying not to give in to anxiety only makes things worse.
  • Sexual Life
    29
    Eion Bailey, Elizabeth Banks, Anne Heche
    17 votes
    Love in Los Angeles takes a myriad of twists and turns with these sexually promiscuous citizens. Sarah (Elizabeth Banks) and Todd (Tom Everett Scott) are dating, but Sarah is embroiled in an affair with Josh (James LeGros). Josh is married to Gwen (Anne Heche), who learns of his infidelity and wants to sleep with a hotel clerk, David (Eion Bailey), for revenge. But David is in love with his ex-girlfriend Rosalie (Kerry Washington), who is engaged to commitment-phobe Jerry (DulƩ Hill).
  • Surrender Dorothy
    30
    Elizabeth Banks, Pete Pryor, Marion Wrenn
    18 votes
    Surrender Dorothy is an independent film by director Kevin DiNovis which won first place at the 1998 Slamdance Film Festival. The film stars Peter Pryor, Kevin DiNovis, and is the first film role for Elizabeth Banks, who appears in the credits as "Elizabeth Casey."