Every single Michael Cera movie, ranked
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Michael Cera is known for his roles in movies like "Superbad," "Barbie," and "Juno."
Some of Cera's highest-reviewed films include "Gloria Bell" and "The Lego Batman Movie."
Other films, like "Person to Person" and "Year One" didn't rate as well with critics.
Michael Cera's lowest-rated film, according to critics, is "Year One" (2009).
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 14%
Summary: Two inept, Neanderthal hunters named Oh (Cera) and Zed (Jack Black) embark on a comical journey through history in an attempt to save their tribe.
Although there was some praise for a handful of comedic moments, "Year One" was largely criticized for its lackluster execution.
"All in all, this is a sloppy, unoriginal, brain-dead mess that can't even be bothered to get itself out of trouble," wrote Deborah Ross for The Spectator.
He starred as Bennie in "Hits" (2014).
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 35%
Summary: A small town becomes the center of chaos when the video of a disgruntled man's (Matt Walsh) outburst goes viral.
Some critics liked the movie's biting satire, but others found its tone bitter and its pacing uneven.
"Frequently funny but easy-prey satire about America's obsession with fame, displaying a small-screen sensibility that extends from its joke setups to its boxy visuals," wrote David Rooney for The Hollywood Reporter.
The actor played Remy in "How to Be a Latin Lover" (2017).
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 39%
Summary: After being dumped by his wealthy, elderly wife, a middle-aged gigolo (Eugenio Derbez) moves in with his estranged sister (Salma Hayek) to rediscover the value of family.
Some critics found the film to be enjoyable thanks to its cast's lighthearted humor, but most felt it didn't succeed in being thought-provoking.
"'How to Be a Latin Lover' feels like an attempt to tick every box on a demographic chart, and in the process of attempting to please everyone, it short changes so much," wrote Steven Prokopy for Third Coast Review.
"Person to Person" (2017) featured Cera as Phil.
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 53%
Summary: The lives of various New Yorkers intersect in a character-driven ensemble about different perspectives of the human experience.
The reviews were split between critics who enjoyed the movie's indie charm and others who criticized it for being a disjointed narrative.
"'Person to Person' does a great job in keeping its audience entertained for at least 90 minutes," wrote Linda Marric for HeyUGuys. "Just don't expect a lot more from it."
He was the voice of Hank in "Paws of Fury: The Legend of Hank" (2022).
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 54%
Summary: Hank (voiced by Cera), a street-smart dog, takes on a crime-lord feline named Ika Chu (voiced by Ricky Gervais) to protect his neighborhood.
Many critics lauded "Paws of Fury" for its unique take on the action genre, but others noted that it had too many grown-up gags.
"It's clear that the makers had an aim to make the movie stand out from typical kiddie fare, and they succeed, generally," wrote Marah Eakin for the Chicago Reader.
The star played Alex in "Lemon" (2017).
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 55%
Summary: A struggling actor's (Brett Gelman) life unravels as he faces a series of bizarre and surreal misfortunes.
Despite some critics praising "Lemon" for its offbeat humor and artistic style, others thought it was too experimental.
"I'm still banging my head against the wall trying to figure out if it's comic gold or just lives up to its title," wrote Marc Savlov for The Austin Chronicle.
He played Michael in "The End of Love" (2012).
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 59%
Summary: A young father (Mark Webber) navigates the challenges of single parenthood after the tragic loss of his wife.
Reviewers admired the movie for its emotional performances that successfully portrayed the complexities of grief and fatherhood. Other critics thought the film lacked dramatic tension.
"There is plenty of evidence that Webber has something significant to say, and the gifts with which to express himself," wrote Elizabeth Weitzman for the New York Daily News. "Once he's ready to commit fully to his own vision, there's no end to what he might accomplish."
In "Tyrel" (2018), Cera played Alan.
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 60%
Summary: Tyler's (Jason Mitchell) uncomfortable experience at a weekend getaway with one friend and a group of strangers exposes some deep realities of racial tension.
Most reviews commended the film for its tense and mostly captivating exploration of race and social dynamics.
"'Tyrel' is a tense social satire that speaks to its moment even if it ends with a fizzle instead of the cathartic gut-punch you're waiting for," wrote Chris Nashawaty for Entertainment Weekly.
The actor appeared as himself in "Paper Heart" (2009).
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 60%
Summary: This mockumentary follows a comedian (Charlyne Yi) as she travels the country exploring the nature of love and relationships.
The movie received mostly positive reviews for its quirkiness, but a handful of critics found it self-indulgent and too artificial.
"The segments featuring real people are genuinely affecting, but the realisation that everything else is probably being acted — that truth may be polluted by hoax — gives this otherwise lightweight film a sly, subversive edge," wrote Sarah Cohen for Time Out.
"Youth in Revolt" (2009) showcased Cera as Nick Twisp.
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 66%
Summary: Based on the novel by C.D. Payne, an awkward teenager named Nick Twisp (Cera) creates a suave alter ego in his quest to win over the girl of his dreams (Portia Doubleday).
The film received positive reviews for its offbeat humor and Cera's charming performance, but some critics were frustrated that it wasn't as good as the source material.
"The movie doesn't pack the same punch as the book, but still manages to create a wildly entertaining blend of teen love, awkwardness and vulgarity," wrote Perri Nemiroff for Little Miss Critical.
He played Brink in "Magic Magic" (2013).
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 68%
Summary: Alicia (Juno Temple) visits her cousin Sarah (Emily Browning) in Chile, and her sanity begins to slip away as she faces the chilling reality of being trapped with three of Sarah's friends.
Most critics liked the film's atmospheric tension, but others felt the movie lacked a cohesive plot.
"'Magic Magic''s odd denouement is a dramatic curveball that smacks the viewer square in the face," wrote Tara Brady for The Irish Times.
"A Very Murray Christmas" (2015) featured the actor as himself.
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 68%
Summary: Actor Bill Murray hosts an all-star cast in a comedic musical special during which a snowstorm disrupts his live Christmas show.
Critics applauded the film for being a delightful and nostalgic holiday treat with great musical performances.
"It doesn't make for the most entertaining holiday special, but as a quirky Christmas card from the patron saint of down-to-earth stardom, it's not half bad," wrote Eric Deggans for NPR.
Cera played 10-year-old Gordie Jr. in "Frequency" (2000).
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 70%
Summary: A miraculous radio connection enables a man (Jim Caviezel) to communicate with his deceased father (Dennis Quaid) in the past, altering their present and future lives.
Critics appreciated the movie's blend of sci-fi and family drama, with many calling it an engaging thriller.
Tony Black wrote for Cultural Conversation, "'Frequency' attempts to ground its subject matter in a level of humanity. The message is simple: you *can* go home again."
The actor voiced Matthew in "Cryptozoo" (2021).
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 71%
Summary: Animators and mythical creatures collide in a fantasy world and challenge the boundaries of reality and dreams.
Most reviewers complimented the film's animation and imaginative storytelling, but some found the narrative overly complex.
"Utterly bizarre in the best possible way, this lovingly handmade animated feature by writer-director Dash Shaw (originally a comic book/graphic novelist) isn't like anything you've seen before," wrote Leslie Felperin for The Guardian.
He played Nick in "Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist" (2008).
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 75%
Summary: A night of adventure brings Nick (Cera) and Norah (Kat Dennings) together as they search for a secret concert in New York City.
The movie was deemed a charming rom-com with a great indie soundtrack, but some critics didn't enjoy that Cera's character was similar to others he'd already played.
"It's a movie for our times and maybe a sign that despite the turbulence in the air, sweetness prevails in American Teenland," wrote Dan DiNicola for The Daily Gazette.
Cera starred as the titular character in "Scott Pilgrim vs. the World" (2010).
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 82%
Summary: Scott Pilgrim (Cera), a young slacker, must defeat his new girlfriend's (Mary Elizabeth Winstead) seven evil exes in video-game-inspired battles to win her heart.
"Scott Pilgrim vs. the World" was admired for its stylish visuals and witty humor alongside Edgar Wright's dynamic directing.
"Full of fresh, sharp touches and nonchalantly brash performances, 'Scott Pilgrim vs. the World' consistently hits the sweet spot," wrote Tom Charity for CNN.
He was the voice of Barry in "Sausage Party" (2016).
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 82%
Summary: Animated grocery-store products embark on a hilarious and raunchy adventure to discover the truth about their existence.
Reviewers generally liked the movie's unique concept, adult humor, and star-studded cast. But some felt it relied too heavily on shock value.
"From sly, not-so-sly innuendo to unfiltered climaxes, there's not a moment in this movie that isn't packed with jokes," wrote Kristen Yoonsoo Kim for Complex. "And the thing is, it works."
The actor was Player X in "Molly's Game" (2017).
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 82%
Summary: Based on a true story, the film follows former Olympic skier Molly Bloom (Jessica Chastain) as she runs an underground high-stakes poker game for Hollywood celebrities.
"Molly's Game" was admired by critics for Aaron Sorkin's well-written script and Chastain's exceptional acting.
"Its main recommendation, aside from the brilliance of Chastain, is Sorkin's ingeniously crafted screenplay," wrote Geoffrey Macnab for The Independent.
In "Entertainment" (2015), Cera played Tommy.
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 82%
Summary: A struggling comedian's (Gregg Turkington) existential journey unfolds as he performs in desolate locations across the American Southwest.
"Entertainment" was applauded by the majority of critics for its surreal and introspective approach.
"With Turkington's deft hand, 'Entertainment' methodically deconstructs the world's shallow surfaces," wrote Alexandra Heller-Nicholas for The Blue Lenses.
"This Is the End" (2013) featured the star as himself.
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 83%
Summary: When the apocalypse hits during a Hollywood party, a group of celebrities (including Cera) must confront their egos and insecurities to survive.
Reviewers enjoyed the movie's self-aware humor and the star-studded cast's hilarious performances.
"Luckily, when the jokes hit, they hit hard, and it's almost always at least entertaining," wrote Dan Simolke for Shadow and Act.
In "Crystal Fairy & the Magical Cactus" (2013), the actor played Jamie.
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 83%
Summary: An eccentric road trip with a free-spirited woman named Crystal Fairy (Gaby Hoffmann) leads to profound self-discovery for Jamie (Cera).
The film was appreciated for its exploration of drug culture and the cast's standout acting.
"It should appeal to fans of offbeat character-driven dramas," wrote Anna Smith for Metro UK. "Not to mention fans of Cera himself, who's embracing these morally ambiguous characters with gusto."
Cera produced and played Eric in "The Adults" (2023).
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 86%
Summary: In the dramedy, Eric (Cera) plans to make a trip to his hometown as short as possible, but estranged family relationships begin to unravel.
"The Adults" received predominantly positive reviews for its authentic portrayal of family dynamics and raw emotion.
"A raw, sensitive, and true look at a family in flux with too much love to give and no tools to whittle it into something useful," Steph Green wrote for IndieWire.
He starred as Evan in the hit comedy "Superbad" (2007).
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 88%
Summary: Seth (Jonah Hill) and Evan (Cera) embark on a wild night of misadventures in their quest to lose their virginities before graduating high school.
Critics overwhelmingly praised the film's raunchy humor and heartfelt coming-of-age plot.
"What makes the film so appealing is the disconnect between what comes from the mouths of these hormone-addled pups and what's going on in their heads, where they're still clinging desperately to the innocence they're leaving behind," wrote Bob Mondello for NPR.
In "Barbie" (2023), the actor played Allan.
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 89%
Summary: Barbie (Margot Robbie) goes on an adventure to the real world and discovers the truth about reality, Barbie Land, and herself.
Cera appeared in the film as the discontinued Mattel doll Allan.
Nearly all critics loved "Barbie," for its bright and imaginative sets, the cast's dedicated performances, and director Greta Gerwig's meaningful storytelling.
"It's a riotously entertaining candy-coloured feminist fable that manages simultaneously to celebrate, satirise and deconstruct its happy-plastic subject," wrote Mark Kermode for The Guardian. "Audiences will be delighted. Mattel should be ecstatic."
In "The Lego Batman Movie" (2017), Cera was the voice of Robin.
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 90%
Summary: Batman (voiced by Will Arnett) must confront his fear of family and teamwork to save Gotham City from the Joker (voiced by Zach Galifianakis) alongside his sidekick Robin (Cera).
The film received widespread acclaim for its hilarious humor, references to Batman's history, and impressive animation.
"It's a bit over-the-top and a little too pleased with its own cleverness, but there is a lot of genuine, inoffensive fun in 'The Lego Batman Movie,'" Wenlei Ma wrote for News.com.au.
Cera was Peter in "Gloria Bell" (2018).
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 91%
Summary: Middle-aged Gloria Bell (Julianne Moore) seeks joy and connection while navigating the complexities of love, family, and self-discovery in the vibrant Los Angeles music scene.
Reviewers appreciated Moore's character and the film's heartfelt exploration of a woman's search for happiness and fulfillment.
"Whether she's dealing with conflicts at work, doing laugh therapy sessions, or smoking weed on the floor of her apartment while the Californian sunlight slants through the window, this is a Bell that chimes," wrote Ed Potton for The Times.
The actor played Paulie Bleeker in "Juno" (2007), his highest-rated film.
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 94%
Summary: Witty teen Juno (Elliot Page) navigates unexpected challenges after becoming pregnant and deciding to give the baby up for adoption.
Critics were impressed by the film's sharp writing, heartfelt characters, and unique take on the coming-of-age genre. It even received several Oscar nominations and a win for best original screenplay.
"A smart yet sensitive film, more a coming-of-age drama with believable American youngsters rather than TV-perfect Beverly Hills types," Namrata Joshi wrote for Outlook.
Note: All scores were current on the date of publication and are subject to change. Films without critical ratings were not included.
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