Ranking Every Movie and TV Show Directed by Patty Jenkins

Over the last two decades, Patty Jenkins has established herself as one of Hollywood’s most intriguing filmmakers. Her debut feature, Monster, not only marked a stunning entry into the film industry but also earned Charlize Theron an Academy Award for Best Actress. Jenkins dedicated the subsequent years to directing acclaimed television shows, although it took her a striking 14 years to release her next film, the groundbreaking 2017 hit Wonder Woman. This movie not only captivated audiences but also solidified Jenkins’ status in Hollywood, earning her a spot at #7 on Time Magazine’s Person of the Year list.

Following her success, Jenkins helmed the sequel, Wonder Woman 1984, which suffered from the unfortunate timing of its release amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Jenkins has been tirelessly working to launch her upcoming Star Wars film, Rogue Squadron, and has recently joined a new LEGO project with Universal. Always an advocate for women’s rights in the film industry, Patty Jenkins embodies resilience, strength, and an unwavering vision, qualities echoed in the diverse characters she portrays on screen.

9 Betrayal (2013)

Jenkins Directed The Pilot Episode of This ABC Drama

A man and a woman about to kiss in the window of a train in Betrayal

Patty Jenkins made her mark in television by directing the pilot episode of the ABC series Betrayal, which premiered on September 29, 2013. This short-lived show, centered around a passionate affair between Sara (Hannah Ware) and Jack (Stuart Townsend), adds layers of complexity as it intertwines with a murder trial involving Sara’s husband, Drew (Chris Johnson).

While Jenkins infused a stylish visual approach into the pilot, allowing the cast to shine, it is not surprising that Betrayal did not endure. The series felt somewhat derivative of other contemporary hits like Revenge and Scandal. Moreover, its relatively tame treatment of the subject matter might have found a better home on a cable network, where it could have explored its steamy concepts more provocatively.

8 Five (2011)

Jenkins Directed The Short Film “Pearl”for This Anthology

In 2011, Jenkins directed a poignant short film titled “Pearl”as part of the Five anthology for the Lifetime Network. Each segment within this project tackles the profound impact of breast cancer, featuring contributions from prominent directors like Jennifer Aniston and Demi Moore. The anthology’s success led to a follow-up release in 2013.

Jenkins’ segment tells the harrowing story of an oncologist (Jeanne Tripplehorn), who grapples with her own breast cancer diagnosis while reflecting on her experiences treating patients. The narrative was inspired by Laura Ziskin, a producer who lost her battle with breast cancer in 2011. The film features a stellar cast, including Bob Newhart and Jeffrey Tambor, making “Pearl”a must-see, tenderly crafted exploration of a pressing issue.

7 I Am The Night (2019)

Jenkins Directed the First Two Episodes of This TNT Limited Series

Chris Pine as Jay Singletary standing in front of paintings looking nervous in I Am the Night

Patty Jenkins directed the first two episodes of the TNT limited series I Am The Night, created by her husband, Sam Sheridan. Reuniting with Chris Pine, who previously starred in her Wonder Woman films, the series is set in 1965 Los Angeles, where Pine portrays Jay Singletary, a disgraced journalist who aids an adopted girl in uncovering her dark family history potentially linked to the Black Dahlia murders.

Pine delivers a compelling performance, embodying the damaged hero trope of classic noir. Jenkins effectively captures the essence of 1960s Los Angeles, creating a visually rich narrative that comes alive through stunning cinematography and authentic landmarks. Although at times convoluted, I Am The Night remains captivating for fans of period dramas and true crime.

6 Wonder Woman 1984 (2020)

Jenkins’ Sequel to the Massive Blockbuster Didn’t Live Up to Expectations

Gal Gadot at the mall in Wonder Woman 1984

Following the monumental success of 2017’s Wonder Woman, Jenkins’ sequel, Wonder Woman 1984, faced an uphill battle. The original film was not only a critical darling but generated over $800 million globally. Released on Christmas Day 2020, Wonder Woman 1984 struggled against tough criticism and mixed fan reactions.

Shifting from the World War I backdrop to the brightly colored 1980s, the film follows Diana Prince (Gal Gadot) as she encounters the Dreamstone, an artifact that grants wishes, leading to her controversial resurrection of Steve Trevor (Chris Pine). As she faces formidable foes like Maxwell Lord (Pedro Pascal) and Cheetah (Kristen Wiig), the film becomes bogged down by an ambitious plot structure.

Despite its criticisms, which often focused on excessive narrative threads, Gadot’s performance remains a standout. There are enjoyable moments and inventive scenes, yet the drawbacks, particularly in visual effects for Cheetah, challenge the film’s overall reception. Had it premiered solely in theaters, the film might have garnered a different response, though audience expectations would still likely lead to polarization.

5 Entourage (2004-2011)

Season 3, Episode 5 “Crash and Burn”& Episode 8 “The Release”

Entourage group with Ari, Vince, Turtle, Eric and Drama walking on a set

Though some critics argue that HBO’s Entourage hasn’t aged particularly well, its impact on the cultural landscape remains undisputed. The series follows the escapades of movie star Vincent Chase (Adrian Grenier) as he navigates Hollywood alongside his three friends and agent Ari Gold (Jeremy Piven). Its popularity both with audiences and critics solidified its status as a cultural phenomenon.

Patty Jenkins’ involvement in directing select episodes might seem unexpected, given her previous work on Monster. However, her episodes, specifically “Crash and Burn”and “The Release,”bring infectious energy and cinematic flair to the series. In the former, Vince grapples with conflicting production schedules for upcoming films, while Ari navigates a hilarious personal subplot involving his daughter.

In “The Release,”audiences witness Vince and filmmaker Billy Walsh’s battle against a more commercial cut of their film, while Drama gets memorable plotlines through a real-life cameo from director Edward Burns. Despite these episodes being less prominent than Jenkins’ more notable works, they remain fan favorites throughout the series.

4 The Killing (2011-2014)

Season 1, Episode 1 “Pilot”& Season 2, Episode 13 “What I Know”

Mireille Enos and Joel Kinnaman looking in the truck of a car in The Killing

AMC became the go-to channel for groundbreaking scripted programming in the early 2000s, and in 2011, it launched the suspenseful murder mystery The Killing. Patty Jenkins directed the compelling pilot and returned for the season 2 finale, helping to establish a unique tone and style for the series. Although it may not have achieved the level of cultural significance as other AMC titans, it maintained a respectable four-season run.

The narrative follows Seattle detectives Sarah Linden (Mireille Enos) and Stephen Holder (Joel Kinnaman) as they work to solve the murder of teenager Rosie Larsen. The series is often likened to Twin Peaks due to its atmospheric storytelling and character dynamics. Jenkins masterfully captures Seattle’s moody ambiance, making it a significant character in the tale.

Her expertise shines through in the pilot, where she delivers a captivating visual style complemented by powerful performances from the lead actors. Jenkins’ return for season 2’s finale brought the long-awaited resolution of Rosie’s murder—an ending that, while satisfying for some, left many viewers frustrated after the delayed reveal.

3 Arrested Development (2003-2019)

Season 2, Episode 2 “The One Where They Build a House”

Tobias Funke (David Cross) covered in blue dye talking to Michael Bluth (Jason Bateman) on Arrested Development

One of the defining sitcoms of the 2000s, Arrested Development is celebrated for its inventive structure, rapid-fire humor, and a stellar ensemble cast. Patty Jenkins directed season 2, episode 2, titled “The One Where They Build a House,”showcasing her versatility amidst a predominantly dramatic body of work. This episode is packed with riotous gags and showcases the Bluth family’s wonderful chaos.

The storytelling in this episode is a whirlwind, featuring multiple plotlines that intersect comically. As Michael and Gob attempt to construct a model home for a board meeting, Buster deals with family dynamics, and Lindsay and Tobias’ open marriage takes a competitive turn. Jenkins balances these narratives brilliantly, delivering laughter while introducing memorable characters and moments.

Jenkins’ ability to weave humor into tightly knit storylines forecasts great potential for her in comedy, a genre she might explore more in the future. The episode introduces memorable gags that resonate with fans, affirming Jenkins’ skill at directing comedy within a complex narrative framework.

2 Wonder Woman (2017)

Jenkins’ Superhero Epic Revitalized the DCEU and Became a Cultural Phenomenon

Wonder Woman during WWI in 2017's Wonder Woman

Before its release, skepticism surrounded Jenkins’ Wonder Woman, as many fans doubted it could honor the legacy of the iconic character. Previous DC films like Man of Steel and Batman V. Superman: Dawn of Justice had drawn mixed reviews, making the expectations for Wonder Woman all the more daunting. Yet, Jenkins rose to the challenge, crafting one of the most thrilling and heartfelt superhero films to date.

The storyline follows Diana, the Amazonian princess, as she encounters a young WWI pilot after his crash on her island. Through a captivating blend of war drama, romance, and fantasy elements, Jenkins creates a narrative that resonates with a diverse audience. Jenkins’s skillful direction, combined with Gal Gadot’s outstanding performance, brings together all the film’s components into an engaging and memorable cinematic experience.

1 Monster (2003)

Jenkins Makes a Stunning Debut with This Oscar-Winning Serial Killer Thriller

Charlize Theron as Aileen Wuoronos smoking a cigarette in Monster

In 2003, Patty Jenkins made a powerful directorial debut with Monster, a film that remains her crowning achievement. Charlize Theron’s transformative performance as Aileen Wuornos, a sex worker who murdered several clients, earned her an Academy Award, cementing the film’s artistic success. Roger Ebert praised Theron’s portrayal as “one of the greatest performances in the history of cinema.”Notably, the film grossed $58.5 million on an $8 million budget, underscoring its wide-reaching impact.

What sets Monster apart in the serial killer genre is its commitment to humanizing Aileen Wuornos. Rather than sensationalizing her actions, the film thoughtfully explores the factors that led to her crimes. The narrative is enriched by the tender romance between Aileen and Selby Hall (Christina Ricci), which provides a nuanced contrast to the film’s darker themes.

Jenkins took a significant risk by casting Theron, who had yet to showcase her full range of talent in previous roles. Theron’s mesmerizing transformation and Jenkins’ deft handling of complex material elevate Monster into an iconic film, establishing both filmmaker and actress as forces to be reckoned with in the industry.

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