Ranking Rian Johnson’s Movies from Worst to Best

Rian Johnson is renowned for his diverse filmography, showcasing his directorial prowess far beyond his entry into the Star Wars universe. Each of his films, including the two Benoit Blanc mysteries, highlights his unique storytelling ability and creative vision. The critical acclaim surrounding Johnson’s work reveals a filmmaker with a consistently strong output, establishing him as one of the leading directors of our time.

Even at the bottom of his ranked movies, Johnson’s least favored work remains compelling, illustrating why he is held in such high esteem. With a filmmaking career that includes only six feature films thus far, his most recent work, Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery, has solidified his status. Throughout his journey, Johnson has demonstrated notable growth as a filmmaker, maintaining an impressive level of craftsmanship and attention to detail across all his projects.

6. The Brothers Bloom (2008)

A Globetrotting and Genre-Bending Heist Drama

The Brothers Bloom serves as a remarkable sophomore effort for Johnson, presenting an engaging narrative that stands out from conventional heist films. Following the intricate lives of siblings Bloom and Stephen, portrayed adeptly by Adrien Brody and Mark Ruffalo, this film takes viewers on a twisting, adventurous journey filled with deceptions and schemes inspired by their tumultuous upbringing.

When Bloom longs for a life outside the con artist world, Stephen ropes him into one final caper, echoing classic heist movie tropes. Although it ranks last among Johnson’s films, it embodies his signature unpredictability, intricately woven plotlines, and multifaceted character arcs. The duo’s scheme to swindle a wealthy heiress, played by Rachel Weisz, spirals into a complicated mix of love, betrayal, and deception, all beautifully captured by Johnson’s deft direction.

The film showcases a compelling ensemble cast, featuring talented actors, including Academy Award winners and rising stars, all contributing to the film’s engaging atmosphere despite its place at the bottom of Johnson’s list of works. The performances enhance The Brothers Bloom‘s nearly two-hour runtime, making it a worthwhile watch.

5. Star Wars: The Last Jedi (2017)

Rian Johnson’s Chapter of the Skywalker Saga

The Star Wars franchise is esteemed among sci-fi narratives, yet it can also pose significant creative challenges for directors. Enter Rian Johnson, who ventured into this legendary universe with The Last Jedi, a film characterized by bold storytelling decisions that inject fresh elements into the saga.

Divisive opinions often surround this installment, leading to heated discussions about Johnson’s artistic choices. Despite critiques regarding his level of creative freedom, many fans appreciate the film’s unique approach, making it a standout entry within the expansive Star Wars universe. The film’s narrative, which includes intriguing developments like Luke Skywalker’s arc from hero to mentor and a complicated dynamic between Rey and Kylo Ren, demonstrates Johnson’s ability to breathe new life into established lore.

4. Looper (2012)

The Time-Travel Thriller Starring Bruce Willis

Before conquering the Star Wars universe, Johnson impressed audiences with his original concept in Looper, a time-travel thriller featuring performances by Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Bruce Willis as two versions of the same character. Set in a future shaped by time travel, the movie explores a dark narrative where assassins known as Loopers eliminate future targets sent from the past.

The film thrives on its inventive ideas, offering a fresh take on traditional time travel tropes while balancing thrilling visuals with a poignant narrative. Notably, a gripping sequence where a character’s future self suffers due to actions from their past brilliantly encapsulates the film’s blend of creativity and suspense. Looper stands out as one of Johnson’s most original works, merging gripping storytelling with the complexities of time travel.

3. Glass Onion (2022)

The Star-Studded Return of Daniel Craig’s Benoit Blanc

Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery marks the return of Daniel Craig as detective Benoit Blanc in a sequel that expands upon the foundation established in Knives Out. Featuring an ensemble cast that includes Edward Norton, Kate Hudson, and Janelle Monáe, the film transports audiences to the picturesque backdrop of Greece, where Blanc investigates a murder involving a complex web of characters.

Following its limited release, the film significantly outperformed expectations at the box office, grossing over $13 million in its short run. While both films share similar narrative structures, some might argue that Knives Out retains a slight edge in its storytelling finesse. Nonetheless, Glass Onion’s unique twists and high-profile cameos make it a captivating addition to Johnson’s filmography, showcasing his continued growth as a filmmaker.

2. Knives Out (2019)

The Acclaimed Murder-Mystery

Emerging as a significant success in Johnson’s career, Knives Out was met with critical acclaim and commercial success, earning over $311 million against a $40 million budget (source: Box Office Mojo). Setting itself apart from traditional murder mysteries, the film reveals the identity of the murderer early on, delving into the question of whether justice will prevail.

Led by an impressive cast featuring Daniel Craig and Ana de Armas, Knives Out captivated viewers not just with its intriguing plot but also with the exceptional performances of its ensemble. As an innovative take on the genre, the film continually surprises its audience, crafting a viewing experience that engages and entertains throughout.

1. Brick (2006)

Rian Johnson’s First Film

The initial film in a director’s oeuvre often lacks the refinement found in later works. However, Johnson’s Brick defies this trope, showcasing a confident and original approach right from the start. This neo-noir thriller, set in a high school, features a young Gordon-Levitt as the lead detective, navigating a world filled with treachery and deception.

Brick remains a powerful work that cleverly combines elements of classic noir with adolescent themes, underscoring Johnson’s ability to establish a distinct voice. While the film may lack the grand scope and budget of his later projects, its raw energy and unique premise make it a standout debut that redefined a genre.

What’s Next for Rian Johnson

Anticipation mounts as fans await the next installment of Johnson’s captivating series: the sequel to Glass Onion, titled Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery, set for release in 2025 on Netflix. The film promises the return of Daniel Craig as Benoit Blanc, alongside an exciting cast, including Josh O’Connor, Glenn Close, and Mila Kunis.

While specific plot details remain under wraps, Johnson hinted at a tonal and thematic shift for this third installment, hinting at the promise of fresh narratives and twists. Such ambiguity only heightens excitement, given both Knives Out and Glass Onion excelled in delivering unexpected thrills, ensuring that audiences remain eager for what Johnson has in store.

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