Ranking the 15 Best Movies Starring Zoey Deutch

From romantic comedies to gripping thrillers, Zoey Deutch is swiftly making her mark in Hollywood. The talented daughter of Lea Thompson, famously known for her role in Back to the Future, and Howard Deutch, a notable John Hughes collaborator, Deutch has proven her versatility through a diverse array of roles. She has shared the spotlight with emerging talents like Glen Powell and esteemed Oscar winners such as Mark Rylance and Emma Stone.

Beginning her acting journey with a small role on The Suite Life on Deck, Zoey has since flourished in various genres. Her collaborations have included working with the acclaimed director Richard Linklater and leading one of Netflix’s most beloved rom-coms. Despite mixed reviews for some films, audience and critical reception has generally highlighted Deutch’s performances. Recently, she returned to the big screen in Clint Eastwood’s latest film, which adds another noteworthy chapter to her burgeoning career.

15 Vincent N’ Roxxy (2016)

As Kate

Zoey Deutch’s career path showcases her ability to shine in smaller roles as she transitions into more significant parts. Playing Kate in the crime thriller Vincent N’ Roxxy, Deutch stars alongside Zoë Kravitz and Kid Cudi. The film narrates the story of a rebellious girl, Roxxy, who, after encountering Vincent, a rural loner, must navigate the dangers posed by violent criminals while exploring their burgeoning romance.

Even as a supporting character in her early film debut, Deutch brings charm to her role, despite the film struggling with script flaws. The performances, especially Kravitz’s, received commendations, with Deutch standing out by injecting personality into a film that otherwise lacks relatable characters.

14 Dirty Grandpa (2016)

As Shadia

Sharing the screen with Robert De Niro is undoubtedly a career milestone, even more so when it’s in a lighthearted comedy like Dirty Grandpa. Starring alongside Zac Efron, the film follows a grandson taking his grandfather on a road trip that spirals into a whirlwind of fun, debauchery, and unexpected revelations about life after loss.

Deutch plays Shadia, who becomes the love interest of Efron’s character during their unruly adventure. While this comedy may lack the depth of De Niro’s iconic roles, it brings a refreshing perspective on the R-rated genre, showcasing De Niro in a distinctively outrageous comedic role.

13 Flower (2017)

As Erica Vandross

In her breakout lead role in Flower, Zoey Deutch plays the spirited 17-year-old Erica, who, upon discovering the trauma faced by her mother’s boyfriend’s son, embarks on a mission for justice against his abuser. This film encapsulates Deutch’s comedic prowess while revealing deeper emotional layers.

Though the film struggles to balance its dark comedy elements, Deutch’s compelling performance elevates it significantly, allowing her to shine alongside established talents such as Kathryn Hahn and Andrew Scott.

12 Before I Fall (2017)

As Samantha Kingston

Samantha leaning against a wall in Before I Fall

Adapted from the best-selling novel, Before I Fall presents a thought-provoking twist on the time-loop narrative through the eyes of Samantha Kingston, portrayed by Deutch. As a popular high school girl faced with reliving her last day, Samantha’s journey becomes one of self-reflection and understanding the impact of her actions.

Deutch’s performance received acclaim, showcasing her range beyond comedy and securing her a Teen Choice Award nomination. This film stands out as a testament to her acting versatility, offering audiences a captivating blend of young adult drama and character development.

11 Rebel In The Rye (2017)

As Oona O’Neill

In Rebel in the Rye, Zoey Deutch co-stars as Oona O’Neill alongside Nicholas Hoult’s portrayal of the complex JD Salinger. The film explores Salinger’s journey as he navigates personal trauma and literary success, culminating in the creation of the iconic Catcher in the Rye.

Although the film presents a somewhat conventional narrative, Deutch shines as Oona, contributing a soft but captivating presence to the story, contrasting well with Hoult’s intense performance.

10 Why Him? (2016)

As Stephanie Fleming

Demonstrating her comedic chops alongside seasoned actors, Deutch embraces the role of Stephanie in Why Him?. The film depicts a father’s chaotic attempts to prevent his daughter from marrying her eccentric, wealthy boyfriend, played by James Franco.

While Cranston and Franco deliver engaging performances, Deutch’s character adds depth to the family dynamic, allowing audiences to believe in the budding romance between her and Franco’s character.

9 The Year Of Spectacular Men (2017)

As Sabrina Klein

In a unique family collaboration, Deutch stars in her mother Lea Thompson’s directorial debut, The Year of Spectacular Men, alongside her sister Madelyn Deutch. The film captures the multifaceted challenges faced by graduates navigating adulthood and relationships.

Deutch’s performance as Sabrina, a successful actress, stands out as she encourages her sister’s journey of self-discovery. This coming-of-age tale combines humor and heart, showcasing Deutch’s depth as an actress.

8 Zombieland: Double Tap (2019)

As Madison

Deutch joined the ensemble cast of Zombieland: Double Tap, a sequel that continued to capture audiences with its blend of humor and horror. Playing Madison, she brings a distinctive comedic flair to the post-apocalyptic scenario, enhancing the dynamics among the characters.

Though the sequel did not quite match the brilliance of its predecessor, Deutch’s character added a refreshing perspective that contributed significantly to the narrative’s success.

7 Something From Tiffany’s (2022)

As Rachel Meyer

Among the plethora of holiday romantic comedies, Something from Tiffany’s stands out as an enchanting offering. Deutch stars as Rachel, whose romantic entanglement comically unfolds after a mistaken engagement ring mix-up leads to unexpected chemistry with Ethan, played by Kendrick Sampson.

Deutch proves her mastery in the rom-com genre, combining warmth, humor, and relatability to charm viewers. Drawing inspiration from classics while adding its own twist, the film successfully navigates romantic themes with an engaging storyline.

6 Not Okay (2022)

As Danni Sanders

Danni and Rowan in support group in Not Okay

In Not Okay, Deutch embraces bold storytelling to explore the pitfalls of modern influencer culture. Her character, Danni Sanders, fabricates a trip to France, resulting in an unexpected disaster when a terrorist incident occurs at the location she claimed to be.

Deutch’s ability to make her complex character relatable shines through, making this satirical comedy a thought-provoking commentary on authenticity and perception in the digital age.

5 Buffaloed (2019)

As Peg Dahl

Zoey Deutch poses for a mugshot in Buffaloed

Buffaloed emerges as a hidden treasure in the comedy-drama sphere on Hulu. Deutch takes center stage as Peg Dahl, a young woman entangled in debt who decides to pivot her situation by diving into the world of debt collection.

The story serves as a critique of modern economic struggles, with Deutch capturing the audience’s empathy through her humor and relatable character choices, making the film an engaging exploration of resilience and ambition.

4 The Outfit (2022)

As Mable Shaun

Zoey Deutch & Dylan O’Brien looking off screen in The Outfit

In another notable project from 2022, Deutch stars alongside Dylan O’Brien in The Outfit, a suspenseful thriller set in a tailor shop in 1956 Chicago. Playing Mabel Shaun, she delivers a magnetic performance that complements the narrative’s tension, despite the film’s modest box office return.

The film received acclaim for its tight storytelling and prestigious cast, with Deutch’s chemistry with Mark Rylance enhancing the film’s complexity and allure.

3 Juror #2 (2024)

As Ally Crewson

Zoey Deutch’s latest work in Juror #2 received attention not only for her brilliant performance but also for being one of Clint Eastwood’s recent directorial endeavors. In this gripping courtroom drama, she co-stars with Nicholas Hoult, who plays a jury member grappling with a moral dilemma sparked by shocking revelations regarding a murder case.

As Ally Crewson, Deutch enhances the tension of the narrative, bringing depth to a character that could have been easily forgotten. Her performance contributes to the film’s serious exploration of morality and personal responsibility.

2 Everybody Wants Some!! (2016)

As Beverly

The cast of Everybody Wants Some!! posing by a car

In Richard Linklater’s spiritual sequel to Dazed and Confused, Everybody Wants Some!!, Zoey Deutch plays Beverly, a compelling character among a group of college baseball players navigating their newfound independence and social dynamics in the 1980s.

Deutch’s portrayal of Beverly brings a refreshing energy to the film, showcasing her standout performance among a talented ensemble cast and maintaining the film’s engaging, lighthearted vibe.

1 Set It Up (2018)

As Harper Moore

Following their chemistry in Everybody Wants Some!!, Deutch and Glen Powell rejoin for the delightful romantic comedy Set It Up, where they play assistants striving to orchestrate a romance between their demanding bosses. As they navigate this elaborate scheme, they unexpectedly find themselves falling for each other.

In a genre that has seen a decline, Deutch and Powell’s infectious energy revitalizes the rom-com format, resulting in a film that blends humor with heartfelt moments. This film exemplifies the charm of modern comedic storytelling, appealing to fans of the genre.

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