Pete Davidson's Best Movies: A Hilarious Look
Alright guys, let's talk about Pete Davidson! This dude has exploded onto the comedy scene and Hollywood, and honestly, it's been a wild ride watching him. From his early days on SNL to starring in some seriously funny (and sometimes surprisingly deep) movies, Pete has carved out a unique space for himself. So, if you're wondering what to watch to get your Pete Davidson fix, you've come to the right place! We're diving deep into his filmography to highlight some of his absolute best performances. Get ready for some laughs, some heart, and maybe a few moments that'll make you think, "Wow, Pete's actually pretty good at this acting thing!"
The King of Staten Island: Pete's Semi-Autobiographical Masterpiece
Okay, let's kick things off with The King of Staten Island. If you're looking for a movie that truly showcases Pete Davidson's range and storytelling ability, this is it, guys. This film isn't just a Pete Davidson movie; it feels like the Pete Davidson movie. Co-written by Pete himself, along with Dave Sirus and director Judd Apatow, it draws heavily from Pete's own life experiences. We're talking about his father's death in the 9/11 attacks, his struggles with mental health, his journey through comedy, and growing up on Staten Island. Pete plays Scott Carlin, a character who's essentially a fictionalized version of himself, still living at home at 24, dealing with grief, and struggling to find his way in the world. The performance is incredibly raw and honest. You can feel the weight of his past and the vulnerability he brings to the screen. It’s a critically acclaimed film that garnered significant praise for Pete’s acting, moving beyond his stand-up and SNL persona to deliver a performance that is both deeply personal and universally relatable. The supporting cast, including Marisa Tomei as his mother and Bill Burr as his mother's new boyfriend, is also phenomenal, adding layers of humor and drama that complement Pete's central performance perfectly. Judd Apatow's direction brings out the best in Pete, creating a film that is funny, heartbreaking, and ultimately, incredibly hopeful. It’s a testament to Pete's growth as an artist, proving he’s not just a comedian but a legitimate actor capable of carrying a film with emotional depth. Watching Scott navigate his relationships, his dreams of becoming a tattoo artist, and his confrontations with his mother's new life is a compelling watch. This movie solidified Pete's status as more than just a comedic force; it showed he has the chops for serious, character-driven roles. If you haven't seen it, do yourself a favor and check it out. It’s a must-watch for anyone interested in Pete Davidson's journey and talent.
Trainwreck: Pete's Breakout Hollywood Role
Before The King of Staten Island, many of us got our first real taste of Pete Davidson on the big screen in Trainwreck. Directed by the legendary Amy Schumer and Judd Apatow, this movie was a massive hit, and Pete played a memorable supporting role that definitely turned heads. He plays Aaron, the younger brother of Amy's character, who's living a pretty unconventional life. While his character isn't as central as in The King of Staten Island, his scenes are often highlights of the film. Pete brings his signature deadpan humor and awkward charm to Aaron, making him instantly likable and hilarious. His chemistry with Amy Schumer is fantastic, and he holds his own against a cast of seasoned comedians. This was a huge moment for Pete, marking his significant breakout into mainstream Hollywood acting. Amy Schumer clearly saw something special in him, and her belief in his comedic timing and presence paid off. The film itself is a laugh-out-loud comedy about relationships, commitment issues, and finding love in unexpected places. Pete's character, Aaron, is a bit of a free spirit, and his interactions with Amy's character, who is also struggling with romantic entanglements, are some of the funniest moments. He has this natural ability to deliver lines with a comedic punch that feels effortless, even when he's playing a character who's seemingly detached. The fact that he could stand out in a film packed with comedic talent like Bill Hader, Tilda Swinton, and John Cena speaks volumes about his comedic power and star potential. Trainwreck really put Pete on the map for a wider audience, showcasing his unique brand of humor and his ability to connect with viewers. It’s a fantastic comedy that’s worth watching not just for the laughs but to see Pete Davidson in one of his earliest and most impactful film roles. It’s a great example of how his distinct personality can elevate any scene he’s in, making him an unforgettable part of the movie.
The Suicide Squad: Pete Goes Viral (and Explosive!)
Now, let's shift gears to something a bit more... explosive! The Suicide Squad, directed by James Gunn, is a wild, R-rated ride, and Pete Davidson absolutely shines as Richard Hertz, also known as the hilariously named "Plate Spinner." While not a lead role, Pete's performance is one of the most talked-about aspects of the film. His character is part of the ragtag group of supervillains assembled for a dangerous mission, and he brings a ton of energy and comedic relief to the chaos. James Gunn has a knack for finding the perfect actors for his quirky, over-the-top worlds, and Pete fits right in. His portrayal of Plate Spinner is exactly what you'd expect from a Pete Davidson character: slightly unhinged, incredibly funny, and surprisingly endearing. Even though his time on screen is limited compared to some of the other characters, he makes every second count. His interactions with the other members of the squad, particularly with John Cena's character, Peacemaker, are golden. There's a specific scene where his character meets a rather unfortunate (and graphically depicted) end, and Pete delivers his final moments with such a perfect comedic timing that it became an instant viral moment. It’s a testament to his ability to create a memorable character even with minimal screen time. The film itself is a visual spectacle, full of action, dark humor, and memorable characters. Pete’s inclusion adds another layer of comedic brilliance to an already stacked ensemble. It’s a movie that embraces absurdity and violence in equal measure, and Pete Davidson’s character is a perfect embodiment of that spirit. If you're a fan of superhero movies with a twisted sense of humor, or if you just want to see Pete Davidson kick (and then have his head, well, you know), then The Suicide Squad is a must-see. It’s a hilarious and action-packed flick that shows Pete can handle himself even in the most chaotic cinematic universes.
Big Time Adolescence: Pete as the Unlikely Mentor
In Big Time Adolescence, Pete Davidson takes on a role that’s a little different from his usual fare, playing a charming but ultimately flawed older friend who becomes a mentor to a high schooler. Pete stars as Zeke, a slacker who befriends the younger protagonist, Noah (played by Griffin Gluck), and pulls him into his wild, party-filled lifestyle. This movie offers a glimpse into Pete's ability to play characters who are both charismatic and a bit of a mess, a combination that he nails perfectly. Zeke is the kind of guy who’s still living like he’s in high school, even though he's well past that age. He’s cool, he’s fun, and he’s everything Noah wants to be. Pete Davidson’s performance here is a standout because he brings a surprisingly nuanced depth to Zeke. While Zeke is clearly irresponsible and might not be the best influence, Pete makes him incredibly likable. You understand why Noah looks up to him, and you can’t help but root for Zeke to figure his life out, even as he drags Noah down with him. The film explores themes of friendship, growing up, and the consequences of our choices. Pete’s natural comedic timing is present, but he also delivers moments of genuine heart and vulnerability. He’s not just the funny guy; he’s the guy who’s lost, and that makes the character compelling. Griffin Gluck as Noah provides a great counterpoint, and their dynamic is the core of the movie. Their friendship feels authentic, even as it veers into problematic territory. Big Time Adolescence is a coming-of-age comedy-drama that’s both funny and poignant. It’s a great showcase for Pete’s acting chops, proving he can deliver a layered performance that goes beyond just one-liners. If you're looking for a movie that's a bit more character-focused and explores the complexities of male friendships and mentorship, this one is definitely worth your time. It’s a solid entry in Pete’s filmography that highlights his versatility.
The Unforgettable (and Hilarious) Supporting Roles
Beyond his leading and prominent supporting roles, Pete Davidson has popped up in a bunch of other movies, often stealing scenes with his unique brand of humor. Even when he has limited screen time, he makes a memorable impact. Remember his cameo in Blockers? He plays a character who’s, let's just say, a bit of a wild card, and he brings a hilarious energy that perfectly fits the raunchy comedy. His brief appearances often serve to inject a dose of unexpected comedy, leaving audiences wanting more. Then there’s Set It Up, a charming romantic comedy on Netflix, where Pete has a supporting role as a quirky office assistant. He doesn't have a ton of screen time, but the moments he’s in are pure gold. His dialogue delivery and comedic timing are on point, adding a unique flavor to the film. He’s the kind of actor who can make even a small part feel significant. Another notable mention is his voice work in The Angry Birds Movie 2, where he voiced the character of Ice Bird. While animation isn't his usual medium, it's fun to hear his distinctive voice in a family-friendly context. These smaller roles might not get the same buzz as his lead performances, but they are crucial in showcasing his versatility and his ability to adapt his comedic style to different genres and projects. These cameos and supporting roles demonstrate that Pete is more than capable of elevating any film he’s a part of, no matter the size of his character’s footprint. He has a knack for delivering memorable lines and creating instantly iconic moments. So, even if you’re just scrolling through Netflix and see his name in the credits for a minor role, it’s often a good indicator that there will be some solid comedic moments ahead. Keep an eye out for these gems; they’re proof that Pete Davidson is a comedic force to be reckoned with across the board.
What's Next for Pete?
Looking ahead, the future for Pete Davidson in Hollywood seems incredibly bright. He's already proven his capabilities as a leading man in films like The King of Staten Island, and his supporting roles continue to impress. With his unique voice, comedic talent, and growing dramatic range, it's clear that he's going to be around for a long time. We can expect more diverse roles, more collaborations with top directors, and undoubtedly, more laughs. Whether he's starring in comedies, dramas, or even diving into the superhero world again, Pete Davidson is an artist who continues to evolve. His journey from SNL to movie star is a testament to his hard work, talent, and undeniable charisma. So, stay tuned, guys – the best of Pete Davidson's movie career might just be yet to come! His willingness to take on challenging and personal projects, alongside his ability to deliver in broader comedic roles, sets him up for continued success. We're all excited to see what he does next!
