Zac Efron has come a long way since his breakout role in High School Musical, proving himself to be a versatile actor capable of tackling a wide variety of roles. From musicals and comedies to thrillers and biographical dramas, Efron has established a successful career in Hollywood. In this blog, we’ll explore the 10 best Zac Efron movies, showcasing his transformation from a Disney star to a dynamic actor.
1. High School Musical (2006)
Description: The iconic Disney movie that made Zac Efron a household name.
Overview and Features
Directed by Kenny Ortega, "High School Musical" is the film that launched Zac Efron into stardom. Efron plays Troy Bolton, a high school basketball star who unexpectedly discovers his love for singing when he meets Gabriella (Vanessa Hudgens), a shy new student. Together, they audition for the school musical, challenging the status quo and inspiring their classmates to break free from stereotypes.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"High School Musical" became a global sensation, and Efron’s portrayal of Troy Bolton solidified his status as a teen idol. The film’s catchy songs, feel-good storyline, and energetic choreography make it a timeless favorite for fans of musicals. For many, this is the movie that introduced Zac Efron’s talent for both acting and singing.
Unique Description: Iconic Disney movie that launched Zac Efron’s career.
IMDb Score: 5.5
2. 17 Again (2009)
Description: A hilarious comedy about a man who gets a second chance at high school life.
Overview and Features
Directed by Burr Steers, "17 Again" stars Zac Efron as the younger version of Mike O’Donnell, a man who, after a life full of regrets, magically transforms back into his 17-year-old self. With his newfound youth, Mike (played by Efron) enrolls in high school and navigates the challenges of teenage life while trying to repair his fractured relationship with his family.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"17 Again" is a fun, heartwarming comedy that allows Efron to shine both as a comedic actor and a charismatic leading man. His ability to portray the emotional depth of an adult trapped in a teenager’s body, while still bringing humor to the role, makes this film a standout in his career.
Unique Description: A funny and heartfelt movie about second chances.
IMDb Score: 6.3
3. The Greatest Showman (2017)
Description: A visually stunning musical about the rise of P.T. Barnum and his circus.
Overview and Features
Directed by Michael Gracey, "The Greatest Showman" is a musical drama that tells the story of P.T. Barnum (Hugh Jackman) and the creation of his world-famous circus. Zac Efron plays Phillip Carlyle, a playwright who becomes Barnum’s business partner. The film showcases stunning musical numbers, dazzling performances, and the rise of the iconic circus.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"The Greatest Showman" is one of the most visually stunning musicals in recent years, with show-stopping musical performances. Efron’s portrayal of Phillip Carlyle, particularly his chemistry with Zendaya’s character, adds depth to the film. His singing and dancing talents shine through in the movie’s standout number, "The Other Side."
Unique Description: A visually stunning musical with dazzling performances and music.
IMDb Score: 7.5
4. Neighbors (2014)
Description: A raucous comedy about a family’s battle with a rowdy fraternity next door.
Overview and Features
Directed by Nicholas Stoller, "Neighbors" is a hilarious comedy where Zac Efron plays Teddy Sanders, the president of a college fraternity that moves in next door to a couple with a newborn baby (played by Seth Rogen and Rose Byrne). The escalating feud between the couple and the fraternity leads to a series of outrageous pranks and comedic situations.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"Neighbors" showcases Efron’s comedic chops and his ability to play a more adult, edgy role. His portrayal of the wild and charismatic frat boy Teddy Sanders is both hilarious and memorable. The chemistry between Efron, Rogen, and Byrne makes for a wildly entertaining film that delivers plenty of laughs.
Unique Description: A raucous comedy about a fraternity and their feuding neighbors.
IMDb Score: 6.3
5. Charlie St. Cloud (2010)
Description: A touching drama about grief, love, and letting go.
Overview and Features
Directed by Burr Steers, "Charlie St. Cloud" is a supernatural drama that centers around Charlie (Zac Efron), a young man grieving the loss of his younger brother Sam (Charlie Tahan) after a tragic car accident. Charlie, who was once a talented sailor, now works as a cemetery caretaker and spends his days talking to the ghost of his brother. When a young woman named Tess (Amanda Crew) enters his life, Charlie must confront his grief and decide whether to move forward.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"Charlie St. Cloud" is a heartfelt film that showcases Efron’s ability to tackle emotional and dramatic roles. His performance as a young man grappling with loss and guilt is deeply touching, making it one of his more serious and reflective films.
Unique Description: A heartwarming drama about love, grief, and letting go.
IMDb Score: 6.4
6. Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile (2019)
Description: A chilling biographical drama about serial killer Ted Bundy.
Overview and Features
Directed by Joe Berlinger, "Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile" stars Zac Efron as Ted Bundy, the infamous serial killer whose charm and good looks masked his horrific crimes. The film is told through the perspective of Bundy’s longtime girlfriend, Elizabeth Kloepfer (Lily Collins), who struggles to reconcile the man she loves with the monstrous crimes he is accused of committing.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
This film marks a significant departure from Efron’s usual roles, allowing him to portray a character with disturbing complexity. His portrayal of Ted Bundy is chilling, capturing both Bundy’s charm and his dark, manipulative nature. Efron’s ability to bring depth to such a complex character makes this one of his most critically acclaimed performances.
Unique Description: A chilling biographical drama about the infamous Ted Bundy.
IMDb Score: 6.7
7. Hairspray (2007)
Description: A vibrant musical about acceptance, integration, and 1960s pop culture.
Overview and Features
Directed by Adam Shankman, "Hairspray" is a musical adaptation of the Broadway hit, set in 1960s Baltimore. Zac Efron plays Link Larkin, the heartthrob star of a local TV dance show, where Tracy Turnblad (Nikki Blonsky), a plus-size teenager with dreams of stardom, fights for her place on the show while advocating for racial integration.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"Hairspray" is a fun, energetic musical that celebrates diversity and acceptance. Efron’s performance as Link Larkin showcases his charm and singing abilities, making him the perfect fit for this lighthearted and colorful film. His chemistry with the cast and involvement in musical numbers makes "Hairspray" a must-watch for fans of musicals.
Unique Description: A fun, energetic musical celebrating diversity and 1960s culture.
IMDb Score: 6.7
8. Baywatch (2017)
Description: A comedy reboot about lifeguards who take down a drug operation.
Overview and Features
Directed by Seth Gordon, "Baywatch" is a comedic reboot of the classic TV series. Zac Efron stars as Matt Brody, a disgraced Olympic swimmer who joins the Baywatch lifeguard team, led by Mitch Buchannon (Dwayne Johnson). Together, the team uncovers a drug smuggling operation, leading to a series of over-the-top action sequences and comedic hijinks.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"Baywatch" is a fun, action-packed comedy that doesn’t take itself too seriously. Efron’s portrayal of the cocky yet likable Matt Brody adds to the film’s comedic tone, and his on-screen chemistry with Dwayne Johnson makes for some hilarious moments. Fans of action comedies and beach-set adventures will enjoy this lighthearted reboot.
Unique Description: An action-packed comedy about lifeguards uncovering a drug ring.
IMDb Score: 5.5
9. We Are Your Friends (2015)
Description: A coming-of-age drama about a young DJ chasing his dreams.
Overview and Features
Directed by Max Joseph, "We Are Your Friends" stars Zac Efron as Cole Carter, an aspiring DJ trying to make it big in the electronic dance music scene. As Cole navigates the highs and lows of the music industry, he must balance his friendships, his career ambitions, and a complicated romance with the girlfriend of his mentor.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"We Are Your Friends" offers a glimpse into the world of electronic dance music and the struggles of a young artist chasing his dreams. Efron’s performance as Cole is earnest and relatable, capturing the passion and drive of a young DJ trying to find his place in the world. The film’s vibrant soundtrack and energetic pacing make it a must-watch for music lovers.
Unique Description: A coming-of-age drama about a DJ chasing his dreams.
IMDb Score: 6.2
10. The Lucky One (2012)
Description: A romantic drama about a Marine’s search for a woman in a photograph.
Overview and Features
Directed by Scott Hicks, "The Lucky One" is a romantic drama based on the novel by Nicholas Sparks. Zac Efron plays Logan Thibault, a Marine who returns home from war with a photograph of a woman he believes brought him luck during his time in combat. Determined to find her, Logan tracks down Beth (Taylor Schilling) and slowly becomes a part of her life, even as he struggles with the emotional scars of war.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"The Lucky One" is a heartfelt romantic drama that showcases Efron’s ability to take on more mature, dramatic roles. His portrayal of Logan is both tender and stoic, making the character’s journey of love and healing all the more poignant. Fans of Nicholas Sparks adaptations and heartfelt romance films will find this one particularly moving.
Unique Description: A romantic drama about love, fate, and second chances.
IMDb Score: 6.4
FAQs
1. What are some of the best Zac Efron movies?
Some of the best Zac Efron movies include High School Musical, The Greatest Showman, 17 Again, and Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile.
2. What is Zac Efron’s most iconic role?
Zac Efron’s breakout role as Troy Bolton in High School Musical is his most iconic, launching him to international stardom.
3. Has Zac Efron starred in any serious dramatic films?
Yes, Zac Efron delivered a chilling performance as serial killer Ted Bundy in Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile (2019), showcasing his dramatic range.
4. What Zac Efron movie is best for musical fans?
The Greatest Showman is a must-watch for musical fans, featuring Zac Efron in a starring role with plenty of singing and dancing.
5. What is Zac Efron’s best comedy film?
Neighbors (2014) is one of Zac Efron’s best comedies, where he plays a wild fraternity president in a hilarious feud with his neighbors.
Zac Efron’s filmography reflects his incredible range as an actor, from his early days as a Disney star to his evolution into more serious and mature roles. Whether you’re a fan of romantic comedies, action-packed adventures, or heartfelt dramas, the 10 best Zac Efron movies listed here showcase his versatility and growth in Hollywood. With each film, Efron proves he’s more than just a teen idol—he’s a dynamic actor with an impressive range.
