Every James Gunn Movie, Ranked from Worst to Best

James Gunn has carved out a unique space in Hollywood, blending humor, heart, and horror across a diverse filmography. From his early days as a screenwriter to his current role as co-CEO of DC Studios, Gunn’s work spans family-friendly adventures, gritty horror, and blockbuster superhero epics.

His films often carry a signature mix of quirky characters, emotional depth, and bold creative choices, making him a standout voice in modern cinema. This article dives into all of his movies, exploring what makes each one tick and why they resonate with audiences.

Scooby-Doo 2: Monsters Unleashed (2004)

Gunn wrote the screenplay for ‘Scooby-Doo 2: Monsters Unleashed’, a sequel that sees Mystery Inc. tackling a monster-filled plot in Coolsville. The film brings back the beloved cast—Freddie Prinze Jr., Sarah Michelle Gellar, Matthew Lillard, and Linda Cardellini—facing off against iconic cartoon creatures brought to life with CGI and practical effects.

Despite the fun of seeing Shaggy and Scooby tangle with classic villains, the movie struggles with a weaker story compared to its predecessor. It leans heavily on nostalgia but lacks the sharp wit Gunn later honed, making it a light but forgettable entry in his catalog.

Scooby-Doo (2002)

Gunn’s first major Hollywood screenplay, ‘Scooby-Doo’, follows the Mystery Inc. gang as they reunite to investigate spooky happenings at a tropical resort. The cast, including Rowan Atkinson as a shady resort owner, delivers a playful take on the classic cartoon, with Matthew Lillard’s Shaggy stealing the show.

The film aims to balance kid-friendly humor with adult-oriented gags, like Shaggy’s crush on a character named Mary Jane. While it became a box office hit, grossing over $180 million, the toned-down script—due to studio tweaks—misses some of Gunn’s bolder edge, leaving it a fun but uneven debut.

The Suicide Squad (2021)

Gunn wrote and directed ‘The Suicide Squad’, a bold reimagining of DC’s villain team-up, starring Margot Robbie, Idris Elba, John Cena, and Viola Davis. The R-rated action-comedy sends the squad to Corto Maltese to stop a world-threatening experiment, packed with gory humor and chaotic energy.

The film shines with standout performances, especially Robbie’s Harley Quinn, and Gunn’s knack for quirky characters like Polka-Dot Man. Despite critical praise, its $171 million box office was hampered by a pandemic-era release and HBO Max streaming, making it a strong but underseen gem.

The Belko Experiment (2016)

Gunn wrote and produced ‘The Belko Experiment’, a horror-thriller directed by Greg McLean about office workers in Bogotá trapped in a deadly game. Starring John Gallagher Jr. and Tony Goldwyn, the film pits employees against each other in a brutal fight for survival.

The concept, born from a dream Gunn had, blends dark comedy with intense drama, but the tonal mix doesn’t always land. It grossed just $11 million, yet its unique premise and shocking moments make it a compelling, if flawed, addition to Gunn’s work.

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 (2023)

Gunn’s final chapter in his Marvel trilogy, ‘Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3’, sees Chris Pratt’s Star-Lord and team facing their toughest mission yet. The film dives deep into Rocket’s backstory, delivering emotional weight alongside the usual humor and action.

Despite production delays and Marvel’s shifting narrative after ‘Avengers: Endgame’, Gunn crafts a bittersweet send-off. The visuals, music, and character arcs shine, though some find it less balanced than earlier entries, making it a heartfelt but slightly heavier sequel.

Super (2010)

Gunn wrote and directed ‘Super’, a dark comedy starring Rainn Wilson as Frank, a cook who becomes the Crimson Bolt after his wife (Liv Tyler) leaves him. With no powers, Frank wields a wrench to fight crime, joined by Ellen Page’s chaotic sidekick, Boltie.

The film’s gritty take on superheroes, blending humor with shocking violence, feels ahead of its time. Though it didn’t hit big at the box office, its cult following appreciates Gunn’s raw, unpolished exploration of vigilantism and flawed heroes.

Slither (2006)

Gunn’s directorial debut, ‘Slither’, is a horror-comedy about a small town invaded by alien parasites. Starring Nathan Fillion, Elizabeth Banks, and Michael Rooker, it mixes gross-out scares with witty dialogue, setting the stage for Gunn’s later style.

Despite bombing at the box office with $12.8 million against a $15 million budget, the film’s cult status has grown. Its blend of body horror and humor, plus early Gunn collaborator chemistry, makes it a standout low-budget gem.

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 (2017)

‘Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2’ builds on the first film’s success, with Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldaña, and Dave Bautista returning as the cosmic misfits. The story explores Peter Quill’s origins, introducing Kurt Russell as Ego, his celestial father.

The sequel’s emotional core, focusing on found family and Yondu’s bond with Quill, resonates deeply. While some find it overstuffed, its vibrant visuals, killer soundtrack, and heartfelt moments make it a near-perfect follow-up, grossing nearly $864 million worldwide.

Dawn of the Dead (2004)

Gunn penned the screenplay for Zack Snyder’s ‘Dawn of the Dead’ remake, a zombie thriller starring Sarah Polley and Ving Rhames. Survivors hole up in a mall as a zombie apocalypse rages, delivering intense action and human drama.

Grossing over $100 million, the film became a horror hit, praised for its fast-paced scares and emotional depth. Gunn’s script lays the groundwork for his knack for blending heart with chaos, making it a pivotal early work in his career.

Brightburn (2019)

Gunn produced ‘Brightburn’, a superhero-horror film written by his brother Brian and cousin Mark. It follows a couple (Elizabeth Banks and David Denman) raising an alien child who develops powers but turns sinister, flipping the Superman mythos.

The film’s chilling premise and $32.9 million box office show its appeal, though it lacks Gunn’s directorial warmth. Its bold take on a dark superhero story makes it a gripping, if unsettling, entry in his filmography.

Guardians of the Galaxy (2014)

Gunn’s breakout hit, ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’, introduced the MCU’s ragtag space team—Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldaña, Dave Bautista, Bradley Cooper, and Vin Diesel. Peter Quill’s quest for an Infinity Stone sparks a cosmic adventure filled with humor and heart.

Grossing over $770 million and earning critical acclaim, the film’s perfect mix of wit, action, and a retro soundtrack redefined superhero movies. Gunn’s ability to make obscure characters beloved cements this as his finest work.

Which James Gunn movie tops your list, or is there another project of his you love? Drop your thoughts in the comments!