15 Dwayne Johnson Movies That Made Him a Global Superstar, Ranked by IMDb

15 Dwayne Johnson Movies That Made Him a Global Superstar, Ranked by IMDb

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson went from WWE wrestling champion to one of Hollywood’s biggest stars. His journey shows how hard work, charm, and choosing the right roles can turn someone into a worldwide icon. From action-packed blockbusters to hilarious comedies and heartwarming family films, Johnson has proven he can do it all, winning fans across every age group and becoming one of the most bankable actors in cinema history. This IMDb-based rating highlights just how much his talent and charisma have resonated with audiences around the globe.

15. Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw (2019) — 6.4

Johnson teams up with Jason Statham for a spin-off that’s pure action escapism. Explosions, one-liners, and over-the-top heroics make it an adrenaline-fueled joyride that doesn’t take itself too seriously while delivering spectacular entertainment.

The film finally gives Hobbs his own story, exploring his Samoan heritage and family connections. Johnson’s pride in showcasing his culture shines through, adding unexpected emotional depth to the non-stop action and witty banter.

The chemistry between Johnson and Statham crackles with competitive energy and reluctant respect. Their constant insults and one-upmanship create comedy gold, proving this unlikely duo deserved their own franchise beyond Fast & Furious.

14. Get Smart (2008) — 6.5

Johnson brings effortless comedic flair as a secret agent with swagger and a few surprises up his sleeve. His supporting role adds a fun edge to this sharp spy spoof that reimagines the classic television series for modern audiences.

Playing Agent 23, Johnson portrays the agency’s top operative—confident, capable, and impossibly cool. But the movie cleverly subverts expectations, showing there’s more to his character than meets the eye initially.

His scenes with Steve Carell highlight his ability to play the straight man in comedy while still getting laughs. Get Smart proved Johnson could elevate ensemble comedies without overshadowing the lead, demonstrating true professional versatility.

13. Jungle Cruise (2021) — 6.5

A classic-style adventure bursting with humor, chemistry, and heart. Johnson and Emily Blunt’s playful dynamic anchors this fantasy romp inspired by the Disneyland ride, creating a throwback to old-school adventure films with modern sensibilities.

Johnson plays Frank Wolff, a wisecracking skipper with secrets and terrible puns. His chemistry with Blunt feels genuine and fun, making their banter as entertaining as the action sequences and supernatural mysteries.

The movie celebrates the spirit of exploration while delivering family-friendly thrills. Released during challenging times, Jungle Cruise provided the escapism audiences craved, proving Johnson’s continued box-office dominance even during a pandemic.

12. The Rundown (2003) — 6.6

An underrated action-comedy gem from Johnson’s early career, mixing jungle adventure with razor-sharp humor. It’s where audiences first saw the blend of toughness and charm that defines his career and would make him a household name.

Johnson plays Beck, a bounty hunter sent to the Amazon to retrieve his boss’s son. The film showcases his natural athleticism and comedic instincts, proving he had leading-man potential beyond wrestling fame.

Arnold Schwarzenegger even makes a cameo, symbolically passing the action-hero torch to Johnson. Though it didn’t dominate the box office initially, The Rundown has become a cult classic that fans still discover and love.

11. Fast & Furious 8: The Fate of the Furious (2017) — 6.6

Bigger stunts and colder villains keep this installment intense, but it’s Johnson’s banter and rivalry with Jason Statham that injects humor and swagger into the chaos. Their evolving relationship from enemies to reluctant allies creates some of the franchise’s best moments.

The prison riot scene where Hobbs and Deckard Shaw fight side-by-side is absolutely epic. Johnson’s physicality combined with Statham’s precision makes for incredible action choreography that fans rewatched repeatedly.

Though tensions behind the scenes made headlines, Johnson’s on-screen presence remained powerful. His ability to command attention in a crowded ensemble cast proved why he deserved his own spin-off movie.

10. Jumanji: The Next Level (2019) — 6.6

Johnson once again flexes his comedic range, this time hilariously channeling Danny DeVito’s personality. The adventure gets wilder, funnier, and somehow even more endearing as the characters swap avatars and personalities in unexpected ways.

Watching Johnson imitate DeVito’s voice, mannerisms, and grumpy old-man energy is absolutely hilarious. He nails every detail, from the Brooklyn accent to the complaining about his back and knees hurting constantly.

The sequel takes everything that worked in the first film and cranks it up. Johnson proves he’s not just a one-trick pony, delivering a completely different performance that showcases his impressive versatility and commitment.

9. The Other Guys (2010) — 6.7

Johnson’s brief yet unforgettable turn as an overconfident action cop alongside Samuel L. Jackson opens the film with outrageous laughs. Their “aim for the bushes” moment is pure comedy gold that viewers still quote and reference years later.

Playing Detectives Danson and Highsmith, Johnson and Jackson portray the ultimate alpha cops who can do no wrong—until they spectacularly can. Their sudden, absurd exit sets the comedic tone for the entire movie.

Though Johnson appears for only minutes, his impact is massive. This cameo proved he could nail comedy timing and wasn’t afraid to mock his own tough-guy image, expanding his Hollywood range significantly.

8. DC League of Super-Pets (2022) — 6.9

As Krypto the Superdog, Johnson delivers warmth and wit in this animated superhero romp. It’s a surprisingly touching story about loyalty, friendship, and courage—both human and canine—that entertains kids while sneaking in lessons about teamwork.

Johnson voices Superman’s best friend, a powerful pup who must learn to work with other shelter animals to save the Justice League. His vocal performance captures both the dog’s confidence and vulnerability perfectly.

The movie balances silly humor with genuine emotion, and Johnson’s natural charisma translates beautifully to animation. Families loved this feel-good adventure that celebrates the bond between pets and their owners.

7. Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle (2017) — 6.9

This clever reimagining of the ’90s classic lets Johnson’s comedic timing shine as he portrays a shy teen trapped in a superhero’s body. The result is hilarious, heartfelt, and wildly entertaining, proving he’s equally skilled at comedy as action.

Johnson plays Dr. Smolder Bravestone, but he’s really playing a nerdy kid named Spencer. Watching this muscular hero act insecure and awkward creates comedy gold that had audiences laughing throughout the entire film.

His chemistry with Kevin Hart, Jack Black, and Karen Gillan makes the adventure feel genuine. The movie became a surprise mega-hit, earning nearly a billion dollars worldwide.

6. Gridiron Gang (2006) — 7.0

A powerful underdog story featuring Johnson as a juvenile detention center coach who uses football to teach discipline and hope. It’s one of his most emotionally resonant performances, showing his dramatic acting chops beyond muscles and stunts.

Johnson plays Sean Porter, a counselor who believes these kids deserve a second chance. The film tackles real issues like gang violence, poverty, and broken families with sensitivity and respect.

Watching Johnson inspire troubled teens to believe in themselves hits differently than his usual action roles. His sincerity and passion make every motivational speech feel earned, not cheesy, creating a truly moving experience.

5. Fighting with My Family (2019) — 7.0

A heartfelt wrestling drama where Johnson plays himself, mentoring a young woman pursuing her WWE dreams. It’s both inspiring and genuinely funny, proving The Rock’s knack for empowering storytelling that resonates with dreamers everywhere.

Based on a true story, the film follows Paige’s journey from a small-town British wrestler to WWE superstar. Johnson’s role is smaller but impactful, offering wisdom and encouragement at crucial moments.

His genuine love for wrestling shines through every scene, and his support for underdog stories feels authentic. This movie reminds audiences why Johnson remains such a beloved figure both inside and outside the ring.

4. Fast & Furious 6 (2013) — 7.0

In this action-packed sequel, Johnson cements himself as the glue of the crew, blending brute strength with a surprising sense of humor as the team faces their most dangerous mission yet. His chemistry with the ensemble cast feels natural and effortless.

Hobbs goes from chasing the crew to partnering with them, and Johnson handles that transition beautifully. His character’s loyalty and moral code add depth to what could have been just another muscle-bound action hero.

The tank chase sequence alone is worth the watch, but it’s Johnson’s ability to balance comedy and intensity that makes this film so rewatchable and fun.

3. Furious 7 (2015) — 7.1

Emotional and adrenaline-fueled, this entry honors Paul Walker’s legacy while showcasing Johnson’s best franchise moments. His larger-than-life presence amplifies the film’s heart and high-octane energy in ways that few actors could manage.

The movie balances grief with celebration, and Johnson’s performance captures that duality perfectly. Whether he’s flexing out of a cast in a hospital or commanding military operations, his scenes radiate power and purpose.

Audiences worldwide connected with the film’s tribute to Walker, and Johnson’s brotherhood with the cast felt genuine and moving, making this one of the series’ most memorable installments.

2. Fast Five (2011) — 7.3

The Fast & Furious franchise truly shifts gears when Johnson joins as Luke Hobbs. His tough-as-nails demeanor, witty one-liners, and explosive action scenes redefined the series and catapulted it into blockbuster legend.

Before Fast Five, the franchise was popular but not yet a global phenomenon. Johnson’s entrance brought fresh energy and star power that attracted new audiences while thrilling longtime fans.

His iconic vault heist scene and brutal fight with Vin Diesel became instant classics. This film proved Johnson could anchor a massive franchise and turn a good series into an unstoppable juggernaut.

1. Moana (2016) — 7.6

Johnson’s magnetic voice performance as Maui, the shapeshifting demigod, delivers equal parts humor, heart, and heroism. His ability to bring warmth and swagger to an animated character showcases his incredible range beyond live-action roles.

This Disney masterpiece highlights his charisma and musical chops in a film brimming with Polynesian culture and powerful storytelling. Johnson even sings “You’re Welcome,” a catchy number that became a viral sensation.

The movie celebrates his heritage while introducing millions of kids worldwide to Pacific Islander mythology, making it both personally meaningful and universally beloved.