There is a reason Michael B. Jordan is undoubtedly considered one of the most talented and charismatic actors of his generation. With his striking looks, commanding presence and exceptional acting skills, Jordan has made a significant impact in both the film and television industries. Though he is widely known for his hunky appearance, Jordan has constantly proven that he is more than just a pretty face. His turn in the Creed series showed his acting range (and now directing), and his scene-stealing turns in both Black Panther movies made him a household name.
The actor has had a successful career for over a decade, where he has most notably taken on action and dramatic movies roles with the occasional outlier role sprinkled in. Check out this select list of Michael B. Jordan’s movies ranked according to their Rotten Tomatoes scores, overall perception and IMDb rankings.
9. A Journal for Jordan (2021)
Rotten Tomatoes: 39%
IMDb: 5.9/10
In A Journal for Jordan, Michael B. Jordan plays Charles Monroe King, a soldier deployed in Iraq. The film is based on a true story and centers around King’s relationship with his son, Jordan, whom he leaves behind. Charles writes a journal for his son, imparting life lessons and wisdom, as he navigates the challenges of war and separation from his family.
Jordan’s portrayal of Charles King captures the emotional depth and sacrifice of a soldier and father, making it a poignant and heartfelt performance.
8. Without Remorse (2021)
Rotten Tomatoes: 45%
IMDb: 5.8/10
In the 2021 film Without Remorse, Michael B. Jordan plays the lead role of John Kelly, a highly skilled Navy SEAL who seeks revenge for the murder of his pregnant wife. Kelly becomes embroiled in a covert mission that uncovers a vast conspiracy involving government agencies and international espionage. Throughout the movie, Michael B. Jordan’s character showcases his action and combat skills as he pursues those responsible for the tragedy and seeks justice.
7. Just Mercy (2019)
Rotten Tomatoes: 83%
IMDb: 7.5/10
In Just Mercy, Michael B. Jordan portrayed Bryan Stevenson, a real-life civil rights lawyer who dedicated his life to defending wrongfully convicted prisoners, particularly those on death row. Jordan’s powerful performance as Stevenson showcased his commitment to justice and the emotional toll of the legal battle. The film sheds light on Stevenson’s tireless efforts to fight for the marginalized and wrongly accused, earning praise for both Jordan’s portrayal and the film’s important social message.
6. Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2022)
Rotten Tomatoes: 84%
IMDb: 6.7/10
Jordan made an iconic surprise cameo in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. His return as Erik Killomonger left audiences shaking and critics described it as jaw-dropping. After the death of King T’Challa, his sister Shuri takes over as the Black Panther. That is when Killomonger comes back in the Ancestral Plane to teach Shuri a lesson about seeking revenge that he learned the hard way. Though his part was smaller in this movie, seeing Jordan return on screen in second Black Panther brought critics and audiences a sense of familiarity and comfort after Chadwick Boseman’s untimely death.
5. Chronicle (2012)
Rotten Tomatoes: 85%
IMDb: 7/10
In Chronicle, Michael B. Jordan portrays Steve Montgomery, one of three high school friends who gain superhuman powers after a mysterious discovery. Steve is a charismatic and good-hearted character who, along with the others, initially uses his newfound abilities for fun and adventure. However, as their powers grow, tensions arise, and Steve’s role in the group takes on new dimensions.
Jordan’s performance in Chronicle showcases his versatility as an actor in a found footage-style science fiction film.
4. Creed III (2023)
Rotten Tomatoes: 88%
IMDb: 6.8/10
Creed III is special as Jordan stepped into the role of director and a producer of the film. The film’s overwhelming positive reviews reflect well on Jordan’s transition to this off-camera role. In the movie, Jordan returns to the screen as Adonis Creed, who is still thriving in boxing but also in his career and personal life. However, Creed is set to face-off against a former friend named Damien, played by Jonathon Majors, who was just released from prison and has nothing to lose. Critics praised Jordan’s direction and performance in Creed III and remarked he has helped the franchise finally escape from the shadow of the Rocky films.
3. Fruitvale Station (2013)
Rotten Tomatoes: 94%
IMDb: 7.5/10
Michael B. Jordan’s breakthrough role came in Fruitvale Station, a powerful drama directed by Ryan Coogler. The film is based on the true story of Oscar Grant, a young man who was tragically shot and killed by a transit police officer in Oakland, California. Jordan’s portrayal of Grant earned him critical acclaim and marked the beginning of a promising career.
2. Creed (2015)
Rotten Tomatoes: 95%
IMDb: 7.6/10
One of Jordan’s most iconic roles is Adonis Creed, the son of Apollo Creed, in the Rocky spin-off film, Creed. Directed by Ryan Coogler, the movie reinvigorated the franchise and showcased Jordan’s dedication to his craft, both in terms of physical training and emotional depth. In the movie, Adonis Creed seeks to follow in his father’s footsteps and become a professional boxer. Michael B. Jordan’s performance as Creed brings depth and authenticity to the character, which rightfully earned him critical acclaim.
1. Black Panther (2018)
Rotten Tomatoes: 96%
IMDb: 7.3/10
Joining the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Jordan portrayed Erik Killmonger in Black Panther. His complex and compelling antagonist added depth to the film and elevated it to a cultural phenomenon. Jordan as Killmonger was essential to this cultural impact and introduced the already huge actor to thousands of new and old Marvel movie fans. The movie’s success further solidified Jordan’s status as a Hollywood heavyweight.
Michael B. Jordan’s career has been marked by an impressive array of movies and TV shows, each contributing to his rise as a respected actor in the entertainment industry. Jordan’s talent and versatility have left a lasting impression on audiences and critics alike, as can be seen by the generally high rankings the titles he has worked on have received. With numerous accolades and a promising future ahead, Michael B. Jordan’s movies continue to be a force to be reckoned with in the world of entertainment.
