It took fans a while to really get on board with Jon Favreau considering that in the beginning he didn’t seem like much and wasn’t a real powerhouse on the Hollywood scene. Behind the scenes however he’s been working diligently to create a name for himself as an actor, a producer, and of course, as a director. Nowadays when most people see the name Jon Favreau they at least perk up with a glimmer of recognition and can say “oh yeah, that guy”, and can even put the face to the name when discussing his role in one movie or another. As a director he might still need a little polishing here and there, but there’s no denying that he’s been behind some of the more memorable movies of the past two decades.
Here are our picks for the top 5 Jon Favreau directed films:
5. Made (2001)
In his directorial debut Favreau scored near gold with this fan favorite that shows him in a role that seems to be his niche, that of an honest and hard-working man just trying to get by. As a boxer and a mason he is believable enough as a character that the addition of Vince Vaughn is just comedic topping on the proverbial cake. The chemistry between the two is more than enough to drive a movie and the vision that Favreau brings has allowed this film to be considered one of the best in his collection.
4. Cowboys and Aliens (2011)
Some movies are universally shunned, while others are definite head scratchers that make people at least sit up and take notice. While the reception of this film definitely wasn’t what was wanted, it had the effect of making people take note of a new take on a little-used idea. The story had a great arc that could have used a little development, but was kind of bogged down by the fact that it was just innovative enough to actually unnerve people. Overall though it was one of Favreau’s best attempts at slapping the viewer awake with something unexpected.
3. Elf (2003)
Some people might question how or why this film became such a holiday favorite but in truth it’s just plain funny and charming the whole way through. Will Farrell is undeniably over the top in his acting, but the pace of the film seems to incorporate this rather from detract or pull away from it. As holiday films go this one was quaint and chipper enough to belong in the favorites section.
2. The Jungle Book (2016)
When Favreau hits he hits big, and “The Jungle Book” was a definite hit. Derived from the classic tale by Rudyard Kipling and following after the Disney classic made in the 1960s, the story is one of Favreau’s triumphs as he brings new life to a classic and beloved tale. In keeping with the main story line he also managed to add just enough to keep the story fluid and constantly moving so that audiences wouldn’t wonder how his version differed from those that had come before.
1. Iron Man (2008)
One of Favreau’s most notable successes can claim credit for kicking off the Marvel Universe when it comes to film. “Iron Man” was the movie that set the pace for the franchise, and has proven to possess the one character that has had more staying power than most of the others. Not only was the cast spot on, but Favreau’s use of their talents and the direction that the film was taken laid the path for the continuing success that the MCU continues to enjoy.
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