Chris Evans is most known for being a superhero — he does, after all, have America’s ass. But his career is bigger than just Captain America and the MCU (and The Human Torch).
Through comedic cameos in “Scott Pilgrim vs. the World” to dramatic TV in “Defending Jacob”, Evans’ career is as varied as it gets. With Evans’ latest project, “Lightyear,” now in theaters, let’s run down his best 8 (non-superhero) performances to get you ready.
7. “Not Another Teen Movie” (2001)
Evans began his career showing off his comedic chops, with his first big role in “Not Another Teen Movie.” The parody film stars Evans as Jake Wyler, the embodiment of every “popular jock” teen film trope, when Jake accepts a bet to change the nerdy girl into prom queen. As one of Evans’ first starring roles, the parody allows the actor to channel a specific form of humor that isn’t seen much after his 2001 film.
“Not Another Teen Movie ” is streaming on Netflix.
6. “The Nanny Diaries” (2007)
Before “The Avengers,” Chris Evans and Scarlett Johansson were scene partners in 2007’s “The Nanny Diaries.” Evans’ role as Hayden is nicknamed “Harvard Hottie,” and the neighbor to the family Annie (Johansson) works for. While Annie navigates her nannying gig, the two develop a flirtatious relationship and she proceeds to narrate her growing relationship with “Harvard Hottie.” His dynamic and chemistry with Johansson proves why the duo became stars.
“The Nanny Diaries” is streaming on Amazon Prime.
5. “Scott Pilgrim vs. the World” (2010)
After being cast as the resident “douchebag” in his earlier films, it’s no surprise he was offered the role of Lucas Lee in “Scott Pilgrim vs. the World,” Ramona Flowers’ (Mary Elizabeth Winstead) second ex-boyfriend that Scott Pilgrim (Michael Cera) must battle. Evans himself describes Lucas Lee as a “horrible actor and a douchebag,” maintaining a larger-than-life caricature that allows Evans to flex his comedic chops. Chris Evans is “actually hilarious” in this film.
“Scott Pilgrim vs. the World” is streaming on Peacock.
4. “What’s Your Number?” (2011)
It might not be the actor’s most successful movie, but it might just be one of his most recognizable roles (outside of the MCU). Chris Evans stars alongside Anna Faris in the 2011 romantic comedy “What’s Your Number?” Similar to other roles on this list, Evans plays the charming ladies’ man, Colin Shea. Flirtatious playboy Colin and Ally (Faris) battle their enemies-to-lovers trajectory throughout this underrated rom-com. Not as successful as his other playboy roles, Colin in “What’s Your Number?” still deserves a slot on Evans’ top performances.
“What’s Your Number?” is available to rent from all major retailers.
3. Snowpiercer (2013)
Deviating from the actor’s typical films, Chris Evans stars in Bong Joon-ho’s sci-fi thriller “Snowpiercer.” Regarded as one of the top films of 2014, Evans leading performance as Curtis is one of the most complex roles of his career. The snowpiercer is a globe-spanning track that keeps the last remaining humans on Earth alive after a failed attempt of climate engineering rendered the planet uninhabitable. Curtis leads a revolution after those from the train’s lowest level decide to revolt. Evans stars alongside a star-studded ensemble, including Song Kang-ho, Ed Harris, Tilda Swinton, John Hurt, and Octavia Spencer.
“Snowpiercer” is available to rent from all major retailers.
2. “Gifted” (2017)
By 2017, fans were used to seeing Chris Evans as a caring individual ready to fight for what he believes in. In the film “Gifted,” Evans plays the loving uncle, Frank, to his late sister’s daughter, Mary (Mckenna Grace). Throughout the film, Frank appears in court while fighting a custody battle against his mother, all in order to maintain sole custody of the math prodigy.
“Gifted” is available to rent from all major retailers.
1. Knives Out (2019)
Alongside another stacked cast, Chris Evans steals the show in Rian Johnson’s Oscar-nominated whodunit “Knives Out.” The grandson to Christopher Plummer’s character, Harlan, and son of both Jamie Lee Curtis’ character, Linda, and Don Johnson’s character, Richard, it is Chris Evans’ character, Ransom, that became the film’s most referenced character after its release. Aligning with other characters on this list, (“Scott Pilgrim vs. the World” and ”What’s Your Number?”) Ransom is diametrically opposed to Captain America. Wreaking havoc throughout the film, Evans plays yet another charming man determined to get what he wants, any way he sees fit. This performance is placed at number one for the immense recognition and admiration of Evans’ performance, his line delivery of “eat sh–,” and of course, his ability to sport a white knit sweater.
“Knives Out” is streaming on Hulu and Amazon Prime.
Extra Credit: Defending Jacob (2020)
While this list is devoted to Chris Evans’ best film roles, we couldn’t not discuss his dramatic turn in the Apple TV+ miniseries “Defending Jacob.” Evans plays the role of Andy, father to Jacob. After 14-year old Jacob is accused of murder, Andy continues to defend his son and prove his innocence. It’s a striking dramatic turn from the actor, especially in serialized format.
“Defending Jacob” is streaming on AppleTV+.
