Ranking Every Chadwick Boseman Film From Least To Most Memorable

Some actors leave you with one unforgettable role. Chadwick Boseman somehow gave audiences several, each one carrying its own weight and emotional punch.

Watching his films now feels different, because every performance holds a mix of talent, intention, and presence that was unmistakable even in smaller projects.

Certain roles became instant cultural moments. Others grew in impact over time, revealing layers that are easier to appreciate on a second viewing.

He brought quiet strength to historical figures, depth to fictional heroes, and heart to characters who could have felt one-note in someone else’s hands.

Looking back at his filmography is less about box office totals and more about which performances truly stay with you.

Disclaimer: This ranking reflects editorial opinion informed by general critical reception, audience response, and cultural impact, so individual preferences may differ.

16. Gods of Egypt (2016)

Starting at the bottom doesn’t mean this movie is terrible, just that it wasn’t Boseman’s finest hour. He played Thoth, the god of wisdom, in this big-budget fantasy that tried really hard but missed the mark.

Critics weren’t kind, and audiences felt the same way. The film got roasted for its casting choices and over-the-top CGI that looked more video game than blockbuster.

Still, Boseman brought dignity to his role even when the script didn’t give him much to work with, showing professionalism that would define his entire career.

15. The Kill Hole (2012)

Most people haven’t even heard of this indie thriller, and honestly, that’s pretty understandable.

Boseman played a war veteran dealing with some seriously dark psychological stuff after returning home from combat.

The low-budget production showed early glimpses of his dramatic range. However, the film never found its audience despite tackling important themes about PTSD and veteran struggles.

If you’re a completist who needs to see everything Boseman ever did, sure, track this one down. Otherwise, you won’t miss much by skipping it entirely.

14. Message from the King (2016)

Boseman plays Jacob King, a mysterious South African visitor to Los Angeles searching for his missing sister.

What starts as a search mission quickly becomes a revenge tale filled with brutal confrontations.

The film premiered at Toronto International Film Festival but didn’t get much theatrical release.

Critics appreciated Boseman’s intensity, though the script felt overly familiar to anyone who’s seen revenge thrillers before.

13. The Express: The Ernie Davis Story (2008)

Before Boseman became a household name, he had a supporting role in this inspiring football drama.

The film tells the story of Ernie Davis, the first African-American to win the Heisman Trophy back in 1961.

Dennis Quaid starred as the coach, but Boseman made an impression in his smaller part.

The movie received decent reviews for its heartfelt storytelling, though it didn’t set the box office on fire.

Looking back, you can already see the charisma and presence that would make Boseman a star just a few years later.

12. Draft Day (2014)

Kevin Costner headlines this football drama about the chaos of NFL Draft Day, with Boseman playing a hotshot linebacker everyone wants.

His character, Vontae Mack, becomes the center of wheeling and dealing among team managers.

The film gives a behind-the-scenes peek at professional football’s business side.

While not groundbreaking cinema, it’s entertaining enough for sports fans who love draft speculation and team strategy.

11. 21 Bridges (2019)

Boseman produced and starred in this gritty cop thriller as Detective Andre Davis, who shuts down all of Manhattan to catch cop killers.

The high-concept premise delivers solid action sequences and genuine tension throughout.

What makes this one memorable is watching Boseman tackle a contemporary crime story instead of historical or superhero roles.

His detective is complex, driven by personal tragedy and unwavering principles.

10. Avengers: Endgame (2019)

The biggest movie of all time features Boseman’s Black Panther in a supporting but crucial role. After being snapped away in Infinity War, T’Challa returns for the epic final battle against Thanos.

His iconic “Yibambe” rallying cry during the Wakandan charge gives everyone goosebumps.

Though not the focus of this massive ensemble piece, Boseman makes every second count with regal presence and warrior intensity.

The film grossed nearly three billion dollars worldwide, cementing Black Panther’s place in pop culture history alongside the original Avengers roster permanently.

9. Avengers: Infinity War (2018)

T’Challa opens Wakanda’s borders to help the Avengers fight Thanos in this devastating blockbuster.

The Wakanda battle sequence remains one of the most spectacular action scenes in superhero movie history.

Boseman balances being a warrior king with showing vulnerability as his nation faces invasion.

His chemistry with the rest of the cast feels natural, making the crossover elements work seamlessly.

That ending though, where half the universe turns to dust including T’Challa himself, left audiences absolutely shocked and heartbroken in theaters worldwide.

8. Da 5 Bloods (2020)

Spike Lee directed this powerful Vietnam War drama where Boseman plays Stormin’ Norman, a charismatic squad leader who appears in flashbacks.

His character haunts the present-day story as four veterans return to Vietnam decades later.

Despite limited screen time, Boseman dominates every scene with magnetic energy and moral authority. His performance earned widespread critical praise for capturing the idealism and tragedy of that era.

The film tackles heavy themes about war, race, and brotherhood with Lee’s signature style, making it one of 2020’s most important releases.

7. Captain America: Civil War (2016)

Black Panther makes his stunning Marvel debut here, stealing scenes from established heroes with ease. After his father dies in a terrorist attack, T’Challa suits up seeking vengeance while dealing with grief.

Boseman brings instant gravitas to the character, making him feel important immediately.

Those action sequences, especially the chase through the tunnel, showcase his physical commitment and the character’s badass abilities.

This introduction was so successful it basically guaranteed Black Panther would get his own movie, which obviously changed everything for representation in superhero films.

6. Marshall (2017)

Boseman portrays a young Thurgood Marshall, the legendary lawyer who became the first African-American Supreme Court Justice. The film focuses on one specific case defending a Black chauffeur accused of assault.

His performance captures Marshall’s brilliance, wit, and determination during a time when the legal system was stacked against him. The courtroom drama delivers powerful moments that resonate with today’s ongoing conversations about justice.

While the film didn’t become a massive hit, it showcased Boseman’s ability to embody real historical figures with respect and authenticity once again.

5. 42 (2013)

Boseman’s breakthrough role as Jackie Robinson, who broke baseball’s color barrier in 1947, is absolutely phenomenal.

He captures Robinson’s quiet strength and dignity while facing horrific racism from fans, players, and even teammates.

The film doesn’t shy away from showing the ugliness Robinson endured daily. Yet Boseman balances the pain with moments of triumph, making you feel every emotion right alongside his character.

4. Get on Up (2014)

Transforming into James Brown, the Godfather of Soul, Boseman delivers an electrifying performance that’s pure energy.

He nails Brown’s signature moves, voice, and complex personality with incredible dedication and research.

The non-linear storytelling keeps things interesting as we see Brown’s rise from poverty to superstardom. Boseman doesn’t just impersonate, he inhabits the character completely, showing Brown’s genius and his deeply flawed nature.

Critics praised his fearless commitment to the role, though the film itself received mixed reviews for its unconventional narrative structure choices.

3. Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom (2020)

Boseman’s final completed performance as ambitious trumpet player Levee Green is absolutely heartbreaking to watch.

Filmed while he was privately battling cancer, his raw intensity feels even more powerful knowing what he was going through.

The August Wilson adaptation showcases Boseman’s theatrical training perfectly.

His monologues burn with anger, pain, and desperate hope as Levee dreams of making his own music despite systemic obstacles.

He posthumously won the Golden Globe for Best Actor, a bittersweet recognition of what we lost when he passed away just months later.

2. Black Panther (2018)

Cultural phenomenon doesn’t even begin to describe what Black Panther meant to millions worldwide.

Boseman’s T’Challa is regal, vulnerable, funny, and inspiring as he navigates being king while challenging Wakanda’s isolationist traditions.

The film earned over a billion dollars and became the first superhero movie nominated for Best Picture at the Oscars.

Boseman anchors everything with a performance that balances action hero cool with genuine emotional depth.

“Wakanda Forever” became a rallying cry that transcended the movie itself, representing pride, representation, and Boseman’s incredible legacy that continues inspiring people today.