Pete Davidson's Best Movies: A Fan's Guide
Hey guys! So, you're looking to dive into the cinematic world of Pete Davidson, huh? Awesome choice! Pete's gone from a king of comedy to a legit movie star, and his filmography is seriously stacked with some hilarious, heartwarming, and sometimes downright weird flicks. We're gonna break down some of his absolute must-see movies, giving you the lowdown on why they're worth your time. Whether you're a longtime fan or just dipping your toes into his acting chops, this guide is for you. Get ready to laugh, maybe shed a tear, and definitely get a better appreciation for this Staten Island superstar.
The King of Staten Island: A Semi-Autobiographical Gem
Let's kick things off with arguably Pete Davidson's most personal and critically acclaimed film: The King of Staten Island. This movie isn't just a role for Pete; it's his story, guys. Co-written by Pete himself, Judd Apatow, and Dave Sirus, it draws heavily from Pete's own life experiences, including the tragic loss of his firefighter father on 9/11. You'll see Pete play Scott Carlin, a 24-year-old who's struggling to move forward with his life, still living at home with his mom and battling with his mental health and unresolved grief. The film brilliantly navigates the complexities of growing up, dealing with loss, and the often-messy journey to becoming an adult. Pete's performance is raw, vulnerable, and incredibly authentic. He doesn't shy away from the pain, but he also infuses the character with his signature humor and charm. It’s a powerful reminder that even in the darkest times, there's room for laughter and hope. The supporting cast, including Marisa Tomei as his mom and Bill Burr as his mom's new boyfriend, is absolutely stellar, adding depth and comedic relief. This movie isn't just a Pete Davidson project; it's a deeply moving portrait of family, friendship, and finding your place in the world, all seen through the lens of someone who has experienced immense hardship and come out the other side with a unique perspective. You'll find yourself rooting for Scott, feeling his frustrations, and ultimately celebrating his small victories. It's a film that stays with you long after the credits roll, a testament to Pete's evolving talent as a storyteller and actor.
Big Time Adolescence: Navigating High School and Friendship
Next up, we've got ** Big Time Adolescence**, a film that really captures that awkward, hilarious, and sometimes painful transition from adolescence to young adulthood. Pete plays Zeke, a charismatic, slightly older dude who takes a younger high school student, Mo (played by Griffin Gluck), under his wing. Zeke is the kind of guy who's still living that carefree, party-filled life, and he’s basically Mo's idol. The movie explores their unconventional friendship and how it impacts Mo’s life as he navigates high school, first loves, and the pressure to figure out his future. Pete is perfect as Zeke. He’s got that laid-back, cool-guy vibe down pat, but he also brings a surprising amount of depth to the character, showing the underlying insecurities and immaturity that come with being stuck in perpetual adolescence. It’s a comedy, for sure, with plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, but it also has a really genuine heart. You see the dynamics of friendship, the choices we make, and how sometimes the people we look up to aren’t always the best influences. The chemistry between Pete and Griffin Gluck is fantastic, making their bond believable and engaging. It’s a movie that will make you nostalgic for your own high school days, cringe at some of the decisions, and appreciate the bonds we form. It’s a great example of Pete’s ability to play characters who are charmingly flawed and relatable, even when they’re making questionable life choices. The film’s exploration of mentorship, growing up too fast, and the search for identity really resonates, making it a standout in his filmography.
Trainwreck: The Breakthrough Comedy Role
Alright, you can't talk about Pete Davidson's movie career without mentioning ** Trainwreck**. This is where many of us first really saw Pete shine in a major Hollywood comedy. Directed by the legendary Judd Apatow and starring Amy Schumer, Pete plays Aaron, a patient at a rehabilitation center who strikes up a connection with Amy's character, Amy. While his role isn't the biggest, Pete stole the show every time he was on screen. His natural comedic timing, his laid-back delivery, and his undeniable charisma made him an instant fan favorite. This film was a huge moment for Pete, showcasing his potential as a comedic actor in the mainstream. He brought a refreshing, unpretentious energy to his character, making him incredibly likable despite his circumstances. The film itself is a sharp, funny, and at times surprisingly poignant look at relationships, commitment, and breaking down stereotypes. Amy Schumer delivers a knockout performance, and the supporting cast is loaded with comedic talent. Pete's scenes, though limited, are memorable and left audiences wanting more. It’s a testament to his star power that he could make such an impact in a film where he wasn't the central focus. Trainwreck was a pivotal stepping stone, proving that Pete had the comedic chops and the screen presence to hold his own amongst seasoned professionals. It was the perfect introduction for many viewers to his unique brand of humor and his ability to connect with audiences on a genuine level. If you haven't seen it, do yourself a favor and check out this hilarious flick.
Set It Up: A Charming Rom-Com Delight
Looking for something light, fun, and totally charming? Then you have to check out ** Set It Up**. This Netflix original rom-com is an absolute blast, and Pete Davidson plays a crucial, albeit supporting, role as Duncan, the quirky and lovable assistant to Taye Diggs' character. The main story follows two overworked assistants, Harper (Zoey Deutch) and Charlie (Glen Powell), who hatch a plan to get their demanding bosses to fall in love so they can have less stressful lives. Pete’s character, Duncan, is the secret weapon of this movie. He’s got this incredibly deadpan delivery and brings such a unique, offbeat energy to the screen. He’s the guy who’s always around, offering weirdly insightful advice or just being hilariously himself. While he’s not the lead, his scenes are unforgettable and add so much to the film’s overall charm and humor. The chemistry between the leads is great, and the story is a classic rom-com setup with a modern twist. But it's Pete's portrayal of Duncan that really makes this movie stand out. He’s the perfect comedic foil, adding unexpected laughs and a touch of quirky sweetness. It’s a perfect movie night pick if you want something feel-good and funny. The film’s success is a testament to its witty script, engaging performances, and, of course, Pete’s ability to elevate any project he’s a part of, even with limited screen time. He adds a layer of comedic brilliance that’s hard to replicate, making Duncan a fan-favorite character. If you need a good laugh and a dose of romantic comedy goodness, Set It Up is your go-to.
The Suicide Squad: Embracing the Blockbuster Action
Now, let’s switch gears and talk about ** The Suicide Squad**. James Gunn really brought his A-game with this one, and Pete Davidson plays Richard