Pete Davidson's Best Movies: A Fan's Guide

Alright guys, let's talk about Pete Davidson! This dude has seriously blown up, and while many of us know him from SNL or his hilarious stand-up, he's also been quietly building a pretty solid filmography. If you're wondering what movies to watch featuring everyone's favorite Staten Island king, you've come to the right place. We're diving deep into the Pete Davidson movie universe, exploring his most memorable roles and the films that really showcase his unique comedic talent and surprising dramatic chops. Get ready, because we're about to break down the flicks that make Pete Davidson a must-see on the big screen.

Early Days and Breaking Through

When you think about Pete Davidson movies, it's easy to forget that his film career got a solid start even before he became a household name on Saturday Night Live. One of his earliest notable appearances was in the 2015 comedy Trainwreck, directed by Judd Apatow. While it wasn't a starring role, Davidson played a small but memorable part as one of Amy's brother's friends, offering a glimpse of the raw, unfiltered humor that would become his trademark. This cameo was significant because it put him on the radar of major Hollywood players and hinted at his potential beyond sketch comedy. Following this, he took on more supporting roles that allowed him to hone his craft. His role in The King of Staten Island, a semi-autobiographical film directed by Judd Apatow, is arguably his most significant work to date. In this movie, Davidson plays Scott Carlin, a character who mirrors much of his own life experiences, including dealing with the loss of his firefighter father. The film earned critical acclaim for its raw honesty and Davidson's vulnerability, showcasing a depth that surprised many viewers. It’s a powerful exploration of grief, maturation, and finding your place in the world, proving that Davidson is more than just a comedian; he’s a compelling dramatic actor. The film was praised for its authenticity, with many critics highlighting Davidson’s performance as a career-defining moment. It allowed him to channel his personal struggles into a narrative that resonated deeply, earning him praise for his bravery and emotional range. This film truly solidified his standing as a versatile performer capable of carrying a movie, not just providing punchlines. It's a must-watch for anyone looking to understand the man behind the jokes and appreciate his artistic growth. The honest portrayal of Scott's arrested development and his journey toward self-discovery is relatable and poignant, making The King of Staten Island a standout in his filmography. It’s a testament to his ability to blend humor with heartfelt drama, a skill that has become increasingly evident in his subsequent projects. The movie also features a strong supporting cast, including Marisa Tomei and Bill Burr, who further elevate the storytelling and provide a rich backdrop for Davidson's central performance. The collaboration with Apatow once again proved fruitful, with the director expertly guiding Davidson to deliver a performance that was both nuanced and impactful. It’s a film that demands attention and rewards viewers with a deeply human story that stays with you long after the credits roll. This early work, though perhaps less celebrated than his later efforts, laid the groundwork for the more complex characters he would later embody, demonstrating a nascent talent for dramatic interpretation that would blossom in the years to come. His willingness to expose his vulnerabilities on screen is a key element of his appeal, and The King of Staten Island is perhaps the most potent example of this.

Breakout Roles and Critical Acclaim

As Pete Davidson's star continued to rise, so did his opportunities in film. While his SNL tenure provided a massive platform, his movie roles started to gain more traction. One of his most talked-about performances came in the 2019 film The Dirt, a biographical drama about the infamous heavy metal band Mötley Crüe. Davidson played the role of Tommyland, a record executive, and despite the film’s over-the-top nature, he brought his signature comedic timing and surprisingly grounded presence to the character. It was a fun, albeit smaller, role that showed his versatility in different genres. But the true breakout, the one that made everyone sit up and take notice of his potential as a leading man, was undoubtedly The King of Staten Island (2020). As mentioned earlier, this Judd Apatow-directed film is a semi-autobiographical story where Davidson plays Scott Carlin, a character grappling with grief, arrested development, and the search for purpose. His performance was lauded by critics for its raw vulnerability and honest portrayal of a young man struggling to navigate life after immense loss. It wasn't just a comedy; it was a deeply emotional and surprisingly poignant drama that showcased a depth many didn't expect from the SNL comedian. This role proved that Davidson could carry a film and deliver a performance that was both humorous and heartbreaking. The critical acclaim for The King of Staten Island was widespread, with many highlighting Davidson's bravery in sharing such personal aspects of his life and his naturalistic acting style. It was a powerful statement about his capabilities as an actor, moving beyond the typical