The bestJustin Chatwinmovies and TV shows highlight his wide range across many different cengres. Born in 1982 in British Columbia, Justin Chatwin began his acting career in the early 2000s, quickly making a name for himself with standout performances in both television and film. His breakthrough role came in 2005 when he played Robbie Ferrier in Steven Spielberg’sWar of the Worlds, starring alongside Tom Cruise and Dakota Fanning. Over the years, he has taken on diverse roles, showcasing his ability to move between genres with ease.
While Justin Chatwin has not received major award nominations such as the Academy Awards or Golden Globes, his performances have consistently resonated with audiences and critics.From playing a troubled yetcharismatic figure inShamelessto taking on the legendary role of Goku inDragonball Evolution, Chatwin has built a dynamic portfolio. His work spans sci-fi, crime thrillers, family dramas, and even superhero narratives, making him one of the more adaptable actors of his generation. The best Justin Chatwin movies and TV shows, from the noteworthy to the exceptional, all showcase a different side of his diverse talent.
Justin Chatwin first leading Hollywood role was taking on the legendary role of Son Goku, a young martial artist destined to collect the mystical Dragon Balls before an evil force can use them for destruction, in 2009’sDragonball Evolution.Directed by James Wong, this live-action adaptation of the beloved anime sought to bring the world ofDragon Ballto the big screen, though it faced backlash for straying from its source material.
Despite the poor reception ofDragonball Evolution, Justin Chatwin fully committed to the role, undergoing rigorous martial arts training and embodying the heroic nature of Goku. His performance demonstrated a strong attempt to capture the essence of the character, even if the script and execution fell short.Dragonball Evolutionremains a divisive entry in his filmography but stands as an example of Chatwin’s willingness to tackle challenging and iconic roles.
Josh Wilson, Justin Chatwin’s character in Showtime’sWeeds, is the troubled and rebellious son of Doug Wilson (Kevin Nealon). Created by Jenji Kohan,Weedsfollows a widowed suburban mother (Mary Louise-Parker’s Nancy Botwin) who turns to selling cannabis to support her family, leading to a web of dangerous and hilarious complications.
Justin Chatwin’s Josh, introduced inWeedsseason 1, struggles with his identity and personal demons, adding to the show’s exploration of unconventional family dynamics.His performance, though in a supporting role, contributed to the show’s sharp writing and satirical take on suburban life.Weedswas widely praised and received multiple Emmy and Golden Globe nominations, making it one of the best Justin Chatwin TV shows in terms of critical acclaim.
Erik Wallace, a dedicated scientist portrayed by Justin Chatwin, plays a key role in Netflix’s 2019-2021 sci-fi dramaAnother Life. Created by Aaron Martin, the series follows humanity’s first contact with an alien artifact, sparking a dangerous journey into space to determine its origins. Like many of his post-Shamlessroles,Another Lifeis yet another example of Chatwin’s versatility.
Justin Chatwin’s character is a brilliant scientist and devoted husband toStar WarsandBattlestar GalacticastarKatee Sackhoff’s Niko Breckenridge, the astronaut leading the mission. His performance brings emotional weight to the story, particularly in scenes where he grapples with the mystery of the artifact while balancing his love for his family.AlthoughAnother Lifereceived mixed reviews, Chatwin’s grounded performance provided a human element to the cosmic stakes, proving his ability to shine in genre storytelling.
Grant Gordon, also known as The Ghost, is Justin Chatwin’s character in the 2016Doctor WhoChristmas special, “The Return of Doctor Mysterio.” This big-budgetDoctor Whoepisode, written by Steven Moffat, blends classic superhero tropes with the time-traveling adventures of the Doctor (who, when he met Justin Chatwin’s Grant Gordon, was in his 12th incarnation,played by Peter Capaldi).
Justin Chatwin embraces the dual nature of Grant inDoctor Who, portraying both a mild-mannered nanny and a masked vigilante with ease. His charisma and comedic timing complement the whimsical yet heartfelt tone of the episode, making his performance one of the highlights of the special.The combination of superhero action andDoctor Who’s signature sci-fi storytelling makes “The Return Of Doctor Mysterio” a fun and memorable entry in Justin Chatwin’s television career.
6The Invisible (2007)
Justin Chatwin Plays Nick Powell
One of Justin Chatwin’s earliest opportunities to lead the cast of a movie came with 2007’sThe Invisible.Nick Powell, a high school senior caught between life and death, is the protagonist ofThe Invisible, and is played by Justin Chatwin. Directed by David S. Goyer, the 2007 supernatural thriller follows Nick as he struggles to make his presence known after a violent attack leaves him injured only to discover upon waking that he’s invisible.
Justin Chatwin delivers a compelling performance throughoutThe Invisible, capturing the frustration and desperation of a young man trying to communicate with the living.The movie’s exploration of regret, redemption, and human connection adds emotional depth, and Chatwin’s ability to balance vulnerability with quiet intensity elevates the story. WhileThe Invisiblereceived mixed reviews, Justin Chatwin’s performance remains a standout element.
Cameron Hawthorne, a talented but troubled cartoonist, is brought to life by Justin Chatwin in the CBS mystery seriesAmerican Gothic. The 2016 show, created by Corinne Brinkerhoff, centers around a wealthy Boston family who discovers that one of their own might be a serial killer.
Justin Chatwin’s portrayal of Cameron - a recovering addict with a sharp wit and emotional depth - stands as a testament to his ability to navigate complex narratives and nuanced characters. His performance highlights the inner turmoil of a man grappling with personal demons while being caught in a web of family secrets.Though the series only lasted one season, Chatwin’s work inAmerican Gothicshowcased his range as an actor, making it one of the best Justin Chatwin TV shows.
Detective Michael Connelly, played by Justin Chatwin, finds himself entangled in corruption and deadly secrets inThe Assassin’s Code. Directed by David A. Armstrong,The Assassin’s Codefollows a rookie detective determined to solve a case while navigating a city full of deception. Chatwin’s ability to portray conflicted heroes shines in this role, proving his skill in leading a crime drama.
Justin Chatwin is truly gripping as Connelly, and theShamelessandWar of the Worldsstar seems to effortlessly capture both the detective’s determination and his vulnerability as he fights against forces more powerful than himself.The Assassin’s Code’s noir-inspired aesthetic, tense action sequences, and strong supporting performances, including Peter Stormare, make for a compelling thriller and a highlight of Justin Chatwin’s wider filmography.
WhileBang Bang Babyisn’t the most widely known movie or TV show starring Justin Chatwin, it does inarguably feature one of his strongest performances.He plays Bobby Shore, a charismatic and mysterious musician. As for the movie itself,Bang Bang Babyis a surreal indie musical thriller directed by Jeffrey St. Jules. The film follows a young woman with dreams of stardom who finds herself entangled with a famous singer harboring dark secrets.
Justin Chatwin’s performance as Bobby is both captivating and unsettling, adding to the dreamlike and eerie tone ofBang Bang Baby. His ability to play charming yet sinister characters makes his role one of the most intriguing in his filmography.Bang Bang Babywon Best Canadian First Feature Film at the Toronto International Film Festival, bringing early career recognition for Chatwin.
A massive box office success and a landmark in modern sci-fi, 2005’sWar of the Worldsshowcased Justin Chatwin in one of his most high-profile roles.Directed by Steven Spielbergand based on H.G. Wells’ classic novel, the movie follows an ordinary dockworker, played by Tom Cruise, who must protect his children during a brutal alien invasion. Chatwin plays Robbie Ferrier, the rebellious teenage son who struggles with his strained relationship with his father while grappling with the horror unfolding around him. His character’s arc - from a defiant, impulsive youth to someone willing to fight for humanity - adds significant emotional weight to the film’s intense, survival-driven narrative.
Justin Chatwin stands out inWar of the Worlds,as he convincingly portrays a teenager filled with frustration and resentment, yet also a deep desire to prove himself.His chemistry with Tom Cruise adds authenticity to their father-son dynamic, making their tense exchanges feel raw and real.The cast also features Dakota Fanning as Robbie’s younger sister, delivering one of her most memorable childhood performances. With Spielberg’s masterful direction, stunning visual effects, and gripping suspense,War of the Worldsremains one of the best Justin Chatwin movies and TV shows, marking a turning point in his career and proving his ability to hold his own in a blockbuster setting.
Arguably the best Justin Chatwin movies or TV shows,Shamelessgave him one of his most iconic roles as Jimmy Lishman, also known as Steve Wilton. The hit Showtime series, adapted from the British show of the same name, follows the dysfunctional Gallagher family as they navigate poverty, addiction, and survival in Chicago’s South Side. Jimmy, introduced in the first season, appears to be a wealthy andcharming love interest for Fiona Gallagher(Emmy Rossum), but his life is far more complicated than it first seems. A car thief with deep ties to organized crime, Jimmy’s web of secrets eventually catches up with him, leading to dramatic turns throughout the series.
Justin Chatwin’s time as Jimmy inShamelessis layered and dynamic, balancing charm, recklessness, and vulnerability.His chemistry with Emmy Rossum is electric, making their relationship one of the show’s most compelling - and tumultuous - romances.While Jimmy initially appears to be Fiona’s escape from hardship, his own flaws and deceptions ultimately lead to heartbreak. His exit fromShamelessin Season 3 was met with disappointment from fans, though he briefly returned in later seasons. With its raw storytelling and powerhouse performances,Shamelessremains one of the most defining projects of Justin Chatwin’s career, showcasing his ability to play complex, morally gray characters.
