From heartfelt dramas to laugh-out-loud comedies, there are plenty of great movies featuring the talentedGilmore Girlscast. The show is known for its witty dialogue, complex characters, and the charm of small-town life in Stars Hollow. Even now, close to 20 years after the series ended,Gilmore Girlsremains a positively-reviewed, beloved show that’s stood the test of time.
Beyond their roles in the show, the mainGilmore Girlscastmembers have each starred in movies that range from feel-good blockbusters to indie favorites, each offering a chance to showcase the actors in fresh, diverse settings. Whether a die-hard fan of Lorelai and Rory or intrigued by the show’s supporting characters,these films are a must-watch for a deeper appreciation of the cast’s wide-ranging skills.
Bad Santa
Cast
Bad Santa revolves around Willie T. Stokes and Marcus Skidmore, professional thieves who disguise themselves as a mall Santa Claus and his elf during the holiday season with the plan to rob them at the end of the shopping season. Their latest job becomes complicated when Willie, already struggling from alcoholism, sex addiction and frequently swearing, begins forming an odd friendship with dimwitted Thurman Merman, dating local bartender Sue and coming under the watchful eye of the latest target mall’s head of security, Gin Slagel.
Lauren Graham’s Lorelai Gilmoreis a responsible, quick-witted mother, but inBad Santa,she flips the script entirely. This dark comedy stars Billy Bob Thornton as Willie, a conman who poses as a shopping mall Santa to execute heists. Graham plays Sue, a bartender with a Santa fetish who develops a hilariously awkward romance with Willie.
Her character steps far out of Lorelai’s wholesome mold, bringing humor and surprising depth.Graham’s chemistry with Thornton adds an extra layer to this unconventional holiday film, making it a fan favorite for those who enjoy edgy humor. Meanwhile, despite its crude nature and wild antics,Bad Santacarries an undeniable thread of humanity. Willie’s reluctant transformation from a selfish thief to someone capable of small acts of kindness offers a genuine emotional payoff. This arc, though unconventional, resonates with a level of realism that many sanitized holiday movies fail to capture.
Can You Ever Forgive Me?
Can You Ever Forgive Me? is a biographical film directed by Marielle Heller and stars Melissa McCarthy as Lee Israel, a biographer who turns to literary forgery when her career hits a decline. The narrative follows her fraudulent schemes and her partnership with Jack Hock, played by Richard E. Grant. The film explores themes of desperation, deception, and the quest for redemption.
Superstar Melissa McCarthy, who played the lovable and clumsy Sookie St. James during her climb to fame, took a sharp dramatic turn inCan You Ever Forgive Me?This biographical drama tells the true story of Lee Israel, a biographer who turns to literary forgery to make ends meet, earning McCarthy an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress.
One of the film’s most poignant scenes features McCarthy delivering a heart-wrenching monologue about desperation and loneliness, a far cry from Sookie’s kitchen antics thatshowcasesMcCarthy’s immense versatility as an actress. Her ability to embody both comedic and dramatic roles with equal finesse makes this performance one of her career highlights. Her chemistry with co-star Richard E. Grant is also electric, as they form a partnership that’s equal parts heartwarming and tragically dysfunctional.Can You Ever Forgive Me?is a love letter to the misfits and outcasts, offering a character study that’s as tender as it is unflinching.
The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants
The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants is a 2005 film about four teenage friends—Lena, Tibby, Bridget, and Carmen—who share a pair of jeans that fits each of them perfectly despite their different body types. As they embark on separate summer adventures, the pants become a symbol of their enduring friendship and support. Starring Amber Tamblyn, America Ferrera, Blake Lively, and Alexis Bledel, the film explores themes of growing up and personal discovery.
Alexis Bledel brings all the old Rory Gilmore charm to her role as Lena Kaligaris inThe Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants,a coming-of-age film following four close friends who stay connected over a summer apart by sharing a pair of “magical” jeans. Bledel’s storyline focuses on Lena’s trip to Greece, where she experiences a life-changing romance. From the picturesque Greek landscapes to Lena’s subtle emotional arc, this film is a strong stage for Bledel’s ability to play introspective and empathetic roles.
Lena’s connection with the other women in the film mirrors the strong female friendships celebrated inGilmore Girls,making it a familiar watch for those who enjoy Bledel’s other work. What strengthensThe Sisterhood of the Traveling Pantsis its ability to give each character her own meaningful arc while maintaining the strength of their bond. Whether it’s Lena navigating love, Bridget struggling with loss, or Tibby learning to open her heart, the movie showcases universal themes of loss, love, and growth that still resonate.
Saw IV
Saw IV, the fourth film in the Saw franchise, follows Lieutenant Rigg, who is thrust into a series of harrowing challenges after Jigsaw’s death. As he races against time to save his colleagues, Rigg’s resolve and endurance are tested in a sinister new game orchestrated by an unseen assailant.
Known as Luke Danes, the grumpy but lovable diner owner, Scott Patterson surprised fans with his role in the horror-thrillerSaw IV.Patterson plays FBI agent Peter Strahm, who investigates the twisted puzzles left by the infamous Jigsaw killer. Watching Patterson in such a high-stakes, fear-inducing environment is a stark contrast to Luke pouring coffee at the diner.
When discussing theSawfranchise, the usual highlights are the first film for its groundbreaking concept orSaw VIfor its tight plotting and social commentary. However,Saw IVoften gets unfairly overlooked, despite being a standout entry in the series.Saw IVprovidesadeeper layer of storytelling, strong editing, and a compelling emotional corethat elevates it beyond the label of “just another horror sequel.” There’s also the reveal that the events ofSaw IVare running parallel to those ofSaw III, a neat twist that flips the viewer’s understanding of the entire franchise timeline.
Dirty Dancing
Starring Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey, Dirty Dancing follows Frances “Baby” Houseman, a young woman on vacation at a summer resort with her family who becomes the unwitting competition partner of one of the resort’s dance instructors, Johnny. As Baby and Johnny’s relationship deepens over the course of the summer, the disapproval of Baby’s family, especially her father, threatens to tear them apart.
Kelly Bishop is possiblyGilmore Girls’ stealth MVP as Emily Gilmore, Rory’s refined and sharp-tongued grandmother. However, inDirty Dancing,Bishop brings a more complex warmth to her role as Marjorie Houseman, the mother of Jennifer Grey’s Baby Houseman. This iconic film captures a romantic summer in the 1960s, filled with dancing, passion, and family dynamics while combining universal themes, iconic performances, and a deep social subtext that elevates it beyond the sum of its parts.
As inGilmore Girls, Bishop’s portrayal of Marjorie centers on her ability to embody nuanced maternal figures. Bishop’s background in Broadway shines through, enhancing her role inone of the ‘80’s most rewatchable crowd-pleasers. Add to this the electric chemistry between Grey and Patrick Swayze and unforgettable moments like “the lift” during the final dance sequence, and it’s easy to understand whyDirty Dancingremains a gold standard in romantic dramas.
Guardians of the Galaxy
Guardians of the Galaxy is part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, featuring Chris Pratt as Peter Quill. Abducted from Earth as a child, Quill navigates intergalactic adventures, becoming entwined in a conflict centered on a powerful orb coveted by Ronan the Accuser.
Sean Gunn, affectionately remembered as quirky Kirk Gleason, showed a completely different side inGuardians of the Galaxy.In this Marvel blockbuster, he plays Kraglin, the loyal second-in-command to Yondu. Most fans don’t realize that Gunn also provided the motion capture for fan-favorite Rocket Raccoon, demonstrating his physicality and versatility as an actor. While it never hurts to have your brother in your corner as director of a tentpole franchise film, Sean Gunn delivers in his own right in two key roles.
While Kraglin’s loyalty and eventual redemption arc are both fun and engaging,his real-life contributions to Rocket showcase his dedication to his brother’s visionbehind the scenes. ForGilmore Girlsfans, seeing Gunn in the vibrant and action-packed Marvel Cinematic Universe blending irreverent comedy and character-driven storytelling with the high stakes of a space adventure is a definite treat.
The Lost Boys
The Lost Boys follows Michael Emerson (Jason Patric) and his younger brother Sam (Corey Haim) after they move to the small California beach town of Santa Carla only to discover that it is overrun with teenage vampires. When Michael falls victim to the titular gang and joins their ranks, Sam enlists the help of young vampire hunters the Frog brothers (Corey Feldman and Jamison Newlander) to save his brother from head vampire David (Kiefer Sutherland).
Edward Herrmann, known for his role as patriarch Richard Gilmore, delivers a chilling performance inThe Lost Boys,as Max, a seemingly kind video store proprietor who hides a sinister secret in this cult classic about teenage vampires. His warm yet mysterious demeanor keeps viewers guessing until the film’s climax, where Max’s true nature is revealed. Herrmann’s commanding presence inThe Lost Boysshows off the darker, more complex side to his acting, a stark contrast with his endearingGilmore Girlsgrandfatherly role.
Herrman’s presence is just one of the elements that makesThe Lost Boysa quintessential piece of ’80s cinema, oozing with style. The leather jackets, wild hairstyles, and a killer soundtrack perfectly encapsulate the era’s vibe. Additionally, the visuals, especially the atmospheric nighttime scenes, enhance the sense of danger and allure associated with the vampire gang, led by the charismatic Kiefer Sutherland as David.
Year of the Dog
Year of the Dog is a 2007 film centered on Peggy, a secretary whose life takes unforeseen turns after the death of her beloved dog. Her journey unfolds as she navigates personal changes and new connections, leading to self-discovery and transformation.
Liza Weil, who played the fiercely ambitious Paris Geller, steps into the world of quirky indie drama withYear of the Dog.The film follows Peggy (Molly Shannon), a woman grappling with grief after the loss of her dog. Weil plays one of Peggy’s family members, delivering a supporting performance that adds surprising depth to the film’s simple story.
Gilmore Girls: Paris & Doyle’s Relationship Timeline Explained
Of the many love stories on Gilmore Girls, Rory and Lorelai’s are often center stage, but Paris and Doyle have a moving and sweet romance as well.
In fact, for film lovers who appreciate subtlety, character-driven narratives, and thought-provoking themes,Year of the Dogis an often-overlooked gem that deserves a closer look. Featuring the debut of Mike White (White Lotus) as a director, this 2007 dramedy strikes a self-assured balance between humor and heartbreak, offering apoignant reflection on identity, purpose, and human connection.White’s subtle direction paired with Shannon’s remarkable performance brings the viewer deeply and effectively into Peggy’s inner world. Fans of indie cinema and Weil’s sharp approach to characters will appreciate this thoughtful film.
Rocky Balboa
Sylvester Stallone’s Rocky Balboa comes back for one final exhibition match to prove his worth as a boxing legend 30 years after the events of the first movie. In training to fight the young and ambitious Mason Dixon, Rocky is faced with the possibility of reconciling with his son Robert and overcoming his grief over the death of his wife, Adrian.
Best remembered as Rory’s bad-boy boyfriend Jess Mariano, Milo Ventimiglia shines alongside Sylvester Stallone inRocky Balboaas Rocky Jr., the estranged son of the famous boxer. Their evolving father-son relationship is one of the film’s emotional cores as Ventimiglia brings vulnerability to the role, particularly in a heartfelt scene where he confronts Rocky about living in his shadow.
WhenRocky Balboahit theaters in 2006, many questioned the need for yet another installment in the beloved boxing franchise. Yet, against all odds — fitting for its title character — the sixth film in the seriesmanages to deliver anemotionally resonant, grounded, and inspiring storythat earns its place as one of the most memorable entries in theRockysaga. The movie continues to hold up today, even with the more recent addition of theCreedfilms in the franchise.
Transformers: Dark of the Moon
Transformers: Dark of the Moon, released in 2011, continues the saga of the Autobots as they collaborate with NEST. The narrative unfolds after the discovery of a mysterious artifact in Chernobyl, revealing hidden truths about the United States government. This film is the third installment in the Transformers series.
Keiko Agena, known as Lane Kim — Rory’s music-loving best friend — has a small role inTransformers: Dark of the Moon.Agena plays the assistant of Frances McDormand’s Charlotte Mearing, the Director of National Intelligence in the movie. In addition to McDormand, Agena stars alongside heavyweights like Shia LaBeouf, Josh Duhamel, Tyrese Gibson, and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley.
WhileTransformers: Dark of the Moonreceived largely mixed reviews, it was a box office success, becoming the second highest-grossing movie of 2011, as well as the second highest-grossingTransformersmovie. It’s also very fun to see Agena in a franchise film of this nature, considering how far away its story is from the simple small-town life portrayed inGilmore Girls. For many who enjoy theTransformerssaga,Dark of the Moonmore than holds up today, and Agena deserves credit for her role in that.
Gilmore Girls
In the fictional town of Star’s Hollow, single mother Lorelai Gilmore raises her high-achieving teenage daughter Rory. Mother and daughter rely on each other throughout their own life changes, romantic entanglements, and friendships.
