James Edward Franco was born on the 19th of April in 1978. His father was a businessman, and his mother was a children’s book author who occasionally acted.
Although he rebelled as a teenager and got caught up with the wrong crowd, Franco mended his ways in time to pass out with good grades.
Initially, James Franco loved acting but wanted to be a Marine Zoologist. After high school, when he decided to train as an actor, his parents did not support him, so Franco worked at McDonald’s to support himself.
Soon, he began auditioning for roles and appeared in TV series and films. James Franco has starred in all film genres, from comedy to drama, biographies, and horror films.
He frequently collaborated with Seth Rogen and made films and TV series. He also earned critical praise for his work in films like 127 hours, the biographical TV film James Dean, The Disaster Artist, etc.
Franco came under fire in 2018 when instances of sexual misconduct started surfacing on social media. He was working as a guest lecturer and teacher at UCLA, NYU, University of Southern California, etc. when these events occurred.
This resulted in lawsuits that were settled out of court. Here are some of his memorable films.

BiographyDramaHistory
Director:
Gus Van Sant
Release Date:
Fri Jan 30 2009
Star Cast:
Sean Penn, Josh Brolin, Emile Hirsch
Budget:
$20,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$54,589,558
Milk is a powerful biographical drama that chronicles the remarkable life of Harvey Milk, the first openly gay man elected to public office in the United States during the 1970s.
The film tracks Milk's journey from his decision to live openly as a gay man in New York to his move to San Francisco, where he opens a camera shop in the Castro District. There, he quickly becomes aware of the challenges and discrimination experienced by the local LGBTQ+ community.
Motivated by determination and compassion, Milk emerges as a passionate advocate for gay rights, organizing protests and spearheading significant movements that launch him into public office. The film also poignantly addresses the tragic assassination of both Harvey Milk and San Francisco Mayor George Moscone in 1978.
James Franco delivers a memorable performance as Scott Smith, Harvey Milk’s loyal partner, whose significant contributions as both a gay rights activist and campaign manager are highlighted throughout the story.
Recommended:

ActionAdventureSci-Fi
Director:
Sam Raimi
Release Date:
Wed Jun 30 2004
Star Cast:
Tobey Maguire, Kirsten Dunst, Alfred Molina
Budget:
$200,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$788,976,453
"Spider-Man 2," the thrilling sequel in Sam Raimi's celebrated Spider-Man trilogy, draws its inspiration from the legendary Marvel Comics universe. This film explores Peter Parker’s ongoing evolution as a superhero, diving into the emotional and physical challenges he faces.
Two years have passed since the events of the first film. Peter now finds it increasingly difficult to manage his double life, and the weight of his responsibilities causes friction in his closest relationships—especially as Mary Jane moves forward, becoming engaged to another man.
At the same time, Peter’s best friend, Harry Osborn, struggles with the shadow left by his father and steps into a leadership role at Oscorp. All the while, Peter is tormented by erratic losses of his powers, casting doubt on his ability to protect those he loves.
The stakes are raised even higher when Dr. Otto Octavius emerges as a powerful new villain, endangering not only Peter’s world but threatening the safety of New York City itself.
Recommended:

BiographyDrama
Director:
Danny Boyle
Release Date:
Fri Jan 28 2011
Star Cast:
James Franco, Amber Tamblyn, Kate Mara
Budget:
$18,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$60,738,797
"127 Hours" is an intense survival drama based on Aron Ralston's riveting memoir, Between a Rock and a Hard Place. The film captures a real-life ordeal that left audiences and critics spellbound through its powerful and immersive storytelling.
James Franco takes on the demanding role of mountaineer Aron Ralston, delivering a deeply moving and acclaimed performance that earned him an Oscar nomination. He skillfully portrays the fear, tenacity, and strength Ralston displayed in the face of overwhelming adversity.
The story follows Ralston, a skilled climber whose exploration takes a tragic turn when his arm becomes pinned by a massive boulder. With no easy escape and little hope for immediate rescue, he is pushed to his physical and emotional limits in a gripping fight for survival.
Filming the film's claustrophobic sequences demanded much from Franco, who spent extended hours in confining spaces. To calm his nerves and maintain focus, he discreetly hid textbooks in the crevice, losing himself in reading between takes to ease his anxiety during these challenging scenes.
Recommended:

ComedyDramaMusical
Director:
Ethan Coen, Joel Coen
Release Date:
Fri Nov 9 2018
Star Cast:
Tim Blake Nelson, Willie Watson, Clancy Brown
The Ballad of Buster Scruggs is a 2018 Western anthology film directed by Joel and Ethan Coen. The movie presents six uniquely connected tales, painting a vivid picture of the harsh realities of the American frontier with themes of violence, greed, and resilience.
Each story immerses viewers in the lives of different characters struggling to survive amid the unforgiving landscape of the Wild West. James Franco stars as a cowboy sentenced to hang for cattle rustling, bringing compelling energy to one of the film’s most memorable chapters.
From the charismatic, singing gunslinger Buster Scruggs to the hopeful gold prospector in "All Gold Canyon," the film crafts a rich mosaic of humor, tragedy, and perseverance. These stories capture the enduring spirit and diverse experiences that defined the era.
Recommended:

BiographyComedyDrama
Director:
James Franco
Release Date:
Fri Dec 8 2017
Star Cast:
James Franco, Dave Franco, Ari Graynor
Budget:
$10,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$29,820,616
"The Disaster Artist" is a biographical comedy-drama that showcases James Franco as director, co-producer, and star. The film is based on the bestselling memoir "The Disaster Artist: My Life Inside The Room, the Greatest Bad Movie Ever Made," co-authored by Greg Sestero and Tom Bissell.
At the film's core is the fascinating tale of Tommy Wiseau, the eccentric mind behind the infamous cult classic "The Room." Wiseau's ambition and mysterious persona, alongside Greg Sestero's involvement, transform what was once panned as one of the worst movies ever into a beloved phenomenon with a dedicated fan base.
James Franco’s captivating depiction of Wiseau masterfully captures the filmmaker’s enigmatic charm and relentless perseverance. This standout performance earned Franco the Golden Globe Award for Best Actor, further establishing his significant impact on modern cinema.

AnimationAdventureDrama
Director:
Mark Osborne
Release Date:
Fri Aug 5 2016
Star Cast:
Jeff Bridges, Mackenzie Foy, Rachel McAdams
Budget:
$81,200,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$97,571,250
The Little Prince (2015) is an enchanting animated adventure-comedy inspired by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s timeless novella. This beautifully crafted film delights audiences with its heartfelt storytelling and imaginative visuals.
Combining exquisite stop-motion and computer animation, the movie boasts a talented voice cast, featuring Jeff Bridges, Mackenzie Foy, Rachel McAdams, and James Franco. Their performances add depth and charm to the film’s memorable characters.
The story follows a young girl growing up in a meticulously ordered world governed by her mother’s strict routines, leaving little space for wonder or creativity. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she meets her eccentric, kind-hearted neighbor.
Through this unique friendship, and with inspiration from the story of the Little Prince, she learns to embrace adventure, imagination, and the powerful perspective of seeing the world through a child’s eyes.

ActionAdventureSci-Fi
Director:
Sam Raimi
Release Date:
Fri May 3 2002
Star Cast:
Tobey Maguire, Kirsten Dunst, Willem Dafoe
Budget:
$139,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$825,025,036
"Spider-Man" (2002) marks the thrilling beginning of Sam Raimi’s acclaimed trilogy, bringing the origin story of the iconic web-slinging hero to the big screen with groundbreaking effects and heartfelt storytelling.
This fast-paced film features Tobey Maguire as Peter Parker—a humble teenager navigating high school—and stars Kirsten Dunst as Mary Jane Watson, with James Franco delivering a compelling performance as Peter’s best friend, Harry Osborn. Their friendship is deepened by a sense of being outsiders in a world that often overlooks them.
After Peter is bitten by a genetically modified spider, he grapples with astonishing powers—from enhanced strength and agility to the ability to spin webs—setting him on the path to becoming Spider-Man.
Meanwhile, Harry endures emotional distance from his ambitious father, a renowned scientist whose obsession with power leads him to a tragic transformation into the villainous Green Goblin, putting the city in grave danger.
As Spider-Man steps up to defend New York and protect those he loves, this riveting film lays the foundation for an epic trilogy and cements its place as a milestone in superhero cinema.

ActionDramaSci-Fi
Director:
Rupert Wyatt
Release Date:
Fri Aug 5 2011
Star Cast:
James Franco, Andy Serkis, Freida Pinto
Budget:
$93,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$481,800,873
"Rise of the Planet of the Apes" is a captivating science fiction action drama that revitalizes the legendary "Planet of the Apes" franchise. Inspired by Pierre Boulle's classic novel, the film offers a dynamic and innovative take on the iconic story.
This film set a new industry standard with its groundbreaking use of motion capture technology, allowing the emotions and physicality of the chimpanzee characters to be portrayed with remarkable realism. Taking place in the near future, the narrative centers around a revolutionary drug developed to restore and enhance brain function.
When researchers test this drug on chimpanzees, they are stunned by the animals' rapid evolution in intelligence and their ability to communicate on a human level.
Central to the story is scientist Will Rodman, who raises Caesar, a remarkably gifted chimpanzee. As Caesar matures, he recognizes the injustices faced by his kind and ultimately sparks a powerful rebellion, challenging humanity's supremacy in an epic showdown.

DocumentaryBiography
Director:
Jason Cohn, Bill Jersey
Release Date:
Fri Aug 3 2012
Star Cast:
Charles Eames, Ray Eames, James Franco
Box Office (Worldwide):
$163,358
"Eames: The Architect & The Painter" is an engaging documentary that explores the remarkable careers and personal lives of Charles and Ray Eames, the iconic duo behind some of the 20th century’s most innovative designs.
Narrated by James Franco, the film masterfully combines his voice with compelling archival footage, illuminating interviews, and rare behind-the-scenes moments from the famous Eames office.
Through a vibrant selection of photographs and insightful discussions with colleagues, viewers gain an in-depth understanding of the creativity and vision that drove the Eames' influential designs and artistic contributions.
This documentary thoughtfully examines their pioneering work in industrial design, furniture, and architecture, highlighting the lasting influence they had on design and culture during the 1950s, 60s, and 70s.

ComedyFantasy
Director:
Evan Goldberg, Seth Rogen
Release Date:
Wed Jun 12 2013
Star Cast:
James Franco, Jonah Hill, Seth Rogen
Budget:
$32,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$126,041,322
This is the End is an outrageously creative apocalyptic comedy that stands out for its originality. Co-written, directed, and co-produced by Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg, the film delivers a clever, self-referential twist by featuring celebrities playing hilariously exaggerated versions of themselves facing the end of the world.
During filming, Goldberg pushed the cast to their comedic limits by including increasingly wild and absurd scenes. Remarkably, he aimed to make his stunts so outlandish that most actors would refuse to participate; however, James Franco and Seth Rogen boldly accepted every outrageous challenge thrown their way.
The plot revolves around a straightforward but brilliant concept: a group of Hollywood friends gathers at James Franco’s house for a party, only for the apocalypse to strike unexpectedly. With chaos erupting outside, the friends are forced to navigate a series of bizarre and unforgettable trials in their bid to survive.

CrimeDramaMystery
Director:
Paul Haggis
Release Date:
Fri Sep 28 2007
Star Cast:
Tommy Lee Jones, Charlize Theron, Jonathan Tucker
Box Office (Worldwide):
$29,541,790
"In the Valley of Elah" is a riveting crime drama helmed by acclaimed filmmaker Paul Haggis. Based on true events, the film artfully alters certain names, locations, and identities to enhance realism while respecting the privacy of those connected to the story.
The story follows a father on a desperate search for his son, who mysteriously disappears soon after returning from his deployment in the Iraq War. As the investigation unfolds, the family's worst fears are realized with the discovery of the son's body.
Drawn into the ensuing investigation, the father navigates a complex web of military and civilian authorities, determined to uncover the truth. The film expertly explores the emotional and psychological toll of war, exposing unsettling realities for all involved.
Praised for Paul Haggis's thoughtful and powerful direction, "In the Valley of Elah" deftly combines the suspense of a murder mystery with a resonant anti-war message, making it a standout entry in the genre.

AnimationAdventureComedy
Director:
Conrad Vernon, Greg Tiernan
Release Date:
Fri Aug 12 2016
Star Cast:
Seth Rogen, Kristen Wiig, Jonah Hill
Budget:
$19,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$140,705,322
Sausage Party is a bold, adult animated film created from the imaginative minds of Seth Rogen, Evan Goldberg, and Jonah Hill. This outrageous story originated as a joke while working on Knocked Up and Superbad, eventually taking shape as a unique project that pushes the boundaries of animated comedy.
The plot centers on a variety of grocery store food items, each given distinct personalities and dreams. These anthropomorphic foods long for the "great beyond," hoping to be chosen by customers and leave the grocery store shelves behind.
James Franco plays a human drug addict who becomes the first to realize that the food items can talk and possess unique identities. His character's discovery sparks chaos and hilarity, making the film an unforgettable and wild adventure.

DramaMusicRomance
Director:
Robert Altman
Release Date:
Fri May 7 2004
Star Cast:
Neve Campbell, James Franco, Malcolm McDowell
Budget:
$15,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$6,415,017
"The Company" is an American drama that delves into the world of ballet, centering on the renowned Joffrey Ballet Company. The story focuses on Loretta Ryan, her boyfriend Josh Williams, and Alberto Antonelli, the passionate artistic director guiding the troupe.
The film draws inspiration from the real experiences of actual ballet dancers in the company, lending authenticity to its portrayal. Notably, Neve Campbell, herself a trained ballerina, underwent four months of intensive preparation to embody her character convincingly.
James Franco takes on the unique role of a sous chef, not a dancer, for which he trained at a local bistro to accurately depict his character's profession.
Upon its release, "The Company" received positive reviews from critics. The director was especially commended for skillfully capturing the artistry, discipline, and passion of the ballet dancers on screen.

ActionComedyCrime
Director:
David Gordon Green
Release Date:
Wed Aug 6 2008
Star Cast:
Seth Rogen, James Franco, Gary Cole
Budget:
$27,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$101,624,843
"Pineapple Express" (2008) is a riotous stoner comedy co-written by Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg, with production support from Judd Apatow. This film combines sharp wit and high-energy antics to create a memorable cinematic experience.
James Franco delivers a standout comedic performance as the carefree drug dealer, earning widespread critical praise for his hilarious portrayal. Seth Rogen stars as a process server, whose mundane job takes an unexpected turn.
The story quickly escalates when Rogen's character visits his dealer and the duo inadvertently witness a murder committed by a dangerous drug lord and a corrupt police officer. Thrust into chaos, they find themselves on the run, desperately attempting to evade their relentless pursuers.
Fun fact: Originally, Rogen was set to play the dealer and Franco the process server. However, after a script read-through, the team realized Franco's comedic abilities were perfect for the dealer role, leading to a pivotal switch that elevated the film’s humor and appeal.

Drama
Director:
Gia Coppola
Release Date:
Fri May 9 2014
Star Cast:
Emma Roberts, James Franco, Jack Kilmer
Box Office (Worldwide):
$919,591
"Palo Alto" is a coming-of-age teen drama and marks the directorial debut of Gia Coppola, who also adapted the screenplay from a short story collection by James Franco.
The movie earned positive reviews, particularly for its strong cast performances and Coppola's assured direction. At its center is April, a reserved high school student navigating the complexities of adolescence.
April finds herself torn between a longing for her troubled classmate Teddy—who often loses himself in substance use—and her soccer coach, who persistently flirts with her.
In a unique touch, Teddy’s onscreen bedroom is actually the real room of actor Jack Kilmer. The film's narrative is inspired by Franco’s personal experiences growing up in Palo Alto.

BiographyCrimeDrama
Director:
Ariel Vromen
Release Date:
Thu May 2 2013
Star Cast:
Michael Shannon, Chris Evans, James Franco
Budget:
$10,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$4,552,970
"The Iceman" is a riveting biographical crime thriller that explores the haunting true story of Richard “The Iceman” Kuklinski, one of America’s most notorious contract killers. Based on Anthony Bruno’s book, "The Iceman: The True Story of a Cold-Blooded Killer," the film presents a chilling look at the life and psychology of a professional assassin.
Kuklinski’s journey into the criminal underworld began as a technician in a mob-run pornography lab. When the operation was suddenly shut down, he was handpicked to become a hitman—an offer that set him on a path marked by violence and darkness.
His reputation grew as he carried out hits with ruthless proficiency. But after clashing with his mob boss, Kuklinski decided to go solo, transforming into a freelance killer and carving out his own legacy in the criminal world.
What makes Kuklinski’s story especially compelling is his double life. He was able to hide his lethal profession from his unsuspecting family, successfully maintaining the image of a devoted husband and loving father right up until his arrest.

BiographyDramaRomance
Director:
Rob Epstein, Jeffrey Friedman
Release Date:
Fri Aug 27 2010
Star Cast:
James Franco, Todd Rotondi, Jon Prescott
Box Office (Worldwide):
$1,614,810
Howl (2010) is a captivating drama that explores the birth of the Beat Generation and its profound influence on American culture. The film skillfully intertwines three distinct narratives, each offering a unique perspective on this pivotal era.
The first story revisits the controversial 1957 obscenity trial that placed Allen Ginsberg's revolutionary poem in the national spotlight. The second delves deeply into Ginsberg's life, depicting the experiences that inspired his boundary-breaking poetry. The third unpacks the lasting importance of the poem "Howl" itself, reflecting on its legacy.
Ginsberg's game-changing collection, Howl and Other Poems, was published in 1955 and became instrumental in sparking the counterculture movement often called the San Francisco Renaissance.
The debut of "Howl" at the Six Gallery Reading in 1955 boldly defied societal conventions, paving the way for the landmark 1957 trial that would cement the poem's place in literary history.

ComedyCrimeRomance
Director:
Shawn Levy
Release Date:
Fri Apr 9 2010
Star Cast:
Steve Carell, Tina Fey, Mark Wahlberg
Budget:
$55,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$152,263,880
Date Night is an action-comedy directed by Shawn Levy, featuring an impressive ensemble cast of Oscar nominees, including Steve Carell, Mark Wahlberg, James Franco, Mark Ruffalo, Taraji P. Henson, and Kristen Wiig.
The film scored a hit at the box office and received moderate reviews from critics. The story centers on the Fosters, a typical suburban couple hoping to spice up their marriage.
To rekindle their romance, they plan a date night at a trendy New York restaurant. Without a reservation, they impulsively pretend to be another couple to secure a table.
Their evening takes a chaotic turn when they discover that the couple they impersonated is entangled in criminal activity. Now, the Fosters must race against the clock to recover some stolen items and clear their names.

CrimeDramaThriller
Director:
Harmony Korine
Release Date:
Fri Mar 22 2013
Star Cast:
Vanessa Hudgens, Selena Gomez, Ashley Benson
Budget:
$5,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$32,170,399
"Spring Breakers" is a black comedy-crime drama crafted by Harmony Korine, who both wrote and directed the film. Acclaimed for its sharp critique, the movie explores the apathy, recklessness, and thrill-seeking tendencies found among modern youth.
James Franco earned wide recognition for his standout portrayal of Alien, a drug-dealing rapper. The story kicks off with four young women desperate for cash so they can experience spring break.
In a drug-fueled haze, three of them resort to robbing a restaurant, after which they flee to Florida. While Brit, Candy, and Cotty embrace risk and impulsiveness, Faith stands apart as a devout Christian who quickly senses the peril around them.
Faith is the first to leave, shaken by a night in jail and her encounter with Alien. Meanwhile, her friends are drawn ever deeper into a chaotic underworld of drugs, violence, and gang conflicts.

ActionAdventureComedy
Director:
Evan Goldberg, Seth Rogen
Release Date:
Wed Dec 24 2014
Star Cast:
James Franco, Seth Rogen, Randall Park
Budget:
$44,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$11,782,625
"The Interview" is a bold action-comedy co-written, directed, and co-produced by Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg. The film attracted global attention and controversy when North Korea's foreign ministry demanded that its release be canceled, spotlighting its provocative subject matter.
Tensions escalated further when a hacker group threatened terrorist attacks against any cinema that showed the movie. The story centers on "Skylark Tonight," a celebrity talk show where host Dave Skylark receives a surprising invitation from his fan, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, for an exclusive interview.
Seizing the opportunity to enhance their journalistic credibility, Skylark and his producer are eager for the chance. However, the CIA soon intervenes, enlisting them for a secret mission to assassinate Kim Jong-un during the interview, blending political intrigue with outrageous comedy.

BiographyDrama
Director:
Rob Epstein, Jeffrey Friedman
Release Date:
Thu Aug 8 2013
Star Cast:
Amanda Seyfried, Peter Sarsgaard, Sharon Stone
Budget:
$10,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$1,585,583
Lovelace is a biographical drama based on the life of the porn star Linda Lovelace. She was the star of the hugely popular and successful porn film of 1972.
The film follows the life of the star from the age of 20 years till she reached 32 years.
Lovelace was born in a conservative Christian family with a domineering mother. Upset about her strained relationship with her parents, Lovelace discussed it with Chuck Traynor, a bar owner.
He used this fact to trap her in marriage and regularly abused her. He forced her to make the porn film and raked in all the money.
The public viewed Lovelace as they were unaware of her suffering, and she could not seek help for a long time.

AdventureFamilyFantasy
Director:
Sam Raimi
Release Date:
Fri Mar 8 2013
Star Cast:
James Franco, Michelle Williams, Rachel Weisz
Budget:
$215,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$493,311,825
"Oz the Great and Powerful" is a visually stunning fantasy adventure inspired by L. Frank Baum’s beloved Oz novels. Directed by Sam Raimi, the film captivated audiences and achieved significant box office success.
Although it may not fully capture the enchanting spirit of the original "Wizard of Oz," this movie stands out with its creative storytelling and engaging performances.
Oscar Diggs, a clever magician and notorious con artist, finds himself transported from a circus in Kansas to the magical land of Oz. He is soon caught up in a conflict caused by a fearsome wicked witch threatening the land.
With three powerful witches vying for control, Oscar must unravel the truth, identify the real villain, and fulfill a prophecy to restore peace to Oz.

CrimeDramaMystery
Director:
Michael Caton-Jones
Release Date:
Fri Sep 6 2002
Star Cast:
Robert De Niro, James Franco, Frances McDormand
Budget:
$40,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$29,676,703
City by the Sea is a crime drama that is based on the life of New York Police Detective Vincent LaMarca.
The role of the son, Joey, is played by Franco, and he got the role after De Biro was impressed with Franco’s performance in James Dean.
Joey Le Marca is a homeless druggie who is convicted of murder. He contacts Vincent LaMarca, his estranged father, for help, only to be turned down.
Initially, Vincent LaMarca is disappointed at the fact that his son is a murderer, just like his father was.
Now he has to reconcile with his past and decide his future as his son is further embroiled in multiple homicides.

BiographyCrimeDrama
Director:
Rupert Goold
Release Date:
Fri Apr 17 2015
Star Cast:
James Franco, Jonah Hill, Felicity Jones
Box Office (Worldwide):
$5,261,595
True Story is a biographical crime movie. It is based on the novel of the same name by Michael Finkel, where he recounts his encounter.
The film offers good acting performances from Jonah Hill and James Franco, but the plot weakens its factual accuracy.
Michael Finkel is a New York Times reporter who has lost his job and is contacted by someone stating that Christian Longo has been impersonating him.
He gets curious and contacts Longo to learn that he is awaiting trial for the murder of his wife and children.
Slowly, throughout their correspondences, Longo manipulates Finkel to believe his innocence till the end.

Drama
Director:
James Franco, Travis Mathews
Release Date:
Thu Oct 3 2013
Star Cast:
Val Lauren, Christian Patrick, James Franco
Box Office (Worldwide):
$42,534
Interior. Leather Bar. is a docu-fiction film that was made by James Franco and Travis Mathews. It is based on the deleted footage of the controversial 1980s film, Cruising.
The original film is about a serial killer who targets gay people. The current docu-fiction is a discussion on the nature of the deleted footage, whether it was homophobic or explicit.
It questions if the actors were comfortable with gay themes during those days, their concerns with censorship, etc. The viewers were not able to discern the point of the film.
They were not able to understand the need for Franco to make such a film, and it eventually tanked at the box office.

CrimeDrama
Director:
Justin Kelly
Release Date:
Fri Oct 21 2016
Star Cast:
Garrett Clayton, Christian Slater, Molly Ringwald
Box Office (Worldwide):
$81,757
King Cobra is a biographical crime drama that is set against the backdrop of the gay porn industry. The story is based on the novels, Cobra Killer: Gay Porn, Murder, and the Manhunt to Bring the Killers to Justice.
James Franco portrays the antagonist, but the film flopped. A seventeen-year-old teen agrees to star in a gay porn film made by director Stephen Kocis.
The film becomes immensely popular, and the director rakes in large profits. When the teen learns that he is not being paid well compared to his success, he fights with the director.
At the same time, a rival porn filmmaker gets jealous over his success leading to deadly consequences. Though the film was marketed as a biography, the central character denounced the film as a fiction that mocks the queer community and the porn industry.

ActionDramaWar
Director:
John Dahl
Release Date:
Fri Aug 12 2005
Star Cast:
Benjamin Bratt, Joseph Fiennes, James Franco
Budget:
$80,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$10,777,375
"The Great Raid" is a riveting war drama that brings to life the daring rescue mission of 500 American soldiers imprisoned in Japanese POW camps during World War II in the Philippines.
The film draws inspiration from historical accounts, including "The Great Raid on Cabanatuan" by William Brauer and "Ghost Soldiers" by Hampton Sides, lending authenticity and emotional intensity to the story.
Set amid the harsh realities of a remote POW camp, the movie vividly portrays the grim conditions faced by American captives and the dwindling hope for their survival.
Led by Lieutenant Colonel Henry Mucci and Captain Robert Prince, a courageous company embarks on a perilous mission to liberate the prisoners, showcasing remarkable valor and determination.
While some critics noted a lack of character depth, the Chicago Sun-Times commended the film for its focus on the authenticity of the rescue operation and its respectful portrayal of wartime heroism.

BiographyDrama
Director:
Vladimir de Fontenay, Nina Ljeti
Release Date:
Fri Apr 8 2016
Star Cast:
Sam Dillon, Thomas Mann, James Franco
Box Office (Worldwide):
$2,242
Memoria is a drama based on a short story written by James Franco. The film explores the life of a kid who feels unsatisfied with the way his life is progressing but refuses to do anything about it.
He sets low expectations in his life and struggles to fit in with any crowd. The film was directed by Vladimir de Fontenay and Nina Ljeti, based on the short story Palo Alto by Franco.
Memoria received just five reviews on Rotten Tomatoes to date, which were favorable. Hence, the film is considered to have positive reviews.
However, the audience felt that the plot just meanders into nothing. It shows promise in the first half but eventually fizzles out.

ActionDramaHistory
Director:
Tony Bill
Release Date:
Fri Sep 22 2006
Star Cast:
James Franco, Jean Reno, Jennifer Decker
Budget:
$60,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$17,858,059
"Flyboys" is a historical action-war drama set during World War I, focusing on the brave young Americans who volunteered to fight before the United States officially entered the conflict.
These volunteers formed the Lafayette Escadrille, a legendary squadron known for their acts of courage and heroism. The film follows the journey of a fictional pilot, Rawling, as he teams up with fellow aviators like Eugene Skinner, William Jensen, Briggs Lowry, and Eddie Beagle to defend the skies.
Under the mentorship of the daring Reed Cassidy and leadership of Commander Georges Thenault, these characters, inspired by real pilots, navigate the dangers and camaraderie of aerial combat.
The Lafayette Escadrille's unique legacy also includes their original mascots: two lively lion cubs named Whiskey and Soda, who added a special touch to the squadron's story.

BiographyDramaRomance
Director:
Ryan Murphy
Release Date:
Fri Aug 13 2010
Star Cast:
Julia Roberts, Javier Bardem, Richard Jenkins
Budget:
$60,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$204,594,016
Eat Pray Love is a biographical romantic drama based on a novel of the same name by Elizabeth Gilbert.
The film was successful at the box office, but it received negative reviews. Many people objected to the casting of Javier Bardem as Felipe, a Brazilian businessman, when he was a Spaniard.
They also opposed the casting of Mr. Spaghetti as an AS Roma fan when he was a fan of SS Lazio.
Eat Pray Love is the journey of self-discovery for Elizabeth Gilbert, who was married but unhappy. She sets out on a world tour to discover the three necessities for happiness, eating, praying, and love.

Comedy
Director:
John Hamburg
Release Date:
Fri Dec 23 2016
Star Cast:
Zoey Deutch, James Franco, Tangie Ambrose
Budget:
$38,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$118,102,725
Why Him? is a romantic comedy film co-written and directed by John Hamburg. The film was a box office hit despite the negative reviews from critics.
Laird Mayhew is the CEO of a video games company. He is in love with Stephanie Fleming and decides to propose to her.
In the meantime, Stephanie's family arrives to meet him, and her father disapproves of Laird because of his immaturity.
The rest of the film revolves around the family reconciling and moving forward. In an interview, Franco disclosed that all the tattoos on him were designed by him.
Being an avid painter, he used all his paintings to decorate the home of his character.

CrimeDramaHistory
Director:
James Franco
Release Date:
Fri Feb 17 2017
Star Cast:
Nat Wolff, James Franco, Vincent D'Onofrio
Budget:
$15,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$213,982
In Dubious Battle is a period drama that is set during the Great Depression. It is an adaptation of the novel of the same name written by John Steinbeck.
The labor characters in the film were described sympathetically by the author. But Franco, the director, portrayed them in a devious light.
The story is set on farms in California during the Great Depression in the 1930s. The farmers were finding it difficult to survive on the low wages they were receiving and the poor living conditions.
To aggravate matters, the management cuts farmer salaries from $3 to $1 per day, leading to protests and boycotts.
The film was considered the finest directorial venture by James Franco.

ActionDramaSci-Fi
Director:
Jonathan Baker, Josh Baker
Release Date:
Fri Aug 31 2018
Star Cast:
Myles Truitt, Jack Reynor, Dennis Quaid
Budget:
$30,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$10,313,019
Kin is a science fiction action film by Jonathan and Josh Baker. They made a short film titled Bag Man in 2014, and they adapted this film to make the feature-length film, Kin.
Critics gave the film a B+ rating with average reviews. They felt that the pacing and narrative were a little off considering the late twist in the plot.
The story starts with a futuristic world where Eli lives with his adopted father. One day she finds a strange weapon in an even stranger scene of battle.
Eli picks up the weapon and hides it. Later, Jimmy, his elder brother returns from prison and brings home trouble.
Eli is forced to flee with Jimmy and along the way, they bond but trouble follows.

CrimeHorrorMystery
Director:
Dan Bush
Release Date:
Fri Sep 1 2017
Star Cast:
James Franco, Scott Haze, Taryn Manning
Budget:
$5,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$346,729
The Vault is a horror film co-written and directed by Dan Bush. The film did not receive positive reviews.
They were average to mixed reviews that did not recommend watching the film. The film has a few goof-ups, like the bag of cash that was supposed to contain notes dating back to 1982 were notes issued in 1996.
The name of Centurion bank is followed by a string of roman numerals "MCMXXLIIV". These numerals do not make sense as they should have been MCMLXXVII to indicate the year it was established.
The horror film is set in a bank where a robbery is underway. The robbers are led into a vault that unleashes an unknown danger upon the robbers.

DramaRomance
Director:
Paul Haggis
Release Date:
Fri Nov 14 2014
Star Cast:
Liam Neeson, Mila Kunis, Adrien Brody
Budget:
$28,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$2,624,761
Third Person is a drama film that follows three different love stories that take place in New York, Paris, and Rome.
The film has an interesting premise with good acting, but the story is not impactful. The critics also gave it negative reviews.
Michael is a writer who has left his wife and is involved in an affair with a wannabe writer while in Paris.
Scott is a businessman who goes to Rome to steal designs from fashion houses but falls for a desperate mother who wants to rescue her daughter.
While Rick is stuck in a bitter custody battle with his ex-wife over visitation rights for their child. In a scene where Rick slaps his ex-wife and drags her across the floor, he accidentally stumbles.
The director retained the misstep as it added character to the scene.

AdventureBiographyDrama
Director:
Werner Herzog
Release Date:
Fri Apr 14 2017
Star Cast:
Nicole Kidman, James Franco, Robert Pattinson
Budget:
$15,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$1,592,853
Queen of the Desert is a biographical epic about Gertrude Bell, who served as an archaeologist, cartographer, writer, and British political officer.
The film has stellar performances from Nicole Kidman and a talented cast, including James Franco, Robert Pattinson, Damien Lewis, etc., yet the film flopped.
The story follows the life and work of Gertrude Bell, who is from British high society. She despises the balls and the idyllic life of gossip.
She travels along with her uncle to the near east, meets and embarks on many adventures. On the first day of filming, Kidman had to work with an untrained vulture who tried to peck her.
Kidman said that the scene was her favorite in the film.

Drama
Director:
Wim Wenders
Release Date:
Thu Apr 2 2015
Star Cast:
James Franco, Peter Miller, Gilbert Wahiakeron
Budget:
$12,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$554,953
Every Thing Will Be Fine is a Canadian-Swedish film directed by Wim Wenders. The film was released at the Berlin Film Festival and received its US premiere at the Toronto Film festival.
Alexander Desplat added music to the film a week before its release. The story revolves around a writer, Tomas, who accidentally causes the death of a little child while his brother survives.
This accident causes emotional upheaval in the lives of all those involved. Tomas becomes depressed and breaks up with his girlfriend.
The mother of the child suffers guilt and self-blame, while the surviving brother grows up into a troubled teen.

ActionAdventureComedy
Director:
David Gordon Green
Release Date:
Fri Apr 8 2011
Star Cast:
Danny McBride, Natalie Portman, James Franco
Budget:
$49,900,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$28,013,733
Your Highness is a fantasy comedy action film that was written by Danny McBride and Ben Best. The film was a box office bomb that even the critics were unhappy with.
They felt that the scatological jokes were tasteless and juvenile. The director disclosed in an interview that the script was just a general direction of the story, and most dialogues were improvised.
Fabious and Thadious are brothers, and they are forced to come together to work and defeat an evil sorcerer Leezar.
Fabious is a strong and capable brother, while Thadious is a lazy loser who tries to get away from responsibility.
Your Highness has few jokes to offer, and the lead actress Natalie Portman accepted that she took the film for the paycheck.
She was waiting for another film of hers to get the nod from studios, so she needed the money.

ActionCrimeThriller
Director:
Henrik Ruben Genz
Release Date:
Fri Aug 21 2015
Star Cast:
James Franco, Kate Hudson, Tom Wilkinson
Box Office (Worldwide):
$1,857,574
Good People is an action film that is adapted from the novel of the same name written by Marcus Sakey.
The film is set in London, and it is a crime caper that has been criticized for its thinly fleshed characters.
It is difficult to invest emotionally in a film that could have been an engrossing tale. Tom and Anna are a couple who are living in London and renovating their house.
They are heavily in debt. One day they discover their tenant died from a drug overdose, and he hid a stash of cash in the house.
The couple used this cash to clear their debt, but the cash was ill-gotten by the tenant who betrayed his friends and stole from a drug dealer.
Now both parties are chasing the couple to recover the cash and police are also involved due to apprehending the crooks.

DramaRomanceSport
Director:
Justin Lin
Release Date:
Fri Jan 27 2006
Star Cast:
James Franco, Jordana Brewster, Tyrese Gibson
Budget:
$26,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$17,496,992
Annapolis is a drama set in the naval academy of Annapolis. The US Navy and the Dept. of Defense refused to approve or support the film.
The critics were also unhappy with the flimsy plot that lacked all the hallmarks of a good naval film story.
Jake Huard is a youth who dreams of joining the US Navy. Although he is selected to the Naval academy at Annapolis, he struggles to fit in with the class.
He lacks academically and he is constantly hazed by his instructors and mates until he decides to fight back in the upcoming boxing matches.
During the filming, Tyrese Gibson and James Franco had a falling out, and Gibson refused to work with Franco ever again.

ComedyDramaRomance
Director:
David Raynr
Release Date:
Fri Mar 24 2000
Star Cast:
Shane West, Marla Sokoloff, Jodi Lyn O'Keefe
Budget:
$32,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$9,902,115
Whatever It Takes is a teen comedy that is a modern retelling of the play Cyrano de Bergerac. The film was a flop, but it was nominated for three Teen Choice Awards.
The story was old, the jokes were flat, the performance was passable, and overall it was an average film.
Ryan is a geeky kid who has a crush on the popular girl, Ashley. To help him get Ashley, her cousin, Chris, agrees to help Ryan in exchange for his help to date Maggie.
Ryan helps Chris get Maggie while Ryan catches Ashley’s attention. However, things are not the same as he imagined.
The movie was filmed in Torrance High School where She’s All That was filmed. Jodi O’Keefe plays the mean girl in both films.

AnimationAdventureComedy
Director:
Aaron Woodley
Release Date:
Fri Nov 1 2019
Star Cast:
Jeremy Renner, Heidi Klum, James Franco
Budget:
CA$61,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$10,445,192
Arctic Dogs is an animated film about a mailman from the Arctic Blast Delivery Service. The story is about a mailman who aspires to become the top dog delivery man and stumbles upon a sinister plot of world domination.
He and his ragtag group of friends have to foil the evil plan and save the world. The film received mixed reviews, with some critics panning it.
The audience gave it a rating of B- at CinemaScore, while PostTrak gave it a good rating of ‘recommended.' The film failed at the box office and recovered only a fifth of the budget.
However, there were spin-offs to the film, like Arctic Friends, Puffin, and Puffins, which were released on Apple+ TV and Amazon Prime. Johnny Depp voiced Puffin in the series.

Drama
Director:
James Franco
Release Date:
Fri Sep 27 2019
Star Cast:
Juno Temple, James Franco, Dennis Quaid
The Pretenders is a film directed by James Franco with a screenplay by Josh Boone. The film follows the life and encounters of a young filmmaker, his photographer friend, and an actress.
It is a love triangle that is confusing at best. The film has a mix of fresh talent with Jack Kilmer, Juno Temple, Shaameik Moore, etc., and the old guard with Dennis Quaid, Brian Cox, etc.
Yet, The Pretenders is a forgettable film with nothing outstanding about it. The film received mostly negative reviews, with a few calling the film shallow, shoddy filmmaking, flat-footed performances, etc.

ComedyDramaMystery
Director:
Terry Green
Star Cast:
John Mahoney, Linda Emond, Lindsay Crouse
Box Office (Worldwide):
$21,419
"James Dean" (2001) is an American made-for-TV biographical drama that explores the turbulent life of the legendary actor James Dean, portrayed with captivating depth by James Franco. Directed by Mark Rydell, this acclaimed film won two Primetime Emmy Awards, a Golden Globe, and received numerous nominations for its compelling storytelling.
The film traces Dean's journey from a troubled childhood in Indiana through his rapid ascent to Hollywood stardom. It vividly captures his intense acting style, rebellious nature, and complex personal relationships, providing insight into what made him an icon.
Despite his undeniable talent and magnetic presence, Dean wrestles with deep-rooted insecurities and self-destructive behaviors that threaten to overshadow his success, ultimately leading to his tragic and untimely death at just 24 years old.

ActionDrama
Director:
Scott Kalvert
Release Date:
Fri May 3 2002
Star Cast:
Stephen Dorff, Brad Renfro, Fairuza Balk
Budget:
$10,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$6,282,446
"Deuces Wild" is a 2002 film set in 1958 Brooklyn and revolves around two brothers, Leon and Bobby, who are members of a street gang called the Deuces.
The brothers find themselves caught in a turf war with a rival gang the Vipers, led by Marco. As tensions escalate, they must navigate the dangerous world of gang warfare while dealing with personal conflicts and the growing influence of drugs.
The audience reception of "Deuces Wild" was mixed. While some appreciated the film's nostalgic portrayal of 1950s Brooklyn and its stylish aesthetic, others found the plot to be cliched.
Critics criticized the film for its excessive violence and predictable plot. However, it has since gained a cult following among fans of gritty urban dramas and 1950s nostalgia.

DramaThriller
Director:
Sonia A. Guggenheim, David Breschel, Jenna Cavelle
Star Cast:
Camilla Belle, Dominic Rains, Summer Phoenix
Budget:
$2,500,000 (estimated)
"The Mad Whale" is a 2017 film set in the 19th century within an all-female mental institution. The story revolves around a new doctor named Dr. Benjamin, who arrives at the institution with modern ideas about treating mental illness.
He challenges the conventional methods used by the authoritarian head nurse, Mrs. Bucket. As tensions rise and power struggles ensue, the patients of the asylum find their voices and strength, ultimately leading to a rebellion against the oppressive system.
The critical reaction to "The Mad Whale" was largely negative. Critics found the film's narrative to be disjointed and the pacing uneven, resulting in a lack of emotional engagement.
While the film tackled important themes of female empowerment and the treatment of mental illness, many felt that it failed to fully explore or execute them effectively.

Drama
Director:
Arkesh Ajay, Kelly Pike, Jerell Rosales
Release Date:
Thu May 17 2018
Star Cast:
Amy Smart, Alicia Witt, James Franco
Mississippi Requiem is a collection of four short films that were directed by Arkesh Ajay, Kelly Pike, Jerell Rosales, and Marta Savina.
James Franco acted in A Rose of Emily and co-wrote and produced the film through his production company Elysium Bandini Studio.
The film is a collection of four short films that are adapted from William Faulkner’s short stories. They were directed by four different directors into short films.
The short story that Franco performs is the short story, A Rose For Emily. It is the tale of an emotionally damaged young woman who lost her last surviving relative, her father at a young age.
This led to her becoming a recluse and insistent on maintaining the status quo on everything around her.

Action
Director:
Jenna Cavelle
Release Date:
Fri Jul 28 2017
Star Cast:
James Franco, Shakira Barrera, Edy Ganem
Blood Heist is an action film directed by Jenna Cavelle, and she co-wrote the script along with Jay Davis and Amber Viera.
The film is about filmmakers who attempt to take realism to the next level, resulting in a disastrous ending.
A group of siblings, two sisters, and a brother plan a violent robbery to use the money to make an independent film.
They decide to make their film based on the process and events of the armed robbery. The events of the robbery go awry from the early stages.
The film did not make an impression on its audience or critics. It went largely forgotten and unnoticed.