It’s been over 15 years since the iconic sitcom Friends aired its final episode, but the lovable gang from Central Perk still holds a special place in the hearts of millions. Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, Matthew Perry, and David Schwimmer became household names thanks to their unforgettable roles as Rachel, Monica, Phoebe, Joey, Chandler, and Ross.
However, the journey of these actors didn’t end with Friends. Over the years, many of them have gone on to carve out impressive careers in Hollywood, with roles in blockbuster films, award-winning performances, and successful ventures in both television and film. But which of their movie roles stand out the most? Let’s take a closer look at the best films the Friends cast members have made, ranked!
1. Jennifer Aniston: Marley & Me (2008)
The Heartwarming Comedy-Drama That Made Us All Cry
When it comes to Jennifer Aniston’s filmography, Marley & Me is undoubtedly one of her most memorable roles. Starring alongside Owen Wilson, Aniston plays Jennifer Grogan, a woman who adopts a lovable, mischievous dog named Marley. The film is both heartwarming and heartbreaking, showcasing Aniston’s ability to balance humor and deep emotion.
Aniston’s portrayal of a loving wife and mother, dealing with the challenges of raising a rambunctious dog and growing family, remains a fan favorite. The film not only solidified Aniston as a movie star, but it also made us all shed a tear or two (or more!) by the end.
2. Courteney Cox: Scream (1996)
The Movie That Put Cox on the Map as a Horror Icon
While many may associate Courteney Cox with her role as Monica Geller, her role as Gale Weathers in Scream is a standout in her career. Directed by Wes Craven, this slasher flick took the horror genre by storm and became a pop-culture phenomenon. Cox’s portrayal of the ambitious and somewhat cynical reporter, Gale, who gets caught up in the chaos of a serial killer targeting teens, is one of her most iconic roles.
The Scream franchise remains one of Cox’s most successful ventures, and she’s reprised her role as Gale in multiple sequels, continuing to bring intensity and wit to the character.
3. Lisa Kudrow: Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion (1997)
A Comedy Classic That Still Has Us Laughing
Lisa Kudrow’s role as Phoebe Buffay in Friends was beloved by fans for her quirky charm, and it turns out Kudrow’s comedic timing translates perfectly to film as well. Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion became a cult classic thanks to Kudrow’s performance as Michele Weinberger, one-half of a fun-loving, slightly air-headed duo who reunite at their high school anniversary.
The film is filled with over-the-top humor, slapstick comedy, and heart. Kudrow and her co-star Mira Sorvino have undeniable chemistry, and the movie remains one of Kudrow’s best performances post-Friends.
4. Matt LeBlanc: Ed (1996)
A Family-Friendly Comedy With Heart
Although Matt LeBlanc’s post-Friends career has seen him dive into television roles like Episodes and Man with a Plan, it’s his role in Ed that stands out for its heart and humor. In Ed, LeBlanc plays Jack, a minor league baseball pitcher who teams up with a chimpanzee named Ed to help lead his team to victory.
While the film wasn’t a critical darling, LeBlanc’s charm as a lovable, goofy character shone through, making it a fun family comedy to revisit.
5. Matthew Perry: The Whole Nine Yards (2000)
A Hilarious Crime Comedy That Proves Perry’s Range
While Matthew Perry’s time on Friends cemented him as a master of comedy, his performance in The Whole Nine Yards proved that he could shine in a different kind of comedy. This crime-comedy film stars Perry alongside Bruce Willis as a mild-mannered dentist who becomes involved in a dangerous plot after his neighbor, a hitman, moves in next door.
Perry brings his signature wit and humor to the role, and the film was well-received, becoming a box-office hit and even leading to a sequel, The Whole Ten Yards.
6. David Schwimmer: Apt Pupil (1998)
A Dark, Dramatic Role That Showed Schwimmer’s Depth
Known for playing the lovable, nerdy Ross Geller, David Schwimmer took on a much darker and intense role in Apt Pupil, based on a novella by Stephen King. The film follows a high school student who forms a disturbing bond with a former Nazi war criminal. Schwimmer’s portrayal of the student, who grows increasingly obsessed with his older neighbor, shows off his acting range and earned praise for his performance.
This film, though not as mainstream as his Friends work, demonstrated Schwimmer’s ability to tackle more serious and psychological roles.
7. Courteney Cox: 3000 Miles to Graceland (2001)
A Crime Thriller With a Touch of Elvis
In 3000 Miles to Graceland, Courteney Cox plays a tough, savvy woman who gets entangled in a high-stakes casino heist. The film, which also stars Kurt Russell and Kevin Costner, is filled with action and suspense, but Cox’s performance as a tough-as-nails woman brings the necessary balance of grit and heart. It’s a lesser-known gem in her filmography and shows another side of her acting range.
8. Jennifer Aniston: The Break-Up (2006)
A Romantic Comedy with a Twist
In The Break-Up, Jennifer Aniston stars alongside Vince Vaughn in a romantic comedy with a fresh, somewhat bitter twist. Aniston plays a woman who breaks up with her boyfriend, but the two are forced to share an apartment due to financial reasons. The film tackles modern relationships with humor, awkwardness, and depth, all while showing Aniston’s range as a comedic and dramatic actress.
9. Lisa Kudrow: The Other Woman (2014)
A Fun Rom-Com With a Touch of Drama
In The Other Woman, Lisa Kudrow plays the supportive best friend in a story about a woman (Cameron Diaz) who discovers her boyfriend is married. Kudrow’s comedic timing and sharp wit shine in this fun rom-com that also explores themes of infidelity and friendship. While Kudrow’s role is secondary to the main plot, she brings a much-needed layer of humor and relatability to the film.
Conclusion: The Friends Cast Has Proved Their Versatility
From romantic comedies to dark thrillers, the Friends cast has managed to prove time and again that they are more than just their iconic TV roles. Their movies span genres and showcase their growth as actors, each adding unique flavors to their careers. While Friends will always be their legacy, it’s clear that these stars have left their mark in the world of cinema.
