Our favorite Owen Wilson roles

Cast in a supporting role amid an ensemble cast of this Michael Bay science-fiction, end-of-the-world thriller. Wilson's Oscar Choice is described as "spacey" but a "brilliant geologist." He provides comic relief, and he's all for the chance to save the planet from that massive asteroid, but he really hates it when people think Jethro Tull is the name of a person in the famed progressive rock band.

The film was a box-office bust, more or less, but Wilson delivered an above-average performance. It can be argued that Wilson was the only good thing about the movie. He starred as a wannabe martial arts expert who was actually a homeless underachiever that took on the role of bodyguard to some bullied high schoolers. The film was dubbed as a coming-of-age piece, and it can be argued that "Drillbit" was the one who experienced that process. 

One of Wilson's better voiceover roles. Starring as Reggie, a pessimistic turkey who pleasantly finds himself awarded a presidential Thanksgiving pardon only to end up involuntarily part of a back-in-time scheme to erase turkey as the main course from the traditional holiday meal. The storyline is unique and fun, and Wilson is solid in the lead role. 

Sure, Wilson has swung and missed in romantic comedies through the years. This, however, is one of his better offerings. He plays Matty Reynolds, a pitcher for the Washington Nationals. Fun-loving, carefree, and rich. He's part of a mini love triangle with softball-playing Lisa (Reese Witherspoon) and down-on-his-luck George (Paul Rudd). It's a fun 2010 film, and Wilson is a big reason why it works.

Wilson co-starred with Jackie Chan. The pair take on the "buddy cop" role in this 19th-century western martial arts comedy. In Shanghai Noon, O'Bannon is an outlaw, bumbling at best but highly entertaining. In the sequel, Shanghai Knights, O'Bannon is now a waiter/gigolo. If we don't take either film's characters or plot too seriously, we can appreciate Wilson and the overall franchise for having a good time.

Wilson often finds himself amid an ensemble cast. He tends to stand out in those projects, regardless of the size of his role. In Paul Thomas Anderson's 1970s-based, stoner-paranoia crime film, Coy is a down-on-his-luck specimen believed to be dead but is actually law enforcement looking to get back in his family's good graces.

Starring opposite Jennifer Aniston in this comedy-drama from 2008, Wilson is more than serviceable as journalist John Grogan. He's trying to balance a career, marriage, family, and precocious dog that sometimes draws a wedge between that entire dynamic. We like that John can be compassionate, authoritative, and humbling at the drop of a dime, whether in his relationship with humans or a canine. 

Wilson has a long-standing professional relationship with renowned filmmaker Wes Anderson. In 2004, Wilson starred as Ned Plimpton, a pilot who happens to be a big fan of famed oceanographer Steve Zissou (Bill Murray) and has reason to believe Zissou is his father. Ned shares that typical wittiness we appreciate from Wilson. The film failed at the box office but has earned cult classic status. Wilson's performance has a lot to do with that.

Another solid Wes Anderson moment for Wilson. The Grand Budapest Hotel features quite the ensemble cast, including Ralph Fiennes, Willem Dafoe, Tilda Swinton, Edward Norton, and Bill Murray). Here, Wilson is the Society of the Crossed Keys concierge. A supporting role with a slightly odd character but notable among this strong cast. Another example of Wilson bringing the goods even if not in a starring part.

Francis is probably best known for sporting bandages on his head following a motorcycle accident during this appreciative comedy-drama. The movie chronicles the "spiritual journey" of three estranged brothers (Wilson, Adrien Brody, and Jason Schwartzman) following the death of their father. In typical Wes Anderson fashion, the movie is brilliantly bizarre with great storytelling that's outside the box enough to make it one of Wilson's and Anderson's more underrated features.

Another supporting role for Wilson. Playing Eli Cash, neighbor to the Tenenbaums, Wilson gave his usual quirky but strong performance in another Wes Anderson project. The Royal Tenenbaums might be Wilson's most celebrated overall piece of work, mainly because Wilson and Anderson earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Screenplay.

As Coach Skip in this Wes Anderson Oscar-nominated animated comedy, Wilson's character details the rules and finer nuances of succeeding at "Whack-Bat." The stoic and focused Coach Skip is not shy about offering honest criticism and advice to young whack-bat prospects.

Kevin is the ex-fiancé of Pam (Teri Polo). He made his wealth through the stock market, but his true passion appears to be carpentry. Kevin claims he was inspired to take it up because of Jesus, who dabbled in the trade. Kevin, well-loved by Pam's dad Jack (Robert De Niro), has a presence in this franchise's three films, but his turn in Meet the Parents is still the best.

Not only was this Wilson's film debut in 1996, starring alongside brother Luke, but Owen also co-wrote the screenplay with Wes Anderson. Some dedicated fans of Owen Wilson and Anderson believe this film is their best collaboration. Dignan wants to be a heist king. The only problem is that he lacks discipline and real organization. It's mainly for the thrill and comes off hilariously. 

Wilson offers his fair share of light-hearted and comedic moments even within a drama. It's a formula that's consistently worked for Wilson throughout his career and is evident again in Wonder. As Auggie's dad, Nate tries to optimistically help his young son navigate life with a facial deformity. It's not always easy, but he's genuine in the role and more than holds his own alongside a superstar such as Julia Roberts.

Putting his individual stamp within the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Wilson's run as Mobius is a highlight of Disney Plus' Loki series. An agent of the Time Variance Authority (TVA), Mobius investigates the most hardened criminals but does so with plenty of his signature wit. 

Wilson's all-time coolest character might be Hansel, one of the hottest fictional male models from the early 2000s. He's hot, extreme, and has the attitude of "who cares; it's only fashion." His idols include Richard Gere and Sting. Hansel lives for the moment and initially makes life miserable for rival Derek Zoolander (Ben Stiller). Eventually, the two fashion stars become friends, but not before their infamous and hilarious "walk-off."

This might be Wilson's most notable and popular role for most people. It's certainly among his best. John is a relatable character despite John and pal Jeremy (Vince Vaughn) boasting a childish but hilarious penchant for crashing weddings to pick up girls. John is getting older and wants to find love. He's the more mature of the two, even amid this misguided preference for attending uninvited formal occasions, including funerals. 

Wilson could have made a living from voicing one of the most beloved characters in the history of the Disney/Pixar universe. The hero of the three Cars films, Lightning McQueen is iconic. The popular stock car racer goes from a self-absorbed star-in-the-making to a caring and focused speedster who has finally seen the big picture in his life. Wilson's overall body of work is versatile, spanning comedies and dramas, starring roles and supporting efforts, but McQueen stands tall.

From 2011, Midnight in Paris was one of Woody Allen's more unique films and earned Wilson some high praise for his portrayal of Pender. The screenwriter is mired in an unfulfilling relationship with his materialistic fiancée Inez (Rachel McAdams). He's looking for something better. Wilson's take on another Allen persona proved he's worthy of carrying a project expected to thrive and, in this case, be nominated for a Best Picture Oscar.