From romantic leads to action heroes and scene-stealing comedic roles, James Marsden has proven his versatility time and time again. More recently, in the 2025 Hulu political thriller Paradise, Marsden delivers one of his most compelling performances yet as President Cal Bradford, whose murder sends shockwaves through the nation.
Whether in superhero blockbusters, indie gems, or prestige TV, Marsden continues to impress. Here are 10 of his best performances across film and television and where to stream them online.
Jury Duty (2023)
Marsden earned his first Emmy nomination for his brilliant performance in Jury Duty, an Amazon Prime Video series that blends real-life reactions with scripted comedy. He plays an exaggerated, self-absorbed version of himself, injecting the show with sharp humor as he navigates a fake jury duty case alongside an unsuspecting real juror. His ability to poke fun at Hollywood stereotypes while maintaining charm and wit makes this one of his most memorable performances. The show’s innovative format and Marsden’s comedic brilliance helped it become a sleeper hit, proving his ability to shine in unexpected roles.
Hairspray (2007)
As the smooth-talking, effortlessly cool Corny Collins, Marsden lights up the screen in Hairspray. His magnetic performance as the host of the Corny Collins Show brings energy and charm to every scene, stealing moments with his pitch-perfect delivery and show-stopping musical numbers. The film, based on the Broadway musical, features a stellar ensemble cast, including John Travolta, Michelle Pfeiffer, and Zac Efron, but Marsden stands out with his charisma and old-school showman appeal. His rendition of "Nicest Kids in Town" remains one of the highlights of this beloved musical adaptation.
Paradise (2025)
In Hulu’s Paradise, James Marsden plays former U.S. President Cal Bradford, a charismatic leader with the Secret Service code name “Wildcat.” When he’s found murdered, the show unfolds through gripping flashbacks, revealing political intrigue and hidden secrets. Sterling K. Brown stars as the head of the security team investigating the assassination, delivering a powerhouse performance alongside Marsden’s compelling turn as the enigmatic president. Created by Dan Fogelman (This Is Us), the series has received critical acclaim for its riveting storytelling and stellar performances.
X2: X-Men United (2003)
Marsden’s portrayal of Scott Summers, aka Cyclops, in the X-Men franchise showcased his ability to bring emotional weight to a superhero role. In X2: X-Men United, he gets to dive deeper into Cyclops’ struggles as a leader and his complicated relationship with Jean Grey. Though often overshadowed by Wolverine’s (Hugh Jackman) arc, Marsden adds nuance to Cyclops, balancing his no-nonsense leadership with moments of vulnerability. The film itself remains one of the best entries in the X-Men series, praised for its thrilling action and strong character dynamics.
Sonic the Hedgehog (2020)
In Sonic the Hedgehog, Marsden proves his comedic chops as Tom Wachowski, a small-town sheriff who befriends the blue speedster (voiced by Ben Schwartz). His easygoing charm and natural chemistry with Sonic elevate the film beyond a standard video game adaptation. Marsden fully embraces the absurdity of the premise while grounding the film with his likable presence. His ability to carry family-friendly adventure films was further proven in the 2022 sequel, Sonic the Hedgehog 2, which expanded on his character’s bond with Sonic and introduced even more action-packed fun.
The Notebook (2004)
Although best remembered for Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams’ love story, The Notebook features Marsden in a crucial supporting role as Lon Hammond Jr., the charming, wealthy fiancé of Allie (McAdams). Rather than playing the stereotypical obstacle in a romance, Marsden’s Lon is genuinely kind and caring, making Allie’s choice even more heartbreaking. His performance adds depth to the film, proving that Marsden excels in roles that require both charm and emotional complexity. It’s a testament to his ability to leave a lasting impression, even in a supporting capacity.
Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues (2013)
In the long-awaited sequel to Anchorman, Marsden joins the franchise as Jack Lime, an arrogant, hotshot news anchor who becomes Ron Burgundy’s (Will Ferrell) biggest rival. Marsden relishes the opportunity to play a cocky antagonist, delivering hilarious one-liners and fully embracing the film’s absurdity. His chemistry with Ferrell and the rest of the cast makes him a standout in a movie filled with comedic heavyweights. While Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues may not have surpassed its predecessor, Marsden’s presence added fresh energy to the mix.
Robot & Frank (2012)
In Robot & Frank, Marsden takes on a more understated role as Hunter, the son of an aging, former jewel thief (Frank Langella). The film, a heartwarming sci-fi drama, explores themes of memory, companionship, and technology’s role in caregiving. Marsden plays the concerned but distant son, struggling to connect with his father while navigating his own responsibilities. His performance is grounded and sincere, complementing Langella’s touching lead role. The film itself is a hidden gem, offering a unique blend of comedy, drama, and science fiction.
Disenchanted (2022)
Marsden reprises his role as Prince Edward in Disenchanted, the sequel to Enchanted (2007). Once again, he embraces the over-the-top, fairytale charm of the character, delivering hilarious moments with his exaggerated bravado and theatrical delivery. While the film shifts focus to Amy Adams’ Giselle, Marsden’s return as the lovably clueless prince is one of the highlights. His comedic timing and commitment to the role prove that he’s one of Hollywood’s most underrated comedic talents. Even with limited screen time, he steals every scene he’s in.
Mrs. America (2020)
In the acclaimed FX limited series Mrs. America, Marsden takes on the role of Phil Crane, a conservative politician aligned with Phyllis Schlafly (Cate Blanchett) in the battle against the Equal Rights Amendment. While his role is smaller compared to the series’ leading women, Marsden’s performance adds to the show’s rich political landscape. He effortlessly portrays the era’s political maneuvering with charm and smarm, fitting seamlessly into the ensemble cast. The series itself was praised for its historical accuracy, sharp writing, and powerhouse performances, making it one of Marsden’s best TV projects.
How to watch the best James Marsden movies streaming online in India
From blockbusters like the Sonic and X-Men franchise to acclaimed TV projects like Mrs America and Jury Duty, here’s how and where you can watch the best movies and shows featuring James Marsden online. Our guide below also offers you all the options to rent, buy, or watch these movies online for free.
