Summary

  • Johnson's dual talents of physical prowess and impeccable timing shine in action-packed and comedic roles alike.
  • From intense high-octane sequences to lighthearted humor, Johnson effortlessly transitions between genres with charm and wit.
  • Despite his action-packed image, Johnson's ability to elicit laughter and embrace absurdity showcases his versatility as an actor.

the Jumanji franchise, Johnson consistently brings his unique blend of charm, wit, and physical comedy to the screen.

While some of his more generic action films may not fully showcase his comedic range, it is evident that Johnson possesses a natural ability to elicit laughter and entertain audiences with his timing, delivery, and willingness to embrace the absurdity of certain situations. As one of the most successful actors who began his career as a wrestler, Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, continues to strike a balance between his action-packed roles and comedic performances. He cements his status as a versatile actor, captivating audiences with both his impressive physique and undeniable sense of humor.

8 Don't Cry

Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle (2017)

Release Date
December 5, 2017
Director
Jake Kasdan
Sequel(s)
Jumanji 4
Franchise(s)
Jumanji

In the 2017 Jumanji sequel, Dwayne Johnson portrays Dr. Smolder Bravestone, a strong and confident archaeologist who serves as the avatar for the anxious teenager Spencer. One hilarious scene showcases the contrast between Bravestone's self-assured demeanor and Spencer's neurotic personality. As Bravestone, Johnson delivers a moment of realization that highlights the disconnect between the avatar and the player controlling him. The scene's humor stems from Johnson's ability to convey the internal struggle of a confident character grappling with the insecurities of his real-world counterpart, as evidenced by his repeated self-reassurance to "don't cry," emphasizing the comedic dichotomy at play.

7 Learning To Fly

The Tooth Fairy (2010)

Dwayne Johnson The Rock Tooth Fairy

Johnson's ability to embrace the absurdity of the situation showcases his knack for physical comedy and timing.

Dwayne Johnson’s movie Tooth Fairy has the wrestler turned actor portraying a minor league hockey player who unexpectedly finds himself in the role of an actual tooth fairy. One memorable scene highlights his comedic timing as his character grapples with the challenges of flying with tiny fairy wings. The juxtaposition of Johnson's muscular physique and his delicate wings creates a humorous visual, while his portrayal of a bewildered tough guy navigating the unfamiliar dynamics of flight adds to the scene's comedic impact. Johnson's ability to embrace the absurdity of the situation showcases his knack for physical comedy and timing.

6 Hobbs And Shaw Plane Argument

Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw (2019)

Release Date
August 2, 2019
Director
David Leitch
Sequel(s)
F9: The Fast Saga1, Fast X
Franchise(s)
Fast and Furious

In the Fast & Furious spinoff, Hobbs & Shaw, Dwayne Johnson and Jason Statham's characters engage in a hilarious argument on a plane, showcasing their comedic chemistry. Despite being highly skilled fighters on a critical mission, the duo finds themselves embroiled in a childish dispute, surrounded by sleeping engers. Their serious roles and the petty nature of their squabbles create a humorous contrast that highlights Johnson's comedic timing and ability to deliver witty lines. The scene perfectly captures the entertaining dynamic between the two characters, demonstrating Johnson's knack for balancing action and comedy in a single, memorable moment.

5 Cinnamon Allergy

The Game Plan (2007)

Dwayne Johnson looking dejected in a football locker room in The Game Plan

Johnson's ability to capitalize on the physical comedy of the moment creates a memorable scene.

The Disney comedy The Game Plan gives Dwayne Johnson a platform to show off his comedic prowess as Joe Kingman, a star football player who discovers he has a daughter and must care for her. One standout scene features Kingman accidentally consuming a cinnamon cookie, unaware of his allergy to the spice. The ensuing reaction causes his mouth to swell, resulting in a humorous lisp that adds an extra layer of hilarity to his dialogue delivery. Johnson's ability to capitalize on the physical comedy of the moment, combined with his impeccable timing and facial expressions, creates a memorable scene.

4 Smolder

Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle (2017)

Dwayne Johnson looking to the side in Jumanji Next Level

Johnson's Bravestone possesses extraordinary strength, speed, and the ability to smolder intensely.

Dwayne Johnson's portrayal of Dr. Bravestone in the Jumanji franchise allows him to showcase his comedic range while still embodying a powerful action hero. As the avatar of the nerdy teenager Spencer, Johnson's Bravestone possesses extraordinary strength, speed, and the ability to smolder intensely. The latter trait becomes a source of humor, as even the most mundane lines delivered by Johnson are imbued with a sense of intensity and allure. When Spencer's grandfather Eddie inhabits Bravestone's body in Jumanji: The Next Level, Johnson skillfully combines his signature smolder with a comedic impression of Danny DeVito, further highlighting his versatility.

Related
Jumanji 4: Release Date, Cast, Story & Everything We Know

Jumanji: The Next Level was another hit at the box office for Sony Pictures and a sequel is on the way. Here's what we know so far about Jumanji 4.

2

3 Bring It On Monologue

Be Cool (2005)

Dwayne Johnson raising his eyebrow in Be Cool

Dwayne Johnson's dedication to his roles, whether as a stoic action hero or an eccentric ing character, is undeniable. In a performance that somewhat mirrors his own career trajectory, Johnson portrays Elliot Wilhelm, a bodyguard with aspirations of stardom. Elliot's determination leads him to break into a house to confront Chili Palmer, where he is unexpectedly asked to perform a monologue he has prepared from the classic Bring it On movie. Though Elliot's understanding of monologues is questionable, he fearlessly channels both Kirsten Dunst and Gabrielle Union's characters, seamlessly shifting between Torrance and Isis.

2 “You’re Welcome”

Moana (2016)

Maui raising his eyebrow in Moana
Moana

WHERE TO WATCH

Streaming

Release Date
October 13, 2016
Director
John Musker
Franchise(s)
Disney

Johnson's wholesome character of Maui in Moana not only displays great comedic moments, but the actor’s lesser-known singing abilities. Johnson brings impeccable timing and enthusiasm to Maui's signature song, "You're Welcome." The laid-back melody suits his vocal range while allowing him to infuse the performance with wit, charm, and charisma. With Moana 2 in the works, Johnson's spirited delivery endears him to the audience and Moana. His genuine enjoyment of the role is palpable throughout the humorous musical number, guaranteed to get toes tapping and leave viewers laughing along with the catchy tune.

1 Aim For The Bushes

The Other Guys (2010)

Dwayne Johnson and Samuel L Jackson on a rooftop just before they jump "Aim for the bushes" in The Other Guys opening scene
The Other Guys

WHERE TO WATCH

Streaming

Release Date
August 5, 2010
Director
Adam McKay

In the buddy comedy The Other Guys, Dwayne Johnson and Samuel L. Jackson make a memorable cameo as superstar NYPD officers, setting the stage for the film's central premise. The movie's opening sequence, set to the Foo Fighters' "Hero," presents Johnson and Jackson as the quintessential cop duo, seemingly poised to be the film's protagonists. However, in a hilarious twist that catches even the star-studded pair off guard, the narrative rug is pulled out from under them. The unexpected punchline, best experienced with a group of friends for maximum laughter, showcases The Rock’s comedic timing and willingness to subvert expectations.