All 26 Noah Baumbach Movies In Order — All The Best (And Worst) Films To Watch Online
Dive into the captivating world of Noah Baumbach, the iconic American filmmaker renowned for his introspective and thought-provoking films. In this movie roundup article, we bring you a comprehensive review of Baumbach’s works, exploring the themes that continue to resonate with viewers. Whether you’re a fan or new to his unique storytelling, prepare to embark on a journey filled with raw emotions, introspection, and insightful commentary on modern life.
As an Amazon Affiliate I receive compensation from qualified purchases at no cost to you
1. Kicking and Screaming (1995)
“Kicking and Screaming” is a humorous and heartwarming film from 1995, written and directed by Noah Baumbach. The story revolves around a group of college graduates who refuse to leave their school behind, continuing to live their carefree lives in their old stomping grounds. The movie explores themes of friendship, love, and growing up, all wrapped up in a charming comedy.
2. Highball (1997)
“Highball” is a unique blend of comedy and drama that explores the lives of a newly married couple, played by Justine Bateman and Noah Baumbach, who decide to spice up their social life by throwing lavish parties in their Brooklyn home. As the story unfolds, the couple invites their friends to their New Year’s Eve party, leading to a series of humorous and unexpected events.
3. Mr. Jealousy (1997)
“Mr. Jealousy” is a delightful mix of romantic comedy and intriguing exploration of obsession, released in 1998. The film, directed by renowned novelist and screenwriter Noah Baumbach, chronicles the complex and amusing journey of a writer named Charlie, played by the versatile Eric Stoltz, who becomes infatuated with the successful, charismatic, and confident novelist, Jerry, portrayed by Chris Eigeman.
4. Hamlet (2000)
Embark on a gripping journey through modern-day New York City with Hamlet, a spellbinding adaptation of Shakespeare’s epic tale of murder, vengeance, and ghostly apparitions. This powerful retelling of the classic play follows the enigmatic Prince Hamlet as he grapples with his father’s mysterious death and navigates the treacherous world of political intrigue and familial betrayal.
5. In the Cut (2003)
Dive into the captivating world of “In the Cut, “ a riveting 2003 mystery-thriller directed by Jane Campion. Starring Meg Ryan as Frannie Avery, a New York City writing professor, this film takes a suspenseful turn when Frannie has a torrid affair with a detective played by Mark Ruffalo, as he investigates the murder of a young woman in her neighborhood.
6. The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou (2004)
“The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou” is a quirky and visually stunning action-adventure-comedy where the eccentric oceanographer, Steve Zissou (played by Bill Murray) and his crew set out on an expedition to avenge the loss of his partner, who was brutally killed by a legendary shark.
7. The Squid and the Whale (2005)
“The Squid and the Whale” is a poignant coming-of-age comedy-drama that explores the complexities of love, family, and personal growth through the eyes of two young boys navigating their parents’ divorce in Brooklyn during the 1980s. Written and directed by Noah Baumbach, this heartfelt film has received critical acclaim, garnering an impressive total of 23 wins and 49 nominations.
8. Margot at the Wedding (2007)
In the complex and heartwarming comedy-drama “Margot at the Wedding, “ Nicole Kidman plays the titular character Margot, a woman who reluctantly joins her son, Claude, for her sister Pauline’s wedding to the seemingly unimpressive Malcolm. The film, directed by Noah Baumbach, explores the intricacies of family dynamics and the challenges of love, parenthood, and personal growth.
9. Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009)
Fantastic Mr. Fox, a delightful animated adventure by Wes Anderson, brings Roald Dahl’s enchanting tale to life.
10. Greenberg (2010)
Greenberg (2010), a captivating comedy-drama film, follows the life of a man who has moved from Los Angeles to New York years ago. He returns to the bustling city to get his life in order while house-sitting for his brother. As he settles into his temporary home, he crosses paths with his brother’s enigmatic personal assistant, sparking a unique connection.
11. The Alumni Chapter (2011)
“The Alumni Chapter” is a gripping dark comedy that explores the challenges of life post-college. As graduates navigate a world where jobs are scarce and friendships are tested, they must confront the harsh realities of change and grapple with feelings of uncertainty.
12. Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted (2012)
Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted takes the beloved animated animal family on an adventure filled with action, comedy, and heart. As they join a struggling European circus, the animals find themselves pursued by the ruthless animal-control officer, Captain DuBois.
13. Frances Ha (2012)
“Frances Ha” is a charming and intriguing comedy-drama that intertwines the lives of two best friends navigating their way through the complexities of life, love, and friendship. Written and directed by Noah Baumbach and co-written by Greta Gerwig, starring the talented duo of Greta Gerwig and Mickey Sumner, the film takes a fresh, honest, and genuinely funny look at the trials and tribulations of young adulthood.
14. One Day Since Yesterday: Peter Bogdanovich & the Lost American Film (2014)
“Moments Ago, Since Yesterday: Peter Bogdanovich & the Missing American Movie” (2014) is a riveting documentary that delivers an unabashed examination of the life and filmmaking career of the legendary American director, Peter Bogdanovich. It goes in-depth, exploring the dramatic events surrounding the production of his film, “All of Them Laughed,” revealing the personal and professional strife Bogdanovich encountered during the entire process.
15. Hollidaysburg (2014)
Hollidaysburg is a heartwarming and humorous coming-of-age comedy that follows the story of five best friends, as they return home for their Thanksgiving break after their first semester in college. As the friends navigate the joys and challenges that come with the transition from high school to college, they come to realize how much they’ve changed and how much hasn’t changed at all.
16. She’s Funny That Way (2014)
“Love, Desire, and Human Connection: An Unforgettable Journey” is an amusing and heartfelt exploration of the human experience as seen on the lively stage of a theater. This captivating film revolves around the enthralling love triangle between the wife of a distinguished playwright, her former lover, and a woman making her startling transformation from a call-girl to a talented actress who steals the limelight on stage. The narrative brims with laughter and tension as the characters confront their haunted pasts while dealing with the intricate complexities of their current relationships.
17. While We’re Young (2014)
“While We’re Young” is a thought-provoking and heartwarming comedy-drama film that explores the complexities of relationships and the pursuit of purpose. Directed by Noah Baumbach, this 2014 masterpiece stars Ben Stiller, Naomi Watts, and Adam Driver. The story follows a middle-aged couple’s life, which takes an unexpected turn when they befriend a charming and unconventional young couple.
18. Mistress America (2015)
Meet Tracy, a reserved Freshman on the verge of starting her college journey. Tracy’s life takes an unexpected turn as she crosses paths with her stepsister-to-be, the adventurous and impetuous Brooke.
19. De Palma (2015)
“De Palma” is an absorbing documentary film that delves into the life and career of the renowned writer and director, Brian De Palma. Directed by Noah Baumbach and Jake Paltrow, the film offers an in-depth exploration of De Palma’s journey, shining a spotlight on his unique vision and the influence he has had on the world of filmmaking.
20. Lady Bird (2017)
Experience the heartwarming and hilarious journey of Lady Bird, set in the quaint town of Sacramento, California in 2002. This coming-of-age drama follows the life of a vivid and artistically-inclined 17-year-old girl, Lady Bird, played by the enchanting Saoirse Ronan. As she navigates the trials and tribulations of adolescence, Lady Bird finds solace in her growing bond with her fierce and loving mother, portrayed beautifully by award-winning actress Laurie Metcalf.
21. The Meyerowitz Stories (2017)
“The Meyerowitz Stories” is a heartwarming comedy-drama that captures the intricacies of familial relationships. When a distant family unites in New York City to honor their father’s artistic legacy, latent tensions and hidden mysteries surface, ultimately leading to unforeseen bonds.
22. Isle of Dogs (2018)
From the imaginative mind of Wes Anderson comes “Isle of Dogs, “ a stop-motion animated masterpiece set in Japan. The captivating tale follows a young boy on a captivating journey to find his lost dog.
23. Marriage Story (2019)
“Marriage Story” is a poignant and thought-provoking drama, shedding light on the complexities of a relationship on the brink of disintegration. Directed by Noah Baumbach, the film delves deep into the lives of the characters and serves as a raw and honest exploration of the human experience. With a star-studded ensemble cast, including Adam Driver and Scarlett Johansson, the movie artfully navigates themes of infidelity, troubled marriages, and the challenges faced by a family remaining strong amidst adversity.
24. The French Dispatch (2021)
“The French Dispatch” is a captivating love letter to journalists that takes place in a fictional twentieth-century French city, home to an outpost of an American newspaper named “The French Dispatch”. Directed by Wes Anderson, the film brings to life an array of fantastical stories published in the magazine, intertwining elements of comedy, drama, and romance.
25. White Noise (2022)
“White Noise” is a gripping and poignant drama that dares to delve into the deepest secrets of the human heart. This masterpiece, directed by Noah Baumbach and written by himself and Don DeLillo, stars Adam Driver, Greta Gerwig, and Don Cheadle. The film takes a bold approach to explore the complexities of mother-daughter, husband-wife, family, and father-son relationships. As the characters navigate their relationships, “White Noise” delves into love, death, and the unending pursuit of happiness that is inherent within our daily struggles.
26. Barbie (2023)
“Barbie” is an enchanting adventure comedy that takes viewers on a whirlwind journey through the colorful and fantastical world of Barbie Land. The film’s titular characters, Barbie and Ken, are in the midst of the time of their lives, reveling in the seemingly perfect existence of their home.
