The Russo Brothers: A Filmography Ranking Ahead of Their MCU Return
The Russo brothers, Joe and Anthony, are names synonymous with modern blockbuster filmmaking. They’ve etched their place in cinematic history, not only for their television work on acclaimed shows like Community and Arrested Development, but also, and perhaps more significantly, for their contributions to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Having helmed two of the highest-grossing movies of all time, Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame, their directorial prowess has demonstrably captured global audiences. The pair’s achievement is all the more remarkable considering the rarefied air of the $2 billion box office club, a feat accomplished by only a handful of live-action films. This success, however, represents just one chapter in a multifaceted career that began long before Iron Man’s armor was forged.
Before Marvel came calling, the Russos cut their teeth directing three relatively smaller-scale films. And, demonstrating their versatility, they returned to non-Marvel projects with another three films after the conclusion of their initial MCU run. Now, with the exciting announcement of their return to the MCU for two more Avengers epics, Avengers: Doomsday in 2026 and Avengers: Secret Wars in 2027, the anticipation surrounding their future work is palpable.
The release of their latest film, The Electric State, streaming on Netflix, offers an opportune moment to reflect on the entirety of their directorial filmography. From their early independent efforts to their current blockbuster status, this list aims to rank the Russo brothers’ movies, analyzing their strengths, weaknesses, and overall contributions to cinema. Note that we’re unable to include their 1997 directorial debut, Pieces, due to its lack of public availability. The film, which premiered at the Slamdance Film Festival, never achieved distribution, though it did attract the attention of Steven Soderbergh, whose subsequent support played a crucial role in launching their careers.
The Ranking
- You, Me and Dupree (2006)
This comedy, starring Owen Wilson, Kate Hudson, and Matt Dillon, represents a low point in the Russos’ filmography. Released amidst a wave of raunchy comedies hoping to replicate the success of films like There’s Something About Mary and Meet the Parents, You, Me and Dupree falls short of genuine comedic brilliance. The premise, involving a man overstaying his welcome with his newlywed friends, feels tired and uninspired. While not an outright disaster, the film lacks originality and memorable moments, making it a forgettable entry in the early-2000s comedy landscape.
- Welcome to Collinwood (2002)
This crime caper, featuring a talented ensemble cast including William H. Macy, Sam Rockwell, and Patricia Clarkson, possesses its share of amusing moments. However, the film suffers from a sense of formulaic storytelling, particularly in an era dominated by the distinctive filmmaking style of the Coen brothers. Welcome to Collinwood attempts to emulate the Coens’ quirky crime narratives but ultimately lacks the originality and sharp wit to truly stand out.
- Cherry (2021)
The Russos’ first post-Marvel film represents a stark departure from their superhero fare. Starring Tom Holland as a military veteran struggling with PTSD and opioid addiction, Cherry is an ambitious but flawed attempt to tackle weighty subject matter. The film grapples with tonal inconsistencies and narrative pacing issues, resulting in a disjointed viewing experience. However, Holland’s committed performance as the troubled protagonist is undeniable, and ultimately elevates the film. Despite its shortcomings, Cherry is a bold swing, showcasing the Russos’ willingness to explore darker and more complex themes.
- The Electric State (2024)
This Netflix film reunites the Russos with their frequent Marvel collaborators, Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeely, and is based on the book by Simon Stålenhag. The Electric State presents a visually striking world ravaged by a robot-human war, following a young woman (Millie Bobby Brown) and a rogue (Chris Pratt) on a journey to find her missing brother. While the film offers impressive visual effects and a strong cast, its narrative predictability undermines its potential. The Electric State proves to be a competently made and entertaining film, but it doesn’t break new ground or leave a lasting impression.
- The Gray Man (2022)
The Gray Man is a high-octane action thriller starring Chris Evans and Ryan Gosling as rival secret agents. The film delivers a relentless barrage of over-the-top action sequences, evoking the spirit of the Fast and Furious franchise with A-list talent. While undeniably disposable in its plot and character development, The Gray Man is a fun and engaging spectacle. It embraces its own absurdity, providing a pure entertainment experience that is often lacking in more self-serious action films.
- Captain America: Civil War (2016)
Captain America: Civil War is a critical entry in the MCU, pitting Captain America against Iron Man in a clash of ideologies. The film deftly balances its ensemble cast and explores complex themes of freedom versus security. However, when compared to the other Russo brothers’ Marvel films, Civil War arguably feels more like an Avengers film than a purely Captain America-centric story. Despite this minor critique, the film remains a compelling and impactful chapter in the MCU saga.
- Avengers: Infinity War (2018)
Avengers: Infinity War is an incredibly ambitious and audacious superhero epic. Culminating a decade of storytelling within the MCU, the film features a massive cast of characters and raises the stakes to unprecedented levels. The film’s most daring move is its ending, where Thanos succeeds in wiping out half of all life in the universe. This shocking conclusion, unthinkable without the foundation laid by previous films, cements Infinity War as a bold and unforgettable cinematic experience.
- Avengers: Endgame (2019)
Avengers: Endgame serves as the epic and emotionally satisfying conclusion to the Infinity Saga. Picking up after the devastating events of Infinity War, the film sees the remaining Avengers embarking on a time-bending quest to undo Thanos’s actions. Endgame showcases some of the largest and most impressive set pieces in film history while also delivering poignant character moments. While it’s a monumental achievement in filmmaking, it’s success is inextricably linked to the films that came before.
- Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014)
Captain America: The Winter Soldier represents a turning point for the MCU. The film seamlessly blends superhero action with political intrigue and complex character development. While acknowledging and building upon the foundations laid by previous MCU films, The Winter Soldier also carves its own identity, exploring themes of government corruption and the erosion of freedom. The film established the Russo brothers as masters of the superhero genre, and is arguably their best film to date. It struck a perfect balance of superhero style, political intrigue and complex character building.
