7 Glen Powell performances that show he can be the perfect James Bond despite his apprehension

Glen Powell is among the most buzzed-about actors of our time. He demonstrates a unique combination of vim, style, and talent, effective in comedy as well as drama. His career has a solid foundation and is built on sound decisions that have showcased his acting abilities in a variety of films. From acting in poignant dramas, negative romantic comedies to large-scale action films, Glen Powell can do it all!

His talent in balancing humor, heart, and strength is evident in each performance. These seven roles provide a glimpse into why people feel that he possesses the characteristics that could render him an ideal James Bond.

Disclaimer: This article contains the writer's opinion. Reader discretion is advised.

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Here is the list of the 7 Glen Powell performances that show he can be the perfect James Bond despite his apprehension:

7. Anyone But You (2023)

Glen Powell plays Ben in Anyone But You, co-starring Sydney Sweeney. It is a Shakespearean romantic comedy set at an Australian wedding. According to the critics, Glen Powell's performance as Ben is highly charming, high-energy, and gives his persona the life of a genuine person with deep emotions. The movie performed very well at the box office and earned more than 220 million dollars globally. This suggests that viewers loved both his performance and the film.

Although some critics hold the opinion that the chemistry between Glen Powell and Sydney Sweeney felt forced, nonetheless, Powell's solo performance was also appreciated. His slick demeanor and witty remarks imply that he could easily lead a contemporary spy thriller with Bond-level sophistication, despite his humble deference to a Brit for the Bond role.

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6. Set It Up (2018)

Glen Powell stars with Zoey Deutch in Set It Up on Netflix. He is a personal assistant named Charlie who devises a scheme to set up his employer with his pal. He meets Harper, played by Zoey Deutch. As per the critics, Glen Powell has great comedic timing, and his facial expressions are fun to watch. He never overdoes it and is charming and quick-witted in the role.

Charlie skillfully scales a fire escape in a scene with the pizza, both he and Harper inebriated as they try to get into his room to enjoy their pizza. Bond's combination of physical accuracy, razor-sharp humor, and calm passion is mirrored in Glen Powell's fluid agility, complex expressions under dim streetlights. He could fit right in with Bond's tuxedo, gadgets, and high-profile international stakes due to his innate chemistry and grounded appeal in crisis.

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5. Hidden Figures (2016)

Glen Powell is seen in Hidden Figures as an astronaut named John Glenn. He plays a supporting part in the story of three Black women who contributed to the development of NASA. As per a report by People published in 2024, Glen Powell admitted to being nervous about his role after he saw an unfinished cut and thought he had destroyed the movie. He stated,

"I remember watching Hidden Figures for the first time on the Fox lot ... and this was before all the effects were done, the music was in, the sound design ... and I literally left the movie and I puked in the bushes."

Hidden Figures won many awards and nominations, and the film was a huge hit. Glen Powell's role was minor, but playing John Glenn made him more visible. Glen Powell's calm demeanor and steady gaze help reduce the pressure as he asks Katherine Johnson to confirm the orbital calculations just minutes before launch. James Bond's trademark balance of poise and accuracy is reflected in his eloquent decision-making and unflinching calm under pressure. He is a perfect fit for the iconic 007 because of his ability to portray decisive trust and calmness under pressure.

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4. Everybody Wants Some!! (2016)

Glen Powell plays Finn in Everybody Wants Some!! The movie is set in a college in Texas in 1980. His character is cool, introspective, and self-assured. Finn is a music lover and enjoys charming people with witty repartee. Powell as Finn is a delight to watch and a highlight of the cast. Critics state he stole every scene he was part of, and Linklater had decided to cast him because he was so well-suited for the role.

Finn came to life because of Glen Powell's face and charisma, leaving us wanting more. His work in the film marked his breakthrough. Despite the film's large cast, most people remember Glen Powell.

In the movie, Finn intercepts two freshmen mid-ritual, stands firm, quips, "No Leo energy without permission," his controlled authority and dry wit echo Bond’s command and poise. The role proved he can carry a scene like 007 with a glance or a line. His work made the film a cult classic. It was the beginning of his rise as a developing star in Hollywood.

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3. Devotion (2022)

Glen Powell stars as Lieutenant Tom Hudner in the war movie Devotion. The close bond between Hudner and Jesse Brown, the squadron's first Black pilot, is depicted in the film. Glen Powell helped bring the narrative to the big screen by recommending the book and working as a producer on the film. He also had the emotional responsibility of portraying a man who was torn between duty and loss.

Glen Powell also visited Hudner before his death to honor Jesse Brown's memory and friendship. The movie contains intense air battle scenes filmed with actual planes and old equipment. Glen Powell's performance is characterised by empathy and respect for a true tale of heroism in the Korean War. The film demonstrated Glen Powell's commitment to delivering a compelling story and his skill in handling intense drama, even though it didn't succeed financially at the box office. His portrayal in Devotion illustrates his commitment to giving individuals like 007 their whole undivided attention.

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2. Top Gun: Maverick (2022)

Glen Powell plays Jake Seresin in Top Gun: Maverick. At first, he did not want to do the part because he believed the character was one-dimensional. However, Tom Cruise and the filmmakers persuaded him and told him that he could make the role more nuanced and add depth to his character. Thereafter, Glen Powell worked with them to create Hangman as more than an antagonist to "Rooster". He made him heroic, funny, and endearing. He worked hard to master flying sequences and real G pressures so that his performance would be authentic.

Glen Powell infuses Hangman with confidence and vulnerability. He steals the show even when he is in scenes with Tom Cruise. Despite his brief appearance, his presence elevated the character. The role elevated Glen Powell to celebrity status while also establishing his ability to handle high-budget action films and 007's image.

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1. Hit Man (2023)

Glen Powell wrote and stars in Hit Man. He plays Gary Johnson, a mild professor who goes undercover by dressing up as a hit man for police stings. He remakes his persona each time with a new costume, an accent, sprinkled with humor. As the story progresses, he meets Madison and falls in love, disguised as someone else. Glen Powell's performance as Gary Johnson is charming and swaggering on screen. Critics state that this role solidifies his movie star status and highlights his comic timing.

Many fans and critics appreciated his ability to play multiple characters in one film and still make Gary's underlying humanity apparent. Powell was also praised for his wit and style. It had high ratings and solidified Glen Powell's emergence as a leading man in Hollywood, just like the celebs who played James Bond. Fans declare his performance as a riot of fun and heart, and easily one of the best.

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These performances exemplified Glen Powell's progression from a potentially good actor to a dependable and notable performer. His ability to switch between light comedy and drama is evident in each role, adding dimension to his career.

Heh has made a name for himself in Hollywood thanks to his remarkable acting abilities, good looks, and dedication to his craft. Despite Glen Powell's personal doubts about being James Bond, his work demonstrates the qualities of bravery, wit, and elegance. His true colors turned out eventually to be those of a real star in these latter times.