Welcome back to our Top 10 Films by… series, where we explore the careers of the actors shaping modern cinema. Each instalment highlights defining performances, key collaborators, and notable co-stars—ideal for building a connected series—while including affiliate links so readers can easily watch or purchase each title.

This time, we’re focusing on Zendaya, an actor whose transition from Disney Channel star to one of the most in-demand performers in Hollywood has been both deliberate and impressive. With a filmography that spans blockbuster franchises, intimate character studies, and prestige dramas, Zendaya has built a reputation for emotional intelligence, restraint, and undeniable screen presence. This list is not ranked; each film earns its place for different reasons.

Top 10 Zendaya Films

1. Dune: Part Two (2024)

Zendaya steps fully into the spotlight as Chani in the second chapter of Denis Villeneuve’s epic sci-fi saga. No longer a supporting presence, her character becomes central to the emotional and political stakes of the story. Acting opposite Timothée Chalamet, Rebecca Ferguson, Austin Butler, and Florence Pugh, Zendaya delivers a performance marked by strength, conviction, and moral clarity.
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2. Challengers (2024)

In Luca Guadagnino’s stylish and provocative sports drama, Zendaya plays Tashi Duncan, a former tennis prodigy turned coach caught in a complex love triangle. Acting opposite Mike Faist and Josh O’Connor, she commands the film with razor-sharp intensity and magnetic confidence. Challengers marked a major shift into adult, character-driven cinema and is widely seen as a turning point in her film career.
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3. Dune (2021)

The first instalment of Villeneuve’s adaptation introduces Zendaya’s Chani as both a prophetic figure and emotional anchor within the vast world of Arrakis. Though her screen time is limited, her presence is striking. The ensemble cast includes Oscar Isaac, Jason Momoa, Josh Brolin, Stellan Skarsgård, and Dave Bautista, with Zendaya’s role laying the groundwork for her expanded performance in the sequel.
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4. Malcolm & Marie (2021)

This intimate, black-and-white drama strips everything back to performance. Zendaya stars opposite John David Washington as Marie, a woman locked in an emotionally charged overnight argument with her partner. Filmed during lockdown, the film relies entirely on dialogue and raw emotion. Zendaya’s performance is fierce, vulnerable, and widely praised, earning her critical acclaim for carrying a film on her shoulders.
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5. Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021)

Zendaya’s MJ reaches emotional maturity in the most ambitious entry of the Spider-Man trilogy. Acting alongside Tom Holland and Jacob Batalon, she brings warmth and grounded realism to a story packed with spectacle and nostalgia. The film also features returning performances from Benedict Cumberbatch, Willem Dafoe, and Alfred Molina, but Zendaya’s quiet emotional beats leave a lasting impact.
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6. Spider-Man: Far From Home (2019)

Set in the aftermath of Avengers: Endgame, this sequel allows Zendaya’s MJ to evolve from dry-witted outsider to emotional anchor. Her chemistry with Tom Holland deepens, adding heart to the globe-trotting superhero narrative. The film also stars Jake Gyllenhaal as the enigmatic Mysterio and Samuel L. Jackson as Nick Fury.
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7. Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017)

Zendaya makes her debut as Michelle “MJ” Jones in this fresh take on Spider-Man. Initially understated and sarcastic, her performance subverts expectations and gradually reveals depth. Sharing the screen with Tom Holland, Michael Keaton, Marisa Tomei, and Robert Downey Jr., Zendaya introduces a character who would become central to the trilogy’s emotional arc.
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8. The Greatest Showman (2017)

In this musical drama inspired by the life of P.T. Barnum, Zendaya plays Anne Wheeler, a trapeze artist navigating love and prejudice. Acting opposite Zac Efron, she delivers both emotional resonance and impressive physical performance. The film stars Hugh Jackman, Michelle Williams, and Rebecca Ferguson, and remains a popular modern musical, with Zendaya’s role standing out as one of its most memorable.
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9. Space Jam: A New Legacy (2021)

Zendaya lends her voice to Lola Bunny in this sequel to the 1996 classic. Starring LeBron James, the film blends animation and live action with a modern twist. While lighter in tone than much of her other work, it highlights Zendaya’s versatility and appeal to a broad, family-friendly audience.
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10. Smallfoot (2018)

In this animated adventure, Zendaya voices Meechee, a curious and intelligent young Yeti determined to uncover the truth about humans. The voice cast includes Channing Tatum, James Corden, Danny DeVito, and Common. The film adds another dimension to Zendaya’s early film career and demonstrates her crossover appeal beyond live-action roles.
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Conclusion

Zendaya’s film career reflects a careful balance between mainstream success and creative risk. From global franchises like Spider-Man and Dune to intimate, challenging projects like Malcolm & Marie and Challengers, she has steadily built a body of work defined by intention and depth.

As she continues to take on more complex, leading roles, Zendaya’s place as one of the most influential actors of her generation feels increasingly assured. This top 10 captures the evolution of a performer who is still very much in the middle of her rise.

Stay tuned for the next instalment in our Top 10 Films by… series, where we’ll continue spotlighting the stars shaping contemporary cinema.