The green suit, crazy laughter, and flying skateboard are what most viewers remember about James Franco in "Spider-Man." But what if we told you that this actor played a beat poet, a medieval knight, and even James Dean himself?

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"James Dean" (2001, TV Movie)
In this biographical drama, Franco transforms into the Hollywood icon James Dean. For this role, he received a "Golden Globe" and critical acclaim, but the film itself remained overshadowed by his more prominent works.
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imdb.com
Reviewer dlmiley from ImdbJames Franco brilliantly played the role of the anti-hero James Dean. He not only looks like James Dean, he ACTS like James Dean. The other actors also performed well. The recreation of the era was realistic.
"The Interview" (2014)
Franco plays Dave Skylark, an entertainment show host who gets the opportunity to interview the North Korean leader.James creates the character of a superficial yet charming TV host who unexpectedly finds himself at the center of a political conspiracy. Dave is a naive, egocentric, yet sincere character who evolves from a shallow showman to a person realizing his responsibility.

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Reviewer nicobattersby from ImdbWhen I watch a movie alone, I rarely laugh out loud, but this film made me chuckle throughout. Yes, the humor is crude, offensive, and childish, but it was hilariously bold. Franco, in my opinion, has never been this funny — delivering classic punchlines combined with outrageous facial expressions.
"Howl" (2010)
In the biographical drama, Franco brilliantly embodies the image of the legendary Beat poet Allen Ginsberg at a pivotal moment in his life and career.Franco creates an astonishingly authentic portrait of the young Ginsberg—an intellectual, rebel, and innovator whose poem "Howl" revolutionized American literature.

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Reviewer mrncat from ImdbThe main strength of the film is the portrayal of Ginsberg by James Franco. Franco's resemblance to the young Ginsberg adds authenticity to his character, and his public reading of the poem 'Howl' is also quite good.
"Flyboys" (2006)
In the war drama, Franco plays Blaine Rawlings, an American volunteer pilot fighting in France during World War I.Blaine is an idealistic, brave young man who goes to war in search of adventure and glory but encounters its harsh reality. Franco portrays his character's evolution from a naive youth to a battle-hardened man who understands the true cost of heroism.

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imdb.com
Reviewer SonOfMoog from ImdbThis story is based on real events and largely adheres to them. The film does not shy away from showing the horror, ugliness, and all-consuming bleakness of war. Thanks to the special effects, the film conveys the excitement and adrenaline rush of combat missions better than any other I've seen recently. The battle scenes are simply dazzling.
"Tristan & Isolde" (2006)
The romantic drama reveals the story of the legendary Tristan (Franco), a knight whose forbidden love for the beautiful Isolde became one of the most famous stories of all time.
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imdb.com
The film is based on the medieval romantic legend of the same name.
What other role would you like to see James Franco play? Perhaps there's a literary character he could portray perfectly?Reviewer lavatch from ImdbThe on-screen chemistry between James Franco and Sophia Myles is electrified, and their joint scenes are effectively shot in beautiful settings. The film also explores themes of medieval chivalry and honor. 'Tristan & Isolde' also features excellent combat scenes, including battles, tournaments, and medieval siege warfare. But the most memorable scenes are the intimate moments involving Tristan and Isolde.
Earlier, we at zoomboola.com reported on six films featuring Heath Ledger, if you're tired of "The Dark Knight."