10 best films starring the main cast of Gilmore Girls

From heartwarming dramas to fun comedies, there are plenty of great films featuring the talented Gilmore Girls cast. The show is known for its witty dialogue, complex characters, and the charm of small-town life in Stars Hollow. Even now, almost 20 years after the series ended, Gilmore Girls remains a beloved and positively reviewed show that has stood the test of time.

In addition to their roles on the show, the main Gilmore Girls cast members have starred in films ranging from blockbusters to indie favorites, each offering the opportunity to showcase the actors in new and diverse settings. Whether you're a big fan of Lorelai and Rory or intrigued by the series' supporting characters, these films are a must-see for a deeper appreciation of the cast's wide-ranging abilities.

10

Lauren Graham - Bad Santa (2003)

Directed by Terry Zwigoff

Lorelai Gilmore, by Lauren Graham, is a responsible and perceptive mother, but in Bad Santa, she completely flips the script. This dark comedy stars Billy Bob Thornton as Willie, a con man who poses as a mall Santa Claus to pull off heists. Graham plays Sue, a bartender with a Santa Claus fetish who develops a hilariously awkward romance with Willie.

Her character strays far from Lorelai's wholesome mold, bringing surprising humor and depth. Graham's chemistry with Thornton adds an extra layer to this unconventional holiday filmmaking it a fan favorite for those who enjoy edgy humor. Meanwhile, despite his crude nature and wild antics, Bad Santa carries an undeniable thread of humanity. Willie's reluctant transformation from selfish thief to someone capable of small acts of kindness offers genuine emotional payoff. This arc, while unconventional, resonates with a level of realism that many sanitized holiday films fail to capture.

9

Melissa McCarthy - Will You Ever Forgive Me? (2018)

Directed byMarielle Heller

Superstar Melissa McCarthy, who played the lovable and clumsy Sookie St. James during her rise to fame, took a dramatic turn in Can you forgive me? This biographical drama tells the true story of Lee Israel, a biographer who resorts to literary forgery to survive, which earned McCarthy an Oscar nomination for Best Actress.

One of the film's most poignant scenes finds McCarthy delivering a moving monologue about despair and loneliness, a far cry from Sookie's kitchen antics that shop windows McCarthy's immense versatility as an actress. His ability to incorporate comedic and dramatic roles with equal subtlety makes this performance one of the highlights of his career. Her chemistry with co-star Richard E. Grant is also electrifying, as they form a partnership that is equal parts heartwarming and tragically dysfunctional. Can you forgive me? is a love letter to the misfits and outcasts, offering a character study that is as tender as it is unflinching.

8

Alexis Bledel - The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants (2005)

Directed by Ken Kwapis

Alexis Bledel brings all the charm of old Rory Gilmore to her role as Lena Kaligaris in The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, a coming-of-age film that follows four close friends who stay connected during a summer apart, sharing a pair of “magical” jeans. Bledel's plot focuses on Lena's trip to Greece, where she experiences a romance that will change her life. From the picturesque Greek landscapes to Lena's subtle emotional arc, this film is a strong stage for Bledel's ability to play introspective and empathetic roles.

Lena's connection with the other women in the film reflects the strong female friendships celebrated in Gilmore Girls, making it a family watch for anyone who enjoys Bledel's other work. What strengthens The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants it's his ability to give each character their own meaningful arc while maintaining the strength of their bond. Whether it's Lena navigating love, Bridget struggling with loss, or Tibby learning to open her heart, the film shows universal themes of loss, love, and growth that still resonate.

7

Scott Patterson - Saw IV (2007)

Directed by Darren Lynn Bousman

Known as Luke Danes, the grumpy but lovable diner owner, Scott Patterson surprised fans with his role in the horror thriller Saw IV. Patterson plays FBI agent Peter Strahm, who investigates the complicated puzzles left behind by the infamous Jigsaw killer. Watching Patterson in such a risky, fear-inducing environment is a stark contrast to Luke serving coffee at the diner.

When discussing the Mountain range franchise, the usual highlights are the first film with its innovative concept or Saw VI for its tight plot and social commentary. However, Saw IV It's often unfairly overlooked despite being a standout entry in the series. Saw IV provides one deeper layer of storytelling, strong editing, and a compelling emotional core this elevates it beyond the "just another horror sequel" label. There is also the revelation that the events of Saw IV are running parallel to those of Saw IIIa twist that changes the viewer's understanding of the franchise's entire timeline.

6

Kelly Bishop - Dirty Dancing (1987)

Directed by Émile Ardolino

Kelly Bishop is possibly Gilmore Girls' MVP stealth as Emily Gilmore, Rory's refined, sharp-tongued grandmother. However, in Dirty Dancing, Bishop brings a more complex warmth to her role as Marjorie Houseman, the mother of Jennifer Grey's Baby Houseman. This iconic film captures a romantic 1960s summer filled with dance, passion and family dynamics, while combining universal themes, iconic performances and a deep social subtext that elevates it beyond the sum of its parts.

As in Gilmore GirlsBishop's portrayal of Marjorie centers on her ability to embody nuanced maternal figures. Bishop's Broadway experience shines through, enhancing her role in one of the most repeatable crowd-pleasers of the 80s. Add to that the electric chemistry between Gray and Patrick Swayze and unforgettable moments like “the elevator” during the final dance sequence, and it's easy to see why Dirty Dancing remains a gold standard in romantic dramas.

5

Sean Gunn - Guardians of the Galaxy (2014)

Directed by James Gunn

Sean Gunn, fondly remembered as the quirky Kirk Gleason, showed a completely different side in Guardians of the Galaxy. In this Marvel blockbuster, he plays Kraglin, Yondu's loyal second-in-command. Most fans don't realize that Gunn also provided motion capture for fan-favorite Rocket Raccoon, demonstrating his physicality and versatility as an actor. While it never hurts to have your brother by your side as the director of a tentpole franchise film, Sean Gunn holds his own in two leading roles.

While Kraglin's loyalty and eventual redemption arc are fun and engaging, his real-life contributions to Rocket show his dedication to his brother's vision behind the scenes. To Gilmore Girls For fans, seeing Gunn in the vibrant and action-packed Marvel Cinematic Universe, combining irreverent comedy and character-driven storytelling with the high stakes of a space adventure, is definitely a treat.

4

Edward Herrmann - The Lost Boys (1987)

Directed by Joel Schumacher

Edward Herrmann, known for his role as patriarch Richard Gilmore, gives a chilling performance in The lost boys, as Max, a seemingly kind video store owner who hides a sinister secret in this cult classic about teenage vampires. His warm yet mysterious demeanor keeps viewers guessing until the film's climax, where Max's true nature is revealed. Herrmann's dominant presence in The lost boys shows the darker, more complex side of his performance, a stark contrast to his captivating Gilmore Girls grandfather role.

Herrman's presence is just one of the elements that makes The lost boys a quintessential piece of 80s cinemaoverflowing with style. The leather jackets, wild hairstyles, and killer soundtrack perfectly encapsulate the vibe of the era. Additionally, the visuals, especially the atmospheric nighttime scenes, heighten the sense of danger and allure associated with the vampire gang, led by the charismatic Kiefer Sutherland as David.

3

Liza Weil - Year of the Dog (2007)

Directed by Mike White

Liza Weil, who played the ambitious Paris Geller, enters the world of the quirky indie drama with Year of the Dog. The film follows Peggy (Molly Shannon), a woman struggling with grief after the loss of her dog. Weil plays one of Peggy's family members, delivering a supporting performance that adds surprising depth to the film's simple story.

In fact, for film lovers who appreciate subtlety, character-driven narratives, and thought-provoking themes, Year of the Dog is an often forgotten gem that deserves a closer look. Featuring the debut of Mike White (White Lotus) as director, this 2007 dramedy strikes a safe balance between humor and heartbreak, offering a moving reflection on identity, purpose and human connection. White's subtle direction combined with Shannon's remarkable performance takes the viewer deeply and effectively into Peggy's inner world. Fans of independent cinema and Weil's sharp approach to characters will enjoy this thoughtful film.

2

Milo Ventimiglia - Rocky Balboa (2006)

Directed by Sylvester Stallone

Best remembered as Rory's bad boy boyfriend Jess Mariano, Milo Ventimiglia shines alongside Sylvester Stallone in Rocky Balboa as Rocky Jr., the famous boxer's estranged son. The evolving father-son relationship is one of the film's emotional cores, as Ventimiglia brings vulnerability to the role, particularly in a moving scene where he confronts Rocky about living in his shadow.

When Rocky Balboa hit theaters in 2006, many questioned the need for another installment in the beloved boxing franchise. However, against all odds - fitting for the title character - the sixth film in the series can deliver a emotionally resonant, grounded, and inspiring story which earns its place as one of the most memorable entries in the Rocky saga. The film still holds up today, even with the more recent addition of Belief franchise films.

1

Keiko Agena - Transformers: Dark of the Moon (2011)

Directed by Michael Bay

Keiko Agena, known as Lane Kim — Rory's music-loving best friend — has a small role in Transformers: Dark of the Moon. Agena plays assistant to Frances McDormand's Charlotte Mearingthe Director of National Intelligence in the film. In addition to McDormand, Agena stars alongside heavyweights like Shia LaBeouf, Josh Duhamel, Tyrese Gibson and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley.

While Transformers: Dark of the Moon received mixed reviews, was a box office success, becoming the second highest-grossing film of 2011, as well as the second highest-grossing film Transformers ​​​​​​film. It's also a lot of fun to see Agena in a franchise film of this nature, considering how far removed her story is from the simple small-town life portrayed in Gilmore Girls. For many who like the Transformers saga, Darkness of the Moon more than it holds today, and Agena deserves credit for her role in that.