Netflix’s new rom-com “A Family Affair” has become the most-streamed title after its release. The film reunites Zac Efron and Nicole Kidman, who already worked together in the crime drama “The Paper Boy,” as a pair of forbidden lovers.
While Kidman is best known for her dramatic roles, the star stated to Netflix’s Tudum that she wanted to work in something lighter this time. “I was in a place where I just went ‘my psyche is in desperate need of some love, and some laughter, and some fun,’” she said.
However, Efron, who recently received praise for his dramatic performance in “The Iron Claw,” is actually best known for his comedic roles. And he has appeared in several rom-coms and romantic dramas. So, if you want to catch the actor in other swoon-worthy roles, check out these recommendations.
‘17 Again’ (2009)
Rent or buy: Amazon Prime Video, Google Play, Apple
One of Zac’s first roles outside of Disney. In “17 Again,” the actor played the 17-year-old version of Matthew Perry’s Mike, a man who becomes his teenage self by a chance encounter and learns what he appreciates most about life. And, that’s of course, his wife, played by Leslie Mann, and his kids. In this teen comedy, directed by Burr Steers, Efron made the most of his charms.
‘Me and Orson Welles’ (2008)
Rent or buy: Amazon Prime Video, Google Play, Apple
While not precisely a romantic film, there’s some romance in here, as well as love for theater and arts. In this period drama, Zac stars as Samuel, a high-schooler who meets Orson Welles and gets a role in the director’s production of “Caesar.”
While learning about the craft, Samuel gets entangled with Sanja, played by Claire Daines. The movie was positively received by critics, which praised the performances, as well as the script. Definitely one of the best roles of the actor.
‘The Greatest Showman’ (2017)
Stream on: Disney+
Efron never shies away from his musical roots, and he returned to the genre in “The Greatest Showman,” starring alongside Hugh Jackman and Zendaya. In the film, he plays the role that he does best: yearn, sing about his feelings and be captivating.
‘Hairspray’ (2007)
Rent or buy: Amazon Prime Video, Google Play, Apple
In ‘Hairspray,’ Efron plays Link Larkin, Tracy’s love interest. Not so different from his role as Troy Bolton in the ‘High School Musical’ trilogy (which you can also revisit on Disney+), but with a little more of an edge.