Austin Butler’s journey in Hollywood has seen remarkable evolution since his early days. He first stepped into the entertainment spotlight at just 14 years old, featuring in Ned’s Declassified School Survival Guide in 2005. For several years, Butler carved out a niche with minor roles across various television series. It wasn’t until the 2010s, particularly with pivotal performances as Sebastian Kydd in The Carrie Diaries and Wil Ohmsford in The Shannara Chronicles, that his talent began to garner significant attention. Yet, it was his 2019 role in The Dead Don’t Die that marked a turning point in his burgeoning acting career.
With a string of exciting projects on the horizon, Butler is set to star in two upcoming films: Ari Aster’s Eddington, a contemporary Western black comedy, and Darren Aronofsky’s Caught Stealing, adapted from the 2004 novel by Charlie Huston. At the time of this writing, specific release dates have not been announced, generating buzz among fans and industry insiders alike.
Today, Austin Butler stands as one of Hollywood’s rising stars, a status underscored by discussions around the fading notion of the quintessential movie star—an actor whose name alone can sell tickets. However, Butler’s trajectory suggests he may very well fulfill that role. With each new project, he continues to appear in films that captivate audiences and critics alike, particularly after the premiere of The Dead Don’t Die.
The Dead Don’t Die: A Significant Milestone
A Unique Horror Zombie Comedy Released in 2019
Austin Butler takes on the role of Jack in Jim Jarmusch’s witty horror-comedy The Dead Don’t Die, which premiered in 2019. This film captures a quirky zombie apocalypse in the fictional town of Centerville, showcasing the absurdity of the residents’ interactions as they confront the undead phenomenon. Although Jack’s character plays a relatively minor role, this film undeniably holds significance in Butler’s career timeline.
Prior to The Dead Don’t Die, Butler appeared in several other horror films, including The Intruders and Yoga Hosers. However, this 2019 offering now finds new audiences on Netflix, where it has recently gained traction. Despite receiving mixed reviews at its release, it represented the transition of Butler’s career from one phase to the next, leading him to accolades and higher-profile roles.
Rising to Stardom: Oscar-Nominated Projects Post The Dead Don’t Die
Key Roles in Iconic Films: Elvis, Dune: Part Two, and Beyond
Since his appearance in The Dead Don’t Die, Butler has embarked on a new chapter, characterized by critically acclaimed performances in high-profile films. He made a brief yet impactful appearance in Once Upon a Time…in Hollywood, the 2019 film that captured both box office success and critical acclaim, earning over $377 million globally. Shortly thereafter, his portrayal of Elvis Presley in Elvis not only solidified his star status but also garnered him a nomination for Best Actor at the Academy Awards, though he ultimately lost to Brendan Fraser for his stellar role in The Whale.
| Austin Butler Movies Since 2019 | Role | Release Date | Box Office | Rotten Tomatoes Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Dead Don’t Die | Jack | June 14, 2019 | $15 million | 54% |
| Once Upon a Time…in Hollywood | Tex Watson | July 26, 2019 | $377.6 million | 86% |
| Elvis | Elvis Presley | June 24, 2022 | $288.7 million | 77% |
| Dune: Part Two | Feyd-Rautha Harkonnen | March 1, 2024 | $714.4 million | 92% |
| The Bikeriders | Benny | June 21, 2024 | $36 million | 80% |
The contrast in Austin Butler’s filmography—from the modest performance of The Dead Don’t Die, which struggled at the box office with only $15 million, to subsequent films that have resonated with audiences and critics—illustrates a remarkable transformation. His joinery from horror to standout performances in major productions elevates him as a compelling actor, paving the way for future success. Notably, he transitioned into the industry’s spotlight through films like Once Upon a Time…in Hollywood, which celebrated substantial box office success and earned two Academy Awards.
The Surprising Contrast of Butler’s Role in The Dead Don’t Die
A Minor Role in a Notable Zombie Comedy
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For those who view The Dead Don’t Die after witnessing Austin Butler’s stellar performances in major films like Elvis and Dune: Part Two, the comparison may evoke surprise. His character in this horror comedy is minimal, signaling a time before his rise to prominence. This unique aspect offers a nostalgic glimpse into Butler’s early career, serving as a stark contrast to the significant roles he has since embraced in critically applauded films.