This week we get The Drama, a new feature starring Zendaya and Robert Pattinson. In honor of its release, this week’s Binge focuses on previous films starring Zendaya, who is about to have a huge 2026. Films appear in chronological order.

Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017)
About: This was the kick-start to the Marvel Cinematic Universe era of Spider-Man, with Tom Holland in the lead role. Zendaya plays Michelle, and while she doesn’t have as big a part in the first film, she is core to the franchise. This is also the big kick-off of her on-screen career, and a key relationship in her life.

The Greatest Showman (2017)
About: Sometimes the takes on this film are mixed, but what’s clear is that it was a popular musical that continues to resonate with audiences. Zendaya plays a key role as the romantic foil opposite Zac Efron here. They have some good chemistry and some good sequences.

Malcolm & Marie (2021)
About: By this point Zendaya had become more of a household name. We’d even seen her in a second Spider-Man film, and on the small screen in Euphoria. But here, she’s in a different kind of role and different kind of film opposite John David Washington. It’s an interesting performance.

Dune: Part One (2021)
About: Another major franchise part for Zendaya. She’s not as big a part of the first installment, but it’s fair to say she’s key to the narrative of the trilogy, which drops a third installment this December. But she was a huge part of the marketing and appeal of even this first film.

Challengers (2024)
About: This film was delayed in part due to the strikes. It’s a big swing from director Luca Guadagnino. Zendaya has a strong performance here in an edgy and unique film. I enjoyed the way this was put together and the intensity of her performance.

Matthew Fox is a graduate of the Radio, Television and Film program at Biola University, and a giant nerd. He spends his free time watching movies, TV, and obsessing about football. He is a member of the FSWA. You can find him @knighthawk7734 on Twitter and as co-host of the Fantasy Football Roundtable Podcast.