Harry Styles’ feature film debut was a major role in Christopher Nolan’s 2017 war epic Dunkirk, and it was widely expected that the film would act as a launchpad for a successful Hollywood career.

Playing Alex, a young British private caught in the battle in the titular town, Styles was singled out by numerous critics and media outlets for his pathos-heavy performance, which embarrassed those with fears that the then-23-year-old would struggle in such an arena. What has followed has been underwhelming, however, as Styles has appeared in only three more films in the subsequent six years, each receiving mixed critical receptions at best.

None of Eternals (2021), Don’t Worry Darling (2022) and My Policeman (2022) have received much – if any – adulation, and neither have Styles’ performances. Don’t Worry Darling was especially scorned and critiqued both before and after its release, with Styles’ more emotional onscreen moments as Jack Chambers garnering a lot of negative interest online. Both Eternals and My Policeman, meanwhile, were underwhelming for viewers, leaving many scratching their heads as to where the hype about Styles came from. Here’s why there was so much excitement about Harry Styles in the first place, and why it all faded away within a few short years.

Dunkirk Proved Harry Styles Was A Promising Actor

When Christopher Nolan cast Harry Styles in Dunkirk, it was much to the surprise of audiences and critics. Though previously unaware of the extent of Styles’ fame, Nolan believed that the One Direction singer was brimming with potential, as well as being blessed with an old-fashioned face that would suit the period film well. Nolan even compared Harry Styles’ casting to Heath Ledger’s in The Dark Knight, Nolan’s Batman sequel. He was right to believe in both of them – Styles pulled out a restrained and yet poignant performance that vindicated his director.

Following the release of Dunkirk and the consequent acclaim afforded to Nolan and Harry Styles, New Line Cinema and its parent company Warner Bros were reportedly ecstatic about where the latter’s career could go. In the summer of 2019, there were reports that the role of Prince Eric in the live-action remake of The Little Mermaid was being saved for Styles, only for Disney executives to later cast Jonah Hauer-King instead. He apparently turned down the chance to appear alongside Emilia Clarke in Last Christmas (2019) due to fears about his age. Nonetheless, it was still clear that major studios were coveting him for huge roles thanks to his performance in Dunkirk.

Why Harry Styles’ 2022 Movies Both Failed

Considering the global anticipation building for Olivia Wilde’s Don’t Worry Darling before its release (Wilde’s 2019 directorial debut Booksmart had been released to universal acclaim), it was a surprise to see it only do moderately well at the box office. As the wait got shorter, new rumors and controversies surrounding the production of the film came to light, ultimately culminating in a social media frenzy. While none of this was positive, there was no doubt that it increased curiosity about Don’t Worry Darling, with numerous stories about production bust-ups and affairs driving interest. Yet when audiences finally did get to see the film at the theatre they were disappointed, and its mild return was proof of that.

My Policeman, released in late 2022 on Amazon Prime after a limited theatrical run, was similarly met with disinterest and apathy. Styles’ performance was largely overshadowed by that of David Dawson (just as he had been by Florence Pugh and other renowned actors in Don’t Worry Darling), while the film itself was critiqued as tedious and shallow. Whereas his previous film had been mired in almost mythical controversy, the production and release of My Policeman were largely smooth and uninteresting, while the content of it was much the same. This led to low viewing figures and unremarkable critical and audience reception.

Harry Styles Was Supposed To Be A Huge Addition To The MCU – What Happened?

It was rumored that Harry Styles would have a role in the much-anticipated MCU film Eternals a long time before it released. Though he did not appear until the mid-credits scene, Styles’ appearance as Thanos’ brother Eros/Starfox acted as a major teaser for upcoming projects wherein many expected Styles would play a large role. President of Marvel Studios Kevin Feige has mentioned loose plans to delve into Starfox’s story in future projects, though refrained from confirming if this would be in a direct sequel to Eternals, or else a separate project.

Though Harry Styles’ future in the MCU is undoubtedly murky, it is certainly not yet over, and there are plenty of avenues that Marvel could take in exploring Starfox. Marvel executive Nate Moore has defended the casting and promised audiences that they would see more of the character. This has led many to speculate that there might be a project centering on Starfox and his sidekick Pip, voiced by Patton Oswalt, should the planned sequel to Eternals not feature them.

Harry Styles Has No Upcoming Movies & TV Shows Scheduled

2023 has so far been a quiet one for Harry Styles, who has not released any new music nor starred in any new films. As for any upcoming projects, Styles has not been cast for anything, at least that’s in the public knowledge. Though a sequel to Eternals is all but confirmed to be in the works, there is no confirmation that Styles will feature. The film is also not scheduled to release until the end of 2024 at the earliest, making it his first film in over two years should he not appear in anything else. This may signify another mini-hiatus for the artist – which given his recent endeavors may not be a bad thing.

Harry Styles’ Acting Career Can Still Succeed After His Post-Dunkirk Misfires

Despite Harry Styles’ recent misfires in Don’t Worry Darling and My Policeman, the star will still undoubtedly find opportunities to make better films. Having reportedly signed a five-film deal with Marvel in 2022, it is almost guaranteed that audiences will be seeing him again in the MCU. This does not mean that these projects will be good, especially considering Marvel’s recent run of films and shows not being especially well-received. Nonetheless, Styles is guaranteed plenty of eyeballs, and this should help him receive roles outside of the MCU. Marvel blockbusters tend to create lucrative opportunities for their actors thereafter.

Harry Styles might also be tempted by the prospect of musicals, in which his talents could be utilized to significant effect. As a fantastic singer and stage presence, there is no doubt that he could light up the screen in an upbeat singalong. He could also follow in the footsteps of other musicians-turned-actors like Justin Timberlake by appearing in offbeat romcoms. There are endless opportunities for good-looking charismatic young men in this genre, and would also allow Harry Styles to show off his comedy chops and reveal a new side to audiences who have begun doubting his dramatic abilities.