Julia Roberts Movies: A Filmography Of Her Best Roles

Hey guys! Are you ready to dive into the amazing world of Julia Roberts? I am super excited to share a comprehensive guide to her most iconic films. Julia Roberts, a name synonymous with Hollywood royalty, has graced our screens for decades, delivering unforgettable performances that have captured hearts worldwide. From her breakout role in Pretty Woman to her compelling dramas and hilarious comedies, Roberts has proven her versatility and cemented her status as one of the greatest actresses of all time. In this article, we'll explore some of her best movies, highlighting her remarkable talent and the impact she's had on the film industry. So, grab your popcorn, get comfy, and let's get started!

Early Career Breakthroughs

In her early career breakthroughs, Julia Roberts quickly established herself as a force to be reckoned with in Hollywood. One of her earliest roles that gained attention was in the coming-of-age film Mystic Pizza (1988), where she played Daisy Arujo, a young waitress navigating life and love in a small Connecticut town. This role showcased her natural charm and ability to connect with audiences, setting the stage for her future success. Then came Steel Magnolias (1989), a heartfelt drama where Roberts portrayed Shelby Eatenton Latcherie, a young woman battling diabetes. Her performance was deeply moving, earning her a Golden Globe Award and her first Academy Award nomination, solidifying her status as a rising star. However, it was her role as Vivian Ward in Pretty Woman (1990) that catapulted her into superstardom. This modern-day Cinderella story charmed audiences worldwide, grossing over $463 million and earning Roberts her second Academy Award nomination and a Golden Globe Award. The film's success was largely due to the chemistry between Roberts and Richard Gere, making it a cultural phenomenon that remains beloved to this day. These early roles not only highlighted Roberts' acting prowess but also demonstrated her ability to choose projects that resonated with audiences, setting the foundation for a remarkable career. Her performances during this period showcased her range and charisma, proving that she was more than just a pretty face; she was a talented actress capable of delivering powerful and memorable performances. Pretty Woman remains a touchstone in her career, defining her as a leading lady and opening doors to a wide array of opportunities in Hollywood. Her early career breakthroughs underscored her star power and solidified her place in the hearts of moviegoers around the globe.

Iconic Rom-Coms

When it comes to iconic rom-coms, Julia Roberts truly shines. Her ability to bring charm, wit, and vulnerability to her roles has made her a beloved figure in the genre. Of course, we have to start with Pretty Woman (1990). As Vivian Ward, she charmed audiences with her transformation from a free-spirited Hollywood Boulevard resident to a sophisticated woman. The film's success cemented Roberts as a rom-com queen, and her chemistry with Richard Gere is still talked about today. Then there's My Best Friend's Wedding (1997), where Roberts plays Julianne Potter, a woman who realizes she's in love with her best friend just as he's about to get married. Her efforts to sabotage the wedding, while hilariously misguided, are driven by genuine emotion, making the film a relatable and entertaining watch. In Notting Hill (1999), Roberts stars as Anna Scott, a famous actress who falls for a humble bookstore owner played by Hugh Grant. The film explores the challenges of navigating a relationship under the intense scrutiny of the media, and Roberts delivers a nuanced performance that captures both the glamour and vulnerability of a Hollywood star. Runaway Bride (1999) reunited Roberts with Richard Gere, offering another charming romantic comedy where she plays Maggie Carpenter, a woman famous for leaving her fiancés at the altar. The film's lighthearted humor and Roberts' undeniable chemistry with Gere made it a box office success. These rom-coms not only showcase Roberts' comedic timing and ability to connect with audiences but also highlight her talent for portraying complex and relatable characters. Her performances in these films have made her a rom-com icon, and they continue to be enjoyed by audiences around the world. Whether she's playing a street-smart woman finding love or a famous actress navigating the challenges of fame, Roberts brings a unique blend of charisma and authenticity to her roles, solidifying her place in the hearts of moviegoers.

Dramatic Roles

Delving into her dramatic roles, Julia Roberts has proven time and again that her acting prowess extends far beyond romantic comedies. Her ability to immerse herself in complex characters and deliver emotionally resonant performances has earned her critical acclaim and numerous awards. One of her most memorable dramatic roles is in Erin Brockovich (2000), where she portrays a single mother who becomes a legal clerk and uncovers a massive environmental conspiracy. Roberts' portrayal of Brockovich is fierce, determined, and deeply human, earning her an Academy Award for Best Actress. This role showcased her ability to embody a strong, independent woman fighting for justice, solidifying her reputation as a versatile actress. In Closer (2004), Roberts stars alongside Jude Law, Natalie Portman, and Clive Owen in a complex and emotionally charged drama about love, betrayal, and relationships. Her performance as Anna Cameron, a photographer caught in a web of infidelity, is nuanced and compelling, demonstrating her ability to navigate the intricacies of adult relationships. Michael Collins (1996) sees Roberts playing Kitty Kiernan, the fiancée of Irish revolutionary Michael Collins (Liam Neeson). Although the film is primarily focused on Collins' fight for Irish independence, Roberts brings depth and emotion to her role, portraying a woman torn between love and loyalty during a turbulent period in history. In August: Osage County (2013), Roberts joins an ensemble cast that includes Meryl Streep, Ewan McGregor, and Benedict Cumberbatch in a darkly comedic drama about a dysfunctional family reuniting after a family crisis. Her performance as Barbara Weston, the eldest daughter grappling with her mother's illness and family secrets, is raw and powerful, earning her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. These dramatic roles highlight Roberts' range and ability to tackle challenging and emotionally demanding characters. Whether she's playing a real-life hero fighting for justice or a woman navigating the complexities of love and family, Roberts consistently delivers compelling and memorable performances, solidifying her status as one of the most talented actresses of her generation. Her dedication to her craft and her ability to connect with audiences on a deep emotional level make her a force to be reckoned with in the world of dramatic cinema.

Recent Works and Future Projects

Looking at recent works and future projects, Julia Roberts continues to captivate audiences with her diverse roles and unwavering talent. In Ben is Back (2018), Roberts delivers a powerful performance as Holly Burns, a mother struggling to help her son, Ben (Lucas Hedges), battle addiction. The film is a raw and emotional portrayal of the challenges faced by families dealing with substance abuse, and Roberts' performance is both heartbreaking and inspiring. Her ability to convey the complexities of maternal love and the pain of watching a child struggle makes this one of her most compelling recent roles. Then there's Wonder (2017), a heartwarming film where Roberts plays Isabel Pullman, the mother of a young boy with facial differences who is entering mainstream school for the first time. The film is a celebration of kindness, acceptance, and the power of family, and Roberts brings warmth and empathy to her role as a supportive and loving mother. This role highlights her ability to connect with audiences of all ages and deliver messages of hope and resilience. In Ticket to Paradise (2022), Roberts reunites with George Clooney in a charming romantic comedy where they play a divorced couple who team up to stop their daughter from marrying someone she just met in Bali. The film is a lighthearted and entertaining romp, and Roberts and Clooney's chemistry is as strong as ever. This role showcases her enduring appeal as a rom-com star and her ability to bring humor and heart to her performances. As for future projects, Roberts is set to star in several upcoming films and television series, continuing to challenge herself with new and exciting roles. While specific details about these projects are still under wraps, it's clear that she remains committed to her craft and eager to explore new creative avenues. Her continued success and dedication to her work solidify her status as one of the most beloved and respected actresses in Hollywood. Whether she's tackling dramatic roles that require emotional depth or charming audiences with her comedic timing, Julia Roberts consistently delivers memorable performances that leave a lasting impact. Her recent works and future projects demonstrate her versatility and her enduring appeal, ensuring that she will remain a prominent figure in the entertainment industry for years to come.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the filmography of Julia Roberts is a testament to her incredible talent, versatility, and enduring appeal. From her early career breakthroughs in Mystic Pizza and Steel Magnolias to her iconic rom-com roles in Pretty Woman and Notting Hill, Roberts has consistently delivered memorable performances that have resonated with audiences worldwide. Her dramatic turns in films like Erin Brockovich and Closer have showcased her ability to tackle complex and emotionally demanding characters, earning her critical acclaim and numerous awards. Recent works such as Ben is Back and Wonder demonstrate her continued commitment to her craft and her ability to connect with audiences on a deep emotional level. As she continues to explore new creative avenues with future projects, it's clear that Julia Roberts will remain a prominent figure in the entertainment industry for years to come. Her ability to bring charm, wit, and vulnerability to her roles has made her a beloved figure in Hollywood, and her contributions to cinema have solidified her status as one of the greatest actresses of all time. Whether she's playing a street-smart woman finding love, a real-life hero fighting for justice, or a mother struggling to help her child, Roberts consistently delivers compelling and memorable performances that leave a lasting impact. So, the next time you're looking for a great movie to watch, be sure to check out some of Julia Roberts' films – you won't be disappointed! Her work is a celebration of the human spirit, and her performances are a reminder of the power of storytelling to connect us all. Keep an eye out for her upcoming projects, as she continues to surprise and delight audiences with her talent and versatility. The legacy of Julia Roberts in film is secure, and her influence will be felt for generations to come.