Scheming Courtiers, Tennis Legends, Cackling Supervillains: A Look at Emma Stone’s 11 Most Memorable Performances So Far
Just over a decade ago, no one could have predicted that Emma Stone, the Arizona-born starlet known for her roles as quippy high schoolers, would ascend to Hollywood royalty. Today, she is not only an Oscar-winning actress but also a dynamic force in cinema, with performances spanning from quirky comedies to intense dramas.
A Journey Through Emma Stone’s Career
From her early days of portraying sharp-witted characters to her recent work under the direction of visionary filmmakers, Emma Stone has demonstrated a remarkable range and depth in her performances. As she prepares for the Cannes Film Festival premiere of Yorgos Lanthimos’s “Kinds of Kindness,” we take a stroll down memory lane to revisit her most memorable roles.
Superbad (2007)
At just 18, Emma Stone made an indelible mark with her role as Jules in Greg Mottola’s raunchy buddy comedy. Her razor-sharp wit and chemistry with Jonah Hill set the stage for a promising career.
Key Highlights:
- Jules is portrayed with depth and humor, making her more than just a love interest.
- The film established Stone as a rising star to watch.
Easy A (2010)
In Will Gluck’s playful adaptation of Nathaniel Hawthorne’s “The Scarlet Letter,” Emma Stone shines as Olive Penderghast. Her memorable strut down the school hallway and her spirited rendition of “Pocketful of Sunshine” are highlights.
Why It Stands Out:
- This role cemented Stone’s status as a star, showcasing her ability to bring depth to seemingly simple characters.
- The film is a comedy masterclass with Stone at its heart.
Crazy Stupid Love (2011)
Emma Stone’s chemistry with Ryan Gosling in Glenn Ficarra and John Requa’s rom-com is electric, establishing a dynamic duo that would grace multiple projects together.
Notable Moments:
- The film offers a fresh take on romantic comedies with its witty dialogue and heartfelt moments.
- A memorable nod to “Dirty Dancing” adds charm and nostalgia.
The Amazing Spider-Man Series (2012, 2014)
Emma Stone’s portrayal of Gwen Stacy brought a new energy to the franchise. Her snarky charm and on-screen chemistry with Andrew Garfield’s Peter Parker revitalized the beloved superhero story.
Why It Works:
- Stone’s performance brings depth to Gwen Stacy, making her an integral part of the narrative.
- The films are notable for their action sequences and emotional beats.
Birdman (2014)
Emma Stone delivers a virtuosic performance as Sam, earning her first Oscar nomination. Her portrayal of Riggan Thomson’s troubled daughter is both powerful and nuanced.
Critical Acclaim:
- The film’s Broadway setting adds layers to Stone’s acting prowess.
- Her impassioned monologue remains one of her most acclaimed performances.
La La Land (2016)
In Damien Chazelle’s musical, Emma Stone’s portrayal of Mia captures the heartache and dreams of an aspiring actress. Her performance won her a Best Actress Oscar.
Highlights:
- Stone masters her tap dances and delivers emotionally rich performances.
- The film is celebrated for its stunning visuals and heartfelt story.
Battle of the Sexes (2017)
Emma Stone transforms into tennis legend Billie Jean King, bringing authenticity and depth to her portrayal in this powerful sports drama.
Why It Stands Out:
- The film highlights the significance of King’s 1973 match and its impact on women’s tennis.
- Stone’s performance is dynamic both on and off the court.
The Favourite (2018)
In Yorgos Lanthimos’s period drama, Emma Stone plays Abigail Hill with a blend of innocence and cunning. Her performance earned her another Oscar nomination.
Key Aspects:
- The film is celebrated for its dark humor and intricate storytelling.
- Stone’s portrayal of Abigail Hill is both angelic and scheming, adding layers to the narrative.
Cruella (2021)
In this origin story, Emma Stone embraces the role of a scrappy young girl who becomes the iconic supervillain Cruella de Vil. Her performance is bold and memorable.
Why It’s Memorable:
- The film captures the punk rock essence and transformational journey of its protagonist.
- Stone’s portrayal brings a fresh perspective to the character, highlighting her ambition and resilience.
The Curse (2023)
In this absurdist satire by Nathan Fielder and Benny Safdie, Emma Stone shines as Whitney Siegel. Her portrayal of a property developer is both mesmerizing and hilarious.
Highlights:
- The film’s unique narrative showcases Stone’s ability to navigate complex roles with ease.
- Her performance adds depth to the satirical elements of the story.
Poor Things (2023)
Emma Stone delivers a career-defining performance in Yorgos Lanthimos’s surreal epic. As Bella Baxter, she embodies both innocence and complexity.
Why It’s Groundbreaking:
- The film is celebrated for its imaginative storytelling and intricate character development.
- Stone’s performance captures the essence of a woman reborn, making it one of her most challenging yet rewarding roles.