Discover the best films from Mary Pickford, Mae West, Gillian Anderson, Emma Watson, and Meg Ryan. Each actress has delivered unforgettable performances across various genres. Here’s a curated list of their top movies, organized by genre, to guide your viewing.
Classic Silent Films and Comedies
Mary Pickford
- Coquette (1929) – NR – IMDb: 7.0
- Pickford stars as a flapper girl in this drama that showcases her charm and emotional depth during the silent era.
- Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm (1917) – NR – IMDb: 7.3
- In this heartwarming tale, Pickford plays a young girl who wins over the hearts of those around her with her lively spirit.
- Little Annie Rooney (1925) – NR – IMDb: 7.5
- Pickford’s portrayal of a spunky young girl in this silent film is both delightful and influential.
- Sparrows (1926) – NR – IMDb: 7.7
- A dramatic story of orphans escaping from a brutal workhouse, with Pickford delivering a powerful performance.
- Dorothy Vernon of Haddon Hall (1924) – NR – IMDb: 7.0
- Pickford excels in this historical drama, showcasing her versatility in portraying complex characters.
Bold Comedies and Dramas
Mae West
- She Done Him Wrong (1933) – NR – IMDb: 7.3
- West’s sassy performance in this pre-Code film is packed with memorable one-liners and risqué humor.
- I’m No Angel (1933) – NR – IMDb: 7.3
- West stars as a circus performer with a knack for trouble in this witty comedy filled with her signature charm.
- My Little Chickadee (1940) – NR – IMDb: 6.8
- In this comedy western, West’s collaboration with W.C. Fields delivers laughs and sharp dialogue.
- Go West Young Man (1936) – NR – IMDb: 6.7
- West plays a glamorous woman who becomes a newspaper editor in this entertaining comedy.
- Klondike Annie (1936) – NR – IMDb: 6.5
- West’s performance as a saloon singer with a past provides both humor and drama in this lively film.
Thrilling Dramas and Sci-Fi
Gillian Anderson
- The Fall (2013–2016) – NR – IMDb: 8.1
- Anderson delivers a riveting performance as a detective hunting a serial killer in this gripping TV drama.
- The X-Files (1993–2018) – NR – IMDb: 8.6
- As FBI agent Dana Scully, Anderson explores supernatural mysteries in this iconic sci-fi series.
- Bleak House (2005) – NR – IMDb: 8.0
- Anderson’s role in this adaptation of Charles Dickens’ novel showcases her dramatic prowess in a period drama.
- The House of Mirth (2000) – PG – IMDb: 7.2
- Anderson plays a woman navigating high society’s pitfalls in this adaptation of Edith Wharton’s novel.
- Bohemian Rhapsody (2018) – PG-13 – IMDb: 8.0
- Anderson has a memorable supporting role in this biopic about Queen and Freddie Mercury.
Enchanting Fantasies and Dramas
Emma Watson
- Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (2001) – PG – IMDb: 7.6
- Watson’s portrayal of Hermione Granger in this magical film launched her career and became iconic.
- The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012) – PG-13 – IMDb: 7.9
- Watson delivers a heartfelt performance as a high school student navigating friendship and love.
- Beauty and the Beast (2017) – PG – IMDb: 7.1
- In this live-action remake, Watson’s Belle brings charm and depth to the classic fairy tale.
- The Bling Ring (2013) – R – IMDb: 5.6
- Watson stars as a member of a group of teenagers who rob celebrity homes, showcasing a darker side.
- Little Women (2019) – PG – IMDb: 7.8
- Watson shines as Meg March in this modern adaptation of the beloved novel by Louisa May Alcott.
Romantic Comedies and Dramas
Meg Ryan
- When Harry Met Sally (1989) – R – IMDb: 7.6
- Ryan’s iconic role in this romantic comedy explores whether men and women can just be friends.
- Sleepless in Seattle (1993) – PG – IMDb: 6.8
- In this charming film, Ryan plays a woman who falls for a widower she’s never met, sparking a heartwarming story.
- You’ve Got Mail (1998) – PG – IMDb: 6.7
- Ryan stars in this modern fairy tale about love and technology, opposite Tom Hanks, with great chemistry.
- City of Angels (1998) – PG-13 – IMDb: 6.7
- Ryan plays a doctor who falls for an angel in this emotional drama with a touch of romance.
- Joe vs. the Volcano (1990) – PG – IMDb: 6.1
- Ryan delivers a quirky performance in this whimsical story about a man’s journey to find meaning in life.
Conclusion
From silent film legends like Mary Pickford to modern stars like Emma Watson, each actress has made a significant impact on cinema with their standout performances. These films offer a window into their remarkable careers and showcase their diverse talents across genres. Enjoy exploring these top picks and celebrating the cinematic contributions of these incredible women!