On the eve of Jennifer Lawrences Let’s delve into the Oscar-winning actress’ film portfolio and take a look at her best films and performances in new comedy No Hard Feelings. Surprisingly, ever since she wowed audiences with her breakthrough role in 2010’s Winter Bone, Lawrence has consistently chosen strong scripts that fit her acting style. It’s difficult to find a lackluster performance from her, let alone a subpar film that speaks volumes about her immense talent.
On the eve of Jennifer Lawrences Let’s delve into the Oscar-winning actress’ film portfolio and take a look at her best films and performances in new comedy No Hard Feelings. Surprisingly, ever since she wowed audiences with her breakthrough role in 2010’s Winter Bone, Lawrence has consistently chosen strong scripts that fit her acting style. It’s difficult to find a lackluster performance from her, let alone a subpar film that speaks volumes about her immense talent.
Without further ado, here are our five favorite Jennifer Lawrence roles, in ascending order:
Katniss Everdeen in The Hunger Games (2012-2015)
We’re going to cheat a little here, since Lawrence’s portrayal of the heroic Katniss Everdeen spans four films. Still, given that it’s part of a terrific story, it makes sense to summarize it as an outstanding acting performance. The Hunger Games catapulted Lawrence into the global spotlight, and rightly so. Katniss is a compelling character who demonstrates strength, independence, courage, and vulnerability. Lawrence captures her inner struggles and growth in the epic series. While she may not be the first female action icon (Nudge), Katniss remains one of the most memorable action heroes of the past decade. Additionally, her performances in The Hunger Games surpass anything she has done in the X-Men franchise, making the trilogy one of Jennifer Lawrence’s finest films.
Joy Mangano in Joy (2015)
Joy is Lawrence’s third collaboration with director David O. Russell. While the drama didn’t reach the same heights as her previous endeavors, she remains a compelling character study. Lawrence portrays Joy Mangano, a troubled single mother who breaks free from her manic family and becomes a successful entrepreneur. Based on a true story, Joy celebrates the strength and determination of women, and Lawrence brings a nuanced vulnerability to the character and creates an emotional connection with the audience. It’s a grossly underestimated achievement.
Rosalyn Rosenfeld in American Hustle (2013)
In David O. Russell’s wild crime novel, Christian Bale and Amy Adams are involved in a conspiracy aimed at exposing corrupt politicians in the 1970s. It’s Lawrence, however, who steals the show as the fiery and unpredictable Rosalyn Rosenfeld, the impulsive but enigmatic wife of Bale’s character. The actress brings Rosalyn to life with a larger-than-life personality and delivers another emotionally charged and compelling performance that earned her rave reviews and a Best Supporting Actress nomination at the Oscars. The scene with the microwave is just priceless.
Ree Dolly in Winter’s Bone (2010)
Lawrence received her first Oscar nomination for her breakthrough role in the dark drama Winter’s Bone, in which she portrayed Ree Dolly, a determined teenage girl searching for her missing father. Once again, Lawrence Ree brings raw and authentic emotional depth, skillfully conveying a range of emotions through subtle gestures. She navigates the character’s levels, skillfully balancing Ree’s determination, vulnerability, and unwavering loyalty to her family. These nuanced elements add depth and richness to her remarkable performance. Lawrence’s incredible performance is the main reason to delve into Debra Granik’s dark drama.
Tiffany Maxwell in Silver Linings Playbook (2012)
Lawrence had already made waves in Hollywood before her captivating performance in David O. Russell’s remarkable Silver Linings Playbook. Portraying the emotionally complex Tiffany Maxwell, a young widow confronted with her own problems and bonding with Bradley Cooper’s troubled Pat, Lawrence skillfully captures her character’s development from a volatile widow to someone finding self-acceptance and redemption. She effortlessly displays her natural comedic talent and her chemistry with Cooper carries the film to the finish line. No wonder she won the Oscar for Best Actress. Silver Linings Playbook is one of my personal favorites, and Lawrence’s performance is a major reason I keep watching this hit sports drama.