Emily Blunt Movies: Ranking Her Best Films
Hey guys! Let's dive into the incredible filmography of Emily Blunt. From her breakout roles to her recent critically acclaimed performances, Blunt has proven herself to be one of the most versatile and captivating actresses of our time. We’re going to rank her best films, exploring what makes each one special and why they deserve a spot on your must-watch list. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and let's get started!
1. A Deep Dive into Emily Blunt's Career
Before we jump into the rankings, let's take a moment to appreciate the sheer breadth of Emily Blunt's career. She’s not just a pretty face; she's a powerhouse performer who can tackle any genre. Whether it's a period drama, a sci-fi thriller, a musical, or a dark comedy, Blunt brings a unique blend of vulnerability, strength, and charisma to every role. Her journey in Hollywood is a testament to her dedication and talent, making her a true icon in the industry.
Early Roles and Breakthroughs
Emily Blunt began her acting career on the stage before transitioning to television and film. One of her early roles that caught attention was in the British television film My Summer of Love (2004). However, it was her performance in The Devil Wears Prada (2006) that truly catapulted her into the international spotlight. Playing the snarky and cynical Emily Charlton, Blunt stole scenes alongside Meryl Streep and Anne Hathaway, showcasing her impeccable comedic timing and ability to deliver biting one-liners with finesse. This role not only earned her critical acclaim but also a wider audience, setting the stage for her future successes.
The impact of The Devil Wears Prada on Emily Blunt's career cannot be overstated. It wasn't just a commercially successful film; it was a cultural phenomenon. The movie resonated with audiences worldwide, and Blunt's performance was a major reason for its enduring appeal. She brought a refreshing energy to the screen, making her character both relatable and hilarious. This role demonstrated her versatility and set the expectation that she was an actress capable of handling complex characters with depth and humor. From there, she began to take on more diverse roles, proving that she was not just a one-hit-wonder but a force to be reckoned with in Hollywood.
Versatility Across Genres
What truly sets Emily Blunt apart is her incredible versatility. She seamlessly transitions between genres, taking on roles that range from the dramatic to the comedic, and the fantastical to the realistic. In films like The Young Victoria (2009), she embodied the poise and strength of a young queen, while in Edge of Tomorrow (2014), she transformed into a badass action hero. Her ability to inhabit such diverse characters is a testament to her skill as an actress and her commitment to pushing her own boundaries.
Consider her work in Sicario (2015), where she played an idealistic FBI agent caught in the murky world of the drug war. Blunt’s portrayal was nuanced and powerful, capturing the character’s moral struggles and emotional journey with remarkable authenticity. Then, look at her performance in Mary Poppins Returns (2018), where she stepped into the iconic shoes of the magical nanny with grace and charm. These roles highlight her range and her willingness to take on challenges, making her one of the most respected and sought-after actresses in the industry. Her choices reflect a desire to constantly evolve and surprise her audience, ensuring that her career remains fresh and exciting.
2. Our Top Picks: Ranking Emily Blunt's Best Movies
Alright, let's get to the good stuff! Ranking movies is always subjective, but we’ve tried to consider a mix of critical acclaim, box office success, and Emily Blunt's performance in each film. So, here are our top picks for her best movies:
1. The Devil Wears Prada (2006)
Of course, we have to start with the movie that put Emily Blunt on the map. The Devil Wears Prada is a classic for a reason. Her portrayal of Emily Charlton, the overworked and underappreciated assistant to Miranda Priestly (Meryl Streep), is iconic. Blunt’s comedic timing is impeccable, and she delivers some of the film's most memorable lines. But beyond the humor, she also brings a layer of vulnerability to the character, making her relatable despite her sharp edges. This role earned her a Golden Globe nomination and solidified her status as a rising star.
The brilliance of Emily Blunt's performance in The Devil Wears Prada lies in her ability to balance humor and pathos. She’s not just playing a caricature; she’s creating a fully realized character with her own ambitions and insecurities. The film itself is a masterclass in ensemble acting, but Blunt’s chemistry with her co-stars, particularly Meryl Streep and Anne Hathaway, is what elevates it to another level. Her scenes are often the most quotable, and her character's journey throughout the film is both entertaining and emotionally resonant. It’s a performance that continues to be celebrated and enjoyed by audiences of all ages, making it a definitive highlight of her career.
2. Edge of Tomorrow (2014)
Next up, we have Edge of Tomorrow, a sci-fi action flick where Emily Blunt plays Rita Vrataski, a hardened soldier known as the “Full Metal Bitch.” This role is a complete 180 from her comedic work, showcasing her ability to handle action-heavy roles with ease. Her chemistry with Tom Cruise is fantastic, and she holds her own in every action sequence. Edge of Tomorrow is not just a great action movie; it's a testament to Blunt's versatility and physicality as an actress.
Edge of Tomorrow is a standout in Emily Blunt's filmography because it demonstrates her commitment to physical roles and her ability to portray strong, independent characters. Rita Vrataski is not just a sidekick; she is a central figure in the narrative, driving the plot forward with her skill and determination. The training and preparation Blunt underwent for this role were extensive, and it shows in her performance. She embodies the physicality of a soldier while also conveying the emotional toll of reliving the same day over and over again. This role cemented her status as an action star and proved that she could excel in any genre, further broadening her appeal to audiences worldwide.
3. Sicario (2015)
In Sicario, Emily Blunt delivers a powerful and nuanced performance as Kate Macer, an FBI agent caught in the brutal world of the Mexican drug war. This role is emotionally demanding, and Blunt handles it with grace and intensity. The film itself is a tense and gripping thriller, and Blunt's portrayal of a character struggling with her own moral compass is one of the film's highlights. Sicario is a must-see for anyone who appreciates complex characters and compelling storytelling.
Sicario showcases Emily Blunt's ability to convey vulnerability and strength simultaneously. Her character, Kate Macer, is an idealist thrust into a morally ambiguous and violent world, and Blunt portrays her disillusionment and determination with remarkable depth. The film is a character study as much as it is a thriller, and Blunt’s performance is central to its success. She captures the emotional toll of Kate’s experiences, making her a relatable and sympathetic protagonist even in the face of extreme circumstances. This role earned her critical acclaim and further solidified her reputation as a serious actress capable of tackling challenging material.
4. A Quiet Place (2018)
A Quiet Place is a horror thriller directed by her husband, John Krasinski, and it’s a nail-biting experience from start to finish. Emily Blunt's performance as Evelyn Abbott, a mother trying to protect her children in a world terrorized by sound-sensitive creatures, is both heart-wrenching and inspiring. The film's use of silence to build tension is masterful, and Blunt's ability to convey emotion without dialogue is truly impressive. This is a must-watch for horror fans and anyone who appreciates a well-crafted thriller.
A Quiet Place is a testament to Emily Blunt's range as an actress and her ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level. The film’s premise requires her to communicate primarily through expressions and gestures, and she delivers a masterclass in nonverbal acting. Her portrayal of Evelyn Abbott is both fierce and tender, capturing the character’s unwavering commitment to her family. The film’s success is largely due to the chemistry between Blunt and Krasinski, both on and off-screen, which adds an extra layer of authenticity to their performances. A Quiet Place is a standout in the horror genre and a highlight of Blunt’s career, showcasing her ability to excel in a variety of roles.
5. Mary Poppins Returns (2018)
Stepping into the shoes of an iconic character like Mary Poppins is no easy feat, but Emily Blunt does it with grace and charm. Mary Poppins Returns is a delightful sequel that captures the magic of the original while adding its own unique flair. Blunt’s performance is pitch-perfect, and she brings a warmth and wit to the character that is both familiar and fresh. This is a feel-good movie that’s perfect for the whole family.
Emily Blunt's portrayal of Mary Poppins is a testament to her versatility and her ability to take on iconic roles while making them her own. She doesn’t simply imitate Julie Andrews; she brings her own interpretation to the character, infusing her with a mix of sweetness, sternness, and whimsy. The film is a visual spectacle, and Blunt’s performance is the heart of it, anchoring the story and making it resonate with audiences. Mary Poppins Returns is a celebration of joy and imagination, and Blunt’s performance is a key reason for its success, demonstrating her ability to shine in both dramatic and light-hearted roles.
3. Honorable Mentions: More Great Emily Blunt Films
Of course, no list can be exhaustive, and Emily Blunt has been in so many great movies that we couldn't include them all in our top five. Here are a few honorable mentions that are definitely worth checking out:
- The Young Victoria (2009)
- Looper (2012)
- Salmon Fishing in the Yemen (2011)
- Your Sister's Sister (2011)
- Wild Mountain Thyme (2020)
4. What Makes Emily Blunt Stand Out?
So, what is it about Emily Blunt that makes her such a compelling actress? It’s not just her talent, although she has that in spades. It’s her ability to fully inhabit her characters, to bring a sense of authenticity and depth to every role. She’s not afraid to take risks, to challenge herself, and to push the boundaries of her craft. And that’s what makes her one of the most exciting actresses working today.
Range and Versatility
We’ve touched on it before, but it’s worth emphasizing again: Emily Blunt's range is simply extraordinary. She can do comedy, drama, action, musicals – you name it, she can do it. This versatility allows her to take on a wide variety of roles, keeping her career fresh and exciting. It also means that audiences never quite know what to expect from her, which is part of her appeal. Her willingness to explore different genres and characters is a testament to her dedication to her craft and her desire to constantly evolve as an actress.
Emotional Depth
Beyond her versatility, Emily Blunt brings a remarkable emotional depth to her performances. She has the ability to convey complex emotions with subtlety and nuance, making her characters feel real and relatable. Whether she’s playing a hardened soldier, a loving mother, or a witty assistant, Blunt infuses her characters with a sense of humanity that resonates with audiences. This emotional depth is what makes her performances so compelling and memorable, and it’s a key reason why she is so highly regarded in the industry.
Strong Chemistry with Co-stars
Another aspect of Emily Blunt's talent is her ability to create strong on-screen chemistry with her co-stars. Whether it’s the witty banter with Meryl Streep in The Devil Wears Prada or the intense partnership with Tom Cruise in Edge of Tomorrow, Blunt has a knack for building believable relationships with her fellow actors. This chemistry adds another layer of depth to her performances, making the interactions between characters feel authentic and engaging. It’s a skill that is essential for any actor, and Blunt excels at it, making her a joy to watch in any ensemble cast.
5. What’s Next for Emily Blunt?
So, what does the future hold for Emily Blunt? With her talent and versatility, the possibilities are endless. She continues to take on challenging and diverse roles, and we can’t wait to see what she does next. Whether it’s a big-budget blockbuster or a small independent film, one thing is for sure: Emily Blunt will continue to captivate audiences with her incredible performances. Keep an eye out for her future projects, because they’re sure to be worth watching!
Conclusion
Emily Blunt is a true force in Hollywood, and her filmography is a testament to her talent, versatility, and dedication. From her breakout role in The Devil Wears Prada to her more recent work in films like A Quiet Place and Mary Poppins Returns, she has consistently delivered compelling performances that have resonated with audiences around the world. We hope this ranking has given you a deeper appreciation for her work and inspired you to check out some of her amazing movies. What are your favorite Emily Blunt movies? Let us know in the comments below!