Julia Roberts' Best Movies: A Fan's Guide

Hey guys! So, you're looking for some of the best movies starring the one and only Julia Roberts? You've come to the right place! Julia Roberts is a certified movie icon, a true queen of Hollywood who's been gracing our screens with her dazzling smile and incredible talent for decades. From romantic comedies that make you believe in soulmates to gripping dramas that tug at your heartstrings, she's done it all, and she's done it brilliantly. We're going to dive deep into her filmography, highlighting the must-watch movies that have cemented her legendary status. Get ready to revisit some classics and discover new favorites because when it comes to Julia Roberts, there's always a gem to be found. Her career is a testament to her versatility and enduring appeal, proving time and time again why she remains one of the most beloved actresses of all time. So, grab your popcorn, get comfy, and let's get started on this cinematic journey through the best of Julia Roberts.

Pretty Woman: The Rom-Com That Defined a Generation

When you talk about Julia Roberts movies, one film instantly springs to mind for pretty much everyone: Pretty Woman. This 1990 romantic comedy wasn't just a hit; it was a cultural phenomenon. It catapulted Julia Roberts into superstardom, earning her an Academy Award nomination and a Golden Globe Award. The chemistry between Roberts as Vivian Ward, a spirited Hollywood prostitute, and Richard Gere as the wealthy businessman Edward Lewis is absolutely electric. Their unlikely romance, built on a foundation of a business deal that blossoms into genuine love, captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. The film masterfully blends humor, romance, and a touch of fairy tale magic. Who could forget iconic scenes like the shopping spree on Rodeo Drive, the opera, or that final, swoon-worthy kiss? Roberts' performance is pitch-perfect; she imbues Vivian with vulnerability, humor, and an undeniable charm that makes you root for her from the very beginning. Her transformation from a street-smart hustler to a woman who finds love and self-respect is a compelling narrative arc. This movie is a quintessential example of a perfect rom-com, and it remains a timeless classic that continues to be adored by new generations of viewers. It's the kind of film that makes you feel good, a true comfort watch that showcases Julia Roberts at the absolute peak of her rom-com powers. The fashion, the soundtrack, the witty dialogue – it all comes together to create a cinematic experience that is both entertaining and deeply satisfying. Pretty Woman is more than just a movie; it's a modern fairy tale that solidified Julia Roberts' status as America's sweetheart and the queen of romantic comedies. It's a benchmark against which many other romantic comedies are measured, and it's a testament to her incredible star power and acting prowess.

Erin Brockovich: A Powerful Performance That Earned Her an Oscar

Moving beyond the realm of romantic comedies, Erin Brockovich showcases Julia Roberts' incredible range and depth as an actress. Released in 2000, this biographical drama saw her take on the role of Erin Brockovich, a tenacious and unconventional single mother who takes on a powerful corporation polluting a city's water supply. This performance was nothing short of phenomenal, earning Roberts her first and only Academy Award for Best Actress. She completely embodies the fiery spirit and unwavering determination of the real-life Erin Brockovich. You can feel her grit, her anger at injustice, and her unwavering commitment to the people she's fighting for. Roberts' portrayal is raw, powerful, and utterly captivating. She delivers Brockovich's famous lines with a punch and brings an authentic, no-nonsense attitude to the character that is incredibly compelling. The film itself is a gripping legal drama, based on a true story, that highlights the importance of fighting for what's right, even against overwhelming odds. Roberts is supported by a stellar cast, including Albert Finney and Aaron Eckhart, but it's her magnetic performance that anchors the entire movie. She brings a human element to the complex legal proceedings, making the audience deeply invested in the outcome. Erin Brockovich is a testament to Roberts' ability to handle complex, dramatic roles with the same skill she brings to lighter fare. It proved that she was far more than just a rom-com queen; she was a serious dramatic actress capable of delivering an Oscar-winning performance. This movie is an inspiring watch, full of heart and a powerful message about corporate accountability and the strength of the human spirit. It’s a film that stays with you long after the credits roll, largely due to Roberts' unforgettable portrayal of a true American hero.

My Best Friend's Wedding: A Hilarious Take on Love and Friendship

Let's talk about My Best Friend's Wedding, another absolute gem from Julia Roberts' filmography, released in 1997. This romantic comedy is a bit different from Pretty Woman because it explores the messier, more complicated side of love and friendship, and Roberts absolutely nails it. She plays Julianne Potter, a food critic who realizes she's in love with her best friend, Michael (Dermot Mulroney), only after he announces his engagement to the lovely and seemingly perfect Kimberly Wallace (Cameron Diaz). What follows is a hilarious, albeit morally questionable, mission by Julianne to sabotage the wedding and win Michael's heart. Roberts is brilliant as the conflicted Julianne. She manages to make a character who is actively trying to break up a couple incredibly sympathetic, or at least understandable, thanks to her comedic timing and the vulnerability she injects into the role. The movie is packed with laugh-out-loud moments, from Julianne's disastrous attempts to sabotage the relationship to the iconic scene where she belts out "I Say a Little Prayer" in a restaurant. It’s a masterclass in comedic performance. The film also features a fantastic supporting cast, including Rupert Everett as Julianne's gay best friend, George, who provides much of the film's wit and wisdom. My Best Friend's Wedding is a standout because it dares to explore the darker, more selfish aspects of love while still being incredibly funny and ultimately heartwarming. It shows that sometimes, love doesn't win, and that's okay, which is a refreshing take. Roberts’ ability to balance the comedy with the underlying emotional turmoil of Julianne makes this a truly memorable performance. It’s a film that’s both entertaining and thought-provoking, and it’s definitely a must-watch for any Julia Roberts fan.

Notting Hill: A Modern Fairy Tale with British Charm

Get ready for some serious British charm and a fairy tale romance with Notting Hill, released in 1999. This film is pure magic, pairing Julia Roberts with the ever-charming Hugh Grant. Roberts plays Anna Scott, a world-famous American actress who walks into a humble travel bookshop in London owned by William Thacker, played by Grant. What ensues is a delightful and surprisingly believable romance between two people from vastly different worlds. The script, penned by Richard Curtis, is witty, heartwarming, and perfectly captures the awkwardness and joy of falling in love. Roberts is luminous as Anna Scott, bringing a vulnerability and relatability to a character who could easily have been perceived as just a Hollywood star. She perfectly balances the allure of superstardom with the simple desires of a woman looking for genuine connection. Hugh Grant is equally brilliant as the shy, unassuming bookseller, and their chemistry is undeniable. The film is filled with memorable scenes, from the "cor, blimey" moment to the heartfelt press conference where Anna makes a public declaration of love. Notting Hill is more than just a romantic comedy; it's a celebration of ordinary life, extraordinary love, and the quirky characters that inhabit London's Notting Hill neighborhood. The supporting cast, including Rhys Ifans as the eccentric Spike, adds another layer of humor and heart to the film. It’s a movie that makes you believe in the power of love to cross any boundary, and it’s a perfect showcase for Julia Roberts’ star power and her ability to deliver a performance that is both glamorous and grounded. This film is a modern classic, a testament to the enduring appeal of a well-told love story, and a must-see for anyone who loves a good dose of romance and wit.

Steel Magnolias: Early Brilliance and Ensemble Power

Before she became the undisputed queen of romantic comedies, Julia Roberts showed her incredible acting chops in the 1989 ensemble drama Steel Magnolias. This film is a beautiful, poignant, and often humorous look at the lives of a group of women in a small Southern town, bound together by friendship and community. Roberts plays Shelby Eatenton, a spirited young woman with diabetes who is determined to live life to the fullest, despite her health challenges. Her journey is central to the film's emotional core, and Roberts delivers a performance that is both radiant and heartbreaking. She perfectly captures Shelby's zest for life, her unwavering optimism, and her deep love for her family and friends. The film boasts an incredible cast of female powerhouses, including Sally Field, Dolly Parton, Shirley MacLaine, Daryl Hannah, and Olympia Dukakis, and Roberts more than holds her own among them. Her scenes with Sally Field, who plays her mother, M'Lynn, are particularly moving, showcasing a complex mother-daughter relationship filled with love, concern, and the inevitable clashes that come with life's big decisions. Steel Magnolias is celebrated for its authentic portrayal of female friendship, its blend of humor and tragedy, and its powerful exploration of love, loss, and resilience. Roberts' performance here is a crucial early indicator of her immense talent and her ability to connect with audiences on a deeply emotional level. It’s a film that resonates because it feels real, capturing the strength, humor, and support system that women find in each other. This movie is a powerful reminder of the bonds that tie us together and the enduring spirit of community, with Julia Roberts delivering a star-making performance that paved the way for her future successes.

Conclusion: The Enduring Magic of Julia Roberts

So there you have it, guys! We've taken a trip down memory lane, revisiting some of the absolute best Julia Roberts movies that have left an indelible mark on cinema. From the fairy-tale romance of Pretty Woman and Notting Hill to the powerful drama of Erin Brockovich and the heartfelt friendships in Steel Magnolias and My Best Friend's Wedding, Julia Roberts has consistently delivered performances that are both captivating and unforgettable. Her ability to blend humor, heart, and raw emotion is what makes her such a unique and enduring star. She possesses a rare gift for making her characters relatable, whether she's a charismatic prostitute, a tenacious legal clerk, a woman grappling with love and loss, or a Hollywood actress seeking genuine connection. Her career is a masterclass in versatility, proving that she can conquer any genre and leave audiences wanting more. The magic she brings to the screen is undeniable, and her filmography is a treasure trove for anyone who loves great movies. Julia Roberts isn't just an actress; she's a cultural icon whose films continue to inspire, entertain, and move us. Her legacy is secure, and we can’t wait to see what incredible roles she takes on next. Keep shining, Julia!