Julia Roberts: Her Best Movies

Hey movie buffs! Let's talk about a true Hollywood legend, Julia Roberts. This woman has graced our screens for decades, bringing us iconic roles and unforgettable performances. From romantic comedies that make us swoon to dramas that tug at our heartstrings, Julia Roberts has done it all. Seriously, her filmography is packed with gems that are absolute must-watches. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and let's dive into some of her most memorable movies that have cemented her status as America's sweetheart and a bonafide acting powerhouse.

Pretty Woman: The Rom-Com That Defined a Generation

If you're talking about Julia Roberts movies, you absolutely cannot skip over Pretty Woman. This 1990 romantic comedy is, hands down, one of her most iconic roles and a film that truly put her on the map. I mean, who could forget Vivian Ward, the spirited prostitute who captures the heart of a wealthy businessman, Edward Lewis, played by the dashing Richard Gere? Their chemistry? Off the charts! The film is a modern-day Cinderella story, and Julia Roberts shines as Vivian, transforming from a street-smart woman to a sophisticated lady. The shopping montage, the opera scene, that legendary red-dress scene – it's all pure magic. What makes Pretty Woman so enduring is its charm, wit, and the undeniable magnetism of its lead. Julia Roberts’ performance is a masterclass in balancing vulnerability, humor, and strength. She made this character relatable and aspirational all at once. It’s a feel-good movie that has stood the test of time, and it’s a perfect example of Julia Roberts at her absolute finest, delivering a performance that earned her a Golden Globe nomination and legions of fans. It’s the kind of movie you can watch a hundred times and still find something new to love.

Erin Brockovich: A True Story of Grit and Determination

Moving from the glitz of rom-coms to the grit of a true story, Julia Roberts delivered an Oscar-winning performance in Erin Brockovich. This film showcases a completely different side of her acting talent. She plays Erin Brockovich, a single mother of three who, despite having no legal background, takes on a giant corporation polluting a city's water supply. Talk about a powerhouse performance! Julia Roberts is fierce, tenacious, and utterly compelling as Erin. You feel her determination, her anger, and her unwavering commitment to justice. Her courtroom speeches are legendary, and her portrayal of this real-life hero is nothing short of spectacular. This role wasn't just about looking good; it was about embodying a spirit, a fight, and a sense of righteousness that resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike. Winning the Academy Award for Best Actress for this role was so well-deserved. It proved that Julia Roberts wasn't just a queen of romantic comedies; she was a serious dramatic actress capable of carrying a film with immense power and depth. If you want to see Julia Roberts commanding the screen with raw emotion and unyielding conviction, Erin Brockovich is the film for you. It’s a testament to her versatility and her ability to bring complex characters to life with incredible authenticity. This movie is a powerful reminder of the impact one determined individual can have, and Julia Roberts makes you believe in that power every step of the way.

My Best Friend's Wedding: More Than Just a Love Triangle

Let's talk about another one of my absolute favorite Julia Roberts movies: My Best Friend's Wedding. Released in 1997, this film took the romantic comedy genre and flipped it on its head. Julia Roberts plays Julianne Potter, a food critic who realizes she's in love with her best friend, Michael O'Neal (Dermot Mulroney), right before he's set to marry the beautiful and seemingly perfect Kimberly Wallace (Cameron Diaz). What follows is a hilarious and sometimes heartbreaking race against time as Julianne tries to sabotage the wedding. What makes this movie so brilliant is its complexity. It's not just a simple love triangle; it delves into themes of friendship, loyalty, and the messy realities of love. Julia Roberts is phenomenal as Julianne, a character who is often unlikeable but completely captivating. You're rooting for her even when you know she's doing something wrong, and that's a testament to Roberts' incredible acting ability. Her comedic timing is impeccable, and her emotional scenes are equally impactful. The karaoke scene singing "I Say a Little Prayer"? Iconic! And that ending – it’s a bold and unconventional choice for a romantic comedy, leaving you with a lot to think about. This film proved that Julia Roberts could handle more nuanced and morally ambiguous characters, making her a truly dynamic performer. It’s a smart, funny, and surprisingly poignant film that remains a fan favorite for good reason. It showcases her range and her ability to make us feel deeply for characters who aren't always perfect.

Notting Hill: Fairytale Charm with a British Twist

Oh, Notting Hill! If you're looking for a dose of pure cinematic charm, this is the Julia Roberts movie for you. Released in 1999, it pairs Julia Roberts with the ever-so-charming Hugh Grant, and the result is pure movie magic. Roberts plays Anna Scott, a world-famous American actress who unexpectedly walks into the humble travel bookshop owned by William Thacker (Grant) in the heart of London's Notting Hill. What unfolds is a classic tale of two people from vastly different worlds falling in love. The chemistry between Roberts and Grant is palpable, a beautiful blend of awkwardness, humor, and genuine affection. Julia Roberts shines as Anna Scott, portraying a superstar who is just as vulnerable and yearning for a normal life as anyone else. Her scenes are filled with wit and a surprising amount of depth, especially when exploring the pressures of fame. The film perfectly captures the fairy-tale romance while grounding it in relatable human emotions. Iconic moments abound, from the "I'm just a girl, standing in front of a boy..." speech to the heartwarming resolution. Notting Hill is a masterclass in feel-good filmmaking, offering a delightful escape that leaves you with a warm, fuzzy feeling. It’s a testament to Julia Roberts’ ability to embody both the allure of a star and the sincerity of a woman searching for love, making it an absolute staple in her incredible career.

Steel Magnolias: A Southern Gem of Friendship and Resilience

Let's take a trip down memory lane to one of Julia Roberts' earlier, yet incredibly powerful, performances in Steel Magnolias (1989). This film is a beautiful ensemble piece that focuses on a group of women in a small Southern town, and Roberts plays Shelby Eatenton, the spirited young bride whose life takes a tragic turn. Even in this ensemble cast, which included legends like Shirley MacLaine and Sally Field, Julia Roberts absolutely holds her own and shines brightly. Her portrayal of Shelby is filled with life, joy, and an incredible sense of hope, making her eventual struggles all the more heartbreaking. The film beautifully explores themes of friendship, family, love, and loss, and Roberts' performance is central to its emotional core. You can see the spark and charisma that would make her a superstar in just a few short years. Her interactions with her mother, played by Dolly Parton, and her fiancé are incredibly touching. It’s a film that makes you laugh and cry, often in the same scene, and Roberts' ability to convey both the effervescence of youth and the profoundness of her character's journey is remarkable. Steel Magnolias is a testament to the enduring strength of women and the bonds they share, and Julia Roberts’ contribution is absolutely unforgettable. It’s a film that showcases her early talent and her capacity for bringing heartfelt emotion to the screen, making it a cherished part of her filmography.

Conclusion: A Lasting Legacy of Cinematic Excellence

Guys, looking back at these Julia Roberts movies really highlights why she's such a beloved icon. From the infectious charm of Pretty Woman to the raw power of Erin Brockovich, the complex emotional landscape of My Best Friend's Wedding, the enchanting romance of Notting Hill, and the heartfelt sincerity of Steel Magnolias, Julia Roberts has consistently delivered performances that resonate with audiences worldwide. She possesses a rare combination of charisma, talent, and authenticity that makes her characters unforgettable. Her ability to adapt across different genres, bringing depth and relatability to every role, is truly remarkable. She’s not just an actress; she’s a movie star in the truest sense of the word, leaving an indelible mark on Hollywood history. Her films continue to be celebrated and enjoyed by new generations, proving that great storytelling and captivating performances never go out of style. So, if you're looking for some movie night inspiration, you can never go wrong with a Julia Roberts classic. She's a legend, and her movies are a guaranteed good time!