Julia Roberts' Best Movies: A Fan's Guide

Hey movie buffs! Let's talk about a true Hollywood icon, Julia Roberts. You know, the one with the million-dollar smile and the incredible talent that has graced our screens for decades. Seriously, guys, when you think of iconic actresses, Julia Roberts has to be at the top of the list. From rom-com queen to Oscar winner, she's done it all and done it brilliantly. Today, we're diving deep into some of her most unforgettable movie roles, the ones that made us laugh, cry, and fall in love with her characters. So grab your popcorn, settle in, and let's celebrate the cinematic magic of Julia Roberts!

Pretty Woman: The Role That Made Her a Superstar

Okay, we have to start with Pretty Woman. This movie, released in 1990, is basically the quintessential romantic comedy, and Julia Roberts is Vivian Ward. Remember her? The vivacious, charming prostitute who sweeps a wealthy businessman off his feet? It’s a modern-day Cinderella story, and Julia’s performance is nothing short of electrifying. She brought such a unique blend of vulnerability, wit, and sheer charisma to the role that it instantly made her a household name. Before Pretty Woman, Julia was a rising star, but after it? She was a bona fide superstar, a global phenomenon. The chemistry between her and Richard Gere is off the charts, and their iconic scenes – the opera, the shopping spree, that necklace scene – are etched into movie history. It’s a film that many of us grew up with, a comfort watch that still holds up today. The way she navigates Vivian’s journey from the streets to a world of luxury, all while maintaining her integrity and spirit, is just masterful. It wasn’t just the fairy tale aspect; it was Julia’s performance that elevated it. She made Vivian real, relatable, and utterly captivating. The movie’s success wasn't just a fluke; it was a testament to her incredible talent and undeniable star power. This role truly cemented her status as America’s sweetheart and paved the way for an extraordinary career.

Erin Brockovich: Proving Her Dramatic Range

But Julia isn't just about the rom-coms, oh no. She proved her incredible acting chops and dramatic range in Erin Brockovich. This 2000 film saw her playing the titular role of Erin, a tenacious, outspoken single mother who takes on a massive corporation. And let me tell you, wow. Julia absolutely nailed it. She shed her usual glamorous image and embodied this no-nonsense, fierce character with such grit and determination. Her portrayal of Erin – the messy hair, the low-cut tops, the unwavering fight for justice – earned her an Academy Award for Best Actress. This was a massive moment, proving she was far more than just a pretty face; she was a serious dramatic actress capable of delivering powerful, Oscar-winning performances. The film itself is a compelling true story about environmental activism and corporate malfeasance, and Julia’s performance is the driving force. You feel Erin’s anger, her frustration, and her unwavering commitment to the people she’s fighting for. She’s loud, she’s opinionated, and she doesn’t back down, and Julia captured every single nuance of that complex personality. It was a departure from her previous, more lighthearted roles, and it showed the world the depth and versatility she possessed. The sheer audacity of Erin, and the way Julia channeled it, made for unforgettable cinema. It's a performance that resonates because it's so raw and real, and it undeniably solidified her status as one of Hollywood's most respected actresses.

My Best Friend's Wedding: A Masterclass in Comedic Timing

Speaking of rom-coms, let's talk about My Best Friend's Wedding. Released in 1997, this film is a masterclass in comedic timing and exploring the complexities of love and friendship. Julia plays Julianne Potter, a food critic who realizes she’s in love with her best friend, Michael, right before his wedding. What follows is a hilarious and sometimes awkward journey as she tries to sabotage his wedding. Julia is phenomenal here. She manages to make a character who is actively trying to break up a couple completely lovable and sympathetic. That’s a tough tightrope to walk, but she does it with such charm and impeccable comedic timing. The scene where she sings “I Say a Little Prayer” with her friends? Iconic. The way she navigates her feelings, her mistakes, and her desperate attempts to win Michael over is both heartbreaking and hilarious. It’s a testament to her skill that you’re rooting for her, even when she’s being a bit of a mess. The film also features incredible supporting performances, but it’s Julia’s central role that anchors everything. Her expressive face, her quick wit, and her ability to convey a whirlwind of emotions – from desperation to genuine affection – make Julianne a character you can’t forget. It’s a film that explores the gray areas of relationships and the often-messy nature of love, and Julia’s performance is the perfect blend of humor and heart. It really showcased her ability to blend genuine emotion with laugh-out-loud comedy, making it a must-watch for any fan.

Notting Hill: The Fairytale Continues

And then there's Notting Hill. Oh, Notting Hill. Released in 1999, this film is pure, unadulterated cinematic bliss. Julia plays Anna Scott, a world-famous movie star who unexpectedly falls for a humble London bookstore owner, played by the charming Hugh Grant. This movie has everything: a delightful premise, a fantastic script by Richard Curtis, and a chemistry between Julia and Hugh that is just magic. Julia’s portrayal of Anna is so natural and down-to-earth, despite her character being a global superstar. She brings a vulnerability and a relatable longing for normalcy that makes Anna so endearing. You really feel the struggle of a famous person trying to navigate a normal relationship. The iconic scenes – the “I’m just a girl, standing in front of a boy…” speech, the blue-screen moment, the quiet moments of connection – are simply unforgettable. It’s a film that captures the fantasy of falling in love with someone completely out of your league, but it does so with such warmth and genuine emotion that it feels completely believable. Julia’s performance is key to this; she makes Anna more than just a movie star; she makes her a real woman with real desires and insecurities. The contrast between her glamorous life and her simple longing for connection is beautifully portrayed. It's a film that reaffirms the power of love and connection, and Julia Roberts is the radiant heart of it all. It’s a classic for a reason, and her performance is a huge part of why it remains so beloved.

Steel Magnolias: Early Brilliance

Before she was a global superstar, Julia Roberts showed us glimpses of her incredible talent in films like Steel Magnolias (1989). In this beloved Southern drama, she plays Shelby Eatenton, a spirited young woman with diabetes who defies expectations. This role, while perhaps not as widely known as Pretty Woman, was crucial in showcasing her acting prowess early in her career. Julia brings such a vibrant energy and a touching sweetness to Shelby. You see her determination, her love for life, and her brave spirit in the face of adversity. The ensemble cast is incredible, but Julia’s performance shines, bringing a youthful exuberance and a poignant depth to the character. Her interactions with Sally Field, Dolly Parton, and Shirley MacLaine are full of warmth and genuine emotion. She perfectly captures the essence of a young woman navigating love, marriage, and health challenges with grace and resilience. It’s a performance that earned her her first Oscar nomination (for Best Supporting Actress), and it’s easy to see why. She managed to convey so much with just a look or a smile, and her presence in the film is absolutely magnetic. It's a testament to her early promise and a reminder of the powerful performances she would go on to deliver throughout her career. This film, and her role in it, is a cornerstone of her early work.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Iconic Performances

From the infectious charm of Pretty Woman to the raw power of Erin Brockovich, and the heartfelt humor of My Best Friend's Wedding and Notting Hill, Julia Roberts has consistently delivered performances that resonate with audiences worldwide. She’s not just an actress; she’s a cultural icon who has defined a generation of filmmaking. Her ability to embody so many different characters, to make us feel so deeply for them, is a rare gift. Whether she’s making us laugh, making us cry, or inspiring us to stand up for what’s right, Julia Roberts remains a force to be reckoned with in Hollywood. Her filmography is a treasure trove of cinematic gems, and revisiting these movies is always a treat. So, what are your favorite Julia Roberts movies, guys? Let us know in the comments below! Keep shining, Julia!