Winona Ryder is an American actress and film producer who has been appearing in films since 1984. Her career received a major boost when she starred in her breakthrough role in the 1988 film “Beetlejuice.” She soon become one of the most iconic Hollywood stars of the late ’80s and ’90s, thanks to her memorable roles in films such as “Heathers,” “Mermaids,” “Little Women,” and “Alien Resurrection.”
Winona has continued to perform in films throughout the 2000s and 2010s, including roles in “Star Trek,” “The Iceman,” and “Black Swan.” In addition to her esteemed acting career, Winona has also produced films such as “The Cat’s Meow.” She was also nominated for her roles in the films “Little Women,” “The Age of Innocence,” and “Lost Souls.” In 2020, Winona was nominated for Best Supporting Actress at the Academy Awards for her role in the 2019 drama “The Plot Against America.”
This article will explore the top Winona Ryder films that have helped shape her career.
Beetlejuice
Winona Ryder achieved fame in the commercial and critical success of director Tim Burton’s 1988 comedy-fantasy “Beetlejuice.” In the film, Ryder played the role of Lydia Deetz, a socially awkward teen who develops a friendship with the ghost Betelgeuse (Michael Keaton). Winona’s performance was praised as “earthy and unaffected,” and the film itself went on to become a cult classic.
Heathers
Winona received further acclaim for her role in the 1989 dark comedy film “Heathers.” She portrayed Veronica Sawyer, an intelligent teenage girl who finds herself torn between her cruel clique of popular girls and the rebellious J.D. (Christian Slater). Winona’s performance in the film was praised as “understated and brilliant,” making “Heathers” an instant classic.
Edward Scissorhands
In 1990, Winona starred in the fantasy-romance film “Edward Scissorhands” alongside Johnny Depp. Winona played Kim, the daughter of an Avon lady who befriends Edward (Depp), an artificial man created by an inventor. The film was a critical and box office success, and Winona’s performance in the film was described as “enchanting and moving.”
Mermaids
In 1990, Winona starred in the coming-of-age comedy-drama film “Mermaids.” Winona played Charlotte Flax, a young girl who struggles to find her place in her newly blended family. The film earned critical acclaim and was a box-office hit. Winona’s performance earned her a second Golden Globe nomination.
Reality Bites
Winona received further acclaim for her role in the 1994 romantic comedy-drama “Reality Bites.” The film follows a group of friends in their mid-20s who are attempting to navigate life and love in the ‘90s. Winona’s performance as Lelaina Pierce earned her critical acclaim and a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress in a Motion Picture Musical or Comedy.
Little Women
In 1994, Winona earned an Academy Award nomination for her performance in the period drama “Little Women.” She portrayed the character of Jo March in the film adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s novel of the same name. Winona’s performance was praised as “moving and mysterious,” and she earned a Golden Globe nomination for her role in the film.
The Age of Innocence
In 1993, Winona starred in the Martin Scorcese-directed adaptation of the novel “The Age of Innocence.” Winona received much praise for her performance as May Welland, a young woman who is caught between her feelings for a lawyer and her engagement to a powerful New York businessman. Winona’s performance earned her a second Academy Award nomination and a Golden Globe nomination.
Alien Resurrection
Winona gained further acclaim for her role in the 1997 sci-fi horror film “Alien Resurrection.” Winona played Annalee Call, a strong and resourceful mercenary who helps Ellen Ripley (Sigourney Weaver) battle an alien creature. The film was a commercial success and Winona’s performance was praised as “bold and fearless.”
Star Trek
In 2009, Winona appeared in the J.J. Abrams-directed reboot of the “Star Trek” franchise. She portrayed Spock’s (Zachary Quinto) human mother, Amanda Grayson. Winona’s performance in the film was praised as “engaging and inspiring,” and it further solidified her status as a beloved Hollywood actress.
The Iceman
In 2013, Winona starred in the biopic “The Iceman” alongside Michael Shannon and Chris Evans. Winona portrayed Deborah Kuklinski, the long-suffering wife of notorious contract killer Richard Kuklinski (Shannon). Winona’s performance in the film was praised as “tender and heartbreaking.”
Black Swan
In 2010, Winona earned her third Golden Globe nomination for her performance in the psychological thriller “Black Swan.” In the film, Winona portrayed Elizabeth, the manipulative and mysterious former prima ballerina of a prestigious ballet company. Winona’s performance was praised as “sinister and brilliant.”
The Plot Against America
In 2020, Winona earned her fifth Golden Globe nomination for her role in the miniseries “The Plot Against America.” The series was adapted from the novel of the same name by Philip Roth. Winona played the role of Evelyn Finkel, the wife of a Jewish family trying to survive in an alternate history where Franklin D. Roosevelt is defeated by Charles Lindbergh. Winona’s performance in the series was praised as “stellar and captivating.”
Winona Ryder has established herself as one of the most iconic actors in Hollywood thanks to her memorable performances in the films mentioned in this article. Winona has earned critical acclaim and numerous awards nominations for her work. It’s clear that Winona has an impressive body of work that has spanned decades and will continue to be appreciated for years to come.
