Meryl Streep is widely regarded as one of the greatest actresses of all time. With a career spanning over five decades, she has portrayed an astonishing range of characters, earning numerous awards and accolades along the way. Her ability to transform herself into any role—whether it’s a glamorous fashion editor, a struggling single mother, or a historical figure—makes her performances unforgettable. Below are 11 of her best movies, highlighting her versatility and brilliance.
1. Sophie’s Choice (1982)
Director: Alan J. Pakula
Role: Sophie Zawistowski
Plot:
In this heart-wrenching drama, Meryl Streep plays Sophie, a Polish immigrant haunted by her past in Nazi concentration camps. The story unfolds as she befriends a young writer and reveals her traumatic history, culminating in a devastating decision she was forced to make.
Why It’s Great:
Streep won her second Academy Award for this role, and her ability to convey Sophie’s pain and resilience is both haunting and masterful.
2. The Devil Wears Prada (2006)
Director: David Frankel
Role: Miranda Priestly
Plot:
This comedy-drama set in the high-stakes world of fashion sees Meryl Streep as Miranda Priestly, a powerful and demanding magazine editor. The story follows her assistant, Andy Sachs, as she navigates the challenges of working for her formidable boss.
Why It’s Great:
Streep’s portrayal of Miranda is iconic, blending icy authority with subtle vulnerability. Her performance adds depth to what could have been a one-dimensional character.
3. Kramer vs. Kramer (1979)
Director: Robert Benton
Role: Joanna Kramer
Plot:
This poignant drama explores the breakdown of a marriage and the ensuing custody battle over a child. Meryl Streep plays Joanna, a mother who leaves her husband and later fights for custody of her son.
Why It’s Great:
Streep won her first Oscar for this role. Her portrayal of Joanna humanizes a character who could easily be vilified, offering a nuanced look at her emotional struggles.
4. Mamma Mia! (2008)
Director: Phyllida Lloyd
Role: Donna Sheridan
Plot:
Set on a picturesque Greek island, this musical comedy follows Donna and her daughter Sophie, who invites three men to her wedding, hoping to discover which one is her father.
Why It’s Great:
Streep’s exuberance and charm shine through as she sings and dances to ABBA hits. Her performance brings heart and humor to this feel-good film.
5. The Post (2017)
Director: Steven Spielberg
Role: Katharine Graham
Plot:
This historical drama tells the story of The Washington Post’s decision to publish the Pentagon Papers, a controversial set of government documents. Streep plays Katharine Graham, the paper’s publisher.
Why It’s Great:
Streep portrays Graham’s journey from uncertainty to courage with incredible finesse, capturing the essence of a woman stepping into her power during a pivotal moment in history.
6. Out of Africa (1985)
Director: Sydney Pollack
Role: Karen Blixen
Plot:
Based on Karen Blixen’s autobiographical book, this romantic epic follows her life in colonial Kenya as she runs a coffee plantation and navigates a complicated love affair.
Why It’s Great:
Streep’s performance, coupled with her flawless Danish accent, adds authenticity to this sweeping, visually stunning film.
7. Julie & Julia (2009)
Director: Nora Ephron
Role: Julia Child
Plot:
The film interweaves two stories: that of Julia Child, a beloved chef, and Julie Powell, a blogger who sets out to recreate all the recipes in Child’s cookbook.
Why It’s Great:
Streep’s portrayal of Julia Child is delightful, capturing her larger-than-life personality and infectious enthusiasm for cooking.
8. Doubt (2008)
Director: John Patrick Shanley
Role: Sister Aloysius Beauvier
Plot:
Set in a 1960s Catholic school, this tense drama revolves around a nun who suspects a priest of inappropriate behavior with a student.
Why It’s Great:
Streep’s portrayal of Sister Aloysius is riveting, balancing her character’s strictness with moments of vulnerability. Her scenes with Philip Seymour Hoffman are electrifying.
9. The Iron Lady (2011)
Director: Phyllida Lloyd
Role: Margaret Thatcher
Plot:
This biographical film chronicles the life of former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, focusing on her rise to power and the personal costs of her political career.
Why It’s Great:
Streep won her third Oscar for this role, transforming herself completely into the controversial leader with an astonishingly accurate performance.
10. Adaptation (2002)
Director: Spike Jonze
Role: Susan Orlean
Plot:
This quirky, metafictional film follows a screenwriter struggling to adapt a book about orchids into a movie. Streep plays the book’s author, who becomes a central figure in the chaotic narrative.
Why It’s Great:
Streep shows her comedic chops in this unconventional role, delivering a performance that is both hilarious and deeply human.
11. Silkwood (1983)
Director: Mike Nichols
Role: Karen Silkwood
Plot:
Based on a true story, the film follows Karen Silkwood, a worker at a nuclear facility who uncovers safety violations and becomes a whistleblower.
Why It’s Great:
Streep’s raw, heartfelt performance captures the courage and vulnerability of an ordinary woman fighting against powerful forces.
Honorable Mentions
While these 11 films are among Meryl Streep’s best, her filmography is filled with remarkable performances. Some other notable mentions include:
- August: Osage County (2013)
- A Cry in the Dark (1988)
- The Bridges of Madison County (1995)
Conclusion
Meryl Streep’s career is a testament to her unparalleled talent and dedication to her craft. Whether you’re in the mood for a gripping drama, a heartfelt romance, or a lighthearted musical, there’s a Streep movie for every occasion.
Which of these films have you watched? Let us know your favorites!
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