Top Julia Roberts Movies: A Must-Watch List

Hey movie buffs! Ready to dive into the world of Julia Roberts? This article is your ultimate guide to the best Julia Roberts movies, guaranteed to bring back those feel-good vibes and maybe even a few tears. From rom-coms that defined a generation to dramas that showcased her acting chops, Julia Roberts has graced our screens with some truly unforgettable performances. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and let's explore the amazing filmography of one of Hollywood's brightest stars. This isn't just a list; it's a celebration of her career! We're talking iconic roles, quotable lines, and movies that have stood the test of time. Let's start with her breakthrough roles, how her career started, and then we will review the movies.

Early Career and Breakthrough Roles

Before she became America's sweetheart, Julia Roberts was just a rising star, hustling and getting her foot in the door. Before she became one of the most bankable actresses in Hollywood history, she was making a name for herself. Early roles like “Mystic Pizza” in 1988, were important stepping stones. This film introduced her to a wider audience and gave us a glimpse of the charisma and charm that would become her trademark. But it was the iconic movie, “Pretty Woman” (1990), that catapulted her to superstardom. This romantic comedy, which also starred Richard Gere, wasn’t just a box office hit; it was a cultural phenomenon. Roberts’ portrayal of Vivian Ward, a streetwise woman who finds herself in a fairytale romance, captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. Her infectious laughter, her vulnerability, and her ability to deliver both comedic and dramatic moments made her an instant star. The movie's success paved the way for her career. “Pretty Woman” wasn’t just a film; it was an event, cementing Julia Roberts' status as a leading lady. After that, she began to get more work, and all of her films began to perform exceptionally well. Her ability to connect with audiences and her natural talent made her a favorite among moviegoers and critics alike. These early roles set the stage for her future successes. These films laid the foundation for a career filled with diverse and memorable performances.

Mystic Pizza

Now, let's talk about "Mystic Pizza". This movie is a charming coming-of-age story that introduced Julia Roberts to the world. She plays one of three young women working at a pizza parlor in a quaint coastal town. It's a sweet, relatable film about friendship, family, and following your dreams. Although not as widely known as some of her later blockbusters, "Mystic Pizza" is a delightful watch, showing the early spark of Roberts' talent. It's a movie that perfectly captures the essence of youth. The film's success was important to her development as an actress. This movie provided a foundation for her future work.

Pretty Woman

Okay, guys, let's get real! “Pretty Woman” is a must-watch movie. As mentioned earlier, this movie is a modern fairytale. Roberts’ performance is legendary. From the moment she steps onto the screen, she steals your heart. The chemistry between Roberts and Gere is electric, and the story is timeless. It's a feel-good film that never gets old. The film's success was massive, transforming Roberts into a global icon. If you haven’t seen it, what are you waiting for? This movie is a classic for a reason.

The Rom-Com Queen Era

Following the success of "Pretty Woman", Julia Roberts became a reigning queen in the world of romantic comedies. She brought a unique blend of humor, charm, and vulnerability to her roles, making her characters both relatable and aspirational. She redefined the romantic comedy genre. She wasn’t just a pretty face; she brought depth and authenticity to her characters. She wasn't afraid to be funny, awkward, or even a little bit flawed. This relatability is a big reason why audiences fell in love with her. She made it seem like the everyday woman could find their happily ever after, which is really cool. Her films were not only box office successes but also critical darlings, solidifying her place as a true star. The chemistry she had with her co-stars was always fantastic. The era of the “Rom-Com Queen” was a golden age for the genre, and she was at the forefront, inspiring future generations of actresses.

Notting Hill

Picture this: a Hollywood star falls for a bookstore owner in London. That's the premise of "Notting Hill". This film is a delightful blend of romance and comedy, with Roberts delivering a fantastic performance as the famous actress, Anna Scott. Her portrayal of a celebrity navigating the complexities of love is both funny and touching. The film's charm comes from its witty script, the stunning backdrop of Notting Hill, and the undeniable chemistry between Roberts and Hugh Grant. It's a story about finding love in the most unexpected places. This movie is the kind of movie you could watch over and over again. It's the perfect mix of romance and humor.

Runaway Bride

Here's another movie to add to your list! In "Runaway Bride", Roberts teams up with Richard Gere again, and the results are amazing. She plays a woman who has a habit of leaving grooms at the altar, and Gere plays the journalist who comes to write a story about her. This movie is filled with laughs, romance, and some serious charm. It’s a fun, lighthearted film that’s perfect for a cozy night in. The movie is full of interesting characters and memorable moments. It's a great example of Roberts’ comedic timing and her ability to connect with audiences.

My Best Friend's Wedding

This movie is an absolute classic! Roberts plays a woman who realizes she's in love with her best friend just as he's about to get married. It's a rollercoaster of emotions, filled with hilarious moments and heartwarming scenes. Her performance is phenomenal. This movie is a must-watch for any rom-com fan. The cast is amazing, and the story is unforgettable. The film tackles themes of love, friendship, and the often-messy realities of relationships.

Dramatic Roles and Versatility

While Julia Roberts is undoubtedly known for her rom-com roles, she has also demonstrated remarkable versatility with her dramatic performances. She has taken on roles that are incredibly difficult, proving her range as an actress. She's not afraid to step outside of her comfort zone, taking on roles that challenge her and the audience. This willingness to experiment has earned her critical acclaim and solidified her status as a true artist. Roberts has shown she’s more than just a rom-com queen, playing complex and nuanced characters. This expansion into dramatic roles is a testament to her acting talent. Her ability to handle both comedic and dramatic roles is what makes her such a unique and versatile actress.

Erin Brockovich

Based on a true story, "Erin Brockovich" is a powerful film that earned Roberts an Academy Award for Best Actress. She portrays the real-life Erin Brockovich, a single mother who takes on a major corporation for polluting a town's water supply. Roberts delivers an amazing performance, showcasing her strength, determination, and her commitment to justice. The film is both inspiring and thought-provoking. This movie is a must-watch. This movie is important. It highlights her ability to portray a real person so brilliantly. Her performance is a testament to her acting skills.

Steel Magnolias

“Steel Magnolias” is a movie. This movie is a tearjerker that will have you reaching for the tissues. Roberts plays a young woman, Shelby, dealing with health issues and a close-knit group of friends. The film is a beautiful portrayal of friendship, love, and loss. Her performance is both moving and memorable. This movie shows Roberts' ability to handle complex emotional themes. The movie’s success is a testament to the strength of its story and the cast.

August: Osage County

In “August: Osage County”, Julia Roberts teams up with Meryl Streep in a powerful and intense family drama. The film explores the dark secrets and complex relationships within a dysfunctional family. Roberts delivers a strong performance, showcasing her ability to handle dramatic roles alongside some of the best actresses in the industry. It's a film that will stay with you long after the credits roll. Her performance is a testament to her acting skill.

Conclusion: Julia Roberts' Enduring Legacy

So, there you have it, folks! A deep dive into the best Julia Roberts movies. From her breakout roles to her dramatic performances, she has given us countless moments of joy, laughter, and reflection. Her legacy as one of Hollywood's most beloved actresses is secure. Her performances continue to entertain and inspire audiences around the world. What makes her truly special is her ability to connect with us on a human level. She makes us laugh, cry, and feel all the emotions in between. Her movies have become a part of our culture. Her contributions to the world of film are extraordinary. She has set a high standard for actresses everywhere. And, remember, these are just a few of her many fantastic films. There are so many more Julia Roberts movies out there to explore! Grab some popcorn, pick a movie, and enjoy the magic of Julia Roberts! Thanks for joining me on this journey through the amazing world of Julia Roberts movies! I hope you've discovered some new favorites or re-visited some old classics. Keep watching, keep enjoying, and keep celebrating the incredible talent of Julia Roberts!