Emma Stone has proven time and time again that she’s one of Hollywood’s most talented and versatile actresses. If you’re her fan (or even if you’re just getting into her films), there are some movies you absolutely need to see.
Whether she’s playing a fun sidekick, the tough villain, or the girl next door in high school, Emma knows how to completely own any role she takes on. It’s no wonder she’s been stealing the spotlight for years now.
Emma’s career is nothing short of impressive. She’s bagged two Academy Awards, two Golden Globes, and two BAFTA Awards—no small feat. Plus, in 2017, she was named the world’s highest-paid actress and made Time magazine’s list of the 100 most influential people. She’s not just a talented actress; she’s an icon in the industry.
Stone has taken on a variety of roles in her career. In La La Land (2016), she dazzled as Mia Dolan, an aspiring actress navigating the ups and downs of life in Los Angeles, earning her an Academy Award for Best Actress. She also won hearts in Easy A (2010) for her portrayal of Olive Penderghast turned the high school comedy into a cult favorite. But there is certainly more to Emma than just these movies.
If you’re looking to dive into her impressive filmography, here are 15 of Emma Stone’s most iconic films that you absolutely need to watch:
La La Land (2016)
In La La Land, Emma Stone shines as Mia Dolan, an aspiring actress chasing her big break in Hollywood. Her performance won her an Academy Award for Best Actress, and it’s easy to see why.
Alongside Ryan Gosling, who plays Sebastian, a passionate jazz pianist, the two stars create magic on screen. Their characters pursue their dreams in a city where anything seems possible, but soon find themselves caught between their love for each other and the careers they’ve worked so hard for.
Easy A (2010)
In Easy A, Emma Stone plays Olive Penderghast, a high school student who unintentionally becomes the center of attention at her school.
The trouble begins when Olive lies to her best friend about losing her virginity to a college guy. When another student overhears the conversation, the rumor spreads like wildfire, and Olive’s life quickly turns into one big, unexpected scandal.
The Help (2011)
In this drama set in the 1960s South, Emma plays Skeeter Phelan, a young journalist who exposes the lives of African American maids.
Skeeter decides to tell the untold stories of African American maids who work tirelessly for white families, often enduring discrimination and mistreatment.
As she interviews women like Aibileen (Viola Davis) and Minny (Octavia Spencer), she risks her own reputation and safety to expose the harsh realities of racism and inequality.
Birdman (2014)
In Birdman, Emma Stone plays Sam Thomson, the estranged daughter of Riggan Thomson (Michael Keaton), a washed-up actor famous for his past role as a superhero.
The film follows Riggan as he attempts to reinvent himself by directing and starring in a Broadway adaptation of a Raymond Carver story. As the pressure of opening night looms, Riggan grapples with his insecurities, fragile ego, and strained relationships, including the complex dynamic with Sam, who works as his assistant.
Cruella (2021)
The American actress shines in Cruella, which came out in cinema in 2021. Emma Stone stuns as the iconic villain in this bold, punk-inspired prequel.
The film dives into Cruella’s backstory, showing how Estella, an ambitious young designer, transforms into the daring and rebellious Cruella de Vil. Her portrayal of the character was bold and unexpected, earning her rave reviews.
Crazy, Stupid, Love (2011)
Okay, you’ll definitely want to see this one. In the movie Crazy, Stupid, Love, Emma Stone plays Hannah, a witty law student who finds herself drawn into a tangled love story involving Ryan Gosling’s charming Jacob and Steve Carell’s unlucky-in-love Cal. The film is packed with hilarious twists, heartfelt moments, and surprising connections that make it a standout rom-com.
Superbad (2007)
Emma Stone made her big-screen debut in Superbad (2007) as Jules, the girl who catches Jonah Hill’s eye. Even with a smaller role, her on-screen debut was iconic. coming-of-age comedy about teens trying to throw the ultimate party. It was the perfect start to her Hollywood journey.
The coming-of-age comedy is about teens trying to throw the ultimate party. It was the perfect start to her Hollywood journey.
The Favourite (2018)
Emma plays Abigail Hill, in The Favourite, a cousin who schemes to gain power in the court of Queen Anne. Her performance alongside Olivia Colman and Rachel Weisz was highly praised.
Zombieland (2009)
We can all remember being addicted to Zombieland (2009). Emma Stone portrays Wichita, a savvy con artist who teams up with a group of misfits to survive a zombie apocalypse.
The film follows four unlikely companions—Columbus (Jesse Eisenberg), Tallahassee (Woody Harrelson), Wichita, and her younger sister Little Rock (Abigail Breslin)—as they navigate a post-apocalyptic America
The Amazing Spider-Man (2012)
No one can play Gwen Stacy better than Emma Stone (but that’s just my humble opinion). Gwen is Peter Parker’s love interest in this epic movie based on the Marvel comics.
Stone stars alongside Andrew Garfield, who plays Peter Parker/Spider-Man. The film follows Peter as he discovers his superpowers while also unraveling the mystery behind his father’s disappearance.
Gangster Squad (2013)
Some of us will remember Emma Stone for her role as Grace Faraday In Gangster Squad (2013).
The movie follows Grace, who finds herself caught between a mobster and a cop in 1940s Los Angeles. As part of a group of officers working to take down the powerful gangster Mickey Cohen, she becomes embroiled in a world of crime and danger.
Battle of the Sexes (2017)
Battle of the Sexes (2017) sees Emma Stone transform into tennis icon Billie Jean King, focusing on her famous 1973 match against Bobby Riggs. The film shows how the match became a groundbreaking moment for gender equality in sports.
Aloha (2015)
Allison Ng (played by Emma), is a military contractor stationed in Hawaii.
The film tells the story of Brian Gilcrest (Bradley Cooper), who returns to Hawaii for a new job and navigates his past and relationships, including with Allison. It has a star-studded cast, including Rachel McAdams and Bill Murray, set against the beautiful backdrop of Hawaii.
Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping (2016)
Emma Stone plays herself as she makes a fun cameo appearance in Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping. The film follows Conner4Real (Andy Samberg), a former boy band member who becomes a solo artist. After abandoning his bandmates, Conner’s career takes a nosedive when his solo album flops.
The Croods (2013)
Emma Stone voices Eep in The Croods, a curious and adventurous teenage cavegirl. The story follows the Crood family, who are forced to leave their home when their cave is destroyed.
They embark on an unexpected journey to find a new place to live, encountering dangerous creatures and new wonders along the way.