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Top 10 Angelina Jolie Movies
In the dazzling realm of Hollywood, few stars shine as brightly and captivatingly as Angelina Jolie. With her magnetic presence, unparalleled talent, and a diverse range of roles, Jolie has carved a remarkable legacy in the world of cinema. From action-packed thrillers to poignant dramas, her filmography is a testament to her versatility as an actress.
In this cinematic journey, we embark on a countdown of the top 10 Angelina Jolie movies that have left an indelible mark on audiences around the globe. Each film is a brushstroke in the portrait of an actress who seamlessly blends grace, strength, and emotion on the silver screen. Join us as we revisit these cinematic gems, celebrating the artistry of one of Hollywood’s most iconic leading ladies.
10 - (1999) Girl Interrupted
“Girl, Interrupted” is a 1999 film directed by James Mangold, based on the memoir of the same name by Susanna Kaysen. The movie stars Winona Ryder as Susanna Kaysen and Angelina Jolie as Lisa Rowe, with supporting performances from Brittany Murphy, Clea DuVall, and others.
The story revolves around Susanna Kaysen, a young woman who voluntarily checks herself into a psychiatric hospital in the 1960s after a suicide attempt. She is diagnosed with borderline personality disorder and spends time in the ward with other young women facing various mental health issues. The film explores themes of mental illness, identity, and the challenges faced by individuals in a psychiatric institution.
Angelina Jolie’s performance as Lisa Rowe, a charismatic but troubled fellow patient, earned her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. The movie delves into the complexities of the relationships formed among the patients and the impact of institutionalization on their lives.
“Girl, Interrupted” received generally positive reviews for its performances, particularly Jolie’s, and its portrayal of mental health issues. The film sheds light on the stigma associated with mental illness and the challenges faced by those navigating the mental health care system
9 - The Bone Collector (1999)
“The Bone Collector” is a crime thriller film directed by Phillip Noyce, released in 1999. The movie is based on the novel of the same name by Jeffrey Deaver. It features an ensemble cast that includes Denzel Washington as Lincoln Rhyme, a quadriplegic detective, and Angelina Jolie as Amelia Donaghy, a patrol officer. The film also stars Queen Latifah, Michael Rooker, and Ed O’Neill in supporting roles.
The plot revolves around Lincoln Rhyme, a former forensic expert and quadriplegic who is brought out of retirement to help solve a series of murders committed by a serial killer in New York City. Rhyme teams up with Amelia Donaghy, a young police officer, to solve the complex case. Rhyme guides Amelia through the investigation, using his keen intellect and expertise in forensic science.
“The Bone Collector” received mixed reviews from critics but was generally praised for its suspenseful atmosphere and the performances of Washington and Jolie. The film combines elements of a traditional detective story with a psychological thriller, and it keeps viewers on the edge of their seats as the characters try to unravel the mystery.
8 - A Mighty Heart (2007)
“A Mighty Heart” is a drama film directed by Michael Winterbottom, released in 2007. The film is based on Mariane Pearl’s memoir, “A Mighty Heart,” and it tells the true story of the kidnapping and murder of Daniel Pearl, a Wall Street Journal reporter, in 2002.
Angelina Jolie plays the role of Mariane Pearl, Daniel Pearl’s wife, who is also a journalist. The film depicts the efforts made by Mariane and others to locate and rescue her husband after he is abducted in Karachi, Pakistan, while investigating a story on Islamic militants. The story unfolds as Mariane navigates the complexities of the investigation, working with law enforcement and dealing with the challenges of being in a foreign country during a highly tense and dangerous situation.
“A Mighty Heart” received generally positive reviews for its portrayal of real events and the performances of the cast, particularly Jolie’s. The film is a powerful and emotional exploration of the impact of terrorism on individuals and their families, as well as a reflection on the role of journalism in the face of such challenges.
7 - Maleficent (2014)
Maleficent (2014)
Plot Summary: The film explores the untold story of Maleficent, a powerful fairy living in the magical Moors. Once a benevolent protector of her homeland, Maleficent’s life takes a dark turn when she is betrayed by the human Stefan (Sharlto Copley). Seeking revenge, Maleficent curses Stefan’s newborn daughter, Aurora, with a spell that will cause her to fall into a deep sleep on her sixteenth birthday, only to be awakened by true love’s kiss. As Aurora grows, Maleficent finds herself conflicted between her vengeful intentions and an unexpected maternal bond that develops with the young princess. The story unfolds with themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the complexity of true love.
Key Aspects:
- Angelina Jolie’s Performance: Angelina Jolie delivers a captivating performance as Maleficent, bringing depth and nuance to the character beyond the traditional villainous portrayal.
- Reimagining of a Classic Tale: “Maleficent” offers a fresh perspective on the well-known “Sleeping Beauty” fairy tale, providing a backstory for one of Disney’s most iconic villains.
- Visual Spectacle: The film is praised for its visually stunning design, including the magical world of the Moors and the fantastical creatures that inhabit it.
- Exploration of Themes: “Maleficent” delves into themes of betrayal, redemption, and the complexity of relationships, challenging traditional fairy tale narratives.
- Aurora’s Perspective: While Maleficent is the central character, the film also explores the perspective of Princess Aurora (Elle Fanning), providing a more well-rounded narrative.
The film received a positive response for its imaginative storytelling, visual effects, and Jolie’s performance. It was successful at the box office, leading to the release of a sequel, “Maleficent: Mistress of Evil,” in 2019. “Maleficent” stands out as a unique take on a classic fairy tale, offering a compelling story with a focus on the complexity of its central character.
6 - The Cradle of Life (2003)
Tomb Raider: The Cradle of Life (2003)
Plot Summary: Lara Croft (Angelina Jolie), the adventurous and skilled archaeologist-adventurer, is enlisted to retrieve Pandora’s Box before it falls into the wrong hands. The quest takes her on a perilous journey across the globe, from Greece to Africa, as she races against a rival archaeologist and a powerful criminal organization led by Chen Lo (Simon Yam). Alongside her on the mission is Terry Sheridan (Gerard Butler), a former lover with a troubled past. As Lara confronts deadly challenges, ancient mysteries, and betrayals, she must ultimately prevent the malevolent forces from unleashing catastrophic power with the contents of Pandora’s Box.
Key Aspects:
- Angelina Jolie as Lara Croft: Jolie reprises her role as the iconic video game character, bringing charisma, athleticism, and a sense of adventure to the character of Lara Croft.
- International Settings: The film features diverse and exotic locations, including Greece, Africa, and China, adding a sense of globetrotting adventure to the storyline.
- Action Sequences: “The Cradle of Life” includes thrilling and elaborate action sequences, showcasing Lara Croft’s combat skills, acrobatics, and resourcefulness.
- Mythical Elements: The plot incorporates mythical elements, centered around the legendary Pandora’s Box, adding a fantastical dimension to the adventure.
- Gerard Butler’s Character: Gerard Butler plays Terry Sheridan, a character with a complicated history and a complex relationship with Lara Croft, adding emotional depth to the narrative.
While the film received mixed reviews, it is generally considered an entertaining action-adventure with a strong lead performance from Angelina Jolie. If you’re a fan of action films with a blend of archaeological exploration and mythology, “Tomb Raider: The Cradle of Life” offers an action-packed escapade with Lara Croft at the helm.
5 - The Tourist (2010)
Title: The Tourist (2010)
Plot Summary: Frank Tupelo (Johnny Depp), an American tourist visiting Venice, crosses paths with the mysterious and elegant Elise Clifton-Ward (Angelina Jolie) on a train. Unbeknownst to Frank, he becomes entangled in a web of intrigue and danger when Elise deliberately involves him in a case of mistaken identity. Elise is being pursued by both law enforcement and a criminal gang, who believe she is linked to her elusive lover, a wanted criminal. As Frank becomes increasingly involved in the dangerous game of cat and mouse, he must navigate a world of deception, danger, and unexpected romance.
Key Aspects:
- Romantic Thriller: “The Tourist” combines elements of romance and thriller, blending suspenseful moments with a central love story.
- Venetian Setting: The film is set against the stunning backdrop of Venice, showcasing the city’s picturesque canals and architecture, adding a layer of visual appeal to the storyline.
- Mystery and Intrigue: The plot revolves around mistaken identities, international intrigue, and the allure of a woman with a secretive past, keeping audiences guessing about the characters’ true motivations.
- Johnny Depp and Angelina Jolie Duo: The film marks the first collaboration between Johnny Depp and Angelina Jolie, two prominent actors known for their versatility.
- Sophisticated Cinematography: The film features sophisticated cinematography, capturing the elegance and intrigue of the European locations.
While “The Tourist” received mixed reviews from critics, it was praised for its visual aesthetics, the chemistry between the lead actors, and its engaging, if somewhat formulaic, plot. If you enjoy romantic thrillers set against a backdrop of intrigue and glamour, “The Tourist” may be an intriguing watch.
4 - Mr. & Mrs. Smith (2005)
Title: Mr. & Mrs. Smith (2005)
Plot Summary: John Smith (Brad Pitt) and Jane Smith (Angelina Jolie) appear to be a typical suburban couple, living seemingly ordinary lives. However, they share a secret that even they are unaware of — both are highly skilled assassins working for different organizations. When their respective employers discover their double lives, they unknowingly assign them to eliminate each other. As the truth comes to light, John and Jane find themselves in a complex web of lies, deceit, and action-packed mayhem. The couple must navigate the challenges of married life while simultaneously trying to outsmart and outmaneuver each other in a series of high-octane, humorous, and often explosive encounters.
Key Aspects:
- Chemistry between Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie: The film is known for the on-screen chemistry between its lead actors, who later became a real-life couple.
- Action-Comedy: “Mr. & Mrs. Smith” combines elements of action and comedy, providing a mix of intense fight sequences with witty banter and humor.
- Spy Thriller: The movie explores the world of espionage and assassination, adding a layer of intrigue to the storyline.
- Stylish Action Sequences: Director Doug Liman infuses the film with stylish and visually appealing action sequences, showcasing the talents of the lead actors in various combat scenarios.
- Marital Dynamics: The movie uses the action genre as a backdrop to explore the dynamics of marriage, trust, and communication, adding depth to the characters’ relationships.
“Mr. & Mrs. Smith” was a commercial success and gained attention not only for its action sequences but also for the real-life romance that blossomed between Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie during the film’s production. The film offers a unique blend of action, comedy, and romance, making it an entertaining and memorable entry in both the action and romantic comedy genres.
3 - Gone in 60 Seconds (2000)
Title: Gone in 60 Seconds (2000)
Plot Summary: Randall “Memphis” Raines (Nicolas Cage) is a retired master car thief who is forced back into the world of grand theft auto when his younger brother, Kip (Giovanni Ribisi), gets in trouble with a dangerous criminal. In order to save Kip’s life, Memphis is given an ultimatum: steal 50 high-end cars in one night or face dire consequences. With the clock ticking, Memphis reassembles his old crew, including his former love interest Sara “Sway” Wayland (Angelina Jolie), to pull off a series of high-stakes heists. As they race against time and evade law enforcement, Memphis and his team must navigate a dangerous underworld to complete the job and save Kip.
Key Aspects:
- High-Octane Car Chases: “Gone in 60 Seconds” is known for its thrilling and high-speed car chase sequences, featuring an array of stylish and exotic vehicles.
- Ensemble Cast: The film boasts a star-studded cast, including Nicolas Cage, Angelina Jolie, Giovanni Ribisi, and Robert Duvall, each contributing to the movie’s dynamic energy.
- Unique Car Characters: Each stolen car in the film is given a distinctive name, and the heists are characterized by the team’s ability to “boost” these specific vehicles.
- Tension and Countdown: The film builds suspense as the crew races against the clock to steal the required number of cars within a tight timeframe.
- Cinematic Style: “Gone in 60 Seconds” is known for its stylish cinematography and adrenaline-fueled visuals, creating an immersive experience for fans of action-packed heist films.
While the film received mixed critical reviews, it gained popularity for its entertaining car chase sequences and the charisma of its cast. If you enjoy fast-paced action films with a focus on high-stakes heists and impressive car stunts, “Gone in 60 Seconds” is likely to rev your cinematic engines.
2 - Wanted (2008)
Title: Wanted (2008)
Plot Summary: Wesley Gibson (James McAvoy) is a seemingly ordinary office worker whose life takes an extraordinary turn when he discovers he is the son of a professional assassin. Recruited into a secret society known as the Fraternity, Wesley undergoes intense training to harness his latent skills and join the ranks of highly skilled assassins. Led by the enigmatic Sloan (Morgan Freeman) and the deadly Fox (Angelina Jolie), the Fraternity operates with a unique philosophy: they receive orders from a loom that weaves the names of targets, and they carry out executions with incredible precision. As Wesley transforms into a deadly assassin, he uncovers dark secrets about his past and faces moral dilemmas that challenge his newfound identity.
Key Aspects:
- Bullet-Bending Action: “Wanted” is renowned for its innovative and visually stunning action sequences, including the famous “bullet-bending” scenes where assassins can curve bullets around obstacles.
- James McAvoy’s Transformation: James McAvoy delivers a compelling performance as Wesley, capturing the character’s evolution from a timid office worker to a skilled and confident assassin.
- Angelina Jolie’s Badassery: Angelina Jolie brings her signature intensity to the role of Fox, a skilled and ruthless assassin with a mysterious past.
- Morgan Freeman’s Presence: Morgan Freeman adds gravitas to the film as Sloan, the leader of the Fraternity, providing mentorship to the new recruits.
- Twists and Turns: “Wanted” keeps viewers engaged with its unpredictable plot, filled with twists and turns that challenge conventional expectations.
The film received praise for its adrenaline-pumping action, stylish visuals, and the unexpected directions it takes. If you’re a fan of action films with a blend of fantasy elements, “Wanted” is a thrilling ride that stands out in the genre.
1 - Salt (2010)
Title: Salt (2010)
Plot Summary: Evelyn Salt (Angelina Jolie) is a CIA officer who becomes embroiled in a web of espionage and betrayal when a defector accuses her of being a Russian sleeper agent. On the run to clear her name and protect her husband, Salt employs her skills to evade capture by fellow agents while uncovering a sinister plot that could change the course of history. As she navigates through a series of high-stakes situations, Salt must question loyalties and alliances, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats in this intense and action-packed thriller.
Key Aspects:
- High-Stakes Espionage: “Salt” delivers a gripping narrative with a relentless pace, filled with twists and turns that keep viewers guessing until the very end.
- Angelina Jolie’s Action Prowess: Known for her dedication to physically demanding roles, Angelina Jolie brings her A-game to the action genre, showcasing impressive combat skills and a convincing portrayal of a capable and determined spy.
- Political Intrigue: The film delves into political intrigue, blurring the lines between truth and deception, and exploring themes of loyalty, patriotism, and personal sacrifice.
- Visual Style: Phillip Noyce’s direction and the cinematography contribute to the film’s overall intensity, with dynamic action sequences and a visual style that complements the espionage theme.
“Salt” received praise for its engaging storyline, Jolie’s performance, and its ability to keep audiences guessing. If you’re a fan of high-octane action combined with a compelling plot, “Salt” is a must-watch in Angelina Jolie’s filmography.
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