Angelina Jolie will be at the 81st Venice International Film Festival with «Maria», Pablo Larraín ‘s film about Maria Callas. What are her best performances?
Angelina Jolie (born June 4, 1975) is an American actress and philanthropist. After making her film debut in Lookin’ to Get Out (1982), she gained fame with Cyborg 2 (1993) and Hackers (1995). Her career exploded with Girl, Interrupted (1999), for which she won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. Jolie became a global icon with Lara Croft: Tomb Raider (2001) and continued her success with films such as Mr. & Mrs. Smith (2005), Wanted (2008) and Salt (2010). Her performance in Changeling (2008) earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress . She also starred in » Maleficent « (2014) and its 2019 sequel, as well as «Eternals» (2021). Jolie is also known for her humanitarian work as a UNHCR Special Envoy, with missions to refugee camps and conflict zones. Her work earned her a second Oscar , the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award.
11. Cyborg 2 — Cash (1993)
«Cyborg 2» is one of Angelina Jolie ‘s first major roles . In this science fiction film, Jolie plays Cash, a cyborg programmed to explode in an attack between two rival companies. Although the film did not achieve great fame, it was a crucial step in Jolie’s career, who was beginning to be noticed for her screen presence and unique charm.
10. Maleficent (2014)
In «Maleficent» Angelina Jolie plays one of the most iconic roles of her career. The Disney film offers a reinterpretation of the Sleeping Beauty fairy tale, focusing on the story of the witch Maleficent . Jolie gives the character a depth that goes beyond the classic villain, confirming herself as an actress capable of giving depth even to the most complex roles.
9.Beyond Borders (2003)
A film that reflects Angelina Jolie ‘s humanitarian commitment , «Beyond Borders» tells the story of Sarah Jordan, an American woman who falls in love with a doctor during a humanitarian mission. Jolie brings her true interest in human rights to the screen. Although the film was not a great success at the box office, it is a testament to Jolie’s passion for stories that address relevant social issues.
8. Hackers (1995)
«Hackers» is one of the films that helped define the cyberpunk style of the 90s. In this technological thriller, Angelina Jolie plays Kate «Acid Burn» Libby, a talented young hacker. The film has become a cult, especially for its depiction of the nascent digital culture. Jolie’s performance was crucial in cementing her image as an actress capable of playing unconventional roles.
7. Mr. & Mrs. Smith (2005)
«Mr. & Mrs. Smith» is the film that saw the birth of the love story between Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt . In this action comedy, the two actors play a pair of professional assassins, unaware of each other’s activities, tasked with killing each other. The film was a great commercial success, thanks also to the obvious chemistry between the two leading actors. Jolie, in the role of Jane Smith, skillfully combines action and humor.
6. Wanted — Choose your destiny (2008)
«Wanted» is an action film that highlights the extraordinary physical and acting skills of Angelina Jolie. In the role of Fox, a ruthless assassin who introduces the protagonist to the world of crime, Jolie manages to balance strength and mystery, making «Wanted» a memorable film and a classic of the action genre.
5. Changeling (2008)
Directed by Clint Eastwood , «Changeling» is a drama that tells the heartbreaking story of Christine Collins, a mother who fights against the authorities to find her missing son. Angelina Jolie’s performance was acclaimed by critics and earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress . The film explores themes of corruption and injustice, with Jolie giving one of her most moving performances.
4. Salt (2010)
In «Salt,» Angelina Jolie plays Evelyn Salt, a CIA agent accused of being a Russian spy. In this gripping action thriller, she is in a frantic race against time to prove her innocence — while being hunted by everyone. Jolie is magnetic in the role, perfectly combining vulnerability and determination.
3. The Bone Collector (1999)
Amelia Donaghy (Angelina Jolie) is a young police officer who finds herself having to investigate a complex and distressing case: a serial killer leaves macabre clues at the scene of his crimes. Teaming up with a paralyzed detective, played by Denzel Washington , Amelia becomes his legs and his eyes, trying to stop the sadistic killer. Jolie’s performance has been praised for its intensity and vulnerability, contributing to the film’s success as one of the most gripping thrillers of the late ’90s.
2. Lara Croft: Tomb Raider (2001)
«Lara Croft: Tomb Raider» is one of Angelina Jolie’s most iconic and recognizable roles. Playing the archaeologist and adventurer Lara Croft, Jolie created a strong, intelligent and charismatic character, becoming a symbol of female empowerment in action cinema. Despite mixed reviews, the film was a huge commercial success, cementing her reputation as an action star.
1. Girl, Interrupted (1999)
«Girl, Interrupted» is the film that established Angelina Jolie , winning her the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress . In James Mangold’s film, Angelina Jolie plays Lisa, a young, rebellious and charismatic sociopath who forms a bond with the protagonist, played by Winona Ryder . Her explosive and intense performance has catapulted Jolie into the international spotlight, confirming her as a natural talent and perfect for complex and profound roles.