Brie Larson’s Best Roles

Brie Larson has become a prominent name in Hollywood, known for her versatile acting and compelling performances. She began her career as a child actor, appearing in various television shows and films, gradually building a reputation for her talent and dedication. Over the years, she has taken on a wide range of roles, from independent dramas to major blockbuster franchises, showcasing her ability to portray complex and multifaceted characters. Her journey through the film industry has been marked by critical acclaim and numerous accolades, cementing her status as a respected and sought-after actress.

Her filmography reflects a deliberate choice of roles that are both challenging and diverse. Larson has consistently sought out projects that explore different genres and character archetypes, allowing her to continuously grow as an artist. From playing a troubled teenager in a treatment facility to an intergalactic superhero, she has demonstrated a remarkable ability to immerse herself in her characters and bring their stories to life. This dedication to her craft has not only earned her prestigious awards but also a loyal following of fans who appreciate her commitment to powerful storytelling. Her career is a testament to her passion for acting and her skill in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of cinema.

‘Scott Pilgrim vs. the World’ (2010)

Brie Larson played Envy Adams, the lead singer of the fictional band The Clash at Demonhead and an ex-girlfriend of the protagonist. Her character is a key figure in one of the seven evil exes that Scott Pilgrim must defeat to win the heart of Ramona Flowers. Larson performed the song ‘Black Sheep’ in the film, which became a fan-favorite track and was eventually released on an expanded edition of the movie’s soundtrack. Her performance captured the character’s icy and confident stage persona.

The role required her to adopt a specific rock-star attitude, which she accomplished through both her acting and her musical performance. The film is based on the graphic novel series by Bryan Lee O’Malley and is known for its unique visual style that incorporates elements of video games and comic books. Larson’s portrayal of Envy Adams stood out in a cast full of memorable characters and contributed to the film’s cult status.

’21 Jump Street’ (2012)

In the action-comedy ’21 Jump Street’, Brie Larson portrayed Molly Tracey, a high school student who becomes entangled with the undercover police officers played by Jonah Hill and Channing Tatum. Her character is smart and caring, and she forms a romantic connection with Hill’s character, Morton Schmidt. Molly plays a crucial role in the film’s plot, helping the main characters navigate the social landscape of modern high school while they investigate a synthetic drug ring.

Her performance brought a grounded and likable presence to the film, balancing the comedic and action-packed elements with a touch of romance and sincerity. The movie is a film adaptation of the 1987 television series of the same name and was praised for its humor and the chemistry of its cast. Larson’s role as Molly added a layer of emotional depth to the story and was a significant part of the film’s success.

‘The Spectacular Now’ (2013)

Brie Larson played Cassidy, the popular and seemingly perfect ex-girlfriend of the main character, Sutter Keely. Her character represents the past that Sutter is struggling to move on from, and their interactions highlight his inability to commit to a meaningful relationship. Cassidy’s decision to break up with Sutter sets the film’s central conflict in motion, leading him to meet and develop a relationship with Aimee Finecky.

The film is a coming-of-age drama based on the novel by Tim Tharp. Larson’s portrayal of Cassidy is nuanced, showing the character’s own struggles and her reasons for leaving Sutter. Although she is not the main love interest, her presence is felt throughout the film as a reminder of Sutter’s past mistakes and his fear of the future. The role showcased her ability to convey complex emotions in a supporting role.

‘Just Mercy’ (2019)

In ‘Just Mercy’, Brie Larson took on the role of Eva Ansley, a local advocate who works alongside attorney Bryan Stevenson to fight for the wrongly convicted in Alabama. Ansley is the co-founder of the Equal Justice Initiative and plays a vital role in establishing the non-profit organization dedicated to defending the incarcerated. Her character provides essential support to Stevenson as they take on the challenging case of Walter McMillian, a man sentenced to die for a crime he did not commit.

The film is based on the true story and memoir of the same name by Bryan Stevenson. Larson’s portrayal of Eva Ansley highlights the real-life advocate’s determination and unwavering commitment to justice in the face of systemic racism and legal obstacles. She effectively conveyed the courage and resilience of a woman dedicated to making a difference in her community, working to provide legal representation to those who need it most.

‘Avengers: Endgame’ (2019)

Brie Larson reprised her role as Carol Danvers, also known as Captain Marvel, in the climactic Marvel Cinematic Universe film ‘Avengers: Endgame’. Her character plays a pivotal role in the fight against Thanos, demonstrating her immense power and leadership. She is instrumental in rescuing Tony Stark and Nebula from deep space at the beginning of the film and later returns to participate in the final battle, destroying Thanos’s warship and facing the villain directly.

Her appearance in the film was highly anticipated following her solo movie’s release just a month prior. As one of the most powerful heroes in the MCU, her involvement was crucial to the Avengers’ strategy. Larson’s portrayal emphasized the character’s confidence and strength, solidifying her place as a key member of the superhero team and a formidable force within the universe.

‘Captain Marvel’ (2019)

Brie Larson starred as the titular character in ‘Captain Marvel’, marking the first female-led solo film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The movie explores the origin story of Carol Danvers, a former U.S. Air Force fighter pilot who becomes a powerful Kree warrior and returns to Earth with fragmented memories of her past. She uncovers a conspiracy and embraces her true identity and powers to end a war between two alien races.

The film is set in the 1990s and features a blend of action, science fiction, and humor. Larson underwent extensive physical training for the role to perform many of her own stunts. Her performance captured the character’s journey of self-discovery, highlighting her resilience, determination, and sense of humor. The movie was a global box office success and established Captain Marvel as a central figure in the MCU.

‘Unicorn Store’ (2017)

Brie Larson made her directorial debut with ‘Unicorn Store’, in which she also starred as the main character, Kit. The film follows a whimsical and imaginative artist who is invited to “The Store,” a mysterious place that promises to sell her a real-life unicorn if she can prove she is a worthy owner. Kit must fulfill a series of tasks that challenge her to grow emotionally and reconnect with her estranged parents.

The film is a quirky and heartfelt comedy-drama that explores themes of creativity, adulthood, and the importance of holding onto one’s dreams. Larson’s dual role as director and lead actress allowed her to shape a unique and personal story. Her character’s journey is one of self-acceptance and learning to embrace her individuality in a world that often encourages conformity. The movie showcases her talents both in front of and behind the camera.

‘The Glass Castle’ (2017)

In ‘The Glass Castle’, Brie Larson portrayed the adult version of Jeannette Walls, the author of the memoir on which the film is based. The story recounts Walls’s unconventional and poverty-stricken upbringing at the hands of her deeply dysfunctional yet vibrant parents. The film alternates between her tumultuous childhood and her life as a successful writer in New York City, as she grapples with her past and her complex relationship with her family.

Larson’s performance captured the internal conflict of a woman torn between the world she came from and the life she has built for herself. She conveyed the emotional weight of Walls’s memories and her struggle to reconcile with her parents’ nomadic and often neglectful lifestyle. The role required her to portray a wide range of emotions, from resentment and shame to love and forgiveness, showcasing her dramatic acting abilities.

‘Kong: Skull Island’ (2017)

Brie Larson played Mason Weaver, an anti-war photographer and journalist, in the monster film ‘Kong: Skull Island’. Her character joins a team of scientists and soldiers on an expedition to a mysterious, uncharted island in the Pacific. As they encounter the island’s monstrous inhabitants, including the colossal ape Kong, Weaver becomes an advocate for the creature, recognizing its intelligence and its role as the island’s protector.

Set in 1973, the film is a reboot of the King Kong franchise and part of the MonsterVerse. Larson’s character is portrayed as courageous and compassionate, using her camera to document the truth and standing up for what she believes is right. She brought a sense of humanity and moral grounding to the large-scale action and spectacle, creating a strong and resourceful female lead in a high-stakes adventure.

‘Room’ (2015)

Brie Larson delivered a powerful performance as Joy “Ma” Newsome in the drama ‘Room’. The film tells the story of a young woman who has been held captive in a small, enclosed space for seven years with her five-year-old son, Jack, who was born in captivity. The first half of the film focuses on their life within the room, while the second half follows their difficult adjustment to the outside world after they escape.

Her portrayal of Ma earned her numerous awards, including the Academy Award for Best Actress. She depicted the character’s immense love for her son, her resilience in the face of unimaginable trauma, and her complex psychological journey toward recovery. The role required intense emotional and physical commitment, and her performance was widely praised for its raw and authentic depiction of a mother’s fierce determination to protect her child.

‘Trainwreck’ (2015)

In the romantic comedy ‘Trainwreck’, Brie Larson played Kim Townsend, the sensible and married younger sister of the main character, Amy, played by Amy Schumer. Kim serves as a foil to Amy’s promiscuous and commitment-phobic lifestyle, often offering her sister advice and representing a more conventional and stable path in life. Their relationship is a central theme in the film, exploring sibling dynamics and differing views on love and family.

Larson’s performance provided a grounded and relatable contrast to the film’s more outrageous comedic moments. She portrayed Kim as a loving but concerned sister who wants the best for Amy, even if their lives are very different. The role demonstrated her versatility as an actress, allowing her to showcase her comedic timing and her ability to play a supportive yet significant character in an ensemble cast.

‘The Gambler’ (2014)

Brie Larson played Amy Phillips, a talented literature student who becomes involved with her professor, Jim Bennett, played by Mark Wahlberg. Her character is one of Bennett’s brightest students, and their relationship develops as he spirals deeper into a high-stakes gambling addiction. Amy represents a potential path to redemption for him, but she also gets drawn into the dangerous world he inhabits.

The film is a remake of the 1974 film of the same name. Larson’s character is intelligent and perceptive, recognizing both the brilliance and the self-destructive nature of her professor. Her performance added a layer of emotional complexity to the story, portraying a young woman who is both fascinated by and wary of the man she is drawn to.

‘Short Term 12’ (2013)

Brie Larson starred as Grace Howard, a compassionate and dedicated supervisor at a group home for troubled teenagers. The film follows her as she navigates the challenges of her demanding job while also dealing with her own past trauma. Grace’s personal and professional lives become intertwined when a new resident at the facility forces her to confront her own unresolved issues.

Her performance in this independent drama was critically acclaimed and is considered her breakout role. She brought a profound sense of empathy and vulnerability to the character, capturing the emotional toll of working with at-risk youth. Larson’s portrayal of Grace was lauded for its authenticity and emotional depth, establishing her as a formidable dramatic actress and earning her significant recognition in the film industry.

‘United States of Tara’ (2009–2011)

In the television series ‘United States of Tara’, Brie Larson played Kate Gregson, the teenage daughter of a woman with dissociative identity disorder. The show follows the family as they cope with the various personalities, or “alters,” that emerge from the main character, Tara. Kate’s character evolves from a rebellious and often frustrated teenager into a more understanding and supportive young woman trying to find her own identity amidst her family’s unique challenges.

The series, created by Diablo Cody, blended comedy and drama to explore themes of mental health and family dynamics. Larson’s portrayal of Kate was praised for its realistic depiction of a teenager living in an extraordinary situation. She captured the character’s mix of angst, humor, and love for her mother, providing a relatable anchor in a story that often delved into surreal and complex psychological territory. Her role in the show was a significant step in her career, showcasing her talent in a long-form narrative.

‘Community’ (2013–2014)

Brie Larson had a recurring role as Rachel in the comedy series ‘Community’. Her character was introduced as a student at Greendale Community College who runs the coat check at a school dance and later becomes a love interest for Abed Nadir. Rachel is depicted as quirky and understanding, able to connect with Abed’s unique personality and his love for pop culture and meta-narratives. Their relationship was a notable storyline in the show’s later seasons.

The series is known for its clever writing, pop culture references, and ensemble cast. Larson’s character was well-received by fans for her genuine chemistry with Abed’s character. She brought a warm and charming presence to the show, fitting in seamlessly with the established comedic tone. Her appearances as Rachel provided a sweet and heartfelt romantic subplot that explored Abed’s personal growth and his ability to form meaningful connections with others.

What is your favorite Brie Larson role and why?