The Absolute Best Hollywood Actresses of the Past 10 Years

The past decade in Hollywood has been defined by a collection of talented women who have delivered some of the most memorable performances in film history. These actresses have navigated a changing industry while leading major blockbusters and poignant independent films. Their work spans across diverse genres including intense dramas and high stakes action movies. Many have earned the highest honors in the industry for their commitment to their craft. Their influence continues to shape the stories being told on the global stage.

Emma Stone

Emma Stone won an Academy Award for her performance in the musical ‘La La Land’. She further established her range by starring in the period drama ‘The Favourite’. Her portrayal of Bella Baxter in ‘Poor Things’ earned her a second Oscar for Best Actress. Stone is celebrated for her ability to bring depth to both comedic and dramatic roles. She remains one of the most sought after performers in the modern era of cinema.

Margot Robbie

Margot Robbie rose to global stardom following her breakout role in ‘The Wolf of Wall Street’. She became a central figure in the superhero genre through her portrayal of Harley Quinn. Her performance as Tonya Harding in ‘I, Tonya’ showcased her capacity for intense physical and emotional transformation. She recently produced and starred in the massive commercial success ‘Barbie’. Robbie is known for her business acumen and her dedication to complex characters.

Viola Davis

Viola Davis achieved widespread acclaim for her powerful role in the film adaptation of ‘Fences’. She led the hit legal drama series ‘How to Get Away with Murder’ for six successful seasons. Her work in ‘The Woman King’ demonstrated her physical commitment and leadership on screen. Davis is one of the few actors to achieve the Triple Crown of Acting with an Oscar and an Emmy and a Tony. She continues to be a formidable presence in both film and television.

Olivia Colman

Olivia Colman gained international recognition after her Academy Award winning turn in ‘The Favourite’. She followed this success with a celebrated performance as Queen Elizabeth II in ‘The Crown’. Her work in ‘The Father’ and ‘The Lost Daughter’ solidified her status as a top dramatic actress. Colman is highly regarded for her ability to convey complex emotions with subtlety and grace. She has become a mainstay in prestigious cinema over the last decade.

Michelle Yeoh

Michelle Yeoh made history by winning the Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in ‘Everything Everywhere All at Once’. She gained significant praise for her performance in the romantic comedy ‘Crazy Rich Asians’. Her career has seen a massive resurgence with roles in major franchises and independent hits. Yeoh is famous for her background in martial arts and her refined dramatic sensibilities. She has become an influential figure for representation in the global entertainment industry.

Frances McDormand

Frances McDormand earned her second Best Actress Oscar for her role in ‘Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri’. She achieved further success with her performance and production work on the film ‘Nomadland’. Her career is defined by her preference for gritty and grounded characters. She remains one of the most decorated performers in the history of the Academy Awards. McDormand is known for her uncompromising approach to her craft and her choice of unique projects.

Saoirse Ronan

Saoirse Ronan established herself as a leading talent with her performance in the coming of age film ‘Lady Bird’. She earned critical acclaim for her role as Jo March in the adaptation of ‘Little Women’. Her work in ‘Brooklyn’ and ‘Ammonite’ further showcased her ability to lead period dramas. Ronan has received multiple Academy Award nominations before the age of thirty. She is recognized for her naturalistic acting style and her strong screen presence.

Cate Blanchett

Cate Blanchett delivered one of the most discussed performances of the decade in the psychological drama ‘Tar’. She garnered praise for her role in the romantic drama ‘Carol’ as well. Blanchett is known for her incredible technical precision and her ability to inhabit complex personas. She has successfully balanced work in large franchises with roles in experimental independent films. Her contributions to the arts have earned her numerous prestigious accolades worldwide.

Jessica Chastain

Jessica Chastain won an Academy Award for her transformative portrayal of a televangelist in ‘The Eyes of Tammy Faye’. She led the intense thriller ‘Zero Dark Thirty’ and appeared in the science fiction epic ‘Interstellar’. Her production company Freckle Films focuses on creating opportunities for women in the industry. Chastain is frequently praised for her preparation and her commitment to strong female characters. She has consistently selected roles that challenge societal expectations of women.

Jennifer Lawrence

Jennifer Lawrence continued her streak of success with roles in the films ‘Mother!’ and ‘Joy’. She earned critical praise for her performance in the intimate drama ‘Causeway’. Her recent turn in the comedy ‘No Hard Feelings’ showed her talent for physical humor. Lawrence remains one of the highest grossing actresses in the world due to her work in major franchises. She is known for her charismatic personality and her ability to anchor large scale productions.

Lupita Nyong’o

Lupita Nyong’o delivered a stunning dual performance in the horror film ‘Us’. She has played a key role in the ‘Black Panther’ franchise within the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Her voice work and motion capture performances have also received significant attention. Nyong’o is recognized for her poise and her ability to bring depth to genre films. She continues to advocate for diverse stories and perspectives in Hollywood.

Amy Adams

Amy Adams received widespread acclaim for her performance as a linguist in the science fiction film ‘Arrival’. She ventured into television with a leading role in the dark miniseries ‘Sharp Objects’. Her work in ‘Nocturnal Animals’ and ‘Vice’ further demonstrated her range as a dramatic actress. Adams is often cited as one of the most consistent and versatile performers of her generation. She has maintained a high level of critical success throughout the past ten years.

Florence Pugh

Florence Pugh had a breakout year with her roles in ‘Midsommar’ and ‘Little Women’. She joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Yelena Belova in ‘Black Widow’. Her performance in ‘Don’t Worry Darling’ showcased her ability to anchor a psychological thriller. Pugh is known for her raspy voice and her emotionally raw acting style. She has quickly become one of the most prominent young stars in the film industry.

Zendaya

Zendaya won two Emmy Awards for her lead role in the drama series ‘Euphoria’. She has starred in major blockbusters including the ‘Spider-Man’ trilogy and ‘Dune’. Her performance in ‘Challengers’ further established her as a leading lady in prestigious cinema. Zendaya is recognized as a cultural icon with significant influence in both film and fashion. She continues to select projects that showcase her growth as a serious dramatic actress.

Anya Taylor-Joy

Anya Taylor-Joy rose to fame with her performance in the period horror film ‘The Witch’. She achieved massive global success with her role in the miniseries ‘The Queen’s Gambit’. Her work in ‘The Menu’ and ‘Furiosa’ has solidified her as a major force in various genres. Taylor Joy is known for her striking features and her ability to play mysterious characters. She has become a regular collaborator with several prominent directors in Hollywood.

Emily Blunt

Emily Blunt starred in the highly successful horror film ‘A Quiet Place’ and its sequel. She earned critical praise for her role as a federal agent in the thriller ‘Sicario’. Her performance in ‘Oppenheimer’ brought her further acclaim and awards recognition. Blunt is celebrated for her versatility across action and musical and dramatic genres. She remains a top choice for directors seeking a performer with strong emotional range.

Nicole Kidman

Nicole Kidman has had a prolific decade with a celebrated performance in the series ‘Big Little Lies’. She appeared in the historical epic ‘The Northman’ and the drama ‘Being the Ricardos’. Her work continues to be defined by her willingness to take risks with challenging material. Kidman has successfully transitioned between leading roles in television and film. She is regarded as a legendary figure who consistently delivers high quality performances.

Scarlett Johansson

Scarlett Johansson received two Academy Award nominations in the same year for ‘Marriage Story’ and ‘Jojo Rabbit’. She headlined her own standalone film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe with ‘Black Widow’. Her work in ‘Under the Skin’ remains a highlight of her career in independent cinema. Johansson is known for her commanding presence and her ability to navigate massive blockbusters. She has been one of the highest paid actresses in Hollywood for much of the last decade.

Charlize Theron

Charlize Theron delivered an iconic performance as Furiosa in ‘Mad Max Fury Road’. She underwent a significant physical transformation for her role in the drama ‘Bombshell’. Her work in action films like ‘Atomic Blonde’ has established her as a major star in the genre. Theron is also a successful producer who develops many of her own leading projects. She is recognized for her dedication to intense and physically demanding roles.

Natalie Portman

Natalie Portman received an Academy Award nomination for her portrayal of Jacqueline Kennedy in ‘Jackie’. She starred in the science fiction horror film ‘Annihilation’ and the drama ‘May December’. Her work often explores complex psychological territory and historical figures. Portman has also balanced her acting career with directing and producing projects. She remains a highly respected figure in the industry for her intelligence and range.

Julianne Moore

Julianne Moore won an Academy Award for her role as a woman with early onset Alzheimer’s in ‘Still Alice’. She has continued to deliver strong performances in films like ‘Gloria Bell’ and ‘May December’. Moore is known for her emotional vulnerability and her ability to portray everyday struggles. Her career spans a wide variety of genres including independent dramas and blockbuster sequels. She is considered one of the most accomplished actresses working today.

Penélope Cruz

Penelope Cruz earned critical acclaim for her performance in the Spanish drama ‘Parallel Mothers’. She collaborated again with director Pedro Almodovar to deliver a deeply emotional portrayal. Her work in the biographical film ‘Ferrari’ further demonstrated her international appeal. Cruz is recognized for her ability to perform in multiple languages with equal skill. She remains a prominent figure in both European and American cinema.

Anne Hathaway

Anne Hathaway appeared in the science fiction epic ‘Interstellar’ and the comedy ‘The Intern’. She has recently taken on more experimental roles in films like ‘Eileen’ and ‘The Idea of You’. Hathaway is known for her wide range and her ability to excel in both musicals and dramas. She continues to be a major box office draw while pursuing challenging independent work. Her career has remained steady with a mix of commercial hits and critical favorites.

Brie Larson

Brie Larson won an Academy Award for her harrowing performance in the drama ‘Room’. She then became a household name as the lead in ‘Captain Marvel’. Her work in the Marvel Cinematic Universe has made her a central figure in global pop culture. Larson is also known for her work in independent films like ‘Short Term 12’. She continues to balance large scale superhero roles with intimate character studies.

Lady Gaga

Lady Gaga made a successful transition to leading film roles with ‘A Star Is Born’. She received an Academy Award nomination for her performance and won for her songwriting. Her work in ‘House of Gucci’ showed her commitment to transformative character acting. Gaga is recognized for her immense screen presence and her musical talents. She has quickly established herself as a serious contender in the acting world.

Carey Mulligan

Carey Mulligan gave a career defining performance in the revenge thriller ‘Promising Young Woman’. She earned further praise for her role in the biographical drama ‘Maestro’. Her work is often characterized by a quiet intensity and emotional precision. Mulligan has consistently chosen projects that challenge traditional narratives. She is regarded as one of the most talented dramatic actresses of her generation.

Michelle Williams

Michelle Williams received critical acclaim for her roles in ‘Manchester by the Sea’ and ‘The Fabelmans’. She has become known for her ability to portray deeply grief stricken and complex mothers. Her work in the limited series ‘Fosse Verdon’ earned her an Emmy Award. Williams is celebrated for her dedication to character and her subtle acting choices. She remains a favorite among critics and award bodies alike.

Tilda Swinton

Tilda Swinton is known for her chameleon like ability to disappear into diverse roles. She appeared in multiple roles in the horror remake of ‘Suspiria’. Her work in ‘The French Dispatch’ and ‘Memoria’ highlights her connection to auteur cinema. Swinton often selects projects that are experimental or visually striking. She is considered one of the most unique and versatile performers in modern film.

Kate Winslet

Kate Winslet delivered a powerhouse performance in the limited series ‘Mare of Easttown’. She has continued to work in major films such as ‘Avatar The Way of Water’ and ‘Lee’. Winslet is recognized for her meticulous preparation and her ability to master various accents. Her career has remained remarkably consistent over several decades. She is often cited as one of the greatest actresses of her time.

Sarah Paulson

Sarah Paulson became a staple of modern television through her work in ‘American Horror Story’. She won an Emmy Award for her portrayal of Marcia Clark in ‘The People v O J Simpson’. Her film work includes roles in ‘Ocean’s 8′ and ’12 Years a Slave’. Paulson is known for her intense emotional range and her frequent collaborations with Ryan Murphy. She has successfully balanced high profile television roles with diverse film projects.

Elisabeth Moss

Elisabeth Moss gained widespread fame for her lead role in the dystopian series ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’. She has also starred in acclaimed films such as ‘The Invisible Man’ and ‘Shirley’. Her work is often characterized by its psychological intensity and physical commitment. Moss has won multiple awards for her television work and remains a top dramatic talent. She is known for choosing roles that explore themes of survival and resilience.

Julia Roberts

Julia Roberts starred in the psychological thriller series ‘Homecoming’ and the film ‘Wonder’. Her recent work in the thriller ‘Leave the World Behind’ was a significant success on streaming platforms. Roberts continues to be one of the most recognizable movie stars in the world. She has successfully transitioned into more mature and complex roles in the later stages of her career. Her presence on screen remains a major draw for audiences globally.

Reese Witherspoon

Reese Witherspoon has become a major industry power player through her production company Hello Sunshine. She starred in and produced the hit series ‘Big Little Lies’ and ‘The Morning Show’. Her film work in the last decade includes the survival drama ‘Wild’. Witherspoon is known for her ability to lead both lighthearted comedies and heavy dramas. She has been instrumental in bringing female led stories to the forefront of entertainment.

Laura Dern

Laura Dern won an Academy Award for her supporting role in the drama ‘Marriage Story’. She also gained praise for her performance in the series ‘Big Little Lies’ and the film ‘Wild’. Dern is celebrated for her versatility and her ability to bring humanity to quirky characters. She has had a significant career resurgence over the last ten years. Her work continues to be a highlight of modern prestige television and cinema.

Allison Janney

Allison Janney won an Academy Award for her role as LaVona Golden in ‘I, Tonya’. She led the long running sitcom ‘Mom’ while maintaining a successful film career. Her work in ‘Bad Education’ and ‘The Creator’ further showcased her range. Janney is known for her sharp comedic timing and her formidable dramatic presence. She is a highly respected character actress who has moved into prominent leading and supporting roles.

Glenn Close

Glenn Close received critical acclaim for her leading role in the drama ‘The Wife’. She also delivered a transformative performance in ‘Hillbilly Elegy’. Close remains a legendary figure in Hollywood with a career spanning several decades. Her recent work shows her continued dedication to complex and challenging characters. She is often cited as one of the most talented actors to never have won an Oscar.

Lily Gladstone

Lily Gladstone became the first Native American woman to be nominated for the Best Actress Oscar for ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’. She previously gained critical attention for her role in the independent film ‘Certain Women’. Her performances are noted for their quiet power and emotional depth. Gladstone has quickly become one of the most respected new voices in the industry. She continues to advocate for authentic representation of Indigenous people in film.

Da’Vine Joy Randolph

Da’Vine Joy Randolph won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in ‘The Holdovers’. She gained significant recognition for her performance in ‘Dolemite Is My Name’. Her work in television includes a recurring role in the hit series ‘Only Murders in the Building’. Randolph is praised for her ability to bring warmth and soul to every character she plays. She is currently one of the most sought after actresses in Hollywood.

Regina King

Regina King won an Academy Award for her performance in ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’. She also received widespread praise for her lead role in the series ‘Watchmen’. King has successfully transitioned into directing with the film ‘One Night in Miami’. Her career is defined by a series of powerful and socially relevant roles. She is recognized as one of the most influential multi talented figures in the industry.

Octavia Spencer

Octavia Spencer received Academy Award nominations for her roles in ‘Hidden Figures’ and ‘The Shape of Water’. She has become a consistent and reliable presence in both dramas and comedies. Her work in the series ‘Self Made’ showcased her ability to lead a biographical project. Spencer is known for her grounded and relatable acting style. She has maintained a high level of success and visibility over the last ten years.

Taraji P. Henson

Taraji P. Henson became a household name for her role as Cookie Lyon in the series ‘Empire’. She starred in the hit biographical drama ‘Hidden Figures’ as a brilliant mathematician. Her recent work in the musical adaptation of ‘The Color Purple’ received high praise. Henson is celebrated for her dynamic energy and her ability to command the screen. She remains a prominent advocate for mental health and diversity in the arts.

Awkwafina

Awkwafina won a Golden Globe for her leading role in the comedy drama ‘The Farewell’. She gained mainstream fame through her performances in ‘Crazy Rich Asians’ and ‘Ocean’s 8’. Her voice work in animated films like ‘Raya and the Last Dragon’ has also been very successful. Awkwafina is known for her unique comedic voice and her successful transition into dramatic territory. She has become a major star in both live action and voice acting.

Helena Bonham Carter

Helena Bonham Carter portrayed Princess Margaret in the third and fourth seasons of ‘The Crown’. She appeared in the ‘Enola Holmes’ films as the mother of the famous detective. Her career is marked by a long list of eccentric and memorable characters. Carter continues to be a favorite for directors seeking performers with a distinct and theatrical flair. She remains a highly respected figure in both British and American cinema.

Kathy Bates

Kathy Bates received an Academy Award nomination for her role in the biographical drama ‘Richard Jewell’. She has been a mainstay of the anthology series ‘American Horror Story’ for many seasons. Her work in the film ‘The Highwaymen’ further demonstrated her enduring talent. Bates is recognized for her ability to play both terrifying and deeply sympathetic characters. She remains one of the most accomplished veteran actresses in the industry.

Helen Mirren

Helen Mirren starred in the biographical drama ‘Golda’ as the former Prime Minister of Israel. She also led the historical western series ‘1923’ alongside Harrison Ford. Her career continues to flourish with roles in major action franchises like ‘Fast and Furious’. Mirren is known for her elegance and her commanding dramatic performances. She remains a legendary figure who consistently finds new ways to surprise audiences.

Judi Dench

Judi Dench earned an Academy Award nomination for her supporting role in the film ‘Belfast’. She starred in the historical drama ‘Victoria and Abdul’ as Queen Victoria. Her work is characterized by its grace and immense emotional weight. Dench is considered one of the greatest stage and screen actors of all time. She continues to deliver impactful performances even in the later stages of her career.

Meryl Streep

Meryl Streep starred in the historical drama ‘The Post’ and the musical sequel ‘Mamma Mia Here We Go Again’. She joined the cast of ‘Only Murders in the Building’ for a celebrated recurring role. Streep holds the record for the most Academy Award nominations of any actor in history. Her work over the last decade shows her continued relevance and mastery of her craft. She remains the gold standard for acting excellence in the Hollywood community.

Kirsten Dunst

Kirsten Dunst received critical acclaim for her role in the psychological drama ‘The Power of the Dog’. She starred in the action thriller ‘Civil War’ which became a significant critical success. Her work in the second season of ‘Fargo’ showcased her talent for dark comedy and drama. Dunst has experienced a notable career resurgence with several high profile projects. She is recognized for her thoughtful and understated acting style.

Sandra Bullock

Sandra Bullock starred in the massive streaming hit ‘Bird Box’ which became a cultural phenomenon. She also led the heist film ‘Ocean’s 8’ and the drama ‘The Unforgivable’. Bullock is known for her immense likeability and her ability to lead major commercial successes. She has successfully balanced her work as an actress with her role as a producer. Her career continues to be defined by her broad appeal and consistent performances.

Angelina Jolie

Angelina Jolie returned to her iconic role in ‘Maleficent Mistress of Evil’ during the last decade. She joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Thena in the film ‘Eternals’. Her recent work includes the biographical drama ‘Maria’ where she portrays Maria Callas. Jolie is also highly active in directing and humanitarian work outside of her acting career. She remains one of the most famous and influential women in the global film industry.

Share your thoughts on which actress you think has had the biggest impact over the last ten years in the comments.