Julia Garner’s Top 6 Roles

Julia Garner has carved a unique path in Hollywood with her raw talent and ability to dive into complex characters. From gritty crime dramas to chilling thrillers, she brings a spark that’s hard to miss, often stealing the spotlight even in smaller roles. Her knack for portraying layered, authentic characters has made her a favorite among audiences and critics alike.

Born in the Bronx in 1994, Garner grew up in a creative family, with a comedian mother and an artist father, which likely fueled her passion for storytelling. She started acting at 15 to overcome shyness, and by 17, she was already making waves in independent films. This article dives into six of her top roles, showcasing why she’s one of the most exciting actors working today.

Ruth Langmore in ‘Ozark’ (2017-2022)

In the Netflix crime drama ‘Ozark,’ Julia Garner plays Ruth Langmore, a tough, foul-mouthed member of a small-time criminal family who gets tangled up with the Byrde family’s money-laundering schemes. Her fierce energy and sharp wit make Ruth a fan favorite, blending vulnerability with a hard edge as she navigates loyalty and betrayal in a dangerous world.

Garner’s performance earned her three Emmy Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actress, a nod to her ability to make Ruth both relatable and unpredictable. She transforms a character who could’ve been a stereotype into someone you root for, even when her choices are messy. The show, starring Jason Bateman and Laura Linney, thrives on her electric presence, especially in tense scenes where Ruth’s survival instincts kick in.

Anna Delvey in ‘Inventing Anna’ (2022)

Garner takes on the role of Anna Delvey, the infamous con artist who posed as a wealthy heiress, in the Netflix miniseries ‘Inventing Anna.’ Her portrayal captures Anna’s bold charm and cunning, blending Russian, German, and American accents to create a magnetic yet unsettling character. The series, created by Shonda Rhimes, follows Anna’s rise and fall as she scams New York’s elite.

The role showcases Garner’s range, as she balances Anna’s glamorous facade with moments of raw insecurity. Critics praised her for making a larger-than-life figure feel human, even when her lies spiral out of control. Garner’s accent work and subtle expressions add depth, making this a must-watch for fans of true crime stories.

Terra Newell in ‘Dirty John’ (2018-2019)

In the Bravo true crime series ‘Dirty John,’ Garner plays Terra Newell, a young woman caught in the web of her mother’s dangerous con-man boyfriend, John Meehan. Terra’s journey from naive daughter to a survivor who fights back is gripping, and Garner brings quiet strength to the role, especially in the intense final confrontation.

Her performance stands out for its emotional depth, showing Terra’s fear and resilience without overplaying it. Opposite Connie Britton and Eric Bana, Garner holds her own, making Terra’s transformation believable and inspiring. The series blends suspense and family drama, and Garner’s work here proves she can shine in real-life stories.

Ellie Landsberg in ‘Maniac’ (2018)

Garner plays Ellie Landsberg in the Netflix miniseries ‘Maniac,’ a surreal sci-fi drama starring Emma Stone and Jonah Hill. As the sister of Stone’s character, Annie, Ellie appears in flashbacks, shaping the emotional core of Annie’s story. Garner’s role, though smaller, is pivotal, bringing a mix of warmth and tragedy to a show about mental health and experimental drugs.

Her ability to convey complex emotions in limited screen time makes Ellie unforgettable. She plays different versions of the character, including a quirky elf in one dreamlike sequence, showing off her versatility. ‘Maniac’ is a wild ride, and Garner’s performance adds a grounded, heartfelt layer to its strange world.

Hanna in ‘The Royal Hotel’ (2023)

In the psychological thriller ‘The Royal Hotel,’ Garner stars as Hanna, a backpacker who takes a job at a remote Australian pub with her friend Liv, played by Jessica Henwick. The film, directed by Kitty Green, builds tension as the women face creepy locals and a toxic environment, with Garner’s performance capturing Hanna’s growing unease and defiance.

Her chemistry with Henwick and her ability to convey fear without losing strength make the film gripping. Garner’s subtle reactions, like a wary glance or a tense pause, pull you into Hanna’s headspace. This role highlights her skill in slow-burn thrillers, where every moment feels like it could snap.

Jane in ‘The Assistant’ (2019)

In the indie drama ‘The Assistant,’ Garner plays Jane, a young production assistant working in a toxic film industry office. Directed by Kitty Green, the film tackles the MeToo movement through Jane’s quiet struggle, as she notices unsettling behavior from her powerful boss. Garner’s understated performance carries the story, showing Jane’s fear, frustration, and moral conflict.

She communicates volumes with minimal dialogue, using body language to convey Jane’s isolation. The film’s muted tone relies on Garner’s ability to make everyday moments feel heavy with meaning. It’s a powerful, restrained role that proves she can lead a film with quiet intensity.

Which of Julia Garner’s roles is your favorite, or is there another performance you think deserves a spot? Drop your thoughts in the comments!