Uma Thurman’s Career: From ‘Kiss Daddy Goodnight’ to ‘The Old Guard 2’

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Uma Thurman is one of cinema’s most distinctive and recognizable stars. With her statuesque presence, sharp intelligence, and captivating beauty, she established herself as a formidable talent in the late 1980s and early 1990s. She quickly demonstrated a fearless approach to her work, taking on complex and often unconventional roles that set her apart from her peers.

While her career is filled with varied performances across many genres, her legacy is forever linked to her collaboration with director Quentin Tarantino. The roles of Mia Wallace in ‘Pulp Fiction’ and The Bride in ‘Kill Bill’ were not just jobs; they were cultural events that cemented her status as a powerful icon and a gifted performer. Moving effortlessly from independent dramas to blockbuster action films, Thurman has built a career defined by bold choices and unforgettable characters.

‘Kiss Daddy Goodnight’ (1987)

This low-budget thriller marked Uma Thurman’s feature film debut. She starred as Laura, a young woman who seduces and robs men as a way to get by, but she eventually becomes the target of a dangerous stalker.

It was a dark and provocative first role that immediately showcased her magnetic screen presence. Her performance as the manipulative and vulnerable Laura was a bold introduction and hinted at the daring career choices she would make in the years to come.

‘Johnny Be Good’ (1988)

In this teen comedy, Thurman played Georgia Elkans, the supportive and intelligent girlfriend of the nation’s number one high school football recruit. Her character tries to keep him grounded as colleges from all over the country attempt to win him over with outrageous offers.

This was one of her first mainstream roles, placing her in a popular genre of the era. As the moral center of the film, she brought a sense of grace and stability that contrasted with the movie’s over-the-top comedic antics.

‘The Adventures of Baron Munchausen’ (1988)

Thurman had a memorable role as the goddess Venus in Terry Gilliam’s fantasy epic. She makes a spectacular entrance, emerging from a clamshell in a scene modeled after Botticelli’s famous painting. She also plays the character of Rose, an actress in the troupe.

Although her screen time is brief, her appearance as Venus is one of the film’s most iconic and visually stunning moments. The role capitalized on her striking beauty and established her ability to make a huge impact in a fantasy setting.

‘Dangerous Liaisons’ (1988)

This critically acclaimed period drama was Thurman’s breakout role. She played Cécile de Volanges, an innocent and naive young convent girl who becomes a pawn in the cruel games of seduction played by two wicked aristocrats.

Her portrayal of Cécile’s tragic corruption was heartbreaking and powerful, earning her widespread recognition. Acting alongside seasoned stars like Glenn Close and John Malkovich, she proved herself to be a serious dramatic talent.

‘Where the Heart Is’ (1990)

In this quirky comedy directed by John Boorman, Thurman played Daphne McBain. She is one of three spoiled adult children whose wealthy father demolishes their apartment building and forces them to live in a run-down house in a rough neighborhood to teach them a lesson about real life.

The film is an eccentric fable about wealth and happiness. Thurman’s character is part of a strange ensemble, and the role allowed her to explore her comedic and offbeat side.

‘Henry & June’ (1990)

Thurman starred as June Miller in this controversial and artistically daring film. Based on the diaries of Anaïs Nin, the movie explores the passionate and complex relationships between Nin, writer Henry Miller, and his enigmatic wife, June.

The role was a bold and challenging one, as the film was the first to receive the MPAA’s new NC-17 rating. Her portrayal of the mysterious and seductive June was captivating and further established her reputation as a fearless actress willing to take on risky material.

‘Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves’ (1991)

In this film adaptation of the classic legend, Thurman starred as Maid Marian. Opposite Patrick Bergin’s Robin Hood, her version of Marian is a strong-willed and independent noblewoman who defies her villainous suitor and joins the fight for justice.

This take on the story was noted for its grittier and more realistic tone. Thurman’s portrayal of a capable and defiant Marian was a departure from more passive interpretations of the character, making her a true partner to Robin Hood.

‘Final Analysis’ (1992)

In this psychological thriller, Thurman played Diana Baylor. She is a troubled young woman who seeks help from a psychiatrist, but he soon becomes entangled in the dark and dangerous world of her manipulative older sister, played by Kim Basinger.

Her character is a key part of the film’s twisting plot. She delivered a vulnerable and compelling performance as a woman trapped in a web of deceit and murder.

‘Jennifer Eight’ (1992)

Thurman starred as Helena Robertson in this crime thriller. She plays a young blind woman who is the key witness in a serial killer investigation, and she forms a close bond with the detective, played by Andy Garcia, who is trying to protect her.

The role required her to convincingly portray a blind character, which she did with great sensitivity and skill. Her performance was central to the film’s suspense and provided its emotional core.

‘Mad Dog and Glory’ (1993)

In this unconventional romantic comedy-drama, Thurman played Glory, a young woman who works as a bartender for a local gangster. As repayment for a debt, the gangster “gives” Glory to a shy police photographer for a week, and the two develop an unexpected relationship.

Her portrayal of Glory was sweet, quirky, and full of heart. She had wonderful chemistry with her co-stars Robert De Niro and Bill Murray, and she created a memorable character who was much more than just a prize to be won.

‘Even Cowgirls Get the Blues’ (1993)

Thurman starred as Sissy Hankshaw in this quirky and surreal film from director Gus Van Sant. Her character is a woman born with abnormally large thumbs, which makes her a legendary hitchhiker. She eventually finds her way to a ranch run by a group of rebellious cowgirls.

The film is one of the most eccentric of her career and became a cult classic. Her performance as the free-spirited Sissy was the anchor of this strange and whimsical road movie.

‘Pulp Fiction’ (1994)

This is the role that made Uma Thurman a global superstar and a cultural icon. She played Mia Wallace, the cool, sharp-witted, and enigmatic wife of a feared crime boss. Her “date” with a hitman, played by John Travolta, is the centerpiece of the film’s most famous segment.

Her performance earned her an Academy Award nomination and universal acclaim. From the iconic dance at Jack Rabbit Slim’s to the terrifying overdose scene, Mia Wallace is one of the most unforgettable characters in modern cinema, and the role cemented Thurman’s place in film history.

‘A Month by the Lake’ (1995)

In this charming romantic comedy, Thurman played Miss Beaumont, a beautiful and flirtatious young American who disrupts the quiet lives of a group of British vacationers at an Italian resort in the 1930s.

The role allowed her to showcase a lighter, more comedic side. Playing the object of affection for two older men, she brought a sense of fun and modern energy to the period setting.

‘Beautiful Girls’ (1996)

Thurman played Andera in this beloved ensemble comedy-drama. She is the stunning and sophisticated “big city girl” who returns to her small hometown and captivates the local men, who are all struggling with their own relationships and fears of commitment.

Her character represents a world of glamour and possibility that seems out of reach for the other characters. She delivered a smart and memorable performance that was a key part of the film’s nostalgic and heartfelt story.

‘The Truth About Cats & Dogs’ (1996)

In this romantic comedy, a modern take on the ‘Cyrano de Bergerac’ story, Thurman played Noelle Sluarsky. She is a kind but slightly ditzy model who is asked by her insecure but brilliant radio host friend to pretend to be her when a handsome man comes calling.

Thurman was charming and funny as the beautiful “face” of the operation. She showed great comedic chemistry with her co-star Janeane Garofalo in this popular and well-loved film.

‘Batman & Robin’ (1997)

Thurman took on the iconic role of Dr. Pamela Isley, who transforms into the villainous Poison Ivy in this famously campy superhero blockbuster. As Poison Ivy, she uses her deadly kiss and mind-controlling pheromones to wreak havoc on Gotham City.

Her performance was a theatrical and over-the-top tribute to classic screen sirens, and it is considered one of the most memorable parts of the film. She fully embraced the movie’s colorful and cartoonish tone, creating a fun and unforgettable comic book villain.

‘Gattaca’ (1997)

In this intelligent and stylish science fiction film, Thurman played Irene Cassini. In a future where society is driven by eugenics, she is a genetically “valid” worker at a space exploration agency who becomes involved with a man who is hiding his “invalid” status.

Her performance was cool, elegant, and full of quiet melancholy. She perfectly embodied the film’s sleek and controlled aesthetic, creating a character who is a product of a perfect but soulless world.

‘Les Misérables’ (1998)

In this film adaptation of Victor Hugo’s classic novel, Thurman played the tragic character of Fantine. She is a poor factory worker who is forced into a desperate life on the streets to provide for her young daughter, Cosette.

Taking on such a famous and heartbreaking role was a major dramatic challenge. Her portrayal of Fantine’s devastating downfall was powerful and moving, and it is one of the most emotional performances of her career.

‘The Avengers’ (1998)

Thurman starred as the brilliant and stylish secret agent Emma Peel in this big-screen adaptation of the classic 1960s British television series. Alongside Ralph Fiennes as John Steed, she battles a mad scientist who is trying to control the world’s weather.

The role of the iconic, catsuit-wearing Emma Peel was a perfect fit for Thurman’s intelligence and style. Although the film itself was not a success, her performance paid tribute to the beloved character.

‘Sweet and Lowdown’ (1999)

In this Woody Allen film, Thurman played Blanche. She is the sophisticated and unhappily married writer who has a tumultuous affair with a brilliant but deeply troubled jazz guitarist in the 1930s.

Her performance was smart, witty, and nuanced. She captured the elegance and intelligence of her character, serving as a compelling and articulate counterpoint to the film’s nearly silent protagonist.

‘Vatel’ (2000)

This lavish period drama is set in the court of King Louis XIV of France. Thurman played Anne de Montausier, a lady-in-waiting who is pursued by the king and falls for the master steward, Vatel, who is in charge of organizing a magnificent three-day festival.

She brought grace and elegance to her role as the object of affection for both a king and a commoner. Her performance was a key part of the film’s romantic and ultimately tragic story.

‘The Golden Bowl’ (2000)

In this adaptation of the Henry James novel, Thurman played Charlotte Stant. She is an intelligent but impoverished American who, despite being in love with an Italian prince, marries a wealthy widower, who happens to be the father of the prince’s new wife.

This was a complex and challenging role in a sophisticated literary drama. She perfectly captured the character’s mix of passion, intelligence, and moral compromise in a story of intertwined relationships and hidden betrayals.

‘Tape’ (2001)

This intense, real-time drama takes place entirely in a single motel room. Thurman played Amy Randall, a district attorney who reunites with two high school friends. The reunion takes a dark turn when one friend tries to force the other to confess to a long-buried crime involving Amy.

The film is a powerful three-person acting showcase. Her performance is a stunning display of emotional complexity, as her character confronts her past trauma and brilliantly turns the tables on her former friends.

‘Chelsea Walls’ (2001)

In this film directed by Ethan Hawke, which explores the lives of various artists living in New York’s famous Chelsea Hotel, Thurman played Grace. Her character is a poet who is part of the hotel’s vibrant and bohemian community.

Her role was part of a large ensemble cast in this atmospheric and artistic film. She fit seamlessly into the movie’s lyrical and character-driven exploration of creativity and ambition.

‘Paycheck’ (2003)

In this science-fiction action thriller, Thurman played Dr. Rachel Porter. She is a biologist who falls for a brilliant engineer who has his memory erased after each top-secret job. When he finds himself on the run, she is the only person who can help him piece his past together.

She was a smart and capable partner to the film’s action hero, played by Ben Affleck. Her character was crucial to both the romantic and mystery elements of the plot.

‘Kill Bill: Vol. 1’ (2003)

Thurman delivered her second career-defining performance as Beatrix Kiddo, also known as The Bride, in this martial arts epic. After waking from a four-year coma, the former assassin embarks on a bloody quest for revenge against the team of assassins who left her for dead.

Thurman co-created the character with Quentin Tarantino, and her performance is a tour-de-force of physical and emotional power. The role required intense physical training and cemented her status as one of the greatest action heroines in film history.

‘Kill Bill: Vol. 2’ (2004)

This second installment completes The Bride’s quest for revenge. The film delves deeper into her backstory, her brutal training, and her relationships, culminating in a final confrontation with her former boss and lover, Bill.

Thurman continued her incredible performance, showing more of the character’s vulnerability and emotional depth alongside her deadly skills. The two-part film is considered a masterpiece, and her portrayal of The Bride is legendary.

‘Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind’ (2005)

In the English-language dub of this classic animated film from Hayao Miyazaki, Thurman voiced the character of Kushana. She is the formidable and pragmatic princess of a military empire who is a rival to the film’s peaceful heroine.

Her voice work captured the character’s strength and commanding presence. She was part of a talented cast that brought the beloved animated epic to a new generation of English-speaking audiences.

‘Be Cool’ (2005)

In this sequel to ‘Get Shorty’, Thurman played Edie Athens, the widow of a record executive who gets involved with a former mobster trying to make it in the music business. Her character is smart and resourceful, helping him navigate the wild world of the music industry.

The film cleverly reunited her with her ‘Pulp Fiction’ co-star John Travolta, even including a scene where the two dance together. Her performance was a cool and stylish part of the star-studded ensemble cast.

‘Prime’ (2005)

Thurman starred in this romantic comedy as Rafi Gardet, a recently divorced 37-year-old woman who falls in love with a 23-year-old painter. The situation becomes complicated when she discovers that her new boyfriend is the son of her therapist, played by Meryl Streep.

Her performance was charming, funny, and relatable. She convincingly portrayed the excitement and challenges of an age-gap romance and had wonderful chemistry with her co-stars.

‘The Producers’ (2005)

In this film adaptation of the hit Broadway musical, Thurman played Ulla, a beautiful Swedish actress and dancer who is hired as the secretary and leading lady for two theatrical producers. Her character is a key part of their scheme to stage a Broadway flop.

Thurman showcased her singing and dancing talents in this flamboyant and comedic role. Her performance of the song “When You Got It, Flaunt It” was a musical highlight of the film.

‘My Super Ex-Girlfriend’ (2006)

In this romantic comedy, Thurman played Jenny Johnson, a seemingly normal woman who is secretly the powerful superhero known as G-Girl. When her boyfriend breaks up with her, she uses her superpowers to make his life a nightmare.

The film gave her the chance to play both a vulnerable, quirky woman and a jealous, all-powerful superhero. It was a fun and clever twist on both the romantic comedy and superhero genres.

‘The Life Before Her Eyes’ (2007)

In this psychological drama, Thurman played the adult version of Diana McFee. Her character is a seemingly perfect wife and mother who is haunted by a traumatic event from her high school years, and the film explores the connection between her past and present.

This was a complex and emotionally demanding role. Her performance captured the deep-seated trauma and survivor’s guilt of a woman whose life was forever altered by a single, tragic moment.

‘The Accidental Husband’ (2008)

Thurman starred as Emma Lloyd, a successful and sensible radio talk show host who gives relationship advice. Her life is turned upside down when she discovers she is married to a man she has never met, a prank orchestrated by the vengeful ex-fiancé of one of her listeners.

She also served as a producer on this lighthearted romantic comedy. The film’s plot created a classic romantic triangle, with her character forced to choose between her responsible fiancé and the charming stranger she is legally married to.

‘Motherhood’ (2009)

In this comedy-drama, Thurman starred as Eliza Welsh, a New York City mother trying to navigate the chaotic and often overwhelming demands of raising two young children. The film follows her over the course of one particularly challenging day as she prepares for her daughter’s sixth birthday party.

This was a very personal and relatable role for Thurman. Her performance captured the humor, stress, and love that are all part of modern parenthood.

‘Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief’ (2010)

Thurman had a memorable role as the mythical monster Medusa in this fantasy adventure film. With snakes for hair and a gaze that turns people to stone, she confronts the young heroes in her secluded garden lair.

Her portrayal of Medusa was both terrifying and strangely sympathetic. She created a charismatic and dangerous villain that was a highlight of the film.

‘Ceremony’ (2010)

In this independent comedy, Thurman played Zoe, a woman who is about to marry a wealthy and successful man. Her lavish wedding weekend is crashed by a young, aspiring author who is determined to win her back.

Her character is the intelligent and sophisticated object of affection caught between her stable future and her romantic past. She brought grace and complexity to the role, making it clear why two very different men would be so in love with her.

‘Bel Ami’ (2012)

In this period drama based on the Guy de Maupassant novel, Thurman played Madeleine Forestier. She is the intelligent and well-connected wife of a journalist who secretly helps a handsome young social climber, played by Robert Pattinson, rise through the ranks of Parisian society.

Her portrayal of Madeleine was sharp, witty, and powerful. She played a woman who was smarter than all the men around her and used her talents to exert influence from behind the scenes.

‘Playing for Keeps’ (2012)

In this romantic comedy, Thurman played Patti King, the wife of a wealthy former sportscaster played by Dennis Quaid. She aggressively pursues the main character, a down-on-his-luck soccer star who is coaching the local kids’ team.

Her role as a glamorous and flirtatious “soccer mom” was a fun and comedic part of the film’s ensemble cast.

‘Movie 43’ (2013)

In this infamous anthology comedy film, which features a huge number of stars in different segments, Thurman played Lois Lane. Her segment, “Super Hero Speed Dating,” features Batman and Superman at a speed dating event where Robin tries to sabotage Batman’s chances.

Her appearance as the iconic comic book character was part of one of the film’s many bizarre and outrageous sketches.

‘Nymphomaniac’ (2013)

In Lars von Trier’s controversial and explicit epic, Thurman has one of the most memorable scenes. She plays Mrs. H, a woman who brings her three young sons to confront her husband at the apartment of his mistress, the film’s main character.

Her single-scene performance is a masterclass in rage, betrayal, and dark humor. It was a raw and unforgettable monologue that was widely praised by critics as a highlight of the two-part film.

‘Burnt’ (2015)

In this drama set in the world of high-end cuisine, Thurman had a supporting role as Simone. She is a powerful and respected food critic whose review could make or break the career of a brilliant but troubled chef trying to make a comeback.

Her appearance as the formidable and influential critic was brief but impactful. She brought a sense of authority and sophistication to the role, representing the pinnacle of the culinary world the main character is trying to conquer.

‘The Con Is On’ (2018)

Thurman starred as Harriet Fox in this heist comedy. She and her husband are a pair of eccentric and debt-ridden British con artists who flee to Los Angeles and plot a jewel theft to pay off a dangerous gangster.

The film is a chaotic farce with a large ensemble cast. Thurman’s role as one half of the bickering, booze-fueled con team allowed her to engage in broad, physical comedy.

‘The House That Jack Built’ (2018)

In another collaboration with director Lars von Trier, Thurman appears in the first segment of this disturbing and controversial film about a serial killer. She plays an unnamed woman who gets a flat tire and badgers the killer into giving her a ride, becoming his first victim.

Her scene is a long and darkly comedic dialogue that sets the tone for the entire film. It was another fearless and powerful performance in a highly provocative art-house film.

‘Down a Dark Hall’ (2018)

In this supernatural horror film, Thurman played Madame Simone Duret, the mysterious and strict headmistress of the Blackwood Boarding School. She oversees a school for gifted but troubled teenage girls, who soon discover a dark secret about their creative talents.

Her portrayal of the elegant and menacing headmistress was the central force of the film. She created a character who was both a nurturing mentor and a terrifying villain.

‘The War with Grandpa’ (2020)

In this family comedy, Thurman played Sally Decker, the mother of the main character, a young boy who is forced to give up his bedroom for his grandfather, played by Robert De Niro. This kicks off an all-out war of pranks between the boy and his grandpa.

As the mom caught in the middle of the escalating conflict, she brought warmth and comedic exasperation to her role. The film was a lighthearted comedy that paired her with a legendary co-star.

‘Hollywood Stargirl’ (2022)

In this sequel, Thurman played Roxanne Martel, a musician who the main character, a talented young singer, idolizes. Roxanne had a hit song many years ago but has since retired from the music industry, and Stargirl tries to coax her into performing again.

Her role as the reclusive and revered musician was a warm and inspirational part of the film. She played a mentor figure who helps the young protagonist find her own voice.

‘Red, White & Royal Blue’ (2023)

In this popular romantic comedy, Thurman played President Ellen Claremont. She is the first female President of the United States and the mother of the main character, who falls into a secret romance with a British prince.

Her portrayal of the powerful, intelligent, and supportive President was widely praised. She brought a sense of warmth and humor to the role, creating a beloved character who is both a world leader and a caring mom.

‘The Kill Room’ (2023)

This dark comedy thriller reunited Thurman with her ‘Pulp Fiction’ co-star Samuel L. Jackson. She played an art gallery owner who gets involved in a money-laundering scheme with a hitman who accidentally becomes a famous avant-garde artist.

Her performance as the savvy and ambitious gallery owner was a key part of the film’s satirical look at the art world. Her chemistry with Jackson was a major highlight for fans.

‘Oh, Canada’ (2024)

In this drama directed by Paul Schrader, Thurman played Emma, the wife of a famed and dying documentary filmmaker who decides to give one final, truth-telling interview. The film explores his memories and the secrets of his past.

The role saw her working with another legendary director in a serious, character-driven story. She portrayed a woman who must listen and react as her husband’s life is deconstructed before her eyes.

‘The King of Kings’ (2025)

In this animated film about the life of Jesus Christ, told from the perspective of Charles Dickens’s cat, Thurman provides the voice of Catherine Dickens. She is the wife of the famous author who is writing the story.

This voice role in a unique, family-oriented animated film adds another interesting and varied credit to her long career.

‘The Old Guard 2’ (2025)

Thurman joins the cast for the highly anticipated sequel to the hit action-fantasy film about a team of immortal warriors. The details of her character are being kept under wraps, but her addition to the franchise has generated significant excitement.

Her role in this major Netflix blockbuster marks a return to the high-octane action genre she is famous for. Fans are eager to see her join the star-studded cast in this new adventure.

Which Uma Thurman character, the sharp-witted Mia Wallace or the vengeful Bride, is your all-time favorite? Share your thoughts in the comments.