From indie gems to superhero blockbusters, these are Scarlett Johansson’s must-watch performances.
Scarlett Johansson has earned her place among Hollywood’s most versatile and bankable actresses. With a career spanning over two decades, she’s taken on a wide range of roles—from emotionally rich indie dramas to billion-dollar action franchises. Here’s a look at the top 10 movies that define Scarlett Johansson’s exceptional career.
1. Marriage Story (2019)
IMDb Rating: 7.9/10
Role: Nicole Barber
Director: Noah Baumbach
A raw and emotional performance, Johansson plays a mother going through a heart-wrenching divorce. The role earned her an Oscar nomination for Best Actress and remains one of her most acclaimed performances.
2. Lost in Translation (2003)
IMDb Rating: 7.7/10
Role: Charlotte
Director: Sofia Coppola
This breakout performance earned Johansson critical acclaim. She plays a young woman connecting with an older actor in Tokyo, creating a bittersweet portrayal of loneliness and self-discovery.
3. Jojo Rabbit (2019)
IMDb Rating: 7.9/10
Role: Rosie Betzler
Director: Taika Waititi
As a mother hiding a Jewish girl during Nazi Germany, Johansson brings warmth, strength, and quiet rebellion. She received an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actress for this role.
4. Her (2013)
IMDb Rating: 8.0/10
Role: Samantha (Voice)
Director: Spike Jonze
Though never appearing on screen, Johansson’s voice performance as an AI system is magnetic and emotionally nuanced, elevating the film’s philosophical core.
5. Under the Skin (2013)
IMDb Rating: 6.3/10
Role: The Female
Director: Jonathan Glazer
This haunting sci-fi film showcases Johansson’s willingness to take risks. Her silent, eerie portrayal of an alien seductress earned her cult acclaim.
6. Lucy (2014)
IMDb Rating: 6.4/10
Role: Lucy
Director: Luc Besson
Johansson carries this cerebral action thriller where she plays a woman gaining godlike powers. Despite mixed reviews, her performance and presence elevated the film.
7. Avengers: Endgame (2019)
IMDb Rating: 8.4/10
Role: Natasha Romanoff / Black Widow
Director: Russo Brothers
A critical chapter in the MCU, Johansson gave her most emotional and sacrificial performance as Black Widow in this epic finale.
8. Ghost World (2001)
IMDb Rating: 7.3/10
Role: Rebecca
Director: Terry Zwigoff
A hidden gem from her early years, Johansson shines as a disaffected teen navigating post-high-school life in this cult comedy-drama.
9. Black Widow (2021)
IMDb Rating: 6.7/10
Role: Natasha Romanoff
Director: Cate Shortland
A long-overdue standalone film, this entry explores Natasha’s past and family, giving Johansson the spotlight she always deserved in the MCU.
10. The Prestige (2006)
IMDb Rating: 8.5/10
Role: Olivia Wenscombe
Director: Christopher Nolan
In this mysterious thriller about dueling magicians, Johansson plays a cunning assistant caught between loyalty and ambition.