Emma Stone, often lauded as a comedy star, transcends genre boundaries, proving her mettle in diverse roles. From her Academy Award-winning performance in “La La Land” to her critically acclaimed roles, Stone has become a cinematic force. Although renowned for her comedic prowess, Emma Stone’s career extends beyond laughter, showcasing her versatility in the below a to z movies list.
Gist on Emma Stone’s Initial Career Phase
Early on in her career, Stone appeared on television in series including “Medium,” “Malcolm in the Middle,” and “Lucky Louie” as a youngster. She made her film debut in the high school frolic “Superbad” (2007), playing a significant role. Three years later, she was vying for the Best Comedy/Musical Actress Golden Globe for her leading performance in “Easy A” (2010).
Stone had to wait four years to receive her first Oscar nomination for “Birdman” (2014), Best Supporting Actress. Even though Patricia Arquette (“Boyhood”) defeated her, the stage was laid for her eventual triumph in Best Actress for the 2016 musical “La La Land.” She will probably return to the Oscars with her 2023 film “Poor Things.”
1. Superbad (2007)
Director: Greg Mottola
Stone’s breakthrough role in “Superbad” adds heart to the teen comedy. Her portrayal of Jules complements the film’s examination of changing priorities in the last days of high school. Stone’s performance is a standout, contributing to the film’s unexpected hilarity and moving moments.
2. Zombieland (2009)
Director: Ruben Fleischer
“Zombieland” injects humor into the zombie apocalypse, with Stone and Jesse Eisenberg providing emotional depth. The film cleverly explores survival dynamics, suggesting that the most unexpected characters often thrive amidst the chaos. Stone’s chemistry with Eisenberg adds a layer of genuine emotion to this hilariously unconventional zombie movie.
3. Easy A (2010)
Director: Will Gluck
“Easy A” solidifies Stone’s status as a comedic voice. On the surface, the film is a high school sex comedy that cleverly explores societal judgment and the spread of false information, resonating particularly in the social media age. Stone’s charismatic and spontaneous performance anchors the film as one of the best teen movies of the 21st century.
4. Crazy, Stupid, Love (2011)
Directors: Glenn Ficarra, John Requa
Teaming up with Ryan Gosling, Stone in “Crazy, Stupid, Love” showcases her sardonic comedic timing. While adhering to rom-com tropes, the film benefits from their chemistry, making it a modern classic that understands and revitalizes the genre’s hallmarks.
5. The Amazing Spider-Man (2012)
Director: Marc Webb
Beneath the superhero façade of “The Amazing Spider-Man” lies a delightful romantic comedy. Stone’s portrayal of Gwen Stacy and Andrew Garfield’s Peter Parker elevates the film. Their electrifying chemistry captures the chaos of a young superhero’s life, transforming an expected blockbuster into a compelling romantic narrative.
6. Birdman (2014)
Director: Alejandro González Iñárritu
“Birdman” marks Stone’s Oscar-nominated role as Sam, daughter to Michael Keaton’s Riggan Thompson. The film delves into a midlife crisis, blending dark humor with poignant moments. Stone’s portrayal adds sharp and wicked humor, contributing to the film’s exploration of the creative process and familial dynamics.
7. The Croods (2014)
Directors: Chris Sanders, Kirk DeMicco
In the animated gem “The Croods,” Stone lends her voice to Eep Crood, a young girl in a prehistoric family. Living by strict rules, their world is upended by the arrival of “Guy” (Ryan Reynolds). Stone’s vocal chemistry with Reynolds infuses surprising depth into this family-oriented animation, making it a delightful watch for all ages.
8. Irrational Man (2015)
Director: Woody Allen
“Irrational Man” sees Stone opposite Joaquin Phoenix in a dark romantic comedy. The film explores morally ambiguous characters navigating a campus culture satire. Stone’s performance, entwined with Phoenix’s, adeptly guides the film through tonal shifts, resulting in an intriguing exploration of relationships with a dark twist.
9. The Favorite (2018)
Director: Yorgos Lanthimos
In the quirky period piece “The Favorite,” Stone’s role as Abigail earned her an Oscar nomination. The film’s dark humor dissects the English monarchy, with Stone’s confident performance at its center. Teaming up with Rachel Weisz and Olivia Colman, Stone delivers a remarkably assured, shifting, and hysterical turn that finds comedy in the most ruthless situations.
10. Poor Things (2023)
Director: Yorgos Lanthimos
Stone reunites with director Yorgos Lanthimos for “Poor Things,” a surreal comedy based on the 1992 novel by Alistair Gray. Stone’s performance as Bella Baxter in this Victorian resurrection tale is hailed as a triumph, showcasing her boldness and solidifying her comedic legacy.
Emma Stone’s comedic journey, from animated prehistory to Victorian resurrection, is a captivating exploration of her exceptional range in the above a to z movies list. Stone remains a comedic force as she continues to evolve, proving that her laughter-inducing performances are just one facet of her extraordinary talent. With “Poor Things” setting a new benchmark, Emma Stone’s comedic legacy in cinema is secure, leaving audiences eagerly anticipating her future comedic endeavors.
