Julia Roberts: Her Best Movies And Oscar Moments

Hey movie lovers! Let's dive into the amazing world of Julia Roberts, one of Hollywood's brightest stars. We're going to explore her most iconic roles and those unforgettable Oscar moments that have made her a true legend. Get ready to reminisce and maybe even discover some new favorites!

The Rise of a Rom-Com Queen

Julia Roberts burst onto the scene in the late 1980s, quickly becoming America's sweetheart. What really cemented her place in our hearts was her incredible run in romantic comedies. Let's talk about some of the classics that made her a household name.

Pretty Woman (1990)

Come on, who hasn't seen Pretty Woman? This is arguably Julia's most iconic role. She plays Vivian Ward, a vibrant and independent sex worker who finds herself in an unlikely romance with wealthy businessman Edward Lewis, played by Richard Gere. The movie is a modern-day Cinderella story filled with charm, wit, and undeniable chemistry between the leads.

What makes this film so special? Julia Roberts brought an incredible amount of warmth and authenticity to Vivian. Her infectious laugh, her vulnerability, and her transformation throughout the movie resonated with audiences worldwide. Pretty Woman wasn't just a box office hit; it became a cultural phenomenon, launching Julia into superstardom. The scene where she's turned away from a boutique on Rodeo Drive, only to return later with Edward and deliver that famous line, is pure cinematic gold!

My Best Friend's Wedding (1997)

Next up, we have My Best Friend's Wedding. In this rom-com, Julia plays Julianne Potter, a food critic who realizes she's in love with her best friend Michael (Dermot Mulroney) just as he's about to marry Kimmy (Cameron Diaz). What follows is a series of hilarious and often chaotic attempts to sabotage the wedding and win Michael's heart.

My Best Friend's Wedding is a masterclass in comedic timing and romantic tension. Julia perfectly portrays the conflicted emotions of a woman realizing she's made a mistake and is desperately trying to fix it. The film is filled with memorable scenes, including the infamous karaoke scene where Julianne embarrasses herself (and everyone else) singing "I Say a Little Prayer." The movie's ending, where Julianne accepts that Michael isn't hers and dances with her gay best friend George (Rupert Everett), is both bittersweet and heartwarming. It's a reminder that sometimes, love means letting go.

Notting Hill (1999)

In Notting Hill, Julia plays Anna Scott, a famous actress who stumbles into a bookstore in London and falls for the charming but ordinary bookseller William Thacker, played by Hugh Grant. Their romance is complicated by Anna's celebrity status and the constant media attention that surrounds her.

Notting Hill is a classic fish-out-of-water story with a healthy dose of British humor. Julia Roberts brings a vulnerability to Anna that makes her relatable despite her fame. The film explores the challenges of dating someone who lives in the public eye and the sacrifices that both parties must make. The scene where Anna stands before William and says, "I'm just a girl, standing in front of a boy, asking him to love her," is one of the most iconic and romantic moments in cinematic history.

Beyond Rom-Coms: Showcasing Her Range

While Julia Roberts is often associated with romantic comedies, she's proven time and again that she's capable of so much more. Let's explore some of her roles that showcase her incredible range and versatility as an actress.

Erin Brockovich (2000)

Erin Brockovich is a biographical legal drama that earned Julia Roberts her Oscar for Best Actress. She plays Erin Brockovich, a single mother who becomes a legal clerk and uncovers a massive environmental conspiracy involving a major corporation poisoning a town's water supply.

This role was a turning point in Julia's career. She completely transformed herself into Erin, capturing her grit, determination, and unwavering commitment to justice. The film is a powerful story about standing up to corporate greed and fighting for the little guy. Julia Roberts' performance is nothing short of phenomenal; she embodies Erin's fiery spirit and her compassion for the victims. Winning the Oscar validated her talent and solidified her status as one of the most respected actresses in Hollywood.

Closer (2004)

Closer is a dark and complex drama that explores the intricacies of modern relationships. Julia plays Anna Cameron, a photographer who becomes entangled in a web of love, lust, and betrayal with two other couples, played by Jude Law, Natalie Portman, and Clive Owen.

This film is a departure from Julia's usual roles. She portrays Anna with a quiet intensity and vulnerability, revealing the character's inner turmoil and her struggles with love and commitment. Closer is a challenging film that delves into the darker aspects of human nature, and Julia Roberts delivers a nuanced and compelling performance.

August: Osage County (2013)

In August: Osage County, Julia joins an ensemble cast to tell the story of a dysfunctional family gathering after a family tragedy. She plays Barbara Weston, the eldest daughter who returns home to care for her difficult and drug-addicted mother, played by Meryl Streep.

This film is a tour-de-force of acting, with each cast member delivering a powerful and emotionally charged performance. Julia Roberts holds her own against Meryl Streep, creating a complex and believable portrayal of a woman struggling to cope with her family's dysfunction and her own personal demons. The film is a raw and unflinching look at family dynamics, and Julia's performance is both heartbreaking and inspiring.

Oscar Moments and Accolades

Of course, no discussion of Julia Roberts' career would be complete without mentioning her Oscar moments. She's been nominated for three Academy Awards, winning one for her unforgettable performance in Erin Brockovich.

Oscar Nomination for Pretty Woman (1991)

Julia received her first Oscar nomination for her role as Vivian Ward in Pretty Woman. While she didn't win that year, the nomination itself was a huge accomplishment and a sign of things to come. It solidified her status as a leading actress and paved the way for future success.

Oscar Win for Erin Brockovich (2001)

The moment Julia Roberts won the Oscar for Best Actress for her role in Erin Brockovich was truly special. Her acceptance speech was heartfelt and genuine, reflecting her gratitude and her passion for her work. It was a well-deserved recognition of her talent and her dedication to her craft.

Other Notable Awards and Nominations

In addition to her Oscar wins, Julia Roberts has received numerous other awards and nominations throughout her career, including Golden Globe Awards, Screen Actors Guild Awards, and BAFTA Awards. These accolades are a testament to her consistent excellence and her enduring appeal to audiences and critics alike.

Julia Roberts' Enduring Legacy

Julia Roberts has left an indelible mark on Hollywood. She is more than just a beautiful face; she is a talented actress, a savvy businesswoman, and a role model for aspiring performers everywhere. Her ability to connect with audiences on a personal level has made her one of the most beloved and respected actresses of our time.

From her early days as a rom-com queen to her later roles in more dramatic fare, Julia Roberts has consistently challenged herself and pushed the boundaries of her craft. She has proven that she is capable of anything, and her future in Hollywood looks brighter than ever. So, the next time you're looking for a great movie to watch, be sure to check out one of Julia Roberts' many classics. You won't be disappointed!

So there you have it, guys! A look back at some of the best movies and Oscar moments from the one and only Julia Roberts. Which of these is your favorite? Let me know in the comments below! Don't forget to share this with your movie-loving friends!