20 Best Cate Blanchett Movies: A Showcase of Her Diverse Talent

With her intense screen presence, impeccable acting skills, and striking beauty, Blanchett has become one of the most respected and sought-after actresses in the industry.

Throughout her career, Blanchett has received numerous accolades for her work, including two Academy Awards, three Golden Globe Awards, and three BAFTA Awards.

She has appeared in a diverse range of films, from independent dramas to big-budget blockbusters, showcasing her range and ability to embody complex and multifaceted characters.

Best Cate Blanchett Movies

Some of Cate Blanchett’s most notable films include Elizabeth (1998), The Lord of the Rings trilogy (2001-2003), The Aviator (2004), Babel (2006), The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (2008), Blue Jasmine (2013), Carol (2015), and Thor: Ragnarok (2017).

Whether she’s playing a regal queen, a fierce warrior, a troubled socialite, or a powerful superhero, Blanchett brings depth and authenticity to every role she takes on.

1. Elizabeth (1998)

“Elizabeth” is a 1998 British historical drama film directed by Shekhar Kapur and starring Cate Blanchett in the title role. The film tells the story of the early years of Elizabeth I’s reign as Queen of England, from her accession to the throne to the defeat of the Spanish Armada.

The film follows Elizabeth’s struggles to establish herself as a strong and independent ruler in a male-dominated society, while facing threats from within her own court and from foreign powers.

As she navigates the complex political landscape of Tudor England, Elizabeth must also grapple with her own personal desires and relationships, including her romance with the dashing adventurer Sir Walter Raleigh (played by Clive Owen).

“Elizabeth” is notable for its lavish period costumes and sets, as well as its powerful performances, particularly from Blanchett in the lead role.

The film received widespread critical acclaim and was a commercial success, earning seven Academy Award nominations and winning one for Best Makeup.

It also helped launch Blanchett’s career as a major Hollywood star. Today, it is considered a classic of the historical drama genre and a definitive portrayal of one of England’s most iconic monarchs.

2. An Ideal Husband (I) (1999)

“An Ideal Husband” is a romantic comedy-drama film released in 1999 and directed by Oliver Parker. The film is based on the play of the same name by Oscar Wilde and stars Jeremy Northam, Cate Blanchett, Julianne Moore, and Rupert Everett.

The story takes place in London in the late 19th century, and follows Sir Robert Chiltern (Northam), a respected politician who becomes embroiled in a scandal involving a fraudulent investment scheme.

The scandal threatens to ruin his reputation and his marriage to Lady Chiltern (Blanchett), who believes her husband to be an “ideal husband” and is shocked to learn of his past indiscretions.

The film is known for its witty dialogue, lush period setting, and strong performances from its cast. It explores themes of morality, political corruption, and the role of women in Victorian society.

The film received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising its faithful adaptation of Wilde’s play and others criticizing its uneven tone and lack of nuance.

Despite the mixed reception, “An Ideal Husband” was a moderate box office success and has since become a cult classic among fans of period dramas and Oscar Wilde’s work.

If you like Cate Blanchett’s performances, on our sister site AuteurGraph we have a profile page, a visual film timeline, and a ratings page that gives a tonne of info and data about their career in a visualized form.

3. Pushing Tin (1999)

Pushing Tin is a 1999 comedy-drama film directed by Mike Newell and starring John Cusack, Billy Bob Thornton, Cate Blanchett, and Angelina Jolie. The film follows two air traffic controllers who compete for supremacy at work and in their personal lives.

Cusack plays Nick Falzone, a cocky air traffic controller who is considered the best in the business until a new controller named Russell Bell (Thornton) arrives and challenges him for the top spot.

The two men engage in a heated rivalry that spills over into their personal lives, causing problems for their respective spouses (played by Blanchett and Jolie).

Pushing Tin is notable for its unconventional subject matter, as well as its blend of comedy and drama.

The film provides a behind-the-scenes look at the high-pressure world of air traffic control, as well as the personal toll it can take on those who work in the field. The film’s themes of ambition, competition, and self-destructive behavior have also been praised for their honesty and insight.

The performances of the cast, particularly Cusack and Thornton, have been singled out for their strong chemistry and nuanced portrayals of complex characters.

4. The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999)

“The Talented Mr. Ripley” is a psychological thriller film released in 1999 and directed by Anthony Minghella. The film is based on the 1955 novel of the same name by Patricia Highsmith.

The plot follows Tom Ripley (played by Matt Damon), a young man who is sent to Italy to bring home the wealthy and spoiled Dickie Greenleaf (Jude Law), the son of a wealthy New York businessman.

However, Tom becomes infatuated with Dickie’s luxurious lifestyle and begins to covet his identity, leading him down a dark path of deception, manipulation, and murder.

The film received critical acclaim upon its release, particularly for the performances of its lead actors, the atmospheric visuals, and the tense psychological drama.

Matt Damon’s portrayal of Tom Ripley was widely praised, and the film was nominated for five Academy Awards, including Best Supporting Actor for Jude Law.

The film’s exploration of the darker side of human nature and its examination of the blurred lines between identity and reality make it a gripping and thought-provoking thriller.

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5. The Gift (2000)

The Gift is a 2000 American supernatural thriller directed by Sam Raimi and starring Cate Blanchett, Keanu Reeves, and Giovanni Ribisi.

The movie follows a small-town psychic, Annie Wilson (Blanchett), who becomes embroiled in a murder case after one of her clients, a young woman named Jessica King (Katie Holmes), goes missing.

As Annie attempts to use her psychic abilities to find Jessica, she encounters resistance from the townspeople, including the local sheriff (Reeves) and Jessica’s abusive husband (Greg Kinnear). The film is notable for its eerie atmosphere, strong performances, and twist ending.

The Gift received generally positive reviews from critics, with particular praise going to Blanchett’s performance as Annie.

The movie’s exploration of themes such as psychic ability, small-town prejudice, and domestic abuse has also been noted as strengths. Despite its relatively modest box office performance, The Gift has developed a cult following among fans of the thriller genre.

6. Bandits (2001)

Bandits is a crime-comedy film directed by Barry Levinson and released in 2001. The movie stars Bruce Willis, Billy Bob Thornton, and Cate Blanchett.

The film tells the story of two bank robbers, Joe Blake (Willis) and Terry Collins (Thornton), who become known as the “Sleepover Bandits” because of their habit of taking their victims hostage overnight. Along the way, they pick up a bored housewife named Kate Wheeler (Blanchett) who joins them on their escapades.

As they continue their crime spree, the three of them become entangled in a love triangle and are pursued by both the police and the mafia. The film is known for its clever and quirky humor, as well as its unexpected plot twists.

Bandits received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising its wit and charm while others found it to be uneven and overly reliant on its stars. However, it was a moderate commercial success and has gained a cult following over the years.

Overall, Bandits is a fun and entertaining crime-comedy with great chemistry between its three leads, and is worth watching for fans of the genre or the stars involved.

7. Charlotte Gray (2001)

“Charlotte Gray” is a 2001 British drama film directed by Gillian Armstrong and starring Cate Blanchett in the title role.

The film is based on the novel of the same name by Sebastian Faulks and tells the story of a young Scottish woman named Charlotte Gray, who becomes involved in the French Resistance during World War II.

The film follows Charlotte as she travels to France to search for her lover, a Royal Air Force pilot who has gone missing after being shot down over the country.

In her search, Charlotte meets Julien Levade (played by Billy Crudup), a Resistance fighter who enlists her to help with their mission to disrupt the German occupation of France.

“Charlotte Gray” is notable for its powerful performances, particularly from Blanchett, who delivers a nuanced portrayal of a woman torn between her personal desires and her duty to the Resistance.

The film also explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the human cost of war. While the film received mixed reviews from critics and was not a commercial success, it remains a compelling and thought-provoking exploration of a lesser-known aspect of World War II history.

8. The Shipping News (2001)

“The Shipping News” is a drama film released in 2001 and directed by Lasse Hallström. The film is based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel of the same name by E. Annie Proulx and stars Kevin Spacey, Julianne Moore, and Judi Dench.

The story takes place in Newfoundland, Canada, and follows Quoyle (Spacey), a man who moves to the remote coastal town of Killick-Claw to start a new life with his young daughter after the death of his estranged wife.

Quoyle begins working as a reporter for a local newspaper, where he uncovers the town’s dark secrets and comes to terms with his own troubled past.

The film is known for its breathtaking cinematography and its exploration of themes such as family, identity, and redemption. It features strong performances from its cast, particularly Spacey as the emotionally wounded Quoyle and Dench as his tough but loving aunt.

“The Shipping News” received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising its faithful adaptation of Proulx’s novel and others criticizing its slow pace and lack of emotional depth.

Despite its mixed reception, the film was a modest box office success and has since gained a loyal following among fans of literary adaptations and character-driven dramas.

9. Heaven (I) (2002)

Heaven is a 2002 drama film directed by Tom Tykwer and starring Cate Blanchett and Giovanni Ribisi. The film tells the story of a woman who takes justice into her own hands after a tragedy occurs in her life.

Blanchett plays Philippa, an English teacher living in Turin, Italy, who becomes involved in a terrorist bombing that kills her husband and several innocent people.

Devastated by the loss, Philippa decides to seek revenge by planting a bomb at the police station responsible for investigating the case.

However, the bomb fails to detonate, and she is arrested and interrogated by a young police officer named Filippo (Ribisi). Despite their initial animosity, the two develop a connection, and Filippo becomes convinced of Philippa’s innocence and helps her carry out her plan.

Heaven is notable for its exploration of complex moral and ethical themes, including justice, revenge, and forgiveness.

The film raises questions about the validity of the legal system and the limits of individual action in the face of tragedy and injustice. The film’s themes are underscored by the strong performances of Blanchett and Ribisi, who deliver nuanced and compelling portrayals of their characters.

The film’s direction by Tykwer, known for his visually striking and inventive films such as Run Lola Run, also adds to the film’s atmospheric and thought-provoking tone.

10. Veronica Guerin (2003)

“Veronica Guerin” is a 2003 biographical crime-drama film directed by Joel Schumacher and starring Cate Blanchett in the title role. The film is based on the true story of Irish journalist Veronica Guerin, who was murdered in 1996 after exposing the criminal activities of Dublin’s drug lords.

The plot follows Guerin as she investigates the drug trade in Dublin, putting herself in danger as she gets closer to the truth.

She is threatened and attacked by those involved in the drug trade, but continues to pursue the story, eventually leading to the arrest of several high-profile drug lords. However, her investigations also make her a target for retaliation, leading to her tragic murder.

The film was well-received upon its release, particularly for Blanchett’s performance as Guerin, which earned her a nomination for the Golden Globe Award for Best Actress.

The film’s depiction of the dangers of investigative journalism and the impact of organized crime on communities is a powerful and timely reminder of the importance of free and fearless journalism in society.

11. The Missing (I) (2003)

The Missing is a 2003 American Western thriller directed by Ron Howard and starring Tommy Lee Jones, Cate Blanchett, and Evan Rachel Wood.

The film is set in New Mexico in the late 19th century and follows Maggie Gilkeson (Blanchett), a single mother and healer who must rescue her daughter, Lily (Wood).

After she is kidnapped by a group of renegade Apache Indians led by a witch doctor named Chidin (Eric Schweig).

12. The Aviator (2004)

The Aviator is a biographical drama film directed by Martin Scorsese and released in 2004. The movie stars Leonardo DiCaprio as the eccentric and innovative aviation pioneer Howard Hughes, and features an ensemble cast that includes Cate Blanchett, Kate Beckinsale, and Alec Baldwin.

The film spans several decades of Hughes’ life, from the 1920s to the 1940s, and depicts his successes and struggles as he becomes a successful filmmaker, airplane manufacturer, and aviation record-breaker.

Along the way, he falls in love with several women, including the iconic actress Katharine Hepburn (Blanchett), and becomes increasingly isolated and paranoid due to his obsessive-compulsive disorder.

The Aviator received critical acclaim and was nominated for 11 Academy Awards, winning five, including Best Supporting Actress for Blanchett’s portrayal of Hepburn. The film is known for its stunning visuals, meticulous attention to detail, and strong performances from its cast.

Overall, The Aviator is a fascinating and immersive biopic that captures the spirit and ambition of one of America’s most innovative and enigmatic figures.

It’s a must-watch for fans of Martin Scorsese, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Cate Blanchett, as well as anyone interested in aviation history or the Golden Age of Hollywood.

13. Little Fish (2005)

“Little Fish” is a 2005 Australian drama film directed by Rowan Woods and starring Cate Blanchett, Sam Neill, and Hugo Weaving. The film tells the story of Tracy Heart (Blanchett), a former drug addict trying to rebuild her life in Sydney’s Little Saigon neighborhood.

As Tracy tries to distance herself from her troubled past, she becomes embroiled in a complex web of relationships and struggles to help her brother (Martin Henderson), who is also a drug addict, and her ex-boyfriend (Weaving), who owes money to a local drug lord (Neill).

“Little Fish” is notable for its raw and honest portrayal of addiction and the challenges faced by individuals trying to rebuild their lives.

Blanchett delivers a powerful performance as a woman struggling to reconcile her past with her present, and the supporting cast also delivers strong performances.

The film received critical acclaim and was praised for its authenticity and realism. It is considered a classic of Australian cinema and an important exploration of the country’s social and cultural issues.

14. Babel (I) (2006)

“Babel” is a drama film released in 2006 and directed by Alejandro González Iñárritu. The film features an ensemble cast that includes Brad Pitt, Cate Blanchett, Gael García Bernal, and Rinko Kikuchi.

The story takes place in multiple locations around the world, including Morocco, Japan, and the United States, and follows the interconnected lives of several characters who are affected by a tragic incident.

The film explores themes such as communication, cultural differences, and the impact of personal choices on others. It uses a non-linear narrative structure to weave together the various storylines, creating a tapestry of human experience that is both heartbreaking and hopeful.

“Babel” was well-received by critics and audiences alike, and was nominated for seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture.

The film’s visual style, powerful performances, and thought-provoking themes have made it a critically acclaimed and enduring work of cinema.

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15. Notes on a Scandal (2006)

Notes on a Scandal is a 2006 psychological thriller directed by Richard Eyre and starring Judi Dench, Cate Blanchett, and Bill Nighy. Based on the novel of the same name by Zoe Heller, the film explores the toxic relationship between two teachers at a London school.

Dench plays Barbara Covett, an aging and lonely history teacher who becomes obsessed with her new colleague, Sheba Hart (Blanchett), a younger and more glamorous art teacher.

When Barbara discovers that Sheba is having an affair with one of her students, Steven (Andrew Simpson), she uses the knowledge to manipulate and control Sheba, leading to a series of tragic consequences.

Notes on a Scandal is notable for its exploration of themes such as jealousy, manipulation, and power dynamics in relationships.

The film’s sharp script, written by Patrick Marber, is propelled by the standout performances of Dench and Blanchett, who create a palpable sense of tension and unease in their scenes together.

The film’s direction by Eyre, known for his work in theater and film, also adds to the film’s claustrophobic and unsettling atmosphere.

The film received critical acclaim for its intense and provocative story, as well as for the performances of its lead actors, with Dench earning an Academy Award nomination for her role.

16. Elizabeth: The Golden Age (2007)

“Elizabeth: The Golden Age” is a 2007 historical drama film directed by Shekhar Kapur and starring Cate Blanchett in the title role.

The film is a sequel to the 1998 film “Elizabeth,” and tells the story of Elizabeth I of England’s reign during the late 16th century, including her relationship with Sir Walter Raleigh (Clive Owen) and the conflict with the Spanish Armada.

The plot follows Elizabeth as she navigates the challenges of being a female monarch in a male-dominated world, and as she faces threats both from within her own court and from the powerful Spanish Empire.

Along the way, she forms a close bond with Raleigh, despite his romantic advances towards her, and ultimately leads England to victory against the Spanish Armada in a pivotal moment in English history.

The film was well-received upon its release, particularly for Blanchett’s performance as Elizabeth, which earned her a nomination for the Academy Award for Best Actress.

The film’s lavish production design, intricate costumes, and attention to historical detail also received praise.

“Elizabeth: The Golden Age” is a powerful and inspiring portrait of one of England’s most iconic monarchs, and a reminder of the enduring impact of her reign on British history and culture.

17. Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull (2008)

Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull is a 2008 American action-adventure film directed by Steven Spielberg and starring Harrison Ford as the iconic archaeologist Indiana Jones.

The movie is set in 1957, twenty years after the events of the previous film in the franchise, Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.

The story follows Indy as he teams up with a young motorcycle-riding rebel, Mutt Williams (Shia LaBeouf), to search for the mythical city of Akator and a crystal skull that possesses supernatural powers.

Along the way, they are pursued by Soviet agents, led by the ruthless Irina Spalko (Cate Blanchett), who also seek to find the skull for their own purposes.

Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull received mixed reviews from critics and audiences upon its release.

Some praised the film for its fun action sequences and nods to the previous films in the franchise, while others criticized it for its overly convoluted plot and reliance on CGI effects.

Despite the mixed reception, the movie was a box office success and remains a popular entry in the Indiana Jones series.

18. The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (2008)

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button is a romantic fantasy drama film directed by David Fincher and released in 2008.

The movie stars Brad Pitt as the titular character, who is born with a rare condition that causes him to age in reverse, and Cate Blanchett as his love interest, Daisy.

The film follows Benjamin’s life as he grows younger while everyone around him grows older, experiencing a series of adventures and relationships along the way.

Despite their differences in age and appearance, Benjamin and Daisy fall deeply in love and try to make their relationship work despite the challenges they face.

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button was a critical and commercial success, and received 13 Academy Award nominations, winning three, including Best Art Direction, Best Makeup, and Best Visual Effects.

The film is known for its stunning cinematography, innovative special effects, and moving performances from its cast, particularly Pitt and Blanchett.

Overall, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button is a poignant and thought-provoking film that explores themes of time, aging, and love.

It’s a visually stunning and emotionally resonant work of art that showcases the talents of its director and stars, and is a must-watch for fans of fantasy, romance, or drama films.

19. Robin Hood (2010)

“Robin Hood” is a 2010 British-American epic historical drama film directed by Ridley Scott and starring Russell Crowe in the title role.

The film is a retelling of the classic Robin Hood story, set in England during the 12th century and focusing on Robin Hood’s early years as an outlaw and his struggle against the corrupt Sheriff of Nottingham (Matthew Macfadyen).

The film portrays Robin Hood as a skilled archer and warrior who returns from fighting in the Crusades to find his homeland in turmoil.

He forms a band of followers, including Little John (Kevin Durand) and Friar Tuck (Mark Addy), and leads them in a rebellion against the oppressive rule of the Sheriff of Nottingham.

“Robin Hood” is notable for its epic scale and action sequences, as well as its strong performances from the cast.

Crowe delivers a nuanced portrayal of a hero torn between his duty to his people and his own personal desires, while Macfadyen gives a chilling performance as the corrupt Sheriff.

The film received mixed reviews from critics and was a moderate commercial success, but it remains a popular and entertaining adaptation of the classic Robin Hood tale.

20. Hanna (2011)

“Hanna” is an action-thriller film released in 2011, directed by Joe Wright and starring Saoirse Ronan, Eric Bana, and Cate Blanchett.

The film follows a 16-year-old girl named Hanna (Ronan), who has been raised in the wilderness by her father (Bana), a former CIA operative.

Hanna possesses remarkable combat skills and is trained to become a deadly assassin.

When she is finally ready to enter the real world, she embarks on a mission to kill a high-ranking CIA agent (Blanchett) who has a personal connection to her past.

The film is known for its stylized action sequences, visually striking cinematography, and electronic score by The Chemical Brothers. It explores themes of identity, family, and the consequences of violence.

Ronan’s performance as Hanna was particularly praised by critics for her convincing portrayal of a teenager with exceptional abilities.

“Hanna” received generally positive reviews from critics and was a modest commercial success. The film’s unique blend of action, drama, and coming-of-age elements have made it a cult favorite among fans of the genre.

3 Reasons To Watch Cate Blanchett Movies

Exceptional Acting: Cate Blanchett is widely regarded as one of the greatest actors of her generation.

She has won two Academy Awards and multiple other awards for her performances in films such as “Blue Jasmine,” “The Aviator,” and “Elizabeth.” Blanchett is known for her versatility and ability to transform herself into a wide range of characters, making her performances captivating and memorable.

Diverse Roles: Blanchett has played a variety of roles throughout her career, from the regal Queen Elizabeth in “Elizabeth” and its sequel “Elizabeth:

The Golden Age,” to the quirky and troubled protagonist in “Blue Jasmine.” She has also portrayed iconic characters like Galadriel in “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy and Hela in “Thor: Ragnarok.” Blanchett’s range and willingness to take on challenging roles make her a compelling actor to watch.

Strong Female Characters: Blanchett is known for her portrayals of strong and complex female characters. In many of her films, she plays women who are in positions of power, facing adversity and overcoming challenges.

Her characters are often independent and courageous, making her a role model for women and girls who aspire to break down barriers and achieve their goals.

Best Cate Blanchett Movies – Wrap Up

Cate Blanchett is one of the most talented and versatile actresses of her generation. Here are a few of her best movies:

Blue Jasmine (2013) – Blanchett won an Oscar for her performance in this drama as a formerly wealthy socialite struggling to rebuild her life.

Elizabeth (1998) – Blanchett earned her first Oscar nomination for her portrayal of Queen Elizabeth I in this historical drama.

The Lord of the Rings Trilogy (2001-2003) – Blanchett played the ethereal elf Galadriel in Peter Jackson’s epic fantasy series.

Carol (2015) – Blanchett received critical acclaim for her role as an elegant married woman who falls in love with a younger woman in 1950s New York.

The Aviator (2004) – Blanchett won an Oscar for her supporting role as Katharine Hepburn in this biographical drama about the life of Howard Hughes.

These films are just a few highlights from Blanchett’s impressive career, which includes a wide range of genres and characters.

Blanchett’s talent and dedication to her craft have made her one of the most respected and admired actresses in the industry today.