Charlize Theron is a talented South African-American actress and producer who has made a name for herself in Hollywood with her powerful performances and diverse roles.
Throughout her career, Theron has portrayed a range of complex and compelling characters, from a serial killer to a struggling single mother to a powerful action hero.
She has won numerous awards, including an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in “Monster” (2003).
Best Charlize Theron Movies
Whether she is playing a complex and troubled character or an action hero, Theron brings a unique depth and authenticity to her performances that make her one of the most talented actresses working in Hollywood today.
1. That Thing You Do! (1996)
“That Thing You Do!” is a 1996 musical comedy-drama film written and directed by Tom Hanks. The film follows the rise and fall of a fictional one-hit wonder band called “The Wonders” during the height of the 1960s rock and roll era.
The film features a talented cast, including Tom Everett Scott, Liv Tyler, Steve Zahn, Ethan Embry, and Tom Hanks himself.
It also boasts a catchy and memorable soundtrack, with the titular song “That Thing You Do!” being written specifically for the film by Tom Hanks and Adam Schlesinger.
The film is a charming and nostalgic tribute to the golden age of rock and roll and captures the excitement and energy of that era. It also explores themes of friendship, ambition, and the fleeting nature of success.
Overall, “That Thing You Do!” is a fun and entertaining film that will appeal to fans of music, comedy, and 1960s nostalgia.
2. The Devil’s Advocate (1997)
“The Devil’s Advocate” is a 1997 supernatural thriller film directed by Taylor Hackford and starring Keanu Reeves, Al Pacino, and Charlize Theron.
The film follows a young lawyer named Kevin Lomax (played by Keanu Reeves) who is recruited by a powerful New York law firm headed by the charismatic John Milton (played by Al Pacino).
As Lomax becomes increasingly successful in his career, he starts to notice some strange and sinister things happening around him, and he begins to suspect that his boss may have some connection to the supernatural.
As the truth about the law firm and its clients is gradually revealed, Lomax finds himself facing a moral dilemma that could cost him everything he holds dear.
“The Devil’s Advocate” is a dark and atmospheric film that explores themes of ambition, temptation, and the corrupting influence of power.
Keanu Reeves delivers a solid performance as the conflicted protagonist, while Al Pacino is a commanding presence as the charismatic and enigmatic John Milton. Charlize Theron also delivers a memorable performance as Lomax’s troubled wife.
Overall, “The Devil’s Advocate” is a well-crafted thriller that offers a unique spin on the Faustian bargain theme. Its strong performances, suspenseful atmosphere, and thought-provoking themes make it a recommended watch for fans of the genre.
3. Mighty Joe Young (1998)
“Mighty Joe Young” is a 1998 American adventure film directed by Ron Underwood and starring Bill Paxton and Charlize Theron.
The film tells the story of a giant, intelligent gorilla named Joe and the efforts of a zoologist and a conservationist to protect him from poachers and take him to a safe refuge in the mountains.
Here are three reasons to watch “Mighty Joe Young”:
Impressive special effects: The film features groundbreaking visual effects that brought the giant gorilla character of Joe to life. The effects were created using a mix of animatronics and computer-generated imagery, which make Joe a believable and lovable character.
Exciting action and adventure: “Mighty Joe Young” is an exciting adventure film that is full of action and suspense. There are thrilling sequences that involve Joe’s escape from captivity, his interactions with other animals, and his battles with poachers.
Heartwarming story: At its core, “Mighty Joe Young” is a heartwarming story about the bond between humans and animals. The film celebrates the beauty and majesty of nature and promotes conservation and respect for animals.
The relationship between Joe and his human friends is touching and inspiring, making this a great movie for animal lovers.
4. The Astronaut’s Wife (1999)
“The Astronaut’s Wife” is a 1999 science-fiction thriller film directed by Rand Ravich and starring Johnny Depp and Charlize Theron.
The film tells the story of two astronauts, Spencer and Jillian Armacost, who return to Earth after a space mission and begin to experience strange and alarming changes in their behavior and personalities.
As Spencer becomes increasingly distant and withdrawn, Jillian begins to suspect that something sinister happened to him during the mission.
As she investigates further, she uncovers a dark conspiracy involving a mysterious organization and a secret experiment that threatens not only her husband but also the entire human race.
The film features strong performances from its lead actors and a haunting score by composer George S. Clinton. Its intriguing storyline and eerie atmosphere make it a memorable entry in the sci-fi genre, although some critics have criticized its slow pacing and lack of coherence in the final act.
Overall, “The Astronaut’s Wife” is a thought-provoking and suspenseful thriller that will appeal to fans of the genre, particularly those interested in stories that explore the psychological toll of space travel and the implications of human experimentation.
5. The Cider House Rules (1999)
“The Cider House Rules” is a 1999 American drama film directed by Lasse Hallström, and starring Tobey Maguire, Charlize Theron, and Michael Caine in lead roles.
The film is based on the novel of the same name by John Irving and explores themes of morality, family, and the right to choose.
The story follows Homer Wells (Maguire), an orphan who grows up in an orphanage run by Dr. Wilbur Larch (Caine).
As he reaches adulthood, Homer becomes torn between his desire to explore the world outside of the orphanage and his loyalty to Dr. Larch, who wants him to take over the orphanage after he retires.
Along the way, Homer falls in love with a young woman named Candy (Theron) and becomes involved in a complex web of family relationships.
The film was praised for its strong performances, particularly by Caine, who won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role as Dr. Larch.
The film also received critical acclaim for its sensitive handling of difficult subject matter, such as abortion and the ethics of medical practice.
“The Cider House Rules” went on to receive seven Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture and Best Director for Hallström. While it did not win those awards, the film remains a beloved and critically acclaimed work of American cinema.
6. Reindeer Games (2000)
“Reindeer Games” is a 2000 action thriller film directed by John Frankenheimer and starring Ben Affleck, Gary Sinise, and Charlize Theron.
The film tells the story of a former inmate, Rudy Duncan (played by Ben Affleck), who assumes the identity of his dead cellmate in order to escape from prison and meet his pen pal girlfriend, Ashley (played by Charlize Theron).
However, he soon finds himself embroiled in a dangerous heist plot masterminded by Ashley’s brother (played by Gary Sinise).
The film explores themes of deception, betrayal, and redemption. It features action-packed sequences and unexpected plot twists. The film received mixed reviews from critics but was a moderate box office success.
“Reindeer Games” is known for its thrilling plot and the performances of its lead actors. It is a must-watch for fans of action thrillers and heist films. However, viewers should be aware that the film contains scenes of violence and may not be suitable for all audiences.
7. The Yards (2000)
“The Yards” (2000) is a crime drama film directed by James Gray and stars Mark Wahlberg, Joaquin Phoenix, Charlize Theron, and James Caan.
The movie follows the story of Leo (Wahlberg), a former inmate who returns to his hometown in New York City and starts working for his uncle, Frank (Caan), in a company that repairs subway cars.
However, when Leo’s friend Willie (Phoenix) is unfairly blamed for a deadly accident at the company, Leo finds himself caught between his loyalty to his friend and his obligation to his family.
“The Yards” is a tense and gritty film that explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and corruption.
The performances are excellent, with Mark Wahlberg delivering a standout performance as Leo, a man torn between his family and his conscience. Charlize Theron also shines as Erica, Leo’s childhood friend and love interest, bringing depth and complexity to her character.
The film is visually stunning, with beautiful cinematography that captures the gritty atmosphere of New York City. The movie’s score, composed by Howard Shore, also adds to the tension and suspense of the story.
Overall, “The Yards” is a must-watch for fans of crime dramas and anyone who appreciates a well-crafted film. With its powerful performances, tense storyline, and stunning visuals, “The Yards” is a testament to the talent of its director and cast.
8. Men of Honor (2000)
“Men of Honor” is a 2000 biographical drama film directed by George Tillman Jr. The movie is based on the true story of Carl Brashear, the first African American to become a U.S. Navy Master Diver.
The film stars Cuba Gooding Jr. as Carl Brashear and Robert De Niro as his trainer, Master Chief Billy Sunday. It follows Brashear’s struggles against racism, adversity, and physical limitations as he trains to become a Navy Diver and the challenges he faces in his career.
“Men of Honor” is a powerful and emotional film that explores themes of racism, perseverance, and the pursuit of dreams. The movie features strong performances by both Gooding Jr. and De Niro and effectively portrays the challenges faced by Brashear in his career.
Overall, “Men of Honor” is an inspiring and uplifting film that celebrates the life and achievements of Carl Brashear and serves as a reminder of the importance of perseverance and determination in the face of adversity.
9. The Legend of Bagger Vance (2000)
“The Legend of Bagger Vance” is a 2000 drama film directed by Robert Redford and starring Will Smith, Matt Damon, and Charlize Theron.
The film is set in the 1930s and tells the story of a down-on-his-luck golfer named Rannulph Junuh (played by Matt Damon) who is struggling to find his swing and regain his confidence.
In a bid to revive his career, Junuh is persuaded to participate in a high-stakes golf tournament in Savannah, Georgia.
To help him prepare for the tournament, he enlists the help of a mysterious caddy named Bagger Vance (played by Will Smith), who offers him insights into the game and life itself.
As the tournament approaches, Junuh begins to find his form and rediscovers his love for the game, thanks to the guidance of Bagger Vance.
However, he soon realizes that there is more at stake than just the tournament, as he confronts personal demons and struggles with the legacy of the past.
“The Legend of Bagger Vance” is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film that celebrates the game of golf as a metaphor for life.
Will Smith delivers a nuanced performance as the enigmatic and charismatic caddy, while Matt Damon brings depth and complexity to his portrayal of Junuh. Charlize Theron also shines in a supporting role as Junuh’s love interest.
Overall, “The Legend of Bagger Vance” is a heartwarming and inspiring film that offers a poignant message about redemption, self-discovery, and the power of the human spirit.
Its beautiful cinematography, compelling story, and strong performances make it a recommended watch for fans of sports dramas and inspirational films.
10. Sweet November (2001)
“Sweet November” is a 2001 romantic drama film directed by Pat O’Connor and starring Keanu Reeves and Charlize Theron.
The movie tells the story of Nelson Moss, a hardworking advertising executive who meets Sara Deever, a free-spirited woman who lives life on her own terms.
Sara proposes to Nelson that they spend one month together without any strings attached, after which they will go their separate ways. However, their time together transforms them both in unexpected ways.
Here are three reasons to watch “Sweet November”:
Chemistry between the lead actors: Keanu Reeves and Charlize Theron have great on-screen chemistry, which brings their characters’ relationship to life. They make a convincing couple, and their interactions are charming, funny, and emotional.
Heartfelt story: “Sweet November” is a touching and emotional story about love, loss, and self-discovery. The movie explores complex themes such as the importance of living in the moment, the impact of past traumas on the present, and the power of forgiveness. The movie’s message is ultimately uplifting and inspiring.
Beautiful scenery and soundtrack: The film is set in San Francisco, and the stunning visuals of the city make it a character in its own right. The movie’s soundtrack is also notable, with songs by Enya, Seal, and other artists that perfectly capture the film’s mood and themes.
11. 15 Minutes (2001)
“15 Minutes” is a 2001 crime thriller film directed by John Herzfeld and starring Robert De Niro, Edward Burns, and Kelsey Grammer.
The film tells the story of two detectives, Eddie Flemming and Jordy Warsaw, who investigate a double homicide and soon discover that the killers are seeking to become famous by filming their crimes and broadcasting them on television.
As the investigation unfolds, Flemming and Warsaw become embroiled in a dangerous game of cat-and-mouse with the killers, who use their newfound notoriety to manipulate the media and the justice system.
The film explores themes of celebrity culture, media sensationalism, and the lengths to which people will go to achieve fame and fortune.
De Niro delivers a strong performance as the seasoned detective, while Burns shines as his younger, more idealistic partner. Grammer is also noteworthy in his supporting role as a sleazy tabloid reporter.
While the film received mixed reviews upon its release, it remains a compelling and thought-provoking thriller that will appeal to fans of the genre and those interested in exploring the darker side of modern society’s obsession with fame and notoriety.
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12. Trapped (I) (2002)
“Trapped” (2002) is a psychological thriller film directed by Luis Mandoki and stars Charlize Theron, Stuart Townsend, and Kevin Bacon.
The movie follows the story of a young married couple, Will and Karen Jennings (played by Townsend and Theron), who are kidnapped by a man named Joe Hickey (Bacon) and held for ransom in their own apartment.
Charlize Theron delivers a captivating performance as Karen Jennings, a woman who is forced to confront her own fears and weaknesses as she fights to survive her captivity.
Theron’s portrayal of Karen is nuanced and realistic, and she brings a great deal of emotional depth to the character. Stuart Townsend also delivers a strong performance as Will, Karen’s husband, who is equally determined to escape their captors.
The movie’s tense and claustrophobic atmosphere is expertly crafted, with the majority of the film taking place within the confined space of the couple’s apartment. The pacing is tight, and the tension builds steadily as the couple struggles to find a way out of their situation.
Overall, “Trapped” is a gripping and intense thriller that showcases Charlize Theron’s acting range and ability to carry a movie.
The film is well-crafted and suspenseful, with strong performances from the entire cast. If you enjoy psychological thrillers, “Trapped” is definitely worth a watch.
13. The Italian Job (2003)
“The Italian Job” is a 2003 action heist film directed by F. Gary Gray and starring Mark Wahlberg, Charlize Theron, Edward Norton, and Jason Statham.
The movie is a remake of the 1969 film of the same name and follows a team of professional thieves who plan to steal a safe full of gold from a former colleague who double-crossed them.
Charlize Theron plays Stella Bridger, the daughter of a legendary thief who is recruited by the team to help them with their heist. Theron’s character is smart, sassy, and skilled in driving, which makes her an integral part of the team.
Theron brings a great energy and charisma to the role, and her chemistry with co-star Mark Wahlberg adds an extra layer of fun and excitement to the movie.
The action sequences in “The Italian Job” are thrilling and well-executed, particularly the iconic chase scene through the streets of Los Angeles. The film also has a great soundtrack that adds to the overall enjoyment of the movie.
Overall, “The Italian Job” is an entertaining and stylish action heist film that showcases Charlize Theron’s acting talent and on-screen presence. The movie is a fun ride from start to finish, with great action, humor, and performances from the entire cast.
14. Monster (2003)
“Monster” is a 2003 crime drama film directed by Patty Jenkins. The movie tells the story of Aileen Wuornos, a former prostitute who became a serial killer and was executed in 2002.
Charlize Theron stars as Wuornos, and the film follows her life from her early days as a sex worker to her eventual descent into violence and murder.
Theron’s performance in “Monster” is widely regarded as one of the best of her career, and she won numerous awards, including the Academy Award for Best Actress, for her portrayal of Wuornos.
The film also features strong performances by Christina Ricci as Wuornos’ girlfriend and Bruce Dern as a sympathetic bar patron who befriends Wuornos.
“Monster” is a harrowing and powerful film that examines the dark side of human nature and the effects of abuse and trauma on individuals.
The movie portrays Wuornos as a tragic figure, a victim of circumstance and abuse who turns to violence as a means of survival. Overall, “Monster” is a gripping and emotionally intense film that is not for the faint of heart, but it is a testament to the power of cinema to explore complex and difficult subject matter.
15. The Life and Death of Peter Sellers (2004)
“The Life and Death of Peter Sellers” is a 2004 biographical drama film directed by Stephen Hopkins and starring Geoffrey Rush as the legendary British actor Peter Sellers.
The film chronicles the life and career of Sellers, from his early beginnings in show business to his rise to international fame as a comedic actor, and his troubled personal life.
The film uses a non-linear narrative structure, with Geoffrey Rush portraying Sellers in a series of flashbacks, as well as in scenes depicting the making of some of his most famous films, such as “The Pink Panther” and “Dr. Strangelove.”
The film also explores the complex and often troubled relationships that Sellers had with his wives, friends, and colleagues, as well as his struggles with depression and other personal demons.
Geoffrey Rush’s performance as Peter Sellers is widely acclaimed, with many critics praising his ability to capture the actor’s mannerisms, quirks, and idiosyncrasies.
The film also features a strong supporting cast, including Charlize Theron as Sellers’ second wife, Britt Ekland, and John Lithgow as director Blake Edwards.
Overall, “The Life and Death of Peter Sellers” is a well-crafted biopic that offers a fascinating insight into the life and career of one of the most iconic figures in British cinema. With its compelling story, excellent performances, and stylish direction, it is a must-watch for fans of biographical dramas and film history.
3 Reasons To Watch Charlize Theron Movies
Versatility: Charlize Theron is an incredibly versatile actress who has proven herself capable of portraying a wide range of characters.
From her award-winning portrayal of serial killer Aileen Wuornos in “Monster” to her badass action roles in “Mad Max: Fury Road” and “Atomic Blonde,” Theron has shown that she can take on any role and make it her own.
Acting skills: Theron is a talented actress who can convey complex emotions and ideas through her performances. She brings depth and nuance to her roles, making her characters feel real and relatable. Her ability to inhabit a character and make it her own is truly impressive.
Strong female roles: Theron has made a name for herself playing strong, independent female characters who are not afraid to take charge and make things happen.
She has been an advocate for more complex and empowering roles for women in Hollywood, and many of her movies reflect this commitment to representing women as strong and capable individuals.
Overall, Charlize Theron is a dynamic and talented actress who brings something unique and special to every role she takes on. Whether you’re a fan of action movies, dramas, or comedies, there is likely a Charlize Theron movie that will appeal to you.
Best Charlize Theron Movies – Wrap Up
Charlize Theron is a talented and versatile actress who has delivered many memorable performances over the years. Some of her best movies include:
“Monster” (2003) – Theron won an Academy Award for her transformative portrayal of real-life serial killer Aileen Wuornos.
“Mad Max: Fury Road” (2015) – Theron plays the fierce and determined Furiosa in this visually stunning post-apocalyptic action film.
“North Country” (2005) – Theron stars as a woman who takes on a male-dominated mining company in this powerful drama based on a true story.
“Atomic Blonde” (2017) – Theron plays a badass MI6 agent in this stylish and action-packed spy thriller set in Berlin during the Cold War.
“The Cider House Rules” (1999) – Theron delivers a touching performance as a young woman struggling with unexpected pregnancy in this coming-of-age drama.
“Young Adult” (2011) – Theron shines as a self-absorbed and emotionally stunted author who returns to her hometown in this darkly humorous character study.
“Tully” (2018) – Theron plays a struggling mother of three who forms an unlikely bond with her new nanny in this poignant and honest portrayal of motherhood.
These are just a few examples of Charlize Theron’s impressive filmography. Whether she’s playing a dramatic role or kicking butt in an action movie, Theron always delivers a memorable and impactful performance.
