20 Best Diane Keaton Movies: The Quirky and Endearing Roles of a Hollywood Legend

Diane Keaton is an American actress and filmmaker who has had a prolific career in film, television, and theater.

She has appeared in numerous iconic films and is widely regarded as one of the greatest actresses of her generation. Keaton’s work has garnered her many awards and nominations, including an Academy Award for Best Actress for her performance in “Annie Hall” (1977).

Best Diane Keaton Movies

We’ll highlight some of the best Diane Keaton movies that have cemented her status as a beloved and talented actress.

1. Something’s Gotta Give (2003)

“Something’s Gotta Give” is a 2003 romantic comedy film directed by Nancy Meyers and starring Jack Nicholson and Diane Keaton.

The movie tells the story of a successful and charming bachelor, Harry Sanborn (played by Jack Nicholson), who falls for an intelligent and independent woman named Erica Barry (played by Diane Keaton) who is a playwright.

One reason to watch “Something’s Gotta Give” is its strong performances from the lead actors. Jack Nicholson and Diane Keaton have great chemistry and their performances are both charming and funny.

They bring depth and nuance to their characters, making them feel like real people with genuine emotions.

Another reason to watch the movie is its witty and sharp dialogue. The film is full of hilarious and relatable moments that will make you laugh out loud. The characters’ interactions are smart and nuanced, and the writing is a perfect mix of humor and heart.

Finally, the film’s exploration of themes such as love, aging, and relationships adds depth and substance to the story.

The movie offers a fresh take on the romantic comedy genre by exploring these themes in a mature and thoughtful way. It’s a movie that will make you laugh, cry, and feel inspired to live your life to the fullest.

Overall, “Something’s Gotta Give” is a delightful romantic comedy that is sure to appeal to fans of the genre. With its strong performances, witty writing, and relatable themes, it’s a movie that will leave you feeling entertained and uplifted.

2. The Godfather (1972)

“The Godfather” is a 1972 American crime film directed by Francis Ford Coppola and starring Marlon Brando, Al Pacino, James Caan, and Robert Duvall.

The film is based on the novel of the same name by Mario Puzo and tells the story of the Corleone family, a powerful Mafia clan in New York City.

Here are three reasons why you should watch “The Godfather”:

Iconic performances: “The Godfather” features some of the most iconic performances in cinema history.

Marlon Brando’s portrayal of the patriarch of the Corleone family, Vito Corleone, is widely considered to be one of the greatest performances ever committed to film.

Al Pacino’s performance as Michael Corleone, Vito’s youngest son who becomes embroiled in the family’s criminal activities, is also widely praised. The performances of James Caan and Robert Duvall are also noteworthy.

Compelling storytelling: “The Godfather” tells a compelling story of power, family, and loyalty.

The film explores the dynamics of the Corleone family as they navigate the world of organized crime and the challenges they face in trying to maintain their power and influence.

The film’s screenplay, written by Mario Puzo and Francis Ford Coppola, is widely considered to be one of the greatest ever written and won the Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay.

Cinematic influence: “The Godfather” is widely regarded as one of the most influential films ever made.

Its impact on American cinema, particularly the gangster film genre, cannot be overstated. The film’s cinematography, score, and iconic imagery have been referenced and emulated in countless films and television shows since its release.

Watching “The Godfather” is not only an opportunity to enjoy a great film, but it is also a chance to witness a piece of cinematic history and to gain a deeper appreciation for the art and craft of filmmaking.

3. The First Wives Club (1996)

“The First Wives Club” is a comedy film released in 1996, directed by Hugh Wilson and starring Bette Midler, Goldie Hawn, and Diane Keaton. The story is based on a novel by Olivia Goldsmith.

The film follows three middle-aged women, former college friends who have lost touch over the years, who reunite at a funeral of their friend who committed suicide after being left by her husband for a younger woman.

The three women, who have also been dumped by their husbands for younger women, decide to take revenge on their ex-husbands and set out to reclaim their lives.

The film explores themes of friendship, aging, and the challenges faced by women in a patriarchal society. It was a box office success and became a cultural phenomenon, inspiring a resurgence of interest in “girl power” and inspiring similar films and TV shows.

“The First Wives Club” is known for its talented cast, witty dialogue, and memorable musical performances.

The film’s soundtrack features the hit song “You Don’t Own Me,” performed by Midler, Hawn, and Keaton, which became an anthem for women seeking empowerment and independence.

4. The Godfather Part III (1990)

Conclusion of the epic story: The Godfather Part III is the final chapter of the iconic Godfather trilogy, concluding the story of the Corleone family.

The movie offers a satisfying conclusion to the saga, as the aging Michael Corleone (Al Pacino) tries to legitimize his family business and confronts his own mortality.

Strong performances: Despite criticism over the years, the film features strong performances from its star-studded cast, including Al Pacino, Diane Keaton, and Andy Garcia. Sofia Coppola’s portrayal of Michael’s daughter Mary has also gained appreciation over time.

Exploration of complex themes: The Godfather Part III delves into complex themes such as redemption, betrayal, and the cost of power.

The movie also explores the consequences of the Corleone family’s actions over the years and how they’ve impacted the next generation. Overall, it’s a thought-provoking and compelling film that’s worth watching for fans of the genre.

5. The Family Stone (2005)

“The Family Stone” is a 2005 American comedy-drama film directed by Thomas Bezucha and starring an ensemble cast that includes Diane Keaton, Sarah Jessica Parker, Rachel McAdams, Dermot Mulroney, Craig T. Nelson, and Luke Wilson.

The movie tells the story of a family gathering during the holidays where a free-spirited woman, played by Sarah Jessica Parker, meets her boyfriend’s conservative family and things take a turn when she clashes with his mother, played by Diane Keaton.

The film received mixed reviews from critics, but was praised for its performances and its portrayal of a family struggling with issues of love, acceptance, and loss.

6. Father of the Bride (1991)

Father of the Bride is a 1991 comedy film directed by Charles Shyer and starring Steve Martin, Diane Keaton, and Martin Short. It is a remake of the 1950 film of the same name, and both movies are based on the novel of the same name by Edward Streeter.

The film tells the story of George Banks, a middle-aged man who has a hard time letting go of his daughter when she announces her engagement.

As he tries to come to terms with the impending wedding and the changing dynamics of his family, he gets caught up in various comedic misadventures.

Father of the Bride was a critical and commercial success upon its release, earning over $89 million at the box office and receiving positive reviews for its heartfelt performances and relatable story. It was followed by a sequel, Father of the Bride Part II, in 1995.

7. Father of the Bride Part II (1995)

“Father of the Bride Part II” is a 1995 American comedy film directed by Charles Shyer and starring Diane Keaton, Steve Martin, and Martin Short.

The film is a sequel to “Father of the Bride” (1991) and follows the further adventures of George Banks (Martin), a father who is struggling to come to terms with the fact that his daughter is all grown up and getting married.

In “Father of the Bride Part II”, George finds himself dealing with another major life change when he learns that his wife Nina (Keaton) is pregnant with their third child.

Meanwhile, their daughter Annie (Kimberly Williams-Paisley) is pregnant with her first child, and the family must navigate the ups and downs of pregnancy and parenthood together.

The film was a commercial success and was praised for its heartwarming humor and strong performances, particularly from Keaton and Martin. “Father of the Bride Part II” remains a beloved classic of the romantic comedy genre.

8. Because I Said So (2007)

“Because I Said So” is a 2007 romantic comedy film directed by Michael Lehmann and starring Diane Keaton, Mandy Moore, and Lauren Graham.

The movie tells the story of a meddling mother, Daphne (played by Diane Keaton), who is determined to find the perfect man for her daughter, Milly (played by Mandy Moore), and uses online dating to help her with the task.

One reason to watch “Because I Said So” is its strong performances from the lead actresses. Diane Keaton, Mandy Moore, and Lauren Graham all give memorable performances and have great chemistry with each other.

Diane Keaton in particular shines as the overbearing and quirky mother, adding a lot of humor and heart to the story.

Another reason to watch the movie is its relatable and heartfelt story about the complexities of family relationships.

The film explores the ups and downs of a mother-daughter relationship and the challenges that arise when a parent tries to control their child’s life. It’s a story that many people can relate to, making it both entertaining and emotionally resonant.

Finally, the movie’s romantic plotline adds a fun and charming element to the story. The film’s exploration of the ups and downs of dating in the digital age is both humorous and touching, making it a great choice for fans of romantic comedies.

Overall, “Because I Said So” is a charming and relatable movie that is sure to entertain fans of romantic comedies. With its strong performances, heartfelt story, and fun plotline, it’s a movie that will leave you feeling uplifted and entertained.

9. Morning Glory (2010)

“Morning Glory” is a 2010 romantic comedy-drama film directed by Roger Michell and starring Rachel McAdams, Harrison Ford, and Diane Keaton.

The film tells the story of Becky Fuller (McAdams), a young and ambitious television producer who takes over a struggling morning show and works to revitalize its ratings and the careers of its anchors, Mike Pomeroy (Ford) and Colleen Peck (Keaton).

Here are three reasons why you should watch “Morning Glory”:

Charming performances: The film features charming performances from its talented cast, with Rachel McAdams leading the way as the ambitious and energetic producer trying to save her show.

Harrison Ford delivers a standout performance as the grumpy and difficult-to-work-with news anchor, and Diane Keaton adds her own brand of humor and charm as the veteran co-anchor. Together, the trio has great on-screen chemistry that makes the film a pleasure to watch.

Heartwarming story: “Morning Glory” tells a heartwarming story about perseverance, friendship, and the power of teamwork.

As Becky struggles to save her show and the careers of her anchors, she learns important lessons about the importance of relationships, and the value of hard work and determination in achieving success. The film is a feel-good story that will leave you with a smile on your face.

Insight into the world of television: “Morning Glory” offers a behind-the-scenes look at the world of morning television shows and the challenges that go into producing them.

The film explores the pressure of ratings, the clash of personalities among staff, and the challenge of finding the right mix of news and entertainment to keep viewers engaged.

If you are interested in the media industry or just curious about what goes on behind the cameras of morning shows, “Morning Glory” is definitely worth a watch.

10. Hanging Up (2000)

“Hanging Up” is a comedy-drama film released in 2000, directed by Diane Keaton and starring Meg Ryan, Diane Keaton, and Lisa Kudrow. The story is based on a novel by Delia Ephron.

The film follows three sisters, Eve (Ryan), Georgia (Keaton), and Maddy (Kudrow), who have grown apart over the years and are brought back together when their father’s health begins to decline.

As they care for their father, the sisters confront their own issues and resentments towards each other.

The film explores themes of family, communication, and the challenges of caregiving. It features strong performances from the three lead actresses and explores the complexities of sibling relationships.

“Hanging Up” received mixed reviews from critics, but was praised for its performances and exploration of family dynamics. The film was also notable for being directed by Diane Keaton, who had previously directed the films “Heaven” and “Unstrung Heroes.”

11. The Godfather Part II (1974)

“The Godfather Part II” is a 1974 crime drama film directed by Francis Ford Coppola and starring Al Pacino, Robert De Niro, and Robert Duvall. It is the second installment in “The Godfather” trilogy and is widely regarded as one of the greatest films ever made.

Here are three reasons to watch “The Godfather Part II”:

Masterful storytelling: The film weaves together two parallel storylines – one following Michael Corleone’s (Al Pacino) rise to power as the new head of the Corleone crime family, and the other telling the story of a young Vito Corleone (Robert De Niro) as he establishes himself as a powerful figure in the New York underworld.

The two stories are seamlessly interwoven, creating a rich and complex narrative.

Superb performances: Al Pacino delivers an unforgettable performance as Michael Corleone, who is struggling to hold onto his power while battling enemies both inside and outside of his organization.

Robert De Niro also shines as a young Vito Corleone, portraying the character with a quiet intensity and magnetic presence. The supporting cast, including Robert Duvall and Diane Keaton, is equally impressive.

Cinematic excellence: “The Godfather Part II” is a beautifully crafted film, with stunning cinematography, evocative music, and impeccable production design. The film immerses viewers in the world of the Corleone family, capturing both the glamour and the violence of the mafia lifestyle.

12. The Big Wedding (2013)

“The Big Wedding” is a 2013 American comedy film directed by Justin Zackham and starring an ensemble cast including Robert De Niro, Diane Keaton, Susan Sarandon, Katherine Heigl, Amanda Seyfried, Topher Grace, Ben Barnes, and Robin Williams.

The film follows a dysfunctional family as they gather for a wedding and confront their past and present relationships. While the film received negative reviews from critics, some viewers may still enjoy it for its star-studded cast and comedic moments.

13. Love the Coopers (2015)

Love the Coopers is a 2015 American Christmas comedy film directed by Jessie Nelson and starring an ensemble cast including Diane Keaton, John Goodman, Ed Helms, Olivia Wilde, Amanda Seyfried, Marisa Tomei, Anthony Mackie, and Alan Arkin.

The film follows the Cooper family as they come together for their annual Christmas Eve celebration, each member dealing with their own personal issues and challenges.

The film received mixed reviews from critics but was praised for its cast and heartwarming holiday spirit.

14. Reds (1981)

“Reds” is a 1981 American epic historical drama film directed by Warren Beatty, who also stars in the lead role alongside Diane Keaton and Jack Nicholson.

The film tells the story of John Reed, an American journalist and socialist who travels to Russia during the Bolshevik Revolution to report on the events unfolding there.

In Russia, Reed falls in love with fellow journalist Louise Bryant (Keaton), and the two become deeply involved in the revolution and its aftermath.

The film follows their lives over the course of several years, as they navigate their political ideals, personal relationships, and the tumultuous events of the early 20th century.

“Reds” was a critical and commercial success upon its release, earning 12 Academy Award nominations and winning three, including Best Director for Beatty. Keaton’s performance as Louise Bryant was also widely praised, earning her a nomination for Best Actress.

The film is notable for its epic scale, its blend of drama and history, and its stellar ensemble cast.

15. Manhattan (1979)

“Manhattan” is a 1979 romantic comedy-drama film directed by Woody Allen, starring himself, Diane Keaton, and Mariel Hemingway.

The movie tells the story of a 42-year-old writer named Isaac (played by Woody Allen), who is dating a 17-year-old girl named Tracy (played by Mariel Hemingway), while also being in love with his friend Mary (played by Diane Keaton).

One reason to watch “Manhattan” is its beautiful cinematography and stunning portrayal of New York City. The film features iconic shots of the city’s skyline and famous landmarks, capturing the essence of the city and adding to the movie’s romantic and nostalgic atmosphere.

Another reason to watch the movie is its sharp and witty dialogue, which has become a hallmark of Woody Allen’s films.

The conversations between the characters are often funny, insightful, and thought-provoking, creating a captivating dynamic that keeps the audience engaged throughout the film.

Finally, the movie’s exploration of love, relationships, and the complexities of human emotions makes it a timeless classic. The story is both romantic and philosophical, exploring the different facets of love and human nature with nuance and depth.

Overall, “Manhattan” is a beautiful and thought-provoking film that is a must-see for fans of Woody Allen’s work, as well as anyone who appreciates great cinematography, sharp dialogue, and compelling storytelling.

With its complex characters, stunning visuals, and profound insights into human nature, it remains one of the greatest romantic comedies of all time.

16. Annie Hall (1977)

“Annie Hall” is a 1977 American romantic comedy directed by Woody Allen and starring Allen and Diane Keaton. The film tells the story of Alvy Singer (Allen), a neurotic comedian, and his relationship with the quirky and free-spirited Annie Hall (Keaton).

Here are three reasons why you should watch “Annie Hall”:

Innovative storytelling: “Annie Hall” is known for its innovative storytelling, including its use of flashbacks, breaking the fourth wall, and Allen’s trademark comedic style.

The film’s unconventional structure allows the audience to see Alvy and Annie’s relationship from different perspectives, giving insight into the ups and downs of their romance.

Memorable performances: The film features memorable performances from both Allen and Keaton. Allen’s portrayal of Alvy Singer is both comedic and poignant, as he grapples with his anxieties and insecurities.

Keaton’s performance as Annie Hall earned her an Academy Award for Best Actress, and she brings a unique charm and quirkiness to the role.

Timeless themes: “Annie Hall” explores timeless themes such as love, relationships, and the search for meaning in life.

The film delves into the complexities of human emotions, the challenges of communication in relationships, and the difficulties of reconciling different perspectives and worldviews. These themes resonate with audiences today as much as they did when the film was first released over 40 years ago.

Overall, “Annie Hall” is a classic romantic comedy that offers a unique and entertaining perspective on love and relationships. Its innovative storytelling, memorable performances, and timeless themes make it a film worth watching.

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17. The Other Sister (1999)

“The Other Sister” is a romantic comedy-drama film released in 1999, directed by Garry Marshall and starring Juliette Lewis and Giovanni Ribisi.

The film tells the story of Carla Tate (Lewis), a young woman with intellectual disabilities who moves back home after spending several years at a special school.

Her parents, played by Diane Keaton and Tom Skerritt, are overprotective and struggle to understand her desire for independence and a romantic relationship with Danny (Ribisi), a young man with similar disabilities.

“The Other Sister” explores themes of love, acceptance, and the challenges faced by individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families.

The film was praised for its performances, particularly those of Lewis and Ribisi, who both received critical acclaim for their portrayals of individuals with disabilities.

Some disability rights advocates criticized the film for perpetuating negative stereotypes about people with intellectual disabilities and for using non-disabled actors to portray disabled characters.

However, others praised the film for its positive message of acceptance and the depiction of the joys and struggles of individuals with disabilities.

18. Baby Boom (1987)

Charming and Relatable Storyline: “Baby Boom” is a classic romantic comedy with a relatable storyline that focuses on the struggles of career-driven women and their attempts to balance work and personal life.

It follows the story of J.C. Wiatt (Diane Keaton), a successful businesswoman who unexpectedly inherits a baby from a distant cousin. As she adjusts to motherhood and tries to balance it with her career, she faces a number of challenges and learns valuable lessons about life and love.

Great Performances: The film features a stellar cast led by Diane Keaton, who delivers a nuanced and charismatic performance as J.C. Wiatt.

The supporting cast, including Sam Shepard, Harold Ramis, and James Spader, also deliver great performances that add depth and humor to the story.

Timeless Themes: Despite being over three decades old, “Baby Boom” continues to resonate with audiences today.

Its themes of work-life balance, female empowerment, and the challenges of parenting are still relevant and important, making the film a must-watch for anyone who has ever struggled to balance their personal and professional lives.

19. Mad Money (2008)

“Mad Money” is a 2008 comedy crime film directed by Callie Khouri and starring Diane Keaton, Queen Latifah, and Katie Holmes.

It tells the story of three women who work in the Federal Reserve, who hatch a plan to steal worn-out currency scheduled to be destroyed.

The film received mixed reviews from critics and was a modest box office success.

20. And So It Goes (2014)

“And So It Goes” is a romantic comedy film released in 2014, directed by Rob Reiner and starring Michael Douglas and Diane Keaton.

The movie tells the story of a realtor who is looking to sell his home and retire when his estranged son unexpectedly drops off a granddaughter he never knew he had.

He then seeks the help of his neighbor to take care of the child and learns important life lessons in the process. The film received mixed reviews from critics but was praised for the performances of Douglas and Keaton.

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3 Reasons To Watch Diane Keaton Movies

Her Iconic Performances: Diane Keaton is widely regarded as one of the greatest actresses of her generation and has appeared in numerous iconic films throughout her career.

From her role in “Annie Hall” to her work in “The Godfather” trilogy, Keaton has delivered powerful and memorable performances that have cemented her status as a beloved and talented actress.

Her Range: Keaton has demonstrated her range as an actress by taking on a variety of roles in different genres, from romantic comedies like “Something’s Gotta Give” to dramas like “Marvin’s Room” and historical epics like “Reds.”

Her ability to embody diverse characters and convey a range of emotions is a testament to her talent and versatility as an actress.

Her Influence: Diane Keaton has been a trailblazer throughout her career, both on and off-screen. She has been an advocate for women’s rights and has used her platform to speak out on issues such as equal pay and representation in Hollywood.

Watching her movies not only provides entertainment, but also showcases the impact she has had on the film industry and beyond.

Best Diane Keaton Movies – Wrap Up

Diane Keaton is a talented actress who has appeared in numerous films throughout her career, showcasing her versatility and range as an actress. Some of her most memorable performances include:

“Annie Hall” (1977): This iconic film, directed by Woody Allen, features Diane Keaton in the lead role of Annie Hall, a quirky and lovable character who captured the hearts of audiences around the world.

Keaton’s performance earned her an Academy Award for Best Actress, cementing her status as one of Hollywood’s most talented actresses.

“The Godfather” trilogy (1972-1990): In this epic series of films, Keaton plays Kay Adams, the wife of Michael Corleone (played by Al Pacino). Her performance in the films is powerful and nuanced, showcasing her ability to portray complex and conflicted characters.

“Something’s Gotta Give” (2003): In this romantic comedy, Keaton stars opposite Jack Nicholson as a successful playwright who falls in love with an older man. Her performance is charming and relatable, and she has great chemistry with Nicholson on screen.

“Reds” (1981): In this historical drama, Keaton plays Louise Bryant, a journalist and feminist who becomes involved in the Russian Revolution. Her performance is powerful and emotional, earning her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress.

“The First Wives Club” (1996): In this comedy, Keaton stars alongside Bette Midler and Goldie Hawn as a woman who seeks revenge on her ex-husband. Her performance is hilarious and relatable, making her character one of the most memorable in the film.

Overall, Diane Keaton has had an impressive career, with many standout performances in a variety of genres. Her talent, charisma, and versatility make her one of the most beloved actresses of her generation.