6 Best Geena Davis Movies: The Charming and Empowering Roles of a Groundbreaking Actress

Geena Davis is an American actress and producer who has been in the entertainment industry for over three decades.

She has appeared in a wide range of films, including comedies, dramas, and action movies. Davis is known for her strong on-screen presence and her ability to bring depth and nuance to her performances.

Here are some of the best Geena Davis movies to check out.

Best Geena Davis Movies

Whether you’re a fan of drama, comedy, or action, there’s sure to be a movie on her impressive filmography that will appeal to you.

1. Thelma & Louise (1991)

Thelma & Louise is a crime road film released in 1991, directed by Ridley Scott. The movie stars Geena Davis as Thelma and Susan Sarandon as Louise, two friends who embark on a weekend getaway that takes an unexpected turn.

The story follows Thelma, a submissive housewife, and Louise, a strong-willed waitress, as they set out on a fishing trip to escape their mundane lives.

However, their journey quickly takes a dramatic and dangerous turn when they are forced to defend themselves against a man attempting to assault Thelma.

In an act of self-defense, Louise shoots and kills the man, propelling them into a cross-country escape from the law.

The film features a talented ensemble, including Harvey Keitel, Michael Madsen, and Brad Pitt in a breakout role as a charming drifter who becomes entangled with Thelma and Louise on their journey.

Thelma & Louise is celebrated for its feminist themes, exploring issues of female empowerment, friendship, and rebellion against societal expectations.

The film challenges traditional gender roles and portrays Thelma and Louise as strong, independent women who take control of their lives and refuse to be victimized.

The movie received critical acclaim and was nominated for six Academy Awards, including Best Picture. It became a cultural phenomenon, resonating with audiences and sparking discussions about gender representation in cinema.

Thelma & Louise is a powerful and thought-provoking film that showcases the talents of its cast and director. It offers a compelling and intense story of friendship, freedom, and the consequences of challenging the status quo.

If you appreciate strong female-led narratives and films that push boundaries, Thelma & Louise is a must-watch. It remains a significant entry in cinematic history, exploring themes that continue to resonate with audiences today.

2. The Long Kiss Goodnight (1996)

The Long Kiss Goodnight is a 1996 action-thriller film directed by Renny Harlin and starring Geena Davis and Samuel L. Jackson. The film follows Samantha Caine (Davis), a suburban schoolteacher with amnesia who hires a private investigator (Jackson) to help her uncover her past.

As they dig deeper, they discover that Samantha was once a skilled CIA assassin and must confront her dangerous past to save herself and her family.

The film features thrilling action sequences, clever dialogue, and a strong performance by Davis, who effectively portrays both the vulnerable Samantha and the ruthless assassin persona she once was.

Jackson also delivers an entertaining performance as the wisecracking private investigator who helps Samantha on her journey.

The Long Kiss Goodnight was praised for its exciting action scenes, witty dialogue, and well-crafted story, which keeps audiences on the edge of their seats. The chemistry between Davis and Jackson adds depth to the film and provides an entertaining balance of humor and intensity.

If you like Geena Davis’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.

Overall, The Long Kiss Goodnight is a must-see for action and thriller fans, as well as anyone who appreciates strong performances and a well-crafted story. It’s a thrilling ride that will keep you engaged from start to finish.

3. Hero (1992)

Hero is a comedy-drama film released in 1992, directed by Stephen Frears and starring Dustin Hoffman, Geena Davis, and Andy Garcia.

The movie follows the story of Bernie LaPlante (played by Hoffman), a small-time criminal who becomes an unlikely hero when he saves passengers from a crashed airplane.

The film explores themes of heroism, fame, and redemption, as Bernie’s act of bravery is initially overlooked and attributed to another man (played by Garcia) who claims credit for the rescue.

Meanwhile, a journalist (played by Davis) is determined to uncover the true identity of the hero and bring his story to light.

Hero received generally positive reviews from critics, with many praising Hoffman’s performance as Bernie and the film’s poignant message about the nature of heroism. The movie was also a box office success, earning over $177 million worldwide.

Overall, Hero is a heartwarming and inspiring film that encourages audiences to look beyond surface appearances and recognize the true heroes in their lives.

4. Beetlejuice (1988)

Beetlejuice is a fantasy comedy film released in 1988, directed by Tim Burton. The movie stars Michael Keaton, Alec Baldwin, Geena Davis, and Winona Ryder.

The story revolves around Adam and Barbara Maitland (played by Alec Baldwin and Geena Davis), a recently deceased couple who find themselves trapped as ghosts in their own home.

As they navigate the afterlife, they encounter the eccentric and mischievous bio-exorcist ghost, Beetlejuice (played by Michael Keaton).

The Maitlands enlist Beetlejuice’s help to scare away the new inhabitants of their home, the Deetz family, led by Charles (played by Jeffrey Jones) and his goth daughter Lydia (played by Winona Ryder).

Beetlejuice is known for its dark humor, quirky characters, and imaginative visuals. The film combines elements of comedy, horror, and fantasy to create a unique and offbeat world.

Tim Burton’s signature visual style, characterized by gothic and macabre aesthetics, is on full display in this film.

The movie garnered critical acclaim for its inventive storytelling, impressive practical effects, and standout performances.

Michael Keaton’s portrayal of the chaotic and unpredictable Beetlejuice became an iconic character in popular culture. The film’s success led to a dedicated fanbase and even a successful animated television series based on the movie.

Beetlejuice remains a beloved cult classic for its dark humor, memorable characters, and imaginative world-building.

It showcases Tim Burton’s distinct directorial style and offers a whimsical and entertaining experience for audiences of all ages.

5. The Fly (1986)

The Fly is a 1986 science fiction horror film directed by David Cronenberg.

The Fly stars Jeff Goldblum in the lead role as scientist Seth Brundle, opposite Geena Davis as Veronica Quaife, the science journalist who becomes his lover and witness as the experiment collapses. The film tells the story of Brundle’s ill-fated experiment with teleportation, which goes awry when he accidentally merges his DNA with that of a fly.

As Brundle undergoes a horrific transformation into a hybrid creature, both his physical and mental state deteriorate, leading to a tragic and gruesome climax. Davis’s Veronica is the audience’s moral and emotional center—curious, frightened, and finally forced to decide how far love can follow a body that will not stay human.

The Fly is known for its groundbreaking special effects, intense body horror, and gripping performances.

Jeff Goldblum delivers a remarkable portrayal of the tragic and grotesque transformation of Seth Brundle, capturing both the vulnerability and the monstrosity of the character; Davis matches him beat for beat as Veronica’s fascination turns to horror.

The film explores themes of identity, mortality, and the consequences of scientific ambition, blending horror with emotional depth.

The Fly remains a significant entry in the science fiction and horror genres. The film received critical acclaim upon its release for its impressive practical effects, compelling storytelling, and powerful performances from Goldblum and Davis.

It has since become a cult classic, celebrated for its atmospheric tension and its exploration of the horrors of unchecked ambition.

If you enjoy thought-provoking and visceral horror films that delve into the darker aspects of humanity and the consequences of scientific experimentation, The Fly is definitely worth a watch.

The Fly offers a gripping and unforgettable cinematic experience that has left a lasting impact on the genre.

6. Angie (1994)

Angie is a 1994 romantic comedy-drama film directed by Martha Coolidge. The movie stars Geena Davis in the title role of Angie Scacciapensieri, a working-class woman from the Bronx who finds herself at a crossroads in life.

The film features an ensemble cast including Stephen Rea, James Gandolfini, and Aida Turturro.

In Angie, Geena Davis delivers a heartfelt performance as the strong-willed and determined Angie, who navigates the challenges of single motherhood, relationships, and pursuing her own dreams. The film explores themes of identity, self-discovery, and the pursuit of happiness amidst social and personal obstacles.

Angie still offers several reasons to watch it:

Compelling Character Study: Angie provides an in-depth character study of its protagonist, delving into her personal struggles, aspirations, and growth.

Geena Davis brings depth and authenticity to the role, capturing the complexities of Angie’s journey as she confronts societal expectations, confronts her own limitations, and fights for her dreams.

Heartwarming and Realistic Storytelling: The film balances comedy and drama, offering a heartfelt and realistic portrayal of Angie’s life. It explores themes of family, friendship, and the pursuit of happiness, grounding the story in relatable emotions and experiences.

Strong Supporting Performances: Angie features a talented ensemble of actors who deliver strong performances.

James Gandolfini stands out as Vinnie, Angie’s love interest, bringing depth and vulnerability to the character. The supporting cast adds layers to the story and enhances the overall viewing experience.

Overall, Angie is a touching and relatable film that highlights the strength and resilience of its protagonist. Geena Davis’s performance, alongside a solid ensemble cast, makes the movie worth watching.

It offers an intimate and engaging exploration of personal growth, relationships, and the pursuit of happiness in the face of adversity.

3 Reasons To Watch Geena Davis Movies

Versatile Acting Talent: Geena Davis is known for her versatility as an actress, seamlessly transitioning between different genres and roles.

From her Oscar-winning performance in The Accidental Tourist to her memorable roles in films like Thelma & Louise, A League of Their Own, and Beetlejuice, Davis showcases her ability to bring depth and authenticity to her characters.

Watching her movies allows you to witness her range as an actress and appreciate her ability to tackle diverse roles with grace and skill.

Strong Female Characters: Geena Davis has been a trailblazer in portraying strong and empowering female characters on screen. Many of her films, such as Thelma & Louise, A League of Their Own, and The Long Kiss Goodnight, feature Davis in roles that challenge traditional gender roles and stereotypes.

By watching her movies, you can witness Davis’s portrayal of complex and independent women who defy societal expectations and inspire audiences with their strength and determination.

Social Impact: Geena Davis is not only a talented actress but also a passionate advocate for gender equality in the entertainment industry.

Through her organization, the Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media, she works to promote more diverse and balanced portrayals of female characters in media.

By supporting Geena Davis movies, you contribute to the larger conversation around representation and the importance of inclusive storytelling.

Watching Geena Davis movies offers the opportunity to enjoy compelling performances, witness the portrayal of strong female characters, and contribute to the broader movement for diversity and equality in the entertainment industry.

With her talent and advocacy, Geena Davis has made a significant impact on the film industry, and exploring her filmography is a way to appreciate her contributions and enjoy engaging and thought-provoking cinema.

Related on Filmmaking Lifestyle

Read next: 6 Best Elisabeth Shue Movies: The Charming and Memorable Roles of a Versatile Star, 20 Best Jodie Foster Movies: The Evocative and Powerful Roles of an Acclaimed Actress, and 4 Best Juliette Lewis Movies: The Unconventional and Daring Roles of a Distinctive Actress.

Best Geena Davis Movies – Wrap Up

Geena Davis has had a long and illustrious career in film, television, and theater. Some of her most notable and critically acclaimed roles include:

Thelma & Louise (1991): Davis co-starred with Susan Sarandon in this iconic film about two women who take a road trip and end up on the run from the law. Davis received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress for her performance.

The Accidental Tourist (1988): Davis starred opposite William Hurt in this heartfelt drama about a travel writer struggling to come to terms with the recent separation from his wife. Davis received critical acclaim for her performance.

A League of Their Own (1992): Davis starred alongside Tom Hanks and Madonna in this beloved sports comedy-drama about a women’s baseball league during World War II.

Beetlejuice (1988): Davis starred opposite Michael Keaton in this cult classic comedy-horror film about a ghost couple who hire a mischievous spirit to help them scare off a new family that has moved into their home.

The Long Kiss Goodnight (1996): Davis starred alongside Samuel L. Jackson in this action-thriller about a suburban schoolteacher with amnesia who hires a private investigator to help her uncover her past.

These are just a few of Geena Davis’ most notable and beloved films. She has also made a significant impact in Hollywood as a fierce advocate for gender equality and inclusion in the entertainment industry.

vOverall, Davis is a talented and versatile actress whose work has left a lasting impact on cinema.

Ready to learn about some other Film Movements or Film History?

Incendies: Context, Themes, and Style

No Fear, No Die: Symbolism and Interpretation

Frances Ha: The Meaning Behind the Moments

Lola: A Guide to Its Meaning and Impact

A Bay of Blood: Visual Style, Ideas, and Impact

Once Upon a Time in Anatolia: A Modern Appreciation

Demon Seed: A Guide to Watching It Like a Critic

Lone Wolf and Cub: The Final Conflict: A Modern Appreciation

Ex Machina: What Makes It a Classic

12…10