Glenn Close is a highly respected actress known for her versatility and talent in portraying complex characters onscreen.

With over four decades of experience in film and television, she has earned numerous awards and nominations, including multiple Academy Award nominations.

In this series, we will explore some of Glenn Close’s best movies, highlighting her standout performances and contributions to each film’s success.

Best Glenn Close Movies

From drama to comedy, thriller to romance, Glenn Close has left her mark on the world of cinema, and we will take a closer look at her most memorable roles.

1. The World According to Garp (1982)

“The World According to Garp” is a comedy-drama film released in 1982, directed by George Roy Hill and starring Robin Williams and Glenn Close. The film is based on the novel of the same name by John Irving.

The story follows the life of T. S. Garp (Williams), the son of a feminist mother named Jenny Fields (Close), who grows up in a world that he struggles to understand.

As he becomes an adult, Garp becomes a successful writer and a family man, but his personal life is filled with tragedy, including the death of his wife and his son’s severe injuries in a car accident.

The film explores themes of identity, sexuality, gender, and family, and features an ensemble cast of talented actors, including John Lithgow, Mary Beth Hurt, and Hume Cronyn.

“The World According to Garp” was praised by critics for its bold and unconventional storytelling, strong performances, and thought-provoking themes. It was also notable for its frank depiction of sexuality and its portrayal of complex characters and relationships.

The film was a modest success at the box office but has since gained a cult following and is considered by many to be a classic of 1980s cinema. It remains a powerful and resonant exploration of the human experience and the complexities of modern life.

2. The Big Chill (1983)

“The Big Chill” is a 1983 comedy-drama film directed by Lawrence Kasdan. The story follows a group of college friends who reunite after 15 years when one of their own unexpectedly dies.

The film stars an ensemble cast including Tom Berenger, Glenn Close, Jeff Goldblum, William Hurt, Kevin Kline, Mary Kay Place, Meg Tilly, and JoBeth Williams.

Here are three reasons to watch “The Big Chill”:

Strong performances: The film features an ensemble cast of talented actors who deliver strong performances, showcasing the complexities of their characters and their relationships.

Soundtrack: The soundtrack features iconic songs from the 60s and 70s, adding an extra layer of nostalgia and emotion to the story.

Exploration of friendship: The film explores the complexities and challenges of long-term friendships, delving into themes of love, loss, regret, and the passage of time.

3. The Natural (1984)

“The Natural” is a novel by Bernard Malamud, first published in 1952. The novel tells the story of Roy Hobbs, a talented baseball player with a mysterious past who, at the age of 34, gets a chance to play for the New York Knights.

The story is set in the 1930s and explores themes of morality, temptation, and the corrupting influence of power.

Roy Hobbs is a promising young player with a bright future in baseball, but his dreams are shattered when he is shot by a mysterious woman. After recovering from his injuries, Hobbs disappears from the public eye for years.

When he resurfaces as a 34-year-old rookie for the New York Knights, his arrival is met with both excitement and suspicion.

As Hobbs works to prove himself on the field, he is also forced to confront the temptations that come with fame and fortune.

He is pursued by a beautiful and seductive woman named Memo Paris, who is also involved with the team’s corrupt owner. Hobbs must decide whether to give in to temptation or stay true to his principles.

In the climactic final game of the season, Hobbs hits a game-winning home run, cementing his place as one of the greatest players in baseball history. The novel ends with Hobbs leaving the game on his own terms, rejecting the corrupting influence of power and temptation.

“The Natural” was adapted into a successful film in 1984, starring Robert Redford as Roy Hobbs. The film is widely considered a classic, and is known for its beautiful cinematography and memorable score.

4. Jagged Edge (1985)

“Jagged Edge” is a 1985 thriller film directed by Richard Marquand and starring Glenn Close and Jeff Bridges. The film follows the story of Bridges’ character, an accused murderer who hires Close’s character, a defense attorney, to prove his innocence.

The film received positive reviews and was a box office success, grossing over $40 million worldwide. It also received Academy Award nominations for Best Supporting Actress (Close) and Best Original Score.

5. Fatal Attraction (1987)

“Fatal Attraction” is a 1987 psychological thriller directed by Adrian Lyne and starring Michael Douglas, Glenn Close, and Anne Archer, with Faye Dunaway in a supporting role.

The film follows the story of Dan Gallagher (Douglas), a successful lawyer who has an affair with Alex Forrest (Close), a woman who becomes increasingly obsessed with him and begins to stalk him and his family.

Dunaway plays the role of Beth Gallagher, Dan’s wife, who becomes the target of Alex’s revenge.

Though her screen time is limited, Dunaway delivers a powerful and emotional performance as a woman who is struggling to hold her family together while dealing with the fallout of her husband’s infidelity.

The film is a tense and suspenseful thriller that explores themes of obsession, betrayal, and the consequences of one’s actions.

Close’s performance as the unhinged Alex earned her critical acclaim and an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress, and the film has become a cultural touchstone for its portrayal of a woman scorned.

Dunaway’s supporting role adds an extra layer of drama to the film, and her performance is a testament to her talent as an actress. “Fatal Attraction” is a classic of the thriller genre and a must-watch for fans of suspenseful cinema.

6. Dangerous Liaisons (1988)

“Dangerous Liaisons” is a period drama film directed by Stephen Frears and based on the novel “Les Liaisons dangereuses” by Pierre Choderlos de Laclos. Here are three reasons to watch this movie:

Outstanding Performances: The film features an outstanding cast including Glenn Close, John Malkovich, Michelle Pfeiffer, and Uma Thurman, who deliver powerful and nuanced performances.

Intriguing Plot: The movie tells the story of two former lovers, the Marquise de Merteuil and the Vicomte de Valmont, who scheme and manipulate those around them in order to get what they want.

The plot is full of twists, turns, and unexpected developments that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Production Design and Costumes: The film’s production design and costumes are top-notch, creating a visually stunning and immersive world that transports you back to 18th century France.

From the opulent palaces to the lavish costumes, every detail is meticulously crafted and visually stunning.

7. Reversal of Fortune (1990)

“Reversal of Fortune” is a 1990 drama film directed by Barbet Schroeder and based on the real-life story of socialite Claus von Bülow (played by Jeremy Irons), who is accused of attempting to murder his wife, Sunny (played by Glenn Close), by injecting her with insulin.

The film is based on the book “Reversal of Fortune: Inside the von Bülow Case” by Alan Dershowitz.

Here are three reasons why “Reversal of Fortune” is worth watching:

Jeremy Irons’ award-winning performance: Irons delivers a masterful performance as von Bülow, capturing both his charm and his sinister side. His portrayal earned him the Academy Award for Best Actor, and he is a captivating presence onscreen.

Glenn Close’s supporting role: Although Close has a smaller role than Irons, she delivers a strong performance as Sunny von Bülow, a woman who lies in a coma throughout most of the film.

Her character is integral to the plot, and Close’s understated performance brings depth to the role.

 

Engaging legal drama: The film’s plot revolves around the legal case against von Bülow and the investigation into his alleged crime. The court scenes are tense and engaging, with plenty of twists and turns to keep viewers on the edge of their seats.

Overall, “Reversal of Fortune” is a well-crafted legal drama that offers a fascinating look into a high-profile criminal case. With standout performances from Irons and Close, and a compelling storyline, it is a must-watch for fans of true crime and courtroom dramas.

8. Hamlet (1990)

“Hamlet” is a 1990 drama film directed by Franco Zeffirelli, based on William Shakespeare’s play of the same name. The film stars Mel Gibson as the titular character, as well as Glenn Close, Alan Bates, Ian Holm, Helena Bonham Carter, and many other talented actors.

The story follows the young Prince Hamlet of Denmark, who is haunted by the ghost of his father and driven to seek revenge against his uncle, who has taken the throne and married Hamlet’s mother.

As the plot unfolds, Hamlet’s mental state deteriorates, leading to tragic consequences for himself and those around him.

The film was praised by critics for its lavish production design, strong performances, and faithful adaptation of Shakespeare’s text. It also received criticism for Gibson’s Australian accent and some liberties taken with the source material.

Despite some controversy, “Hamlet” was a commercial success and earned several award nominations, including Academy Award nominations for Best Art Direction and Best Costume Design.

Overall, the film remains a powerful and engaging adaptation of one of Shakespeare’s most famous plays, featuring a talented cast and skilled direction by Zeffirelli.

9. Hook (1991)

“Hook” is a 1991 fantasy adventure film directed by Steven Spielberg and starring Robin Williams, Dustin Hoffman, and Julia Roberts, with Faye Dunaway in a small supporting role.

The film is a retelling of J.M. Barrie’s classic story of Peter Pan, but set in the modern-day world and featuring an adult Peter (Williams) who has forgotten his past and must return to Neverland to save his children from the clutches of Captain Hook (Hoffman).

Dunaway plays the role of the imperious and snobbish actress, Grandma Wendy, who is the granddaughter of the original Wendy from the Peter Pan story.

Despite her brief appearance, Dunaway delivers a memorable performance as a woman who has never forgotten the magic of Neverland and helps to guide Peter on his journey to save his children.

The film is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant tale that explores themes of nostalgia, identity, and the power of imagination.

Williams’ performance as Peter is a highlight of the film, as he brings a sense of heart and humor to the character, and Hoffman’s portrayal of Captain Hook is delightfully villainous.

“Hook” was a commercial success, grossing over $300 million worldwide, and has become a beloved classic of the family adventure genre.

Dunaway’s supporting role is just one of the many memorable elements of this enchanting film that will leave viewers of all ages feeling like they’ve just taken a magical journey to Neverland.

10. The House of the Spirits (1993)

“The House of the Spirits” is a film adaptation of the 1982 novel of the same name by Isabel Allende. The film was released in 1993 and was directed by Danish filmmaker Bille August.

It stars Jeremy Irons, Meryl Streep, Glenn Close, Winona Ryder, Antonio Banderas, and Vanessa Redgrave, among others.

The film is set in an unnamed Latin American country and follows the lives of the Trueba family over several decades, from the early 20th century through the 1970s.

The patriarch of the family, Esteban Trueba (Jeremy Irons), is a wealthy landowner who is deeply conservative and politically reactionary. He becomes involved in politics and ultimately rises to power, but his authoritarian rule leads to tragedy and division within his family.

Esteban’s wife Clara (Meryl Streep) is a clairvoyant who can communicate with spirits, and their daughter Blanca (Winona Ryder) falls in love with a revolutionary named Pedro Tercero (Antonio Banderas), which causes further tension in the family.

Throughout the film, there are themes of love, family, power, and political upheaval.

“The House of the Spirits” received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising the performances and others criticizing the film’s uneven pacing and lack of coherence.

Despite this, the film was nominated for several awards, including an Academy Award for Best Original Score.

11. The Paper (1994)

“The Paper” is a 1994 American comedy-drama film directed by Ron Howard and starring Michael Keaton, Glenn Close, Marisa Tomei, Randy Quaid, Robert Duvall, and Jason Alexander.

The film follows the hectic day in the life of a New York City tabloid newspaper and its reporters as they race to meet deadlines and uncover the truth behind a breaking news story.

The film was both a critical and commercial success, and is often regarded as one of Howard’s best films.

12. Mary Reilly (1996)

“Mary Reilly” is a 1996 drama film directed by Stephen Frears and starring Julia Roberts and John Malkovich, with Faye Dunaway in a supporting role.

The film is a retelling of the classic story of “Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde” from the perspective of Mary Reilly (Roberts), a housemaid in the employ of Dr. Jekyll (Malkovich).

Dunaway plays the role of Mrs. Farraday, the wealthy and eccentric employer of Mary’s mother, who becomes involved in the events surrounding Dr. Jekyll’s experiment.

Though her screen time is limited, Dunaway delivers a nuanced and engaging performance as a woman who becomes drawn into the dark secrets of Dr. Jekyll’s laboratory.

The film is a haunting and atmospheric exploration of the themes of duality and repression, and the performances of Roberts and Malkovich are particularly strong.

Dunaway’s supporting role adds an extra layer of tension and intrigue to the film, and her portrayal of Mrs. Farraday is a testament to her skill as an actress.

While “Mary Reilly” received mixed reviews upon its release, it has since gained a cult following and is considered a unique and thought-provoking interpretation of the classic tale.

Dunaway’s performance is just one of the many reasons why this film is worth a watch for fans of period dramas and psychological thrillers.

13. 101 Dalmatians (1996)

“101 Dalmatians” is a live-action adaptation of the classic animated Disney film of the same name. Here are three reasons to watch this movie:

Memorable Characters: The film features a memorable cast of characters, including the evil Cruella de Vil, played brilliantly by Glenn Close, and the adorable dalmatian puppies who are the focus of the story.

Entertaining Story: The movie follows the story of a couple, Roger and Anita, who fall in love and marry, along with their dalmatians, Pongo and Perdita.

When their puppies are stolen by Cruella de Vil, the couple sets out on a mission to rescue them. The plot is full of adventure, humor, and heartwarming moments.

Impressive Visual Effects: The film’s visual effects are impressive, especially considering that it was made in the late 90s.

The scenes featuring the large pack of dalmatians are particularly impressive, as the filmmakers managed to create the illusion of a massive group of dogs without relying solely on CGI.

The sets and costumes are also visually stunning, capturing the fashion and style of 1960s London.

14. Mars Attacks! (1996)

“Mars Attacks!” is a 1996 sci-fi comedy film directed by Tim Burton, starring an ensemble cast that includes Jack Nicholson, Glenn Close, Annette Bening, Pierce Brosnan, and many others. The film is a parody of 1950s sci-fi B-movies and tells the story of a Martian invasion of Earth.

Here are three reasons why “Mars Attacks!” is worth watching:

The all-star cast: With a cast that includes Jack Nicholson, Glenn Close, Annette Bening, Pierce Brosnan, Sarah Jessica Parker, Danny DeVito, and many others, “Mars Attacks!” is a who’s who of Hollywood talent.

Each actor brings their own unique style and personality to their role, resulting in a film that is both hilarious and entertaining.

The retro sci-fi aesthetic: “Mars Attacks!” is a love letter to 1950s sci-fi B-movies, complete with cheesy special effects, over-the-top costumes, and a retro color palette. The film is a visual feast that will transport viewers back in time and evoke a sense of nostalgia for classic sci-fi cinema.

The irreverent humor: Tim Burton is known for his offbeat and irreverent sense of humor, and “Mars Attacks!” is no exception. The film is filled with zany characters, wacky plot twists, and over-the-top action sequences that will have viewers laughing out loud.

Overall, “Mars Attacks!” is a fun and campy sci-fi comedy that offers a refreshing departure from traditional Hollywood blockbusters. With its all-star cast, retro aesthetic, and irreverent humor, it is a must-watch for fans of Tim Burton and sci-fi cinema.

15. Air Force One (1997)

“Air Force One” is an action-thriller film released in 1997, directed by Wolfgang Petersen and starring Harrison Ford, Gary Oldman, and Glenn Close.

The film follows the President of the United States (Ford) as he becomes a hostage on his own airplane, Air Force One, after it is hijacked by a group of terrorists led by Ivan Korshunov (Oldman).

As the terrorists attempt to negotiate for the release of a political prisoner, the President must fight to protect his family and the other passengers on board while also trying to regain control of the plane and defeat the terrorists.

“Air Force One” was a critical and commercial success, praised for its intense action sequences, suspenseful plot, and strong performances, particularly by Ford and Oldman. It was also noted for its patriotic themes and depiction of the President as a hero.

The film remains a beloved classic of 1990s action cinema and a standout entry in both Ford and Oldman’s filmography. Its high stakes and thrilling action make it a must-see for fans of the genre.

16. The Stepford Wives (2004)

All-Star Cast: The film boasts an impressive cast, including Nicole Kidman, Bette Midler, Glenn Close, Christopher Walken, and Matthew Broderick.

These actors bring their A-game to the film, delivering memorable performances that add depth to their characters and make the story even more engaging.

Satirical Commentary: “The Stepford Wives” offers a satirical commentary on gender roles and societal expectations.

The film cleverly pokes fun at traditional gender norms and suburban life, while also making a larger statement about the importance of individuality and the dangers of conformity.

Entertaining Plot: The film’s plot is engaging and keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. As the story unfolds and the mystery deepens, viewers will find themselves drawn in by the suspense and intrigue.

“The Stepford Wives” is a fun and entertaining film that is sure to leave audiences satisfied.

17. Evening (2007)

“Evening” is a 2007 drama film directed by Lajos Koltai, based on the 1998 novel of the same name by Susan Minot. The film features an ensemble cast that includes Claire Danes, Vanessa Redgrave, Toni Collette, Natasha Richardson, Meryl Streep, and Glenn Close.

The film tells the story of Ann Lord (played by Vanessa Redgrave), a terminally ill woman who reflects on her life and the choices she made as a young woman attending a wedding in Maine.

The film interweaves Ann’s memories of her younger self, played by Claire Danes, with the present-day narrative.

As a young woman, Ann (Danes) is invited to the wedding of her friend Lila (Mamie Gummer), where she falls in love with Lila’s brother, Harris (Patrick Wilson).

Ann’s relationship with Harris is complicated by her feelings for another man, Buddy (Hugh Dancy), as well as her own insecurities and doubts about her future. Meanwhile, Lila (Toni Collette) is struggling with her own feelings of jealousy and betrayal.

As Ann reflects on her past, she comes to a new understanding of the choices she made and the people she loved. The film explores themes of love, loss, and regret, and features a powerful performance by Vanessa Redgrave as the older Ann.

“Evening” received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising the performances and others criticizing the film’s pacing and structure. However, the film has been praised for its emotional resonance and the powerful performances by its ensemble cast.

18. Albert Nobbs (2011)

“Albert Nobbs” is a 2011 drama film directed by Rodrigo García and starring Glenn Close in the title role.

The film is based on the novella “The Singular Life of Albert Nobbs” by George Moore, and follows the story of a woman in 19th century Ireland who dresses as a man in order to work as a butler in a hotel.

The film received critical acclaim for Close’s performance and was nominated for three Academy Awards, including Best Actress for Close.

19. Crooked House (2017)

“Crooked House” is a 2017 mystery film directed by Gilles Paquet-Brenner and starring Glenn Close, Max Irons, and Christina Hendricks, with Faye Dunaway in a supporting role.

The film is based on the novel of the same name by Agatha Christie and follows the investigation of a wealthy patriarch’s murder by his family and the detective assigned to the case.

Dunaway plays the role of Lady Edith de Haviland, the matriarch of a wealthy family with a stake in the patriarch’s estate.

Despite her relatively small role, Dunaway delivers a standout performance as a woman who knows more than she lets on and may have had a hand in the murder.

The film is a stylish and suspenseful whodunit that keeps viewers guessing until the end, and the performances of the ensemble cast are uniformly strong. Close and Irons in particular shine as the detective and the family member who becomes his ally, respectively.

While “Crooked House” may not be as well-known as some of Agatha Christie’s other works, it is a worthy addition to the canon of mystery fiction and a compelling film in its own right.

Dunaway’s performance adds an extra layer of intrigue to an already twisty and engaging story, making it a must-watch for fans of the genre.

3 Reasons To Watch Glenn Close Movies

Incredible Acting: Glenn Close is known for her outstanding acting skills, having been nominated for numerous awards throughout her career, including seven Academy Awards.

She is known for her versatility and ability to embody a wide range of characters, from powerful and ruthless villains to vulnerable and complex heroines.

Strong Female Characters: Many of Glenn Close’s most memorable roles are of strong and complex female characters, who challenge societal norms and expectations.

These characters have included the dangerous and manipulative Alex Forrest in “Fatal Attraction,” the tenacious lawyer Patty Hewes in “Damages,” and the fiercely independent and unconventional Albert Nobbs in “Albert Nobbs.”

Variety of Genres: Glenn Close has appeared in a wide variety of genres, from psychological thrillers to period dramas to comedies.

Her versatility has allowed her to take on a wide range of roles, each with their own unique challenges and rewards. Some of her notable films include “The Big Chill,” “101 Dalmatians,” “The Natural,” “Dangerous Liaisons,” and “The Wife.”

Best Glenn Close Movies – Wrap Up

Glenn Close has had an illustrious career spanning over four decades, and she has delivered many powerful and memorable performances over the years. In this series, we explored some of her best movies, showcasing her range and versatility as an actress.

From her breakout role in “The World According to Garp” to her award-winning turn in “Dangerous Liaisons,” Glenn Close has left her mark on the world of cinema.

She has excelled in a variety of genres, including drama, comedy, and thriller, and has proven time and again that she is a force to be reckoned with onscreen.

Other notable films in Glenn Close’s career include “Fatal Attraction,” “Albert Nobbs,” “The Big Chill,” and “101 Dalmatians.”

Her performances in these films demonstrate her ability to bring depth and nuance to her roles, making her one of the most respected actresses in Hollywood.

In conclusion, Glenn Close is a true cinematic icon, and her contributions to the world of film will continue to be celebrated for years to come.

Whether she is playing a villain, a hero, or something in between, Glenn Close always delivers a performance that is unforgettable.