25 Best Meryl Streep Movies: Celebrating a Living Legend’s Iconic Roles

Meryl Streep is widely regarded as one of the greatest actresses of all time, with a career spanning over five decades. Known for her versatility, range, and dedication to her craft, Streep has delivered countless unforgettable performances that have earned her critical acclaim and numerous awards.

From iconic roles in classic films to groundbreaking performances in contemporary cinema, Streep has cemented her status as a true cinematic legend. In this list, we will explore some of the best Meryl Streep movies, from early breakout roles to later career highlights.

Best Meryl Streep Movies

Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to her work, these films showcase the immense talent and lasting impact of one of the greatest actresses in the history of cinema.

1. Sophie’s Choice (1982)

“Sophie’s Choice” is a 1982 drama film directed by Alan J. Pakula and starring Meryl Streep, Kevin Kline, and Peter MacNicol. The film is based on the novel of the same name by William Styron.

The story follows the journey of a young aspiring writer, Stingo (MacNicol), who moves to Brooklyn in 1947 and befriends a Polish immigrant couple, Sophie (Streep) and Nathan (Kline).

As Stingo becomes closer to the couple, he learns about their troubled pasts and the devastating choices they have had to make. In particular, Sophie reveals to Stingo the horrifying choice she had to make at Auschwitz, which continues to haunt her.

“Sophie’s Choice” was a critical success, with praise for its powerful performances and emotional depth. Streep’s portrayal of Sophie won her the Academy Award for Best Actress, solidifying her as one of the greatest actors of her generation.

The film has since become a classic and is widely regarded as one of the most heart-wrenching and poignant dramas of the 1980s.

“Sophie’s Choice” is a powerful exploration of love, trauma, and the human capacity for endurance in the face of unspeakable suffering. Its impact on cinema and on audiences continues to resonate to this day.

2.The Iron Lady (2011)

“The Iron Lady” is a 2011 British biographical drama film directed by Phyllida Lloyd and starring Meryl Streep as Margaret Thatcher, the first female Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.

The film depicts Thatcher’s life from her humble beginnings as a grocer’s daughter in Grantham to her rise as one of the most influential politicians of the 20th century.

The film received mixed reviews from critics, but Meryl Streep’s performance as Thatcher was widely praised and earned her numerous awards, including the Academy Award for Best Actress.

The film was also recognized for its makeup and hairstyling, which transformed Streep into a convincing likeness of Thatcher.

“The Iron Lady” is recommended for audiences who are interested in political history, women’s rights, and the challenges of leadership.

The film offers a glimpse into the life and legacy of a complex and controversial figure, and raises important questions about the sacrifices and choices that come with political power.

3. The Devil Wears Prada (2006)

“The Devil Wears Prada” is a comedy-drama film directed by David Frankel and released in 2006. The film stars Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt, and Stanley Tucci, among others.

The story follows Andrea Sachs (played by Hathaway), a recent college graduate who lands a job as an assistant to Miranda Priestly (played by Streep), the powerful and demanding editor-in-chief of a top fashion magazine.

Despite feeling out of place and overwhelmed by the fashion world, Andrea soon finds herself drawn into the fast-paced and glamorous lifestyle of the magazine industry, but at a cost to her personal life and relationships.

The film received critical acclaim for its witty script, stylish direction, and strong performances from its ensemble cast. Streep’s portrayal of Miranda Priestly, in particular, was widely praised for its nuance and complexity, as well as for the actress’s uncanny ability to inhabit the character.

“The Devil Wears Prada” was also a commercial success, grossing over $326 million worldwide and earning Hathaway a Golden Globe nomination for her performance.

The film has since become a cultural touchstone, influencing fashion trends and spawning countless parodies and references in popular media.

4. A Cry in the Dark (1988)

“A Cry in the Dark” is a 1988 drama film directed by Fred Schepisi and starring Meryl Streep and Sam Neill.

The film is based on the true story of Lindy Chamberlain, a woman from Australia who was wrongfully convicted of killing her own baby in 1980 and served time in prison before being exonerated years later.

The film follows the Chamberlain family as they go on a camping trip in the Australian Outback with their three children. During the trip, their baby daughter, Azaria, is taken from their tent by a dingo, and despite the parents’ attempts to save her, she is never found.

The film explores the media frenzy and public scrutiny that the Chamberlains face as they try to clear their names and prove their innocence.

Streep’s performance as Lindy Chamberlain was widely acclaimed and earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress.

The film was also praised for its nuanced portrayal of the Chamberlain family and its examination of the role of the media in shaping public perception.

Overall, “A Cry in the Dark” is considered a powerful and thought-provoking film that raises important questions about justice, truth, and the role of the media in shaping public opinion.

It remains a classic of Australian cinema and a testament to the strength and resilience of the Chamberlain family in the face of adversity.

5. Silkwood (1983)

“Silkwood” is a 1983 American biographical drama film directed by Mike Nichols and starring Meryl Streep, Kurt Russell, and Cher.

The film is based on the true story of Karen Silkwood, a worker at a nuclear power plant in Oklahoma who becomes an activist for nuclear safety and is killed under mysterious circumstances.

Streep delivers a powerful performance as Silkwood, who becomes increasingly concerned about the safety of the plant and begins to gather evidence of safety violations.

As she becomes more involved in the cause, she faces threats and intimidation from her employer and struggles to balance her activism with her personal life.

The film received critical acclaim for its powerful performances, particularly from Streep, and its portrayal of a complex and determined woman fighting against corporate corruption.

The film was noted for its realistic and detailed depiction of the nuclear industry and its dangers, as well as its exploration of themes such as whistleblowing, corporate responsibility, and the sacrifices necessary to fight for a cause.

“Silkwood” was also notable for its impact on the real-life nuclear industry, as it helped to bring attention to issues of nuclear safety and inspired activism and reforms in the industry.

The film received multiple Academy Award nominations, including Best Actress for Streep, Best Supporting Actress for Cher, and Best Original Screenplay.

6. Doubt (I) (2008)

“Doubt” is a drama film directed by John Patrick Shanley and released in 2008. The film is based on Shanley’s own Pulitzer Prize-winning play of the same name.

Set in 1964, the story follows Sister Aloysius Beauvier (Meryl Streep), a strict and traditional nun who suspects that Father Flynn (Philip Seymour Hoffman) is having an inappropriate relationship with one of the students at their Catholic school.

As Sister Aloysius tries to gather evidence to prove her suspicions, she faces resistance from Father Flynn, as well as doubts about the validity of her own accusations.

The film explores themes of faith, doubt, and the abuse of power within institutions. It features powerful performances from Streep and Hoffman, as well as Amy Adams and Viola Davis in supporting roles.

“Doubt” received critical acclaim for its strong performances and nuanced exploration of complex themes.

It was nominated for five Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Actress for Streep, and Best Supporting Actress for both Adams and Davis. While it did not win any Oscars, the film remains a powerful and thought-provoking drama.

7. Julie & Julia (2009)

“Julie & Julia” is a 2009 comedy-drama film directed by Nora Ephron and starring Meryl Streep and Amy Adams.

The film tells the true story of Julia Child (Streep), a renowned chef who revolutionized the way Americans think about French cuisine, and Julie Powell (Adams), a young woman who embarks on a project to cook all 524 recipes in Child’s cookbook over the course of a year.

Streep delivers a delightful and nuanced performance as Child, capturing her warmth, humor, and passion for cooking.

The film alternates between the stories of Child’s life in France in the 1950s and Powell’s struggles to master the art of French cooking in modern-day New York City.

“Julie & Julia” was praised for its strong performances, witty script, and charming depiction of the world of cooking and food culture. Streep’s portrayal of Child earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress, her record-setting 16th nomination.

Overall, “Julie & Julia” is a heartwarming and entertaining film that showcases Streep’s range and talent as an actress. It is a celebration of food, friendship, and the joy of pursuing one’s passions, and remains a beloved film among Streep’s fans and food lovers alike.

8. The Hours (2002)

“The Hours” is a 2002 drama film directed by Stephen Daldry and starring Meryl Streep, Julianne Moore, and Nicole Kidman. The film is based on the novel of the same name by Michael Cunningham.

The story follows the lives of three women from different time periods who are connected by Virginia Woolf’s novel “Mrs. Dalloway.” In the 1920s, Woolf (Kidman) is struggling with her own mental health while writing the novel.

In the 1950s, housewife Laura Brown (Moore) is reading the novel while grappling with her own sense of dissatisfaction. In the present day, Clarissa Vaughan (Streep) is a book editor in a relationship with a woman dying of AIDS, who is nicknamed Mrs. Dalloway.

9. Out of Africa (1985)

“Out of Africa” is a 1985 American epic romantic drama film directed by Sydney Pollack, based on the autobiographical book by Danish author Karen Blixen.

The film stars Meryl Streep as Blixen, a Danish plantation owner in Kenya, and Robert Redford as Denys Finch Hatton, a big-game hunter and her lover.

The film received critical acclaim and was a commercial success, grossing over $227 million worldwide. It won seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director for Pollack, and Best Actress for Streep.

The film is widely regarded as a classic of its genre, and is known for its sweeping landscapes, sumptuous production design, and romantic score by John Barry.

“Out of Africa” is recommended for audiences who enjoy epic romantic dramas set against the backdrop of exotic locales. The film offers a glimpse into the complexities of colonialism, gender roles, and the human capacity for love and loss.

It is also notable for its outstanding performances by Streep and Redford, who bring depth and nuance to their complex characters.

10. The French Lieutenant’s Woman (1981)

“The French Lieutenant’s Woman” is a romantic drama film directed by Karel Reisz and released in 1981.

The film stars Meryl Streep and Jeremy Irons in dual roles, with Streep playing both Sarah Woodruff, a mysterious and scandalous woman in Victorian England, and Anna, the actress portraying Sarah in a contemporary film production.

The film is based on the novel of the same name by John Fowles and explores themes of love, passion, and the constraints of social conventions.

The story follows Charles Smithson (played by Irons), a wealthy and engaged gentleman, who becomes enamored with Sarah, a seemingly free-spirited and independent woman who is shunned by society for her rumored affairs with French officers.

“The French Lieutenant’s Woman” received critical acclaim upon its release, with particular praise for Streep’s dual performance, the film’s lush cinematography, and its exploration of complex relationships and societal expectations.

The film was also noted for its unconventional storytelling structure, which incorporates flashbacks and alternate endings, and its use of a parallel contemporary storyline to comment on the Victorian-era narrative.

The film was a commercial success, grossing over $26 million worldwide, and earned Streep an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress.

“The French Lieutenant’s Woman” has since become a beloved classic of the romantic drama genre, and its themes and messages continue to resonate with audiences today.

11. Kramer vs. Kramer (1979)

“Kramer vs. Kramer” is a 1979 drama film directed by Robert Benton and starring Dustin Hoffman, Meryl Streep, and Justin Henry. The film tells the story of Ted Kramer (played by Hoffman), a workaholic advertising executive whose wife, Joanna (played by Streep), walks out on him and their young son, Billy (played by Henry).

As Ted struggles to balance his demanding job with the responsibilities of raising Billy alone, he learns to become a better father and ultimately develops a strong bond with his son. However, his world is turned upside down when Joanna returns and demands custody of Billy, leading to a bitter and emotional custody battle.

“Kramer vs. Kramer” was widely acclaimed upon its release and won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actor for Hoffman. Streep was also nominated for Best Supporting Actress, and Justin Henry became the youngest ever nominee for an Academy Award at the age of eight.

The film is praised for its realistic and emotionally honest portrayal of divorce and parenting, as well as for the powerful performances of its cast. It is widely considered a classic of American cinema and a landmark film in the portrayal of complex family relationships on screen.

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12. The Bridges of Madison County (1995)

“The Bridges of Madison County” is a 1995 American romantic drama film directed by Clint Eastwood and starring Eastwood and Meryl Streep.

The film is based on the best-selling novel of the same name by Robert James Waller and tells the story of a brief but intense love affair between a National Geographic photographer named Robert and a lonely housewife named Francesca in rural Iowa.

As Robert and Francesca explore their feelings for each other over the course of four days, they are forced to confront the reality of their different lives and the impact their choices will have on their families.

The film is noted for its strong performances by Eastwood and Streep, as well as its beautiful cinematography that captures the rural landscapes of Iowa.

The film received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising the strong chemistry between Eastwood and Streep, and others criticizing the film for its slow pace and melodramatic plot.

However, the film was a box office success and has since become a beloved classic, particularly among fans of romantic dramas.

“The Bridges of Madison County” is often noted for its themes of passion, regret, and the choices we make in life.

It has been praised for its portrayal of mature love and the complexities of relationships, as well as its exploration of the impact of social norms and societal expectations on personal happiness.

13. Mamma Mia! (2008)

“Mamma Mia!” is a musical romantic comedy film released in 2008, directed by Phyllida Lloyd and written by Catherine Johnson. The film is based on the popular stage musical of the same name, which features songs by the Swedish pop group ABBA.

The story follows Sophie (Amanda Seyfried), a young bride-to-be who invites three men to her wedding on a Greek island, hoping to find out which of them is her father.

The film features many of ABBA’s most famous songs, including “Dancing Queen,” “Take a Chance on Me,” and the title track “Mamma Mia.”

The film’s cast includes Meryl Streep, Pierce Brosnan, Colin Firth, Stellan Skarsgård, Julie Walters, and Christine Baranski. The film was a commercial success, grossing over $600 million worldwide and becoming the highest-grossing film in the UK in 2008.

Despite mixed reviews from critics, “Mamma Mia!” became a cultural phenomenon, with its catchy music, feel-good plot, and colorful visuals appealing to audiences around the world. It was followed by a sequel, “Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again,” in 2018.

14. Marvin’s Room (1996)

“Marvin’s Room” is a 1996 drama film directed by Jerry Zaks and starring Meryl Streep, Diane Keaton, and Leonardo DiCaprio.

The film tells the story of two estranged sisters, Lee (Streep) and Bessie (Keaton), who are reunited when Bessie is diagnosed with leukemia and needs a bone marrow transplant.

Streep delivers a powerful performance as Lee, a single mother who has spent her life caring for her disabled son and has a strained relationship with her sister.

Through the course of the film, Lee begins to confront the unresolved issues from her past and reconnects with her family in meaningful ways.

“Marvin’s Room” was praised for its strong performances and poignant exploration of family dynamics and the complexities of caring for a loved one with a serious illness.

Streep’s performance earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress, her twelfth nomination at the time.

Overall, “Marvin’s Room” is a touching and thought-provoking film that showcases Streep’s range and emotional depth as an actress. It is a testament to the enduring power of family bonds and the importance of forgiveness and compassion in our lives.

15. Ironweed (1987)

“Ironweed” is a 1987 drama film directed by Hector Babenco and starring Meryl Streep and Jack Nicholson.

The film is an adaptation of the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel of the same name by William Kennedy and tells the story of two homeless people, Francis Phelan (Nicholson) and Helen Archer (Streep), struggling to survive during the Great Depression in Albany, New York.

Streep delivers a haunting and deeply affecting performance as Helen, a former singer who has fallen on hard times and turned to alcohol to cope with her pain.

She captures the desperation and sadness of her character with remarkable subtlety and nuance, creating a truly memorable and heartbreaking portrayal.

“Ironweed” was praised for its powerful performances and evocative portrayal of the struggles faced by those living in poverty during the Depression era.

Streep’s performance earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress, her eighth nomination at the time.

Overall, “Ironweed” is a powerful and moving film that showcases Streep’s incredible range as an actress. It is a poignant reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of compassion and empathy in our lives.

16. One True Thing (1998)

“One True Thing” is a 1998 drama film directed by Carl Franklin and starring Meryl Streep, Renée Zellweger, and William Hurt. The film is based on the novel of the same name by Anna Quindlen.

The story follows Ellen Gulden (Zellweger), a New York journalist who returns home to care for her mother Kate (Streep), who has been diagnosed with terminal cancer.

As Ellen becomes closer to her mother and father (Hurt), she learns about the complexities of their relationship and the sacrifices Kate made to support her family.

“One True Thing” received critical acclaim for its sensitive and nuanced portrayal of family dynamics, illness, and mortality. Streep’s performance was particularly lauded, earning her a nomination for the Academy Award for Best Actress.

The film is a poignant exploration of the bonds that tie families together and the struggles they face in the face of difficult circumstances.

17. Postcards from the Edge (1990)

“Postcards from the Edge” is a 1990 American comedy-drama film directed by Mike Nichols and based on the semi-autobiographical novel of the same name by Carrie Fisher.

The film stars Meryl Streep as Suzanne Vale, a Hollywood actress struggling with addiction and recovery, and Shirley MacLaine as her mother, a legendary actress with a complicated relationship with her daughter.

The film received positive reviews for its sharp wit, engaging performances, and nuanced exploration of the relationship between a mother and daughter in show business.

The film was also notable for its frank depiction of addiction and recovery, and for its all-star cast, which included Dennis Quaid, Gene Hackman, and Richard Dreyfuss.

“Postcards from the Edge” is recommended for audiences who enjoy smart, character-driven comedies with an edge.

The film offers a glimpse into the dark side of Hollywood and the challenges faced by those struggling to maintain their sobriety and their relationships. It is also notable for its insightful commentary on the dynamics of fame and family, and for its memorable performances by Streep and MacLaine.

18. It’s Complicated (2009)

“It’s Complicated” is a romantic comedy film written and directed by Nancy Meyers and released in 2009. The film stars Meryl Streep, Alec Baldwin, and Steve Martin in the lead roles.

The story follows Jane Adler (played by Streep), a successful divorced woman who finds herself torn between her ex-husband Jake (played by Baldwin).

Who is now married to a much younger woman, and her architect Adam (played by Martin), with whom she develops a romantic connection.

The film received generally positive reviews, with particular praise for the performances of the ensemble cast, the witty and relatable script, and the film’s lush cinematography.

The film was also noted for its realistic portrayal of the complexities and challenges of modern relationships, as well as for its exploration of themes of aging, regret, and second chances.

“It’s Complicated” was a commercial success, grossing over $219 million worldwide, and cementing Meyers’s reputation as a leading writer and director in the romantic comedy genre. The film has since become a beloved favorite of audiences, with its relatable characters and heartwarming story continuing to resonate with viewers of all ages.

19. Plenty (1985)

“Plenty” is a 1985 drama film directed by Fred Schepisi and starring Meryl Streep.

The film is based on the play of the same name by David Hare, which explores the life of a young Englishwoman named Susan Traherne (played by Streep) after her experiences as a member of the French Resistance during World War II.

As the film unfolds, we see Susan struggle to adjust to post-war society and find her place in the world.

She begins an affair with a British diplomat (played by Charles Dance) but becomes disillusioned with his lack of passion and commitment to their relationship.

As she continues to search for meaning and purpose in her life, Susan becomes increasingly alienated from those around her and begins to spiral out of control.

“Plenty” was praised for its powerful and nuanced portrayal of a woman struggling to find her place in a post-war world, as well as for Streep’s complex and multi-layered performance. The film was noted for its stunning visuals, including the use of locations in France and England, and for its exploration of political and social themes.

Overall, “Plenty” is considered a powerful and thought-provoking film that explores the themes of disillusionment, alienation,

and the search for meaning in a changing world. It remains a classic of British cinema and a testament to Streep’s skill as an actress.

20. Falling in Love (1984)

“Falling in Love” is a 1984 American romantic drama film directed by Ulu Grosbard and starring Robert De Niro and Meryl Streep. The film tells the story of two married strangers who meet by chance and begin an unexpected and intense love affair in New York City.

De Niro plays Frank Raftis, a man who is unhappy with his job and his marriage, while Streep plays Molly Gilmore, a woman who is struggling to balance her career with her family life.

As the two spend more time together, they become increasingly drawn to each other and are forced to confront the reality of their feelings and the impact their actions will have on their spouses and families.

The film received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising the strong performances by De Niro and Streep, and others criticizing the slow pace and predictable plot.

However, the film has gained a following among fans of romantic dramas and is notable for the chemistry between De Niro and Streep.

“Falling in Love” explores themes of passion, infidelity, and the complexities of relationships, as well as the challenges of balancing personal fulfillment with societal expectations.

The film has been noted for its realistic portrayal of the struggles and sacrifices that come with marriage and parenthood, as well as its depiction of the intense emotions that can arise in unexpected circumstances.

21. August: Osage County (2013)

“August: Osage County” is a drama film directed by John Wells and released in 2013. The film is based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning play of the same name by Tracy Letts.

The story follows the Weston family, who are brought back together in their Oklahoma home after the disappearance of the family patriarch.

Over the course of a tumultuous family dinner, old resentments and secrets are brought to light, and the family is forced to confront their dysfunctional relationships with one another.

The film boasts an all-star cast, including Meryl Streep, Julia Roberts, Ewan McGregor, Chris Cooper, Benedict Cumberbatch, Abigail Breslin, Juliette Lewis, Dermot Mulroney, and Sam Shepard.

The performances received critical acclaim, with both Streep and Roberts earning Academy Award nominations for their roles.

The film explores themes of family dysfunction, addiction, and the weight of the past on the present.

While it received mixed reviews from critics, “August: Osage County” remains a powerful and affecting drama, with standout performances and a searing depiction of family strife.

22. The Deer Hunter (1978)

“The Deer Hunter” is a 1978 war drama film directed by Michael Cimino and starring Robert De Niro, Christopher Walken, and Meryl Streep.

The film tells the story of a group of friends from a small Pennsylvania town who are sent to fight in the Vietnam War and the devastating impact it has on their lives.

Streep delivers a powerful and heartbreaking performance as Linda, the fiancée of one of the soldiers who is left behind to pick up the pieces of her life after he returns from the war.

Streep’s portrayal of Linda captures the pain and heartbreak of a woman who has lost everything she holds dear, and her chemistry with De Niro is palpable and moving.

“The Deer Hunter” was praised for its powerful performances and harrowing portrayal of the horrors of war. Streep’s performance earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress, marking her first Oscar nomination.

Overall, “The Deer Hunter” is a powerful and unforgettable film that showcases Streep’s early talent as an actress. It is a poignant exploration of the human cost of war and the enduring bonds of friendship and love in the face of unimaginable tragedy.

23. Angels in America (2003)

“Angels in America” is a 2003 HBO miniseries directed by Mike Nichols and based on the play of the same name by Tony Kushner. The series stars Al Pacino, Meryl Streep, Emma Thompson, and Justin Kirk, among others.

The story takes place in the mid-1980s and revolves around a group of characters whose lives intersect during the early years of the AIDS epidemic.

The main characters include Prior Walter (Kirk), a gay man with AIDS; his lover Louis Ironson (Ben Shenkman); Joe Pitt (Patrick Wilson), a closeted gay Mormon lawyer; his wife Harper (Mary-Louise Parker), who is addicted to Valium; and Roy Cohn (Pacino), a real-life lawyer who is also a closeted gay man and a mentor to Joe.

“Angels in America” received widespread critical acclaim, winning multiple Emmys and Golden Globes. The series was praised for its portrayal of the AIDS epidemic and its impact on the gay community, as well as its exploration of complex political and social issues.

Streep’s performance as the fictionalized version of Ethel Rosenberg, who appears as a ghost, was particularly lauded, earning her an Emmy nomination.

The series is widely regarded as one of the most important works of American television and a powerful exploration of the human condition in the face of adversity.

24. Adaptation. (2002)

“Adaptation.” is a 2002 American comedy-drama film directed by Spike Jonze and written by Charlie Kaufman. The film stars Nicolas Cage as both Charlie Kaufman and his fictional twin brother Donald, and Meryl Streep as a fictionalized version of author Susan Orlean.

The film blurs the lines between reality and fiction, exploring the creative process and the challenges of adapting Orlean’s non-fiction book “The Orchid Thief” into a film script.

The film received critical acclaim for its innovative structure, metafictional approach, and outstanding performances by the cast, particularly Nicolas Cage’s dual role as the Kaufman brothers.

The film was also recognized for its screenplay, which was nominated for an Academy Award.

“Adaptation.” is recommended for audiences who enjoy films that challenge conventional narrative structures and explore the complexities of creativity and identity.

The film offers a unique and thought-provoking examination of the creative process and the relationship between artists, their work, and their audiences.

It is also notable for its clever humor, inventive visual style, and exceptional performances by the cast.

25. The Manchurian Candidate (2004)

“The Manchurian Candidate” is a political thriller film directed by Jonathan Demme and released in 2004. The film stars Denzel Washington, Meryl Streep, and Liev Schreiber in the lead roles.

The story follows Ben Marco (played by Washington), a veteran of the Gulf War who begins to suspect that his platoon was brainwashed during their captivity in the Middle East.

As he investigates the truth behind his own memories and experiences, he uncovers a larger conspiracy involving a powerful political family and a possible presidential candidate (played by Schreiber) who may have been programmed as a sleeper agent by foreign powers.

The film received mixed reviews, with some critics praising its stylish direction and strong performances, while others found the film to be uneven and confusing.

Streep’s portrayal of Senator Eleanor Shaw, the ambitious and manipulative mother of Schreiber’s character, was widely praised for its intensity and complexity, and the film was noted for its exploration of themes of political corruption and psychological manipulation.

“The Manchurian Candidate” was a moderate commercial success, grossing over $96 million worldwide, and has since gained a cult following among fans of the thriller genre.

While the film may not have achieved the same level of critical or commercial success as the original 1962 film of the same name, it remains a notable entry in the genre and a showcase for Streep’s formidable acting abilities.

3 Reasons To Watch Meryl Streep Movies

Incredible Acting Talent: Meryl Streep is widely regarded as one of the greatest actresses of all time, with an incredible range and depth of talent. She has won three Academy Awards and has been nominated for a total of 21 Oscars, more than any other actor or actress in history.

Streep’s ability to inhabit and bring to life a wide range of characters is truly remarkable, and her performances are always a highlight of any movie she appears in.

Diverse Roles: Streep has played a wide range of roles throughout her career, from dramatic and serious roles to comedic and lighthearted ones.

Her versatility as an actress is one of her greatest strengths, and it has allowed her to take on challenging and complex characters in a variety of genres.

Whether she is playing a historical figure, a working-class mother, or a devilishly charming fashion editor, Streep brings depth and nuance to every character she portrays.

Cultural Impact: Meryl Streep has had a profound impact on popular culture, both in the United States and around the world.

Her performances have inspired generations of actors and actresses, and her advocacy for social causes has made her a beloved figure beyond the world of entertainment.

Streep has used her platform to raise awareness of issues like gender equality, environmentalism, and politics, and she has been recognized for her contributions with numerous awards and honors.

Overall, Meryl Streep movies offer a combination of incredible acting talent, diverse roles, and cultural impact that make them essential viewing for anyone who loves cinema.

Best Meryl Streep Movies – Wrap Up

In summary, Meryl Streep has starred in many memorable and critically acclaimed films throughout her career.

Some of her most notable performances include her Oscar-winning roles in “Kramer vs. Kramer,” “Sophie’s Choice,” and “The Iron Lady,” as well as her acclaimed performances in films such as “The Devil Wears Prada,” “Doubt,” and “Mamma Mia!”

Streep is known for her versatility as an actress and her ability to bring depth and complexity to a wide range of characters.

Her work has been praised for its authenticity, nuance, and emotional depth, and she has been recognized with numerous awards and accolades throughout her career.

Overall, Meryl Streep’s impact on the film industry has been significant, and her performances continue to inspire and captivate audiences around the world.