20 Best Michelle Williams Movies: A Look at Her Evolving Career

Michelle Williams is an American actress who has delivered some of the most critically acclaimed performances of the past two decades. She has been nominated for four Academy Awards and has won several other prestigious awards for her work in film and television.

Williams got her start on television before transitioning to film in the late 1990s. She has since established herself as one of the most versatile and talented actresses of her generation, with a wide range of roles in both independent and mainstream films.

In this series, we will take a look at some of Michelle Williams’ best movies and explore what makes her such a compelling and captivating actress.

Best Michelle Williams Movies

From her breakout role in “Dawson’s Creek” to her award-winning performances in “Brokeback Mountain” and “My Week with Marilyn,” Williams has proven time and again that she is a force to be reckoned with in the world of acting.

1. Brokeback Mountain (2005)

“Brokeback Mountain” is a 2005 romantic drama film directed by Ang Lee and starring Heath Ledger and Jake Gyllenhaal.

The film is based on the 1997 short story of the same name by Annie Proulx and explores the complicated relationship between two cowboys, Ennis Del Mar (Ledger) and Jack Twist (Gyllenhaal), who fall in love with each other during a summer job herding sheep on Brokeback Mountain in Wyoming.

The film portrays their relationship over the years, as they struggle to come to terms with their feelings and the societal pressures and prejudices that stand in their way.

“Brokeback Mountain” is a poignant and powerful exploration of love, loss, and the cost of living in a world that refuses to accept differences.

The film received widespread critical acclaim and was praised for its sensitive and nuanced portrayal of a same-sex relationship.

The performances of Ledger and Gyllenhaal were particularly lauded, with both actors delivering powerful and moving performances that earned them Academy Award nominations.

“Brokeback Mountain” is a groundbreaking film that paved the way for greater visibility and representation of LGBTQ+ stories in mainstream cinema.

2. Blue Valentine (2010)

“Blue Valentine” is a 2010 romantic drama film directed by Derek Cianfrance and starring Ryan Gosling and Michelle Williams.

The film tells the story of a couple, Dean and Cindy, who have been married for several years and are struggling to hold their relationship together.

The film explores themes of love, commitment, and the challenges of maintaining a long-term relationship.

It was praised for its raw and honest portrayal of a failing marriage, as well as the performances of Gosling and Williams, who were both nominated for Academy Awards for their roles.

“Blue Valentine” is recommended for audiences who enjoy intimate character studies and emotional dramas.

The film offers a poignant and unflinching look at the complexities of love and relationships, and the struggles that can arise when two people grow apart.

The film’s exceptional performances and sensitive direction make it a standout in the genre, and its exploration of universal themes makes it a relatable and thought-provoking work. However, due to its mature themes and graphic content, it may not be suitable for all viewers.

If you like Michelle Williams’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.

3. Manchester by the Sea (2016)

“Manchester by the Sea” is a drama film directed by Kenneth Lonergan and released in 2016.

The film stars Casey Affleck in the lead role of Lee Chandler, a janitor who is forced to confront his painful past when he becomes the legal guardian of his teenage nephew after the sudden death of his brother.

The story is set in the small town of Manchester-by-the-Sea, Massachusetts, and follows Lee as he struggles to come to terms with his tragic past while also dealing with the responsibilities of raising his nephew.

As he navigates his grief and tries to build a new life for himself and his nephew, he must confront the demons that have haunted him for years and reconcile with the people he left behind.

“Manchester by the Sea” was widely acclaimed by audiences and critics, who praised the film’s powerful performances, particularly from Affleck, who won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Lee.

The film was also noted for its nuanced exploration of themes of grief, loss, and redemption, as well as its realistic and emotionally honest portrayal of small-town life.

The film was a commercial success, grossing over $79 million worldwide, and helped to solidify Lonergan’s reputation as a director who excels at intimate and character-driven dramas.

“Manchester by the Sea” is widely regarded as one of the best films of 2016 and continues to resonate with audiences today as a moving and profound meditation on the human experience.

4. My Week with Marilyn (2011)

“My Week with Marilyn” is a 2011 biographical drama film directed by Simon Curtis and starring Michelle Williams, Kenneth Branagh, and Eddie Redmayne.

The film is based on the memoirs of Colin Clark, who worked as an assistant on the set of the 1957 film “The Prince and the Showgirl,” which starred Marilyn Monroe and Laurence Olivier.

The film follows Colin’s experiences working with Marilyn Monroe, who is portrayed by Michelle Williams in a critically acclaimed performance.

The film explores Marilyn’s struggles with her fame, her relationships with the men in her life, and the challenges she faced on the set of “The Prince and the Showgirl.” It also depicts Colin’s growing admiration and affection for Marilyn as he becomes more involved in her life.

“My Week with Marilyn” was praised for its nuanced and sensitive portrayal of Marilyn Monroe, as well as for Michelle Williams’ captivating performance. The film also received acclaim for its attention to detail and its recreation of the era in which it is set. T

he supporting performances of Kenneth Branagh as Laurence Olivier and Eddie Redmayne as Colin Clark were also noted for their depth and authenticity.

Overall, “My Week with Marilyn” is a moving and insightful film that offers a fresh perspective on one of the most iconic figures in Hollywood history. It’s a must-see for fans of biographical dramas and for anyone interested in the life and legacy of Marilyn Monroe.

5. The Station Agent (2003)

“The Station Agent” is a 2003 American independent comedy-drama film written and directed by Tom McCarthy. The film stars Peter Dinklage as Finbar McBride, a quiet and introverted man who moves to rural New Jersey to live in an abandoned train depot he inherited from a friend.

As Fin navigates his new surroundings, he becomes friends with two locals: Joe, a gregarious hot dog vendor played by Bobby Cannavale, and Olivia, a grieving artist played by Patricia Clarkson.

The three form an unlikely bond as they navigate the complexities of their relationships and the challenges of small-town life.

“The Station Agent” received critical acclaim for its performances, direction, and screenplay. The film won several awards at film festivals, including the Audience Award at the Sundance Film Festival and the Best Actor award for Dinklage at the Screen Actors Guild Awards.

The film explores themes of loneliness, friendship, and the search for human connection. It has been noted for its subtle humor and poignant moments, as well as its portrayal of characters who are often marginalized in mainstream media.

The film’s setting and cinematography have also been praised for capturing the beauty and serenity of rural America.

6. Certain Women (2016)

“Certain Women” is a drama film released in 2016, directed by Kelly Reichardt and starring Kristen Stewart, Michelle Williams, and Laura Dern. Christian Bale has a brief appearance in the film as a lonely ranch hand named Jamie.

The film tells three intersecting stories set in rural Montana, each exploring the lives of women who are struggling to find meaning and connection in their lives.

Jamie’s story centers on his infatuation with a young lawyer (Stewart) who teaches a night class in school law, and his attempts to connect with her.

Despite Bale’s limited screen time, his performance as Jamie is memorable, imbuing the character with a sense of quiet longing and vulnerability.

The film was praised for its understated performances and its nuanced exploration of complex themes such as loneliness, identity, and the search for meaning in life.

While “Certain Women” was not a commercial success, it received critical acclaim and was praised for its delicate and nuanced approach to storytelling.

The film showcases Bale’s ability to convey emotion and depth even in a relatively small role, and is a testament to his skill as an actor.

7. I’m Not There (2007)

“I’m Not There” is a 2007 biographical musical drama film directed by Todd Haynes and featuring an ensemble cast that includes Cate Blanchett, Heath Ledger, Richard Gere, and of course, Michelle Williams.

The film tells the story of the life and career of legendary musician Bob Dylan, but rather than using a traditional biopic format, it presents a series of interconnected vignettes that depict various aspects of Dylan’s life and artistry.

In “I’m Not There,” Michelle Williams plays the character of Coco Rivington, a folk singer who is modeled after several real-life women who had relationships with Dylan over the years.

Williams delivers a nuanced and captivating performance in the film, embodying the spirit of the 1960s folk music scene and capturing the essence of the era’s political and cultural upheavals.

“I’m Not There” was widely praised by critics for its innovative approach to the biopic genre, its stunning visuals, and its remarkable performances.

Williams’ work in the film was singled out for particular praise, with many critics noting that she brought a sense of grace and poignancy to her portrayal of Coco.

Overall, “I’m Not There” is a must-watch for fans of Bob Dylan and for anyone who appreciates innovative and thought-provoking filmmaking.

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8. Shutter Island (2010)

“Shutter Island” is a 2010 psychological thriller directed by Martin Scorsese and starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Mark Ruffalo, and Ben Kingsley.

The film is based on the 2003 novel of the same name by Dennis Lehane and follows U.S. Marshal Teddy Daniels (DiCaprio) and his partner (Ruffalo) as they investigate the disappearance of a patient from a remote mental institution on Shutter Island in Massachusetts.

As Daniels delves deeper into the mystery, he becomes increasingly haunted by the island’s dark past and his own personal demons. The film is a twisty and suspenseful ride that explores themes such as memory, trauma, and the nature of reality.

“Shutter Island” was praised for its strong performances, particularly DiCaprio’s portrayal of Daniels as a haunted and tormented figure.

The film’s atmospheric setting and moody score also received acclaim, as did Scorsese’s deft direction in building tension and suspense. “Shutter Island” is a gripping and unsettling thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

9. Suite Française (2014)

“Suite Française” is a 2014 romantic war drama film directed by Saul Dibb and based on the novel of the same name by Irène Némirovsky.

The film tells the story of a romance between a French woman named Lucille and a German officer named Bruno during the German occupation of France in World War II.

The film explores themes of love, war, and the complexities of relationships during times of conflict. It was praised for its nuanced portrayal of the characters and its historical accuracy.

“Suite Française” is recommended for audiences who enjoy historical dramas and romantic films set against the backdrop of war.

The film offers a compelling and poignant look at the struggles of ordinary people caught up in the tumultuous events of World War II.

The film’s strong performances, beautiful cinematography, and sensitive direction make it a standout in the genre. However, due to its mature themes and depictions of violence, it may not be suitable for all viewers.

10. Deception (2008)

“Deception” is a thriller film directed by Marcel Langenegger and released in 2008.

The film stars Hugh Jackman as Wyatt Bose, a successful lawyer who becomes involved in a mysterious and dangerous world of high-stakes sex clubs and corporate espionage after he meets a beautiful woman named S (played by Michelle Williams).

The story follows Wyatt as he becomes increasingly entangled in a web of deceit and danger, as he tries to uncover the truth about S and the secretive world she inhabits.

Along the way, he must navigate the dangerous alliances and power struggles of the wealthy and powerful men who control the sex club, as well as confront his own personal demons and vulnerabilities.

“Deception” received mixed reviews from audiences and critics, with some praising the film’s stylish visuals and tense atmosphere, while others criticized its convoluted plot and lack of character development.

Despite the mixed reception, the film’s cast, particularly Jackman and Williams, were noted for their strong performances.

The film was a moderate commercial success, grossing over $17 million worldwide, but ultimately failed to live up to the expectations of its high-profile cast and talented director.

Despite its flaws, “Deception” remains an interesting and engaging thriller for fans of the genre, with enough twists and turns to keep audiences on the edge of their seats.

11. Incendiary (2008)

“Incendiary” is a 2008 drama film directed by Sharon Maguire and starring Michelle Williams, Ewan McGregor, and Matthew Macfadyen.

The film is based on the novel of the same name by Chris Cleave, which tells the story of a woman who loses her husband and son in a terrorist attack in London and begins an affair with a journalist covering the story.

The film explores themes of grief, loss, and the search for meaning in the aftermath of tragedy.

Michelle Williams delivers a powerful and nuanced performance as the grieving mother, while Ewan McGregor and Matthew Macfadyen are also praised for their performances as the journalist and the police officer investigating the attack, respectively.

“Incendiary” received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising the performances and the film’s exploration of grief and loss, while others criticized its handling of sensitive subject matter and its lack of nuance in its portrayal of Muslim characters.

However, the film’s powerful performances and emotional resonance make it a thought-provoking and engaging drama that is worth watching for fans of the actors or for those interested in exploring complex themes of grief and trauma.

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12. Meek’s Cutoff (2010)

“Meek’s Cutoff” is a 2010 Western film directed by Kelly Reichardt and starring Michelle Williams, Bruce Greenwood, and Paul Dano.

The film is based on a true story and follows a group of settlers traveling through the Oregon desert in 1845 under the guidance of a mountain man named Stephen Meek.

As the group becomes lost and runs low on supplies, tensions rise between Meek and the settlers, particularly Emily Tetherow (played by Michelle Williams), who begins to question Meek’s leadership and motives.

As the group faces increasingly difficult circumstances, they must decide whether to continue following Meek or to strike out on their own.

“Meek’s Cutoff” received critical acclaim for its immersive and intimate portrayal of frontier life, as well as its exploration of themes such as gender, power, and survival. The film’s cinematography, which emphasizes the vastness and isolation of the Oregon landscape, has also been widely praised.

The film’s focus on the perspectives of women and marginalized groups has been noted as a departure from traditional Westerns, which typically center on male characters and their heroic exploits.

“Meek’s Cutoff” has been credited with helping to revitalize the Western genre and challenging its long-standing conventions.

13. Wendy and Lucy (2008)

“Wendy and Lucy” is a drama film released in 2008, directed by Kelly Reichardt and starring Michelle Williams in the lead role as Wendy, a young woman who is traveling with her dog, Lucy, to Alaska in search of work.

Bale does not appear in the film, but Reichardt is known for often using a core group of actors in her films, including Williams and Jesse Eisenberg, who co-starred with Bale in “The Social Network.”

The film explores themes of poverty, loneliness, and the struggle for survival in contemporary America. After Wendy’s car breaks down in Oregon, she is forced to rely on the kindness of strangers and the meager resources at her disposal in order to survive.

Along the way, she must make difficult choices and confront the harsh realities of life on the margins.

“Wendy and Lucy” was praised for its poignant and restrained storytelling, as well as for Williams’ powerful performance as Wendy.

The film is a quiet and understated exploration of the struggles facing many Americans today, and showcases Reichardt’s talents as a director and storyteller.

14. Take This Waltz (2011)

“Take This Waltz” is a 2011 romantic drama film written and directed by Sarah Polley.

The film stars Michelle Williams as Margot, a 28-year-old writer who is married to a cookbook author named Lou (played by Seth Rogen) but begins to develop feelings for their neighbor, Daniel (played by Luke Kirby).

As Margot struggles with her attraction to Daniel and the guilt she feels about her marriage, she is forced to confront the complexities of love, desire, and commitment. The film also explores themes of aging, identity, and the challenges of long-term relationships.

“Take This Waltz” received positive reviews for its nuanced performances, direction, and screenplay.

The film’s portrayal of complicated relationships and the emotional struggles of its characters has been praised for its honesty and authenticity. The film also features an acclaimed soundtrack that includes songs by Leonard Cohen.

The film has been noted for its frank and explicit depiction of sexuality, as well as its exploration of feminist themes. Polley has been praised for her direction and for creating a film that is both intimate and universal in its portrayal of human emotions.

15. Synecdoche, New York (2008)

“Synecdoche, New York” is a 2008 drama film written and directed by Charlie Kaufman, starring Philip Seymour Hoffman, Catherine Keener, and Michelle Williams.

The film follows the story of a theater director named Caden Cotard (Hoffman), who is struggling to create a play that is a true reflection of his life.

As his personal and professional life begins to crumble, Caden decides to create a life-sized replica of New York City inside a warehouse, where he and his actors can perform his play for decades to come.

The film is a surreal and deeply introspective exploration of art, life, and mortality, with Kaufman’s signature mind-bending storytelling style.

Hoffman’s performance as Caden is a tour-de-force of emotional range and nuance, capturing the character’s pain, despair, and search for meaning in a way that is both heartbreaking and haunting.

“Synecdoche, New York” was highly acclaimed for its ambitious and inventive storytelling, as well as its profound and thought-provoking themes.

Kaufman’s directing and writing were praised for their creativity and originality, and Hoffman’s performance was widely regarded as one of his finest.

The film is a challenging but rewarding watch, a deeply human and introspective exploration of what it means to be alive.

16. The United States of Leland (2003)

“The United States of Leland” is a 2003 independent drama film directed by Matthew Ryan Hoge. The film tells the story of a troubled teenager named Leland, who commits a shocking crime and becomes the subject of intense media scrutiny.

The film explores themes of guilt, redemption, and the complexities of human nature. It features an ensemble cast that includes Ryan Gosling, Don Cheadle, Kevin Spacey, and Jena Malone.

“The United States of Leland” is recommended for audiences who enjoy thought-provoking dramas that tackle difficult subjects.

The film offers a nuanced and compassionate look at a troubled young man grappling with the consequences of his actions. It raises questions about the nature of responsibility and the limits of forgiveness.

The film’s strong performances, intelligent script, and understated direction make it a standout in the genre. However, due to its mature themes and depictions of violence, it may not be suitable for all viewers.

17. Mammoth (2009)

“Mammoth” is a drama film directed by Lukas Moodysson and released in 2009. The film stars Gael Garcia Bernal as Leo, a successful New York businessman who is married to a surgeon named Ellen (played by Michelle Williams).

The story explores the theme of disconnection and alienation in modern society, as the characters struggle to find meaning and connection in their lives.

The film follows Leo as he travels to Thailand on a business trip, leaving Ellen to care for their daughter at home in New York.

While in Thailand, Leo becomes involved with a young sex worker named Cookie (played by Run Srinikornchot), leading him to question his priorities and values.

Meanwhile, Ellen faces her own challenges as she tries to balance her demanding career with the responsibilities of motherhood.

“Mammoth” received mixed reviews from audiences and critics, with some praising the film’s exploration of complex themes and emotional depth, while others criticized its slow pace and disjointed storytelling.

Despite the mixed reception, the film’s cast, particularly Bernal and Williams, were noted for their strong performances.

While “Mammoth” was not a commercial success, it remains an interesting and thought-provoking exploration of contemporary issues and relationships.

Offers a compelling examination of the ways in which technology and globalization can both connect and disconnect us from each other.

18. Land of Plenty (2004)

“Land of Plenty” is a 2004 drama film directed by Wim Wenders and starring Michelle Williams and John Diehl.

The film follows Lana (Williams), a young woman who returns to the United States after years of living abroad, and her uncle Paul (Diehl), a Vietnam War veteran who lives in Los Angeles and is struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder.

The film explores themes of isolation, alienation, and the search for meaning in a post-9/11 world.

As Lana and Paul navigate the streets of Los Angeles, they encounter people from all walks of life and grapple with questions about the meaning of freedom and the impact of violence on society.

The film is also notable for its examination of the experiences of war veterans, particularly those struggling with mental health issues.

“Land of Plenty” received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising its exploration of complex themes and its naturalistic performances, particularly by Michelle Williams.

However, others criticized the film for its meandering plot and its heavy-handed treatment of its subject matter.

Nevertheless, the film remains an intriguing and thought-provoking exploration of post-9/11 America, and it’s worth watching for fans of Michelle Williams or for those interested in the complexities of the American psyche in the wake of tragedy.

19. Halloween H20: 20 Years Later (1998)

“Halloween H20: 20 Years Later” is a slasher film released in 1998, directed by Steve Miner and starring Jamie Lee Curtis, Josh Hartnett, and Adam Arkin. Christian Bale does not appear in the film.

The film is a sequel to the original “Halloween” (1978), and takes place 20 years after the events of the first film. It follows Laurie Strode (Curtis) as she tries to live a normal life under a new identity, but is haunted by memories of her traumatic encounter with the masked killer Michael Myers.

When Michael Myers reemerges, Laurie is forced to confront him once again, and protect her son and his friends from his murderous rampage.

While “Halloween H20” was praised for its tense and suspenseful atmosphere, as well as Curtis’ return to the franchise, it received mixed reviews from critics.

Some felt that the film failed to live up to the original, while others appreciated its attempts to update and revitalize the franchise for a new generation.

Although Christian Bale was not involved in “Halloween H20,” the film remains a notable entry in the horror genre, and is remembered for its intense set pieces and Curtis’ iconic portrayal of Laurie Strode.

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20. Species (1995)

“Species” is a 1995 science fiction horror film directed by Roger Donaldson and starring a talented cast that includes Natasha Henstridge, Ben Kingsley, Michael Madsen, and of course, Michelle Williams.

The film tells the story of a government team that creates a hybrid alien-human woman named Sil, who escapes from captivity and goes on a killing spree in order to mate and reproduce.

Michelle Williams has a small role in “Species” as the young version of Sil, played by Henstridge. Though her screen time is limited, Williams delivers a memorable and chilling performance as the dangerous and otherworldly creature.

While “Species” received mixed reviews upon its release, it has since become a cult classic and remains a notable example of the science fiction horror genre.

With its mix of action, horror, and science fiction, and a talented cast, “Species” is worth checking out for fans of the genre, especially those who appreciate Michelle Williams’ work.

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3 Reasons To Watch Michelle Williams Movies

Exceptional Acting: Michelle Williams is a highly acclaimed actress known for her exceptional acting skills.

She has been praised for her ability to bring nuance and depth to her roles, creating fully-realized characters that audiences can relate to and empathize with.

From her breakthrough performance in “Brokeback Mountain” to her award-winning role in “Blue Valentine” and her portrayal of Marilyn Monroe in “My Week with Marilyn,” Williams has consistently delivered memorable and powerful performances.

Diverse Roles: Williams has shown her range as an actress by taking on a wide variety of roles throughout her career.

She has played everything from a young wife struggling with the breakdown of her marriage to a woman fighting for her son’s custody to a mother coping with the loss of her child. Williams has proven herself to be a versatile actress, equally at home in drama, comedy, and period pieces.

Fearless Choices: Williams has also earned a reputation for making bold and fearless choices in her acting career.

She has taken on challenging and unconventional roles, such as playing the iconic Marilyn Monroe in “My Week with Marilyn” and the troubled, grief-stricken wife in “Manchester by the Sea.”

Williams has also been vocal about her support for gender equality in Hollywood, and has used her platform to advocate for greater representation of women in the film industry.

By watching Michelle Williams movies, audiences can witness her talent, versatility, and bravery on the screen.

Best Michelle Williams Movies – Wrap Up

Michelle Williams is a talented actress with a diverse range of performances across various genres. Some of her best movies include:

“Brokeback Mountain” (2005): A romantic drama film directed by Ang Lee, in which Williams plays the wife of a cowboy who falls in love with another man.

“Blue Valentine” (2010): A romantic drama film directed by Derek Cianfrance, in which Williams stars opposite Ryan Gosling as a woman struggling to maintain her marriage.

“Manchester by the Sea” (2016): A drama film directed by Kenneth Lonergan, in which Williams plays a mother dealing with a devastating loss.

“My Week with Marilyn” (2011): A biographical drama film directed by Simon Curtis, in which Williams portrays the iconic Marilyn Monroe.

“Wendy and Lucy” (2008): A drama film directed by Kelly Reichardt, in which Williams plays a young woman on a journey with her dog, facing various challenges along the way.

These movies showcase Michelle Williams’ range as an actress and her ability to bring depth and nuance to her performances. They are all highly recommended for audiences who enjoy thoughtful, character-driven dramas with strong performances.