16 Best Uma Thurman Movies: The Unique Allure of a Screen Siren

Uma Thurman is a renowned actress known for her versatile performances and stunning looks. She has starred in a number of critically acclaimed films throughout her career, ranging from action-packed thrillers to heartfelt dramas.

Thurman has been nominated for numerous awards, including an Academy Award and a Golden Globe Award.

Some of Uma Thurman’s best movies include “Pulp Fiction” (1994), where she played the iconic role of Mia Wallace; “Kill Bill” Volumes 1 and 2 (2003-2004).

Where she portrayed the deadly assassin known as The Bride; and “Gattaca” (1997), a science fiction film that explores themes of genetic engineering and discrimination.

Thurman has also starred in a number of romantic comedies, including “The Truth About Cats and Dogs” (1996) and “Prime” (2005), and has worked with renowned directors such as Quentin Tarantino, Gus Van Sant, and Woody Allen.

Best Uma Thurman Movies

With her impressive range and memorable performances, Uma Thurman has left a lasting impact on the film industry and remains one of the most iconic actresses of our time.

1. Dangerous Liaisons (1988)

“Dangerous Liaisons” is a drama film directed by Stephen Frears and released in 1988. The screenplay was written by Christopher Hampton, based on his stage play, which in turn was adapted from the 18th-century French novel of the same name by Pierre Choderlos de Laclos.

The film is set in 18th-century France and follows the manipulative games played by the Marquise de Merteuil (Glenn Close) and the Vicomte de Valmont (John Malkovich), two ex-lovers and sophisticated aristocrats.

Merteuil challenges Valmont to seduce the virtuous Madame de Tourvel (Michelle Pfeiffer), while Valmont seeks to conquer the young and innocent Cécile de Volanges (Uma Thurman).

As their schemes unfold, the characters become entangled in a web of deception, betrayal, and emotional manipulation.

“Dangerous Liaisons” explores themes of power, desire, and the corrupting influence of social gamesmanship.

The film delves into the intricate power dynamics and moral decadence of the French aristocracy during the period. It highlights the emotional and psychological consequences of the characters’ actions as they play with the lives and reputations of others.

The performances in “Dangerous Liaisons” are widely acclaimed, with Glenn Close and John Malkovich delivering compelling portrayals of the manipulative and calculating Marquise de Merteuil and Vicomte de Valmont, respectively.

The film also features strong supporting performances from Michelle Pfeiffer, Uma Thurman, and Keanu Reeves.

The visual and production design of the film captures the lavishness and opulence of the 18th-century French aristocracy, showcasing elaborate costumes and luxurious settings.

The dialogue is sharp and filled with intricate wordplay, reflecting the sophistication and duplicity of the characters.

Upon its release, “Dangerous Liaisons” received critical acclaim and garnered multiple Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture, Best Actress for Glenn Close, and Best Adapted Screenplay.

The film is praised for its elegant storytelling, strong performances, and its exploration of the dark underbelly of high society.

Overall, “Dangerous Liaisons” is a captivating and psychologically intense drama that exposes the complex dynamics of desire, manipulation, and betrayal within the French aristocracy.

It stands as a notable adaptation of the classic novel, showcasing the talents of its cast and the intricate web of relationships they navigate.

2. Henry & June (1990)

“Henry & June” is a 1990 biographical drama film directed by Philip Kaufman, based on the book “Henry and June” by Anaïs Nin. The film stars Fred Ward, Uma Thurman, and Maria de Medeiros.

The movie is set in Paris in the early 1930s and focuses on the complex relationship between writer Anaïs Nin (played by Maria de Medeiros), her husband Hugo (played by Richard E. Grant), and the American author Henry Miller (played by Fred Ward).

Nin and Miller embark on a passionate and unconventional love affair, while also exploring their art and literary pursuits.

The film is notable for its exploration of themes such as sexuality, art, and self-discovery, and for its frank depiction of nudity and sexual content.

“Henry & June” was the first film to receive an NC-17 rating (formerly X rating) from the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA) for its explicit sexual content. The film was also a critical success and was nominated for Best Cinematography at the Academy Awards. The movie helped to establish director Philip Kaufman’s reputation as a filmmaker with a unique and daring vision. It remains a significant and influential work in the biographical drama genre.

3. Final Analysis (1992)

“Final Analysis” is a psychological thriller film released in 1992. It was directed by Phil Joanou and starred Richard Gere, Kim Basinger, Uma Thurman, and Eric Roberts in lead roles.

The movie blends elements of romance, mystery, and suspense to create an engaging and suspenseful story.

The film follows Dr. Isaac Barr (played by Richard Gere), a respected and successful psychiatrist who becomes involved in a complicated and dangerous relationship with a mysterious woman named Heather Evans (played by Kim Basinger).

As Barr delves deeper into Heather’s troubled past, he becomes entangled in a web of deceit, betrayal, and murder.

Here are three reasons to watch “Final Analysis”:

Intriguing Mystery and Suspense: “Final Analysis” presents a gripping and intricate plot filled with twists and turns. As the story unfolds, the audience is drawn into a suspenseful and mysterious world where secrets are revealed and loyalties are questioned.

The film keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, guessing and second-guessing the motives and intentions of the characters. If you enjoy suspenseful thrillers that keep you guessing until the end, “Final Analysis” delivers a compelling and thrilling experience.

Stellar Cast and Performances: The film boasts a talented ensemble cast, with Richard Gere, Kim Basinger, Uma Thurman, and Eric Roberts delivering strong performances.

Richard Gere portrays the conflicted and determined psychiatrist with charisma and depth, while Kim Basinger brings a seductive and enigmatic quality to her character.

The chemistry and dynamics between the actors elevate the tension and intrigue of the story, making the performances a highlight of the film.

Atmospheric Cinematography and Direction: “Final Analysis” benefits from stylish cinematography and skillful direction by Phil Joanou.

The film effectively creates a moody and atmospheric setting, with its dark and shadowy visuals adding to the overall sense of mystery and suspense.

Joanou’s direction enhances the tension and brings a sense of visual flair to the storytelling, making the film visually captivating.

Overall, “Final Analysis” offers an engaging blend of romance, mystery, and suspense, supported by a talented cast and skillful direction. If you enjoy psychological thrillers that keep you guessing and deliver a captivating viewing experience, this film is worth checking out.

4. Jennifer 8 (1992)

“Jennifer 8” is a psychological thriller film directed by Bruce Robinson and released in 1992. The film stars Andy Garcia as John Berlin, a former LAPD detective who moves to rural California to escape his past and start a new life.

There, he becomes involved in the investigation of a serial killer who preys on blind women, who are all named Jennifer and have the number 8 in their addresses.

During the investigation, John becomes romantically involved with Helena Robertson, a blind witness to one of the murders played by Uma Thurman, and he begins to suspect that the killer may be someone closer to him than he thought.

The film also stars John Malkovich as a local sheriff who is initially suspicious of John’s involvement in the case.

“Jennifer 8” received mixed reviews from critics upon its release, but was praised for its atmospheric tension and strong performances, particularly from Garcia and Thurman. The film’s title is a reference to the braille numeral for the number 8.

5. Mad Dog and Glory (1993)

“Mad Dog and Glory” is a crime comedy-drama film released in 1993. It is directed by John McNaughton and stars Robert De Niro, Uma Thurman, and Bill Murray in the lead roles.

The film follows the story of Wayne Dobie (Robert De Niro), a mild-mannered and introverted police photographer known as “Mad Dog” due to his bravery during a shootout. Despite his heroic reputation, Wayne leads a lonely and unfulfilled life.

One day, after saving the life of Frank Milo (Bill Murray), a mobster and nightclub owner, Wayne is offered a favor in return.

Frank, who is infatuated with a beautiful woman named Glory (Uma Thurman), decides to “loan” her to Wayne for a week as an expression of gratitude.

Wayne reluctantly agrees, and as he spends time with Glory, an unexpected bond develops between them. They find solace and companionship in each other’s company, leading to a growing romance.

However, their relationship becomes complicated when Frank starts to interfere and assert his control over both Wayne and Glory.

Wayne must navigate the dangerous dynamics between the mobster and his newfound love interest while trying to assert his own independence.

“Mad Dog and Glory” explores themes of identity, personal transformation, and the blurred lines between loyalty and personal desires. It blends elements of crime, humor, and romance to create a unique and engaging story.

The film received mixed reviews from critics but was praised for its performances, particularly Bill Murray’s portrayal of the eccentric and unpredictable Frank Milo.

Overall, “Mad Dog and Glory” is a character-driven film that delves into the complexities of relationships and the choices individuals make when faced with unexpected circumstances.

It offers a blend of drama, comedy, and crime elements, providing an intriguing and sometimes dark exploration of human connections.

6. Pulp Fiction (1994)

 “Pulp Fiction” (1994). “Pulp Fiction” is a renowned neo-noir crime film directed by Quentin Tarantino. It features an ensemble cast including John Travolta, Uma Thurman, Samuel L. Jackson, and Bruce Willis, among others.

Although Brittany Murphy had a successful career, she did not have a role in this particular film. If you have any other questions or need information about Brittany Murphy’s filmography, please let me know.

7.Gattaca (1997)

“Gattaca” is a 1997 science fiction film written and directed by Andrew Niccol. The movie is set in a future society where genetic engineering has created a caste system based on one’s DNA.

Vincent Freeman (played by Ethan Hawke) is a “de-gene-erate” who dreams of becoming an astronaut, despite being deemed unfit for the role due to his genetic makeup.

To achieve his dream, Vincent assumes the identity of a genetically superior man named Jerome Morrow (played by Jude Law), who becomes his partner in crime.

As Vincent works to evade detection and pass as Jerome, he falls in love with Irene (played by Uma Thurman), a colleague who is also genetically engineered but carries a flawed gene that prevents her from pursuing her own dreams.

The film explores themes of discrimination, identity, and the power of human will.

It received positive reviews for its thought-provoking storyline and stunning visuals, as well as the performances of its cast. “Gattaca” has since become a cult classic and a staple in the science fiction genre.

8. Les Misérables (1998)

“Les Misérables” is a film adaptation of the popular musical of the same name, based on the 1862 French novel by Victor Hugo.

The 1998 film was directed by Bille August and features an ensemble cast including Liam Neeson, Geoffrey Rush, Uma Thurman, and Claire Danes.

The story of “Les Misérables” is set against the backdrop of 19th-century France and follows the journey of Jean Valjean (Liam Neeson), a former convict who seeks redemption.

After serving a long prison sentence for stealing a loaf of bread, Valjean breaks his parole and assumes a new identity. However, he is relentlessly pursued by the persistent Inspector Javert (Geoffrey Rush).

As Valjean attempts to rebuild his life, he becomes entangled in the lives of several characters, including Fantine (Uma Thurman), a struggling single mother, and her daughter Cosette (played by different actresses at different ages).

The film spans several decades and portrays the characters’ struggles against poverty, oppression, and the tumultuous events of the time, such as the June Rebellion of 1832.

“Les Misérables” is known for its powerful musical numbers, which convey the emotions and inner conflicts of the characters.

The film features iconic songs from the musical, such as “I Dreamed a Dream,” “On My Own,” and “Do You Hear the People Sing?” The performances in the film blend acting and singing, capturing the intensity and passion of the stage production.

The 1998 adaptation of “Les Misérables” received mixed reviews from critics. While the film was praised for its strong performances and faithful depiction of the source material, some critics felt that the epic scope of the story was not fully realized in the adaptation.

Others found the pacing and length of the film to be a drawback.

Despite the mixed critical reception, “Les Misérables” remains a beloved musical and has garnered a dedicated fanbase over the years.

The themes of love, sacrifice, and redemption continue to resonate with audiences, and the story has been adapted into various forms, including a highly successful stage musical and a recent 2012 film adaptation.

Overall, the 1998 film version of “Les Misérables” brings the epic tale to the big screen, showcasing its memorable music and exploring the timeless themes of compassion, justice, and the resilience of the human spirit.

9. Paycheck (2003)

“Paycheck” is a 2003 science fiction action thriller film directed by John Woo, based on the short story of the same name by Philip K. Dick. The film stars Ben Affleck, Uma Thurman, and Aaron Eckhart.

The movie follows the story of Michael Jennings (played by Ben Affleck), a reverse engineer who is hired by companies to break down their competitors’ technology and create copies.

After completing a three-year project for a company called Allcom, Michael wakes up to find that he has had his memory wiped and has no recollection of the past three years.

In exchange for the work he did, he is given an envelope containing a fortune, but no explanation of why he earned it.

As Michael tries to figure out what happened to him, he discovers that he had agreed to have his memory erased in exchange for the large sum of money.

He also finds out that he is being hunted down by a group of assassins, and he must use his expertise to stay alive and uncover the truth.

The film received mixed reviews from critics and was a moderate box office success. The movie is known for its fast-paced action scenes and high-tech gadgets, as well as for exploring themes such as memory and identity.

While it may not be considered a classic of the science fiction genre, “Paycheck” is an entertaining and enjoyable action movie that offers a glimpse into the mind-bending world of Philip K. Dick’s stories.

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10. Be Cool (2005)

“Be Cool” is a comedy-crime film released in 2005. It is a sequel to the 1995 film “Get Shorty” and is based on the novel of the same name by Elmore Leonard.

Directed by F. Gary Gray, the movie features a star-studded ensemble cast including John Travolta, Uma Thurman, Vince Vaughn, Cedric the Entertainer, and The Rock, among others.

Here are three reasons to watch “Be Cool”:

Entertaining and Humorous Story: “Be Cool” delivers a comedic and entertaining storyline that blends elements of crime, music, and show business.

The film follows Chili Palmer (played by John Travolta), a former mobster who sets his sights on the music industry. As Chili navigates the music business, he encounters eccentric characters, rivalries, and comedic situations.

The film’s witty dialogue, comedic timing, and satirical take on the entertainment industry make it an enjoyable and lighthearted viewing experience.

All-Star Cast and Performances: “Be Cool” features an ensemble cast of talented actors who bring their comedic chops to the screen.

John Travolta reprises his role as Chili Palmer with his trademark charm and coolness, while Uma Thurman delivers a memorable performance as a talented singer.

The supporting cast, including Vince Vaughn, Cedric the Entertainer, and The Rock, adds to the comedic energy of the film. The chemistry and comedic timing among the cast members contribute to the film’s humor and entertainment value.

Music and Dance Numbers: As the film revolves around the music industry, “Be Cool” incorporates lively and entertaining musical performances and dance numbers.

From rock ‘n’ roll to hip-hop, the movie features a diverse range of musical styles and showcases talented performers. The musical sequences add a dynamic and energetic element to the film, making it an enjoyable experience for music lovers.

Overall, “Be Cool” offers a comedic and entertaining experience with its blend of crime, music, and humor.

The talented cast, engaging storyline, and lively musical numbers make it a fun and light-hearted film to watch. If you’re looking for a comedy with a mix of crime and music, “Be Cool” is worth considering.

11. Prime (2005)

“Prime” is a romantic comedy-drama film released in 2005, directed by Ben Younger and starring Uma Thurman, Meryl Streep, and Bryan Greenberg.

The film follows Rafi Gardet (Uma Thurman), a recently divorced 37-year-old woman living in New York City who begins a romance with a much younger man, David Bloomberg (Bryan Greenberg), who is 14 years her junior.

Meanwhile, Rafi’s therapist, Lisa Metzger (Meryl Streep), begins to suspect that her new patient and her son are dating the same woman.

As Rafi’s relationship with David progresses, she begins to have doubts about their age difference and whether they are compatible.

At the same time, Lisa struggles with her own feelings of jealousy and anxiety about her son’s romantic choices.

“Prime” received mixed reviews from critics upon its release, but was praised for its performances, particularly from Thurman and Streep, who were both nominated for Golden Globe Awards for their roles in the film.

The movie addresses themes of ageism, cultural differences, and societal expectations, while also exploring the challenges and rewards of intergenerational relationships.

12. My Super Ex-Girlfriend (2006)

“My Super Ex-Girlfriend” is a romantic comedy film released in 2006. It is directed by Ivan Reitman and stars Uma Thurman, Luke Wilson, and Anna Faris in the lead roles.

The movie tells the story of Matt Saunders (Luke Wilson), an average guy who becomes involved with a woman named Jenny Johnson (Uma Thurman).

Unbeknownst to Matt, Jenny is secretly a superheroine with extraordinary powers. They begin dating, and at first, Matt is thrilled to be in a relationship with a woman who can fly and save the day.

However, as their relationship progresses, Matt starts to discover the downsides of dating a superhero. Jenny’s possessiveness, jealous tendencies, and over-the-top reactions to everyday situations begin to strain their relationship.

Matt decides to break up with Jenny, and that’s when her superpowers are unleashed in a vengeful manner.

Jenny starts using her powers to wreak havoc on Matt’s life, causing chaos and embarrassment. Matt seeks help from his best friend, Hannah (Anna Faris), as they try to find a way to stop Jenny’s rampage and restore order to their lives.

“My Super Ex-Girlfriend” combines elements of romantic comedy and superhero genres, exploring the challenges and complications that arise when dating someone with superpowers.

The film uses humor to highlight the absurdity of the situations and the clash between ordinary life and extraordinary abilities.

While the film received mixed reviews from critics, it offers a lighthearted and entertaining take on the superhero genre, focusing more on the comedic aspects rather than intense action sequences.

The performances by Uma Thurman, Luke Wilson, and Anna Faris contribute to the film’s comedic charm.

Overall, “My Super Ex-Girlfriend” provides a fun and quirky twist on the romantic comedy genre, incorporating elements of superhero fantasy to create an amusing and light-hearted story about love, breakups, and the challenges of dating a super-powered individual.

13. The Accidental Husband (2008)

“The Accidental Husband” is a romantic comedy film released in 2008. While Brittany Murphy was originally cast in the film, she was ultimately replaced by actress Uma Thurman due to scheduling conflicts.

Therefore, Brittany Murphy does not appear in the final version of “The Accidental Husband.” The film follows the story of a radio host named Emma, played by Uma Thurman, who discovers that she is legally married to a man she has never met.

The film explores the comedic and romantic consequences that arise from this unexpected situation. Although Brittany Murphy was initially involved with the project, her role was ultimately taken over by Uma Thurman.

14. Bel Ami (2012)

“Bel Ami” is a 2012 drama film directed by Declan Donnellan and Nick Ormerod, based on the 1885 novel of the same name by Guy de Maupassant.

The movie stars Robert Pattinson as Georges Duroy, a former soldier who rises to power in Parisian society through his manipulative and seductive ways.

As Duroy climbs the social ladder, he becomes involved with a number of women, including Clotilde (played by Christina Ricci), Suzanne (played by Uma Thurman), and Madeleine (played by Kristin Scott Thomas), each of whom has her own motivations and desires.

The film explores themes of power, ambition, and the corrupting influence of wealth and status. While Pattinson’s performance received mixed reviews, the supporting cast was praised for their performances, particularly Thurman’s portrayal of the jilted lover Suzanne.

Overall, “Bel Ami” received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising its visual style and thematic depth, while others found it dull and lacking in emotional resonance.

15. Playing for Keeps (2012)

“Playing for Keeps” is a romantic comedy film directed by Gabriele Muccino and released in 2012. The movie features an ensemble cast including Gerard Butler, Jessica Biel, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Uma Thurman, and Dennis Quaid.

The story revolves around George (Gerard Butler), a former professional soccer player who has fallen on hard times and now struggles with his personal life.

To reconnect with his son and ex-wife, Stacie (Jessica Biel), George takes on the role of his son’s soccer team coach.

However, his good looks and charm attract the attention of various soccer moms, including Patti (Catherine Zeta-Jones) and Denise (Uma Thurman), who complicate his attempts at rebuilding his family life.

“Playing for Keeps” explores themes of love, family, and the challenges of balancing personal aspirations with responsibilities.

As George navigates his relationships with his son, ex-wife, and the women vying for his attention, he must confront his own commitment issues and rediscover what truly matters to him.

The film combines elements of comedy and romance, aiming to provide light-hearted entertainment. It delves into the dynamics between the characters, the romantic entanglements, and the comedic situations that arise from George’s predicament.

Upon its release, “Playing for Keeps” received generally negative reviews from critics. Many felt that the film was formulaic and lacked originality, with predictable plot developments and underdeveloped characters.

However, some appreciated the performances of the cast members and found certain moments to be charming and enjoyable.

While “Playing for Keeps” did not achieve significant commercial success, it remains a part of the romantic comedy genre, offering a lighthearted story with a sports backdrop and a focus on personal relationships.

16. Burnt (2015)

“Burnt” is a 2015 drama film directed by John Wells and starring Bradley Cooper, Sienna Miller, and Omar Sy. The movie follows the story of Adam Jones (played by Bradley Cooper), a talented but troubled chef who returns to London after a self-imposed exile in New Orleans.

Jones is determined to earn three Michelin stars for his new restaurant and recruits a team of skilled chefs to help him achieve his goal.

However, his past mistakes and personal demons threaten to derail his plans, and he must confront his own flaws and seek forgiveness from those he has wronged in order to succeed.

The film received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising the performances of the cast and the stunning food photography, while others criticized the predictable storyline and lack of character development.

Despite the mixed reviews, “Burnt” is an engaging drama that provides an inside look at the high-pressure world of professional kitchens and the intense drive for perfection that fuels many chefs.

The film also explores themes such as redemption and forgiveness, as Adam Jones seeks to make amends for his past mistakes and rebuild his career and personal relationships.

Overall, “Burnt” is an enjoyable and well-acted drama that offers a tantalizing glimpse into the world of gourmet cuisine.

3 Reasons To Watch Uma Thurman Movies

Versatility and Range: Uma Thurman is known for her versatility as an actress, taking on a wide range of roles in various genres.

From action-packed films like “Kill Bill” to romantic comedies like “The Truth About Cats & Dogs” and dramas like “Pulp Fiction,” Thurman has showcased her ability to inhabit diverse characters with depth and skill.

Watching her movies allows you to witness her range as an actress and appreciate her ability to bring unique and compelling performances to the screen.

Iconic Collaborations: Thurman has had the opportunity to work with acclaimed directors and renowned actors throughout her career.

Her collaboration with Quentin Tarantino in films like “Pulp Fiction” and the “Kill Bill” series has resulted in some of her most memorable and iconic performances.

Additionally, she has worked with esteemed directors such as Gus Van Sant, Woody Allen, and Richard Linklater, among others. Watching Thurman’s movies allows you to witness her collaborations with talented filmmakers and see how she brings their visions to life.

Strong Screen Presence: Uma Thurman possesses a captivating screen presence that draws audiences in. Her striking appearance, coupled with her ability to command attention, makes her performances compelling to watch.

Whether she’s portraying a fierce and determined action hero or a vulnerable and complex character, Thurman’s presence on screen leaves a lasting impression.

Watching her movies allows you to experience her magnetic screen presence and appreciate her ability to captivate viewers with her performances.

Overall, Uma Thurman’s movies offer a chance to witness the versatility, iconic collaborations, and captivating screen presence of a talented actress.

Her ability to tackle diverse roles and work with esteemed filmmakers has made her a prominent figure in the film industry. If you’re a fan of compelling performances and engaging storytelling, exploring Uma Thurman’s filmography is a rewarding choice.

Best Uma Thurman Movies – Wrap Up

Uma Thurman is a talented actress who has appeared in numerous films throughout her career. Here are some of her best movies:

Pulp Fiction (1994): This Quentin Tarantino classic features Thurman as Mia Wallace, the wife of a crime boss who develops a connection with hitman Vincent Vega, played by John Travolta.

Thurman’s performance is unforgettable, earning her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress.

Kill Bill: Vol. 1 and 2 (2003-2004): In this two-part action film, Thurman plays “The Bride,” a former assassin seeking revenge on her former colleagues.

Thurman’s performance is fierce and unforgettable, and the film has become a cult classic.

Gattaca (1997): In this sci-fi thriller, Thurman plays a co-worker of the film’s protagonist, played by Ethan Hawke, who helps him fake his genetic identity to achieve his dream of space travel. Thurman’s performance is understated but powerful.

Dangerous Liaisons (1988): Thurman plays Cecile de Volanges, a young woman caught in a web of seduction and betrayal in 18th-century France. Thurman’s performance is nuanced and heartbreaking.

Batman & Robin (1997): In this superhero film, Thurman plays the villainous Poison Ivy, who teams up with Mr. Freeze to take down Batman and Robin. Thurman’s performance is over-the-top and campy, adding to the fun of the film.

These are just a few examples of Uma Thurman’s impressive body of work. She is a versatile actress who has brought memorable performances to a wide range of films.