Emma Stone has become one of Hollywood’s most versatile and captivating actresses, blending humor, heart, and a fearless willingness to take risks. From her early breakout roles in teen comedies to transformative performances in period dramas and surreal fantasies, Stone has proven she can handle anything the screen throws at her. Her ability to switch effortlessly between comedy, drama, and musical magic is what makes her one of the most compelling performers of her generation. Let’s take a closer look at the 14 performances that define her career.
14. Zombieland: Double Tap (2019)
Returning as Wichita, Emma Stone reprised her role in Zombieland: Double Tap, offering fans a nostalgic trip back to the original while adding new layers to her character. Stone navigates the sequel with her signature wit, keeping Wichita sharp, resourceful, and endlessly entertaining amidst the chaos of the zombie apocalypse.
Even though the film didn’t quite capture the same lightning-in-a-bottle energy as the first, Stone’s comedic timing and chemistry with co-stars Woody Harrelson, Jesse Eisenberg, and Abigail Breslin ensured the sequel still had heart. Her ability to blend action and humor made Wichita’s return feel both natural and worthwhile, cementing Stone’s status as a reliable scene-stealer.
13. The Amazing Spider-Man (2012)
As Gwen Stacy, Stone brought a bright and grounded energy to the Spider-Man franchise. Her portrayal struck the perfect balance between charm and intelligence, giving Gwen depth beyond the usual love-interest role.
Her onscreen chemistry with Andrew Garfield was undeniable, making their romantic arc feel genuine and emotionally resonant. Stone’s Gwen Stacy was resourceful, smart, and independent, qualities that helped elevate the film and left a lasting impression on superhero cinema.
12. The House Bunny (2008)
In The House Bunny, Stone played Natalie, the awkward sorority girl whose transformation drives the film’s heartwarming story. Even amidst Anna Faris’s comedic spotlight, Stone’s performance brought sincerity and humor, providing a balance to the zany antics.
Stone’s ability to convey vulnerability and growth made Natalie’s journey both relatable and endearing. The film might be a forgotten gem of late-2000s comedy, but Stone’s charm shines, foreshadowing the incredible range she would bring to more complex roles in the years to come.
11. Cruella (2021)
Stone’s take on Disney’s iconic villain in Cruella was electrifying. She embraced the punk-inspired, over-the-top aesthetic of the film while infusing Cruella with sharp humor, charisma, and just the right amount of menace.
The film’s theatrical style allowed Stone to fully explore the character’s wit and cunning. Her interplay with Emma Thompson added layers of tension and comedy, proving that Stone can dominate even the most stylized and larger-than-life cinematic landscapes.
10. Zombieland (2009)
Stone first introduced Wichita in Zombieland, where her sharp comedic timing and cool demeanor stood out in a film crowded with quirky characters. She brought strength, wit, and a sense of leadership to the ensemble cast.
Her chemistry with Woody Harrelson, Jesse Eisenberg, and Abigail Breslin helped define the film’s irreverent tone. Stone’s performance made Wichita more than a survivor; she became the heart of the story, cementing her breakout status in Hollywood.
9. Birdman (2014)
In Birdman, Stone portrayed Sam, the complex and troubled daughter of Michael Keaton’s character. The film’s continuous-shot style demanded precision and subtlety, and Stone delivered a performance full of emotional depth.
Her portrayal of Sam’s struggles with family, addiction, and personal identity was both raw and compelling. Stone’s scenes brought authenticity to a high-concept film, earning her first Academy Award nomination and cementing her reputation as a serious dramatic actress.
8. Superbad (2007)
Stone’s screen debut as Jules in Superbad might have been brief, but her charm and comedic flair left a lasting impression. She brought a sense of warmth and relatability to her high school crush role.
Even in a supporting part, Stone showcased an ability to hold her own among a cast of standout comedic performers. This early glimpse of her talent hinted at the star she would soon become, blending humor with an effortless onscreen presence.
7. Crazy, Stupid, Love (2011)
Stone shone as Hannah, delivering a blend of wit, sincerity, and charm that made her pairing with Ryan Gosling unforgettable. The chemistry between them was magnetic, elevating the film above typical rom-com fare.
Her comedic timing and emotional vulnerability allowed her to navigate both funny and tender moments seamlessly. From goofiness to heartfelt romance, Stone demonstrated why she was quickly becoming one of Hollywood’s leading ladies.
6. The Curse (2023)
In the TV series The Curse, Stone explored morally complex territory as Whitney, a character navigating tension, ambiguity, and discomfort. Her performance was daring, revealing her readiness to take risks outside the film medium.
Stone’s nuanced approach allowed the audience to constantly reassess Whitney’s intentions, balancing empathy and frustration. The series confirmed her versatility, showing she could tackle unconventional, psychologically layered roles with confidence.
5. Easy A (2010)
Easy A was Stone’s breakout leading role, where she brought Olive Penderghast to life with sharp humor and relatability. Her witty commentary and vulnerability struck a chord with audiences, launching her into stardom.
Stone’s performance turned what could have been a standard teen comedy into a showcase of her charisma and timing. The film’s enduring popularity is a testament to her ability to combine comedy with authenticity, creating a character audiences still remember fondly.
4. The Favourite (2018)
Stone’s Abigail Masham in The Favourite was ambitious, cunning, and darkly humorous. She navigated the twisted court politics of Queen Anne’s reign with subtlety, delivering a multi-layered performance that balanced comedy and drama.
Her interplay with Olivia Colman and Rachel Weisz was electric, creating a tense and unpredictable dynamic. Stone’s willingness to embrace the eccentricities of the script proved her ability to thrive under visionary direction and complex storytelling.
3. La La Land (2016)
As Mia in La La Land, Stone captured the dreamy hope, vulnerability, and heartbreak of a struggling actress in Los Angeles. Her musical and dramatic skills were on full display, blending classical Hollywood charm with modern sensibilities.
Stone’s chemistry with Ryan Gosling created iconic dance numbers and unforgettable emotional beats. Winning her first Academy Award for the role, Stone proved she could carry a film with emotional resonance, charm, and star power.
2. Poor Things (2023)
In Poor Things, Stone’s performance as Bella Baxter demanded total transformation, capturing the character’s journey from childlike innocence to liberated, complex adulthood. She fully embraced the film’s surreal, steampunk-infused world.
Her dedication to physicality, voice work, and emotional depth made Bella both hilarious and deeply human. Stone’s collaboration with Yorgos Lanthimos elevated the role, earning her critical acclaim and solidifying her as one of the most daring actresses of her generation.
1. Poor Things (2023) – Reinforcing Brilliance
Yes, it’s worth highlighting again. Stone’s portrayal of Bella Baxter showcases a fearless commitment to her craft, blending comedy, drama, and sheer physicality in a way few actors attempt.
Her performance resonates on multiple levels, proving her ability to make extraordinary, bizarre material feel authentic and emotionally powerful. Poor Things is a masterclass in acting and a defining moment in her career.
Emma Stone has built a career defined by versatility, charm, and an unshakable willingness to take risks. From high school comedies to surreal period pieces, her performances continue to captivate and surprise. As she expands her horizons, one thing is clear: Emma Stone isn’t just a star, she’s a force of nature.