So let’s get on with it, because, trust me, you do not want a long article in a series of eight! Seriously, though, if you ever find yourself wondering, How does she do all of these things? then you aren’t the only one.
The best way for us, of course, is in reverse, so here begins the list of the eight most memorable, awesome performances by the incomparable Catherine. er, I mean, Cate Blanchett!
8. Carol Aird – Carol
Blanchett’s acting in Carol is the very embodiment of subtlety and brilliance. As a socially accepted woman in her social circle in New York during the 1950s, who finds herself in love with another woman, her acting is full of subtleties that convey meaning without her having to shout. Watching Blanchett’s acting is like going to acting school. You would need to watch the movie again to grasp all that her acting is saying. Carol is a classic in the world of lesbian films.
7. Jasmine Harris – Blue Jasmine
If raw, heartbreaking, and at times hilariously tragic acting is something you’re looking for, then Jasmine Harris is your gal. Blanchett takes this unraveling socialite and makes her a character with whom one cannot help but be enthralled. She balances glamour, delusion, and vulnerability perfectly, making one feel that her Oscar win was thoroughly deserved. To watch her inhabit Jasmine is to watch a lesson in making such a deeply flawed character so utterly human.
6. Jude Quinn – I’m Not There
Only Cate Blanchett could pull off a role like playing Bob Dylan and make the entire film seem hauntingly realistic. As she stars in I’m Not There, Blanchett captures one aspect of the legendary singer Jude Quinn so accurately that one could easily forget that Dylan was actually a living person. In all things from his spoken tone to bodily movements, Blanchett hits the nail on the head, gaining her a Golden Globe Award and yet another Oscar nomination.
5. Sheba Hart – Notes on a Scandal
In her role as art teacher, Sheba Hart, Blanchett reignites the controversy that surrounds her character and will make you both shocked and cringe. Yet Blanchett brings so much depth to the character of Sheba that it is difficult not to find yourself caught up in her situation. The chemistry between Blanchett and Dame Judi Dench on the screen is electric. This performance makes one realize that Blanchett is one of the boldest actors of her generation.
4. Katharine Hepburn – The Aviator
To play a Hollywood legend is very risky, but Blanchett brings Katharine Hepburn to life, Katharine Hepburn with conviction, experiencing her so totally that she never inches into imitation. This performance earned her an Oscar, establishing that she was truly an actress who could totally live up to any role, however iconic, bold, and convincing she wanted to play.
3. Galadriel – The Lord of the Rings Trilogy
Galadriel is the queen of the elves within our shared vision, and the otherworldly quality Blanchett brings to the performance is a perfect fit for the part. Despite the relatively short running time, she can instill a sense of permanence within the proceedings, as if her wisdom, power, and peaceful nature could not help but permeate the visuals.
2. Meredith Logue – The Talented Mr. Ripley
Blanchett is even noticeable in the background. As Meredith Logue, the urbane American socialite caught up in Tom Ripley’s games, she exudes poise, wit, and fragility. It is a subtle and unforgettable performance that never fails to remind one that Blanchett is not one to want the spotlight to be on her.
1. Queen Elizabeth I – Elizabeth & Elizabeth: The Golden Age
This is the role that really announced Cate Blanchett to the world. She didn’t hold back at all in the title role of Elizabeth I: from the initial shrinking uncertainty of the young princess through to the iron will, and one could almost say the cunning brilliance of this monarch, she held absolutely nothing back. In equal measures, she serves up power, vulnerability, and a hint of wit. A Golden Globe won, multiple Oscar nominations, and record-like recognition for the same character, well-deservedly go to her. How about that iconic “I have a hurricane in me” moment? Absolutely cinematic magic.
There you have it: eight unforgettable performances from one of the greatest actors of our time. Each role showcases Blanchett’s extraordinary ability to transform, captivate, and leave us spellbound. If you haven’t seen them all yet, then the time has come to do that.