The 10 Best Anna Kendrick Movies

Anna Kendrick has established herself as a versatile and talented actress, earning critical and audience acclaim through a range of compelling performances across various genres. From her breakout role in Rocket Science (2007), where she showcased her ability to embody a complex, confident teenager, her recently released Netflix movie Woman of the Hour which she directs and stars in, Kendrick’s filmography highlights her remarkable depth and range.

For audience members who aren’t indie low-key indie hits, her other notable works includes her Academy Award nomination in Up in the Air (2009) and the beloved musical comedy trilogy Pitch Perfect, where her rendition of “Cups” became a cultural phenomenon. In the poignant drama 50/50 (2011), where she portrayed a young therapist navigating her professional and personal growth Anna Kendrick proved that she has incredible dramatic heft in spite of being considered a comedic actor. She has also excelled in theatrical performances, including her role in the Broadway production of High Society, which further demonstrates her musical talents.

With accolades spanning from SAG Awards to Grammy nominations, her performances consistently resonate with audiences, making her one of the standout actresses of her generation. In this article, I have compiled a list of Anna Kendrick’s best movies and performances.

1. Rocket Science (2007)

Jeffrey Blitz’s coming-of-age dramedy follows a socially awkward high school student Hal Hefner (Reece Thompson), who struggles with a severe stutter. When Hal becomes infatuated with the confident debate team captain, Ginny (Anna Kendrick), he joins the debate team in hopes of impressing her. The film explores themes of adolescence, self-discovery, and the challenges of communication.

Anna Kendrick as Ginny delivers a breakout performance, capturing the complexity of a confident yet vulnerable teenager. Ginny is ambitious and passionate about debate, and her influence helps Hal confront his insecurities and grow. Kendrick’s portrayal effectively highlights Ginny’s charm and determination, making her an important character in Hal’s journey. Kendrick’s performance was recognized as a standout, showcasing her early talent and significantly enhancing the film’s exploration of youthful aspirations and relationships.

2. Up in the Air (2009)

In Up in the Air (2009), Ryan Bingham (George Clooney), a corporate downsizer spends his life traveling to fire employees on behalf of companies. His routine is disrupted when his company considers replacing travel with video conferencing to cut costs, spearheaded by ambitious new hire Natalie Keener (Anna Kendrick). Kendrick’s character is a determined and idealistic young professional whose modern, efficiency-driven approach clashes with Ryan’s detached, traditional methods. As they travel together, Natalie’s idealism is tested by the emotional toll of their job, leading her to question her career choices.

Kendrick’s performance captures the character’s sharp professionalism alongside her underlying vulnerability, evolving as she faces the harsh realities of her work. Anna Kendrick received widespread praise for her portrayal, earning award nominations, including an Oscar nod for Best Supporting Actress. Critics lauded her for balancing Natalie’s assertiveness with a poignant sense of insecurity and emotional growth.

3. 50/50 (2011)

Directed by Jonathan Levine, 50/50 is based on the true story of Will Reiser, exploring the journey of Adam (Joseph Gordon-Levitt), a young man diagnosed with a rare cancer. The film skillfully balances humor and emotional depth as Adam confronts his illness and its effects on his relationships with friends and family. Anna Kendrick portrays Katherine, an inexperienced therapist assigned to help Adam cope with his diagnosis.

Initially uncertain in her role, Katherine gradually forges a supportive bond with Adam, embodying the challenges faced by mental health professionals when connecting with patients in distress. Kendrick’s performance which is full of warmth and originality, effectively showcases Katherine’s growth as she learns to walk through her professional responsibilities and burgeoning feelings for Adam. 50/50 was well-received for its heartfelt blend of comedy with Kendrick’s portrayal contributing significantly to the film’s emotional resonance and relatability.

4. Pitch Perfect (2012)

Pitch Perfect directed by Jason Moore, is a musical comedy that follows the journey of the Barden Bellas, a college ‘A cappella’ group striving for success. The story centers on Beca Mitchell (Anna Kendrick), a rebellious freshman who is persuaded to join the Bellas. As she steers through the competitive world of a cappella and the ups and downs of college life, Beca introduces her unique musical style, aiming to revitalize the group’s sound for the national competition.

Kendrick’s portrayal of Beca is both relatable and spirited, capturing her evolution from an outsider to a confident leader. Her performance shines in standout moments like her rendition of “Cups,” which combines rhythm and charm, becoming a viral sensation and securing a place in pop culture. The film was well received leading the standalone film to span two sequels where Kendrick’s performance emphasizes her ability to convey Beca’s growth.

5. Drinking Buddies (2013)

Joe Swanberg’s mumblecore hit is set in a Chicago brewery where co-workers Luke (Jake Johnson) and Kate (Olivia Wilde) share a close friendship that begins to blur romantic boundaries. Both are in committed relationships—Luke with Jill (Anna Kendrick) and Kate with Chris (Ron Livingston)—but their growing connection forces them to confront what they truly want from their relationships.

Anna Kendrick plays Luke’s grounded and supportive girlfriend. While her role isn’t the central focus, she brings quiet depth to the character, serving as a foil to Luke’s friendship with Kate. Jill represents commitment and stability, and Kendrick’s naturalistic performance helps reveal the subtle tensions in her relationship with Luke as he grapples with his feelings. Kendrick’s understated portrayal offers a noteworthy performance, highlighting her ability to bring authenticity to a character caught in the emotional complexities of adult relationships.

Also, Read: 24 Best Indie Romantic Comedy Movies Of the Century

6. Happy Christmas (2014)

Anna Kendrick stars as Jenny, a young woman in Joe Swanberg’s holiday dramedy that delves into family dynamics and the trials of adulthood. Jenny moves in with her older brother Jeff (Joe Swanberg) and his wife Kelly (Melanie Lynskey) after a breakup. As Jenny settles into their home, her carefree, spontaneous nature starkly contrasts with Jeff and Kelly’s responsibilities as parents, revealing the strain in their own relationship.

In her role as Jenny, Kendrick infuses the film with spontaneity and charm, disrupting the family’s routine and creating both humorous and poignant moments. Her character’s journey reflects the challenges of personal growth and the complexities of adult relationships. Anna Kendrick’s talent for blending humor with emotional depth stands out in her performances in the film.

7. The Last Five Years (2014)

Richard LaGravenese’s musical drama is adapted from Jason Robert Brown’s stage musical with Kendrick in the lead role. The film chronicles the five-year relationship between actress Cathy (Anna Kendrick) and novelist Jamie (Jeremy Jordan), told through a unique dual timeline structure. Cathy’s perspective moves in reverse, starting from their breakup, while Jamie’s unfolds chronologically from the beginning. Their stories converge at their wedding in the middle.

Anna Kendrick plays Cathy, a woman grappling with the collapse of both her relationship and her career. Through a series of musical numbers, Kendrick captures Cathy’s emotional journey, showcasing her vulnerability, frustration, and longing for connection. Her performance in songs like “Still Hurting” highlights her impressive vocal range and ability to convey deep emotional pain. While the film’s unconventional narrative structure may be distracting to some, Kendrick’s portrayal was widely praised.

8. A Simple Favor (2018)

Paul Feig’s mystery thriller based on Darcey Bell’s 2017 book by the same name centers on Stephanie Smothers (Anna Kendrick), a single mother and vlogger who forms a friendship with the enigmatic Emily Nelson (Blake Lively). When Emily mysteriously disappears, Stephanie finds herself drawn into a web of deception as she seeks to uncover the truth behind her friend’s sudden absence. The film artfully blends dark comedy and suspense, propelling Stephanie on a chaotic journey filled with secrets and unexpected twists.

Kendrick’s performance as Stephanie captures her character’s innocence and determination, navigating the complexities of her relationship with the sophisticated Emily. As the narrative unfolds, Kendrick skillfully portrays a wide range of emotions, from confusion to resilience, as Stephanie becomes increasingly enmeshed in the mystery. The film received positive reviews, leading to plans for a sequel featuring both Kendrick and Lively, promising more thrilling adventures ahead.

9. Stowaway (2021)

Directed by Joe Penna, the sci-fi thriller centers on a Mars-bound mission that faces a life-threatening crisis when an accidental stowaway, Michael (Shamier Anderson), is discovered after takeoff. The crew, consisting of commander Marina (Toni Collette), medical researcher Zoe (Anna Kendrick), and biologist David (Daniel Dae Kim), is forced into a moral dilemma as the spacecraft’s limited resources, particularly oxygen, cannot sustain them all.

Anna Kendrick plays Zoe, the compassionate medical researcher and ethical voice within the crew. Her portrayal brings a sense of humanity and moral complexity to the role, as she passionately advocates for alternatives to ensure everyone’s survival, even when practical decisions seem to favor sacrifice. Kendrick’s grounded and empathetic performance ably conveys the tension between duty and compassion, adding depth to the film. Despite mixed reviews, Kendrick’s portrayal stands out in this emotionally charged narrative.

10. Alice Darling (2022)

Alice Darling directed by Mary Nighy, is a psychological thriller that explores the themes of emotional abuse and self-discovery. The film centers on Alice (Anna Kendrick), a young woman trapped in a toxic relationship with her controlling boyfriend, Simon (Charlie Carrick). Seeking respite, Alice retreats with two friends, where the facade of her relationship begins to unravel, forcing her to confront her reality.

Kendrick’s performance captures the character’s internal conflict as she navigates feelings of fear, isolation, and the yearning for independence. Her portrayal highlights Alice’s journey toward reclaiming her identity and confronting the painful truths of her relationship. While the film received mixed reviews regarding its pacing and narrative style, Kendrick’s performance emerged as a significant highlight, boosting this story of personal transformation and resilience.

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