Beginning as a witty queen of teen comedy, Stone meticulously transitioned into a respected dramatic actress, then a celebrated musical star, and finally, an Oscar-winning chameleon.
Her signature voice and infectious vulnerability make her capable of embodying both chaotic youth and profound tragedy.
Easy A (2010)
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This was Stone’s true breakout lead role, establishing her signature wit and comic timing that launched her to fame. She starred as Olive Penderghast, a high schooler who leans into false rumors about her promiscuity by wearing a scarlet letter, turning the social shaming into a satirical spectacle. The film earned her a Golden Globe nomination and set the blueprint for the intelligent, charismatic female leads of the 2010s.
Crazy, Stupid, Love (2011)
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In her first pairing with frequent collaborator Ryan Gosling, Stone delivered a warm, funny performance as Hannah Weaver, a law student who unexpectedly falls for a newly single womanizer. The film showcased her effortless, electric chemistry with Gosling and proved she could shine brightly within a star-studded, multi-generational ensemble cast that included Steve Carell and Julianne Moore.
The Help (2011)
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Stepping into more serious, historical drama, Stone portrayed Eugenia “Skeeter” Phelan, an aspiring writer in 1960s Mississippi who decides to document the lives and struggles of Black maids. Though the film has sparked later critiques of the “white savior” trope, Stone brought authentic empathy and determination to the role, demonstrating her ability to lead a heavy dramatic narrative.
Birdman (2014)
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Stone earned her first Academy Award nomination (Best Supporting Actress) for her raw, intense performance as Sam, the recovering addict daughter and assistant to Michael Keaton’s washed-up actor. Her powerful monologue, confronting her father about his irrelevance, was a key emotional pivot in the Oscar-winning film and demonstrated her incredible dramatic fire.
La La Land (2016)
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This modern musical became a defining moment for her career, earning her the Academy Award for Best Actress. Stone starred as Mia Dolan, an aspiring actress navigating the emotional highs and crushing lows of trying to “make it” in Los Angeles. Her vulnerability, singing, and dancing solidified her position as a generational leading lady.
Battle of the Sexes (2017)
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In this biographical sports drama, Stone completely transformed herself to portray tennis legend Billie Jean King during her 1973 “Battle of the Sexes” match against Bobby Riggs (Steve Carell). Stone’s performance captured King’s pugnacious determination, focus, and quiet personal struggles, revealing an impressive depth beyond her usual comedic persona.
The Favourite (2018)
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Partnering for the first time with director Yorgos Lanthimos, Stone played the cunning, conniving Abigail Masham, who vies for the favor of Queen Anne (Olivia Colman) in 18th-century England. Her portrayal was a wicked blend of butter-wouldn’t-melt innocence and dark, calculating ambition, earning her a third Oscar nomination (Best Supporting Actress).
Cruella (2021)
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Taking on the challenge of developing an origin story for one of Disney’s most infamous villains, Stone starred as Estella/Cruella de Vil. She injected the character with unexpected sympathy, punk energy, and a bold, fashion-forward confidence. The performance successfully reimagined the character as a rebellious anti-hero that audiences could actively root for.
Poor Things (2023)
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Stone delivered a physically daring and intellectually profound performance as Bella Baxter, the reanimated Victorian woman with the mind of a child, earning her a second Academy Award for Best Actress. Her fearless portrayal of Bella’s explosive, untamed evolution through life and sexuality is widely considered her most astonishing and transformative work to date.
Kinds of Kindness (2024)
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Reuniting with director Yorgos Lanthimos for a third feature, Stone showcased her range by playing three distinct characters across the film’s triptych anthology structure. Her work alongside Jesse Plemons required shifting from a rigid cultist to a demanding marine biologist, demonstrating her unparalleled commitment to the highly unconventional demands of Lanthimos’s filmmaking.
