With her radiant smile, infectious laugh, and undeniable star quality, Roberts defined the modern romantic comedy and became, for a time, the highest-paid actress in the world. Since Pretty Woman she effortlessly commanded both box office success and critical acclaim, eventually earning a highly deserved Academy Award for her commitment to raw, dramatic roles.
Julia Roberts arrives at the 50th Cesar Film Awards at L’Olympia on February 28, 2025 in Paris, France. (Photo by Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images)
From her early, Oscar-nominated breakthroughs to the iconic turns that minted the phrase “America’s Sweetheart,” Roberts built a legacy on performances that were equally charming, complex, and memorable.
To honor her 58th birthday, we look back at ten essential films that cemented her status as a true Hollywood legend
Pretty Woman (1990)
Richard Gere and Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman (1990) / IMDb
This blockbuster redefined the modern fairy tale and immediately catapulted Roberts into global superstardom, securing her the title of “America’s Sweetheart.” Her captivating portrayal of the witty, kind-hearted Vivian Ward, opposite Richard Gere, earned her a second Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. The film’s massive commercial success ensured that Roberts was Hollywood’s most bankable female star throughout the 1990s.
Steel Magnolias (1989)
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Roberts’ first major critical breakthrough came with this tear-jerking ensemble drama, where she played Shelby Eatenton Latcherie, a spirited young bride battling diabetes. Her emotionally charged, vulnerable performance earned her both her first Golden Globe Award and her first Academy Award nomination (for Best Supporting Actress). The role proved that she possessed the dramatic depth to match her dazzling charisma, setting the stage for her future career.
Mystic Pizza (1988)
Julia Roberts and Adam Storke in Mystic Pizza (1988)
A charming coming-of-age film that became a cult favorite, Mystic Pizza gave Roberts one of her earliest lead roles as Daisy Araújo, a free-spirited Portuguese-American waitress. The film effectively showcased her natural screen presence, sharp comedic timing, and magnetic chemistry with her co-stars. While not her biggest hit, it was the foundational film that first introduced her unique charm to critics and audiences.
Erin Brockovich (2000)
IMDb/ c 2000 – Universal Pictures, Inc.
Roberts reached a career pinnacle with her fiery, Oscar-winning portrayal of the real-life legal assistant and single mother who famously took on a major California utility company. Her raw, unfiltered performance, brimming with righteous indignation and emotional resilience, earned her the Academy Award for Best Actress. The film was a massive critical and commercial triumph, securing her place among the industry’s dramatic elite.
My Best Friend’s Wedding (1997)
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This romantic comedy masterpiece successfully subverted the genre by casting Roberts as the arguably self-serving lead, Julianne Potter, who attempts to sabotage her best friend’s impending marriage. The film was a critical and box office smash, earning Roberts a Golden Globe nomination and revitalizing the romantic comedy genre. Her performance masterfully blended humor with moments of genuine, messy human flaw.
Notting Hill (1999)
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In this iconic British romantic comedy, Roberts played Anna Scott, the world’s most famous movie star who falls in love with a humble London bookseller (Hugh Grant). The film is celebrated for its wit and warmth, featuring one of Roberts’ most famous lines: “I’m just a girl, standing in front of a boy, asking him to love her.” Her self-deprecating yet glamorous performance further solidified her reputation as a global queen of the genre.
Sleeping with the Enemy (1991)
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Showing her power outside of comedy, Roberts anchored this successful psychological thriller as Laura Burney, a woman who fakes her own death to escape her abusive, controlling husband. The film was an early box office hit for Roberts in the thriller genre, demonstrating that the audience would follow her star power even into darker narratives.
The Pelican Brief (1993)
Julia Roberts and Denzel Washington in The Pelican Brief (1993)
Based on the John Grisham novel, this political thriller showcased Roberts’ ability to lead a major action-driven narrative alongside Denzel Washington. She played Darby Shaw, a sharp law student who uncovers a dangerous conspiracy involving the assassinations of Supreme Court Justices. The film’s success proved her ability to sell tickets outside of the romantic genre, affirming her status as a global draw.
Ocean’s Eleven (2001)
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Roberts joined an all-star ensemble cast, including George Clooney and Brad Pitt, in this slick, hugely entertaining heist film. She played Tess Ocean, the ex-wife of Clooney’s character who becomes central to the elaborate plan to rob a Las Vegas casino. Her participation added significant star power and glamour, helping Ocean’s Eleven become a definitive box office hit of the 2000s.
Closer (2004)
Jude Law and Julia Roberts in Closer (2004)
In this emotionally devastating Mike Nichols-directed drama about complex relationships and betrayal, Roberts delivered one of the most underrated and potent performances of her career. Playing a detached photographer caught in a quadrangle of relationships, she earned critical praise for her mature, reserved, and unvarnished acting. It highlighted her commitment to challenging material late in her career.
