Olivia Wilde's top 20 movie roles, ranked from worst to best

1-21

Ignacio Weil

Entertainment - November 17th 2024, 19:00 GMT+1

Cropped About — About this gallery:

For this list, we have decided to focus only on movies where Olivia Wilde appears, no matter how small her role is. For this reason, don’t expect any of her performances in series, short films, or commercials. And remember, this list is subjective! If you think any movie is not in the right spot, share your opinion!

| © Walt Disney Studios

Cropped The Incredible Burt Wonderstone — 20. The Incredible Burt Wonderstone (2013)

Ah, *The Incredible Burt Wonderstone*, where Wilde finds herself amid a comedic clash between two rival magicians played by Steve Carell and Jim Carrey. Wilde’s character, Jane, a magician’s assistant, feels like a bit of an afterthought in this zany world, but she does her best to bring some heart to an otherwise caricature-filled cast. Though it’s hard to shine with all the wild antics happening around her, Wilde’s presence adds a sprinkle of charm—even if she’s mainly relegated to the background. Not her finest hour, but hey, every magician needs an assistant, right? | © New Line Cinema

Cropped In Time — 19. In Time (2011)

In a world where time is literally money, Wilde plays Justin Timberlake's *mother*—yes, his mother—in *In Time*. Talk about suspension of disbelief! Wilde manages to add some emotional depth to a role that could’ve easily been lost in the movie’s high-concept sci-fi thrills, but it’s still a bit jarring seeing her play a character who’s “aged out” in her 20s. It’s an intriguing film with more style than substance, and Wilde does her best to keep the story grounded. Time may be ticking, but we all wish she had more of it on screen! | © 20th Century Fox

Cropped Better Living Through Chemistry — 18. Better Living Through Chemistry (2014)

Wilde takes on the role of Elizabeth Roberts, a bored trophy wife, in this dark comedy that explores the messy lives of small-town residents. She’s undeniably fun to watch, playing up the wild side of her character as she leads Sam Rockwell’s character astray. Wilde’s chemistry with Rockwell adds some spark to the story, though the film itself never fully hits its stride. It’s entertaining, but feels a bit like a diet version of *Breaking Bad*. Wilde keeps it spicy, though! | © Samuel Goldwyn Films

Cropped Cowboys Aliens — 17. Cowboys & Aliens (2011)

*Cowboys & Aliens* gives us the Western meets sci-fi mashup we never knew we needed—or maybe never asked for? Wilde plays Ella, a mysterious beauty who holds the key to defeating the invading aliens, but the role is as bewildering as the film’s plot. While the idea of a classic showdown in the Wild West is fun, Wilde’s character often feels sidelined in favor of cowboy drama and sci-fi chaos. She gamely goes along for the ride, but the role doesn’t give her much room to shine. Still, how often do you get to play a gunslinging alien-fighter? | © Universal Pictures

Cropped Meadowland — 16. Meadowland (2015)

In *Meadowland*, Wilde takes on one of her most serious roles, playing a mother coping with the disappearance of her child. It’s heavy, it’s dark, and Wilde commits to the emotional weight of the role with an intensity that feels incredibly raw. The film may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but Wilde’s performance is haunting and sincere, proving she can go to darker places than we’ve seen before. It’s a tough watch, but she makes it a memorable experience. | © Cinedigm

Cropped Ghostbusters Afterlife — 15. Ghostbusters: Afterlife (2021)

Wilde makes a mysterious appearance in *Ghostbusters: Afterlife*, but don’t blink or you might miss her! She pops in as a menacing figure and does her best to bring some haunting energy to a movie steeped in nostalgia. It’s a brief cameo, but she owns her screen time, reminding us why we enjoy her range, even if she’s behind some pretty intense makeup. Ghostbusting may not be her usual gig, but she adds a nice little jolt to the proceedings! | © Columbia Pictures

Cropped Drinking Buddies — 14. Drinking Buddies (2013)

*Drinking Buddies* is an indie darling that lets Wilde flex her improv chops, as she plays Kate, a woman caught in the complex web of friendship and unspoken attraction. Wilde shines here, delivering a grounded, relatable performance that feels entirely natural. Her chemistry with Jake Johnson is a delight, and their on-screen banter makes the film feel like a casual hangout you never want to end. It’s Wilde at her most authentic, showing she can bring depth and charm without a big budget or special effects. Cheers to that! | © Magnolia Pictures

Cropped Butter — 13. Butter (2011)

Wilde dives into satire in *Butter*, playing a stripper with a serious competitive edge in the butter-sculpting world. It’s an absurd premise, but Wilde throws herself into the role, bringing a fierce energy and a surprisingly comedic touch. She’s outrageous and fun, injecting the film with a much-needed spark of rebellious charisma. This isn’t high art, but Wilde’s having a blast—and so are we! | © The Weinstein Company

Cropped Tron Legacy — 12. Tron: Legacy (2010)

Wilde’s role as Quorra in *Tron: Legacy* is unforgettable, mainly because she makes an otherworldly, digital warrior feel grounded and relatable. She embodies the sci-fi aesthetic while delivering a performance that balances strength and vulnerability, making her a standout in a film filled with CGI and futuristic flair. Though the movie itself may be polarizing, Wilde’s character brings heart to the digital chaos, proving she can handle both action and sci-fi cool with ease. Enter the grid, indeed. | © Walt Disney Studios

Cropped A Vigilante — 11. A Vigilante (2018)

In *A Vigilante*, Wilde plays a woman on a mission, helping victims of domestic violence get justice in the most intense ways possible. It’s a bold role that puts Wilde at the center of every scene, showcasing her grit and dedication. This isn’t your typical superhero movie; it’s darker, rawer, and all about Wilde’s emotional journey. She’s both fierce and vulnerable, delivering a performance that feels intensely personal. Not exactly a feel-good flick, but Wilde’s power is undeniable. | © Saban Films

Cropped Deadfall — 10. Deadfall (2012)

Wilde stars as Liza in *Deadfall*, a tense thriller where she plays a woman with a mysterious past caught in a high-stakes heist gone wrong. She gives the character a sultry, complex edge that makes her feel more than just a typical femme fatale. The movie may fly under the radar, but Wilde brings a surprising amount of heart and grit to her role, standing out even when the script wobbles. It’s Wilde’s talent that elevates the material. | © Magnolia Pictures

Cropped Life Itself — 9. Life Itself (2018)

*Life Itself* attempts to tackle love, tragedy, and the unpredictability of life, with Wilde playing Abby, a woman at the heart of a multi-generational drama. Though the film itself faced mixed reviews for its heavy-handed storytelling, Wilde brings a sincere charm to her role. She’s warm, endearing, and fully committed, even if the narrative doesn’t quite live up to her performance. Her moments on screen are some of the film’s best, making you wish the rest of it had her same spark. | © Amazon Studios

Cropped The Next Three Days — 8. The Next Three Days (2010)

In *The Next Three Days*, Wilde plays Nicole, a minor yet memorable role as a sympathetic presence in Russell Crowe’s life. She brings an understated warmth to her scenes, making Nicole feel more layered than her limited screen time would suggest. Though she’s not central to the story, Wilde’s grounded performance provides a nice break from the film’s intense tone. It’s a small role, but one that shows her ability to make an impact with minimal material. | © Lionsgate

Cropped People Like Us — 7. People Like Us (2012)

Playing Hannah, a loyal girlfriend in *People Like Us*, Wilde gives a grounded, heartfelt performance in a family drama that’s more tender than you might expect. While the movie focuses on Chris Pine’s character, Wilde’s warmth adds a subtle charm to every scene she’s in. She manages to balance sensitivity with strength, even if the role doesn’t push her limits. It’s a soft role, but she handles it with grace and subtlety. | © DreamWorks Pictures

Cropped Her — 6. Her (2013)

In Spike Jonze’s acclaimed film *Her*, Wilde shows up for a single scene as a date with Joaquin Phoenix’s character, and wow, does she leave an impression. She nails the complexities of a seemingly simple role, infusing it with vulnerability, sass, and an undercurrent of loneliness. Her chemistry with Phoenix makes the scene feel raw and real, as Wilde’s character flips from charming to disappointed in a heartbeat. It’s short but so sweetly Wilde. | © Warner Bros.

Cropped The Lazarus Effect — 5. The Lazarus Effect (2015)

If you like Olivia Wilde as a good scientist gone terrifying, *The Lazarus Effect* is your kind of movie. Playing Zoe, she undergoes a frightening transformation that’s more than just creepy makeup—it’s a full-on dive into horror. Wilde’s performance captures both the scientific curiosity and the fear that comes with tampering with life itself. She makes the horror feel personal, elevating the scares with genuine emotion. Goosebumps guaranteed. | © Relativity Media

Cropped Dont Worry Darling — 4. Don't Worry Darling (2022)

Wilde doesn’t just star in *Don’t Worry Darling*—she directs it too, diving into a retro-styled psychological thriller that’s all about glossy facades hiding darker truths. She’s both in front of and behind the camera here, and her dual role adds an intriguing layer to the film. As a character within this twisted story, Wilde brings a fascinating, almost eerie charisma that leaves you questioning who to trust. It’s bold, ambitious, and entirely Wilde. | © Warner Bros.

Cropped The Words — 3. The Words (2012)

In *The Words*, Wilde plays a journalist who pushes Bradley Cooper’s character to confront his past, and she brings a hint of mystery to the role that keeps you on edge. Wilde’s character may not be the star, but she makes a memorable impact, lending intrigue to a story about stolen words and buried secrets. Her presence adds depth to a movie that sometimes loses its way, but with Wilde, it finds a bit of balance. | © CBS Films

Cropped Richard Jewell — 2. Richard Jewell (2019)

In *Richard Jewell*, Wilde takes on the role of journalist Kathy Scruggs, a character caught in the ethical turmoil of real-life events. She’s bold, relentless, and controversial, giving a performance that doesn’t shy away from the darker side of journalism. It’s a role that sparked some debate, but Wilde fully commits, making Scruggs both fierce and flawed. She’s unapologetic and magnetic, perfectly capturing the ambition that drives her character. | © Warner Bros.

Cropped Rush — 1. Rush (2013)

Wilde shines in *Rush* as Suzy Miller, the stylish, ambitious wife of racecar driver James Hunt. Her chemistry with Chris Hemsworth is electric, and she makes every scene feel glamorous and intense. Wilde effortlessly balances Suzy’s independence with her emotional complexity, creating a character who’s as fierce as she is relatable. It’s a role that’s not just about looks—she adds layers that make Suzy unforgettable. | © Universal Pictures

1-21

When it comes to versatile performances, Olivia Wilde has proven time and again that she can command the screen in everything from indie darlings to big-budget blockbusters. Known for her charisma, depth, and undeniable presence, Wilde has taken on a wide array of roles that showcase her range as an actress.

In this list, we dive into her top 20 movie roles, ranked from worst to best, exploring the characters that made her a standout in Hollywood. Whether she’s playing a daring scientist, a virtual warrior, or a complex love interest, each role offers something unique in Wilde's filmography. Let’s take a look at her journey through these memorable performances, from her early days to her most iconic portrayals.