Granted, Blake Lively seems to have other priorities right now than think about her older movie roles – doesn't stop us, though.
For this list, we have decided to focus only on movies where Blake Lively 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!
| © Columbia Pictures
Oh, Green Lantern – a movie that was supposed to light up the DC universe but ended up as more of a flicker. Lively tries her best to bring energy as Carol Ferris, but the clunky plot and bizarre effects eclipse any real chance for her to shine. Her chemistry with Ryan Reynolds was the real takeaway here, but even that couldn't save this superhero slip-up. Perhaps it’s best remembered as the movie that introduced her to her husband! | © Warner Bros. Pictures
In All I See Is You, Lively plays Gina, a blind woman who regains her sight only to see her relationship fall apart. It’s a bold role, and Lively really goes for it, but the story’s murky direction leaves us just as confused as her character. It's a daring attempt, but the execution is more bewildering than groundbreaking. Still, points for ambition and for handling a complex, emotional role. | © Open Road Films
This action thriller sees Lively as a revenge-driven assassin – a serious departure from her usual roles. While her transformation is impressive, the film itself gets tangled up in clichés, making her badass scenes feel a bit underwhelming. Still, Blake does her best with the material, delivering grit in spades. It’s just too bad the movie doesn’t keep up with her intensity. | © Paramount Pictures
Ah, the sequel we didn’t know we needed! Lively returns as Bridget, the soccer star, bringing back all the friendship magic from the first movie. While it doesn’t reach the same emotional heights, it’s a warm revisit to the bond that made the original beloved. Lively does well with the character growth here, though it’s the nostalgia more than the script that really holds it together. | © Warner Bros. Pictures
Who can forget Accepted, the college comedy where Lively plays the cool girl Monica? It’s a light, quirky role for her, and she has fun with it, but let’s be real – this movie won’t be remembered for any acting milestones. However, her laid-back charm adds a dash of brightness to this goofy romp about a fake university. It’s silly, but fun – and definitely an underrated comedy from the mid-2000s. | © Universal Pictures
In Savages, Lively dives into the gritty world of drug lords and questionable relationships. Her role as Ophelia brings a free-spirited vibe that offsets the brutal story, though the film doesn’t always do her justice. She fully commits, even in some intense scenes that require a bit more edge than her typical roles. It’s chaotic and sometimes a mess, but she makes it memorable. | © Universal Pictures
In this adaptation of Colleen Hoover's bestseller, Lively dives deep into the emotional complexities of love and resilience. Playing a character faced with tough decisions and heartbreak, she brings both grit and vulnerability to the screen. Her portrayal is raw, adding a realness that fans of the book will appreciate. It’s a role that lets her explore new emotional territory, and she does so with authenticity and strength.
However, the whole movie gets overshadowed by the behind-the-scenes drama that is still unfolding. | © Wayfarer Studios
Lively slips seamlessly into the golden age of Hollywood as the elegant Veronica in Café Society. She doesn’t steal the show but adds a touch of classic beauty and grace that complements the 1930s vibe. It’s a smaller role, but she embodies it with sophistication, proving she’s a natural in period pieces. Woody Allen’s world may not be for everyone, but Lively makes a charming addition. | © Amazon Studios
A woman who doesn’t age? Only Blake Lively could make that look effortless. In The Age of Adaline, she brings an ethereal quality to her character, Adaline Bowman, who’s doomed to stay forever young. Lively’s restrained yet moving performance gives the fantasy an emotional anchor, even if the plot gets a bit fantastical. It’s romantic, touching, and distinctly Blake. | © Lionsgate
Here, Lively plays the younger version of Robin Wright’s character in a film that digs deep into the complexities of life and love. She shines as a younger Pippa, dealing with trauma and finding herself. The role is delicate, and she handles it with surprising maturity. It’s not the flashiest part, but she’s captivating and soulful, adding layers to this thoughtful drama. | © Screen Media Films
In this indie gem, Lively is Anabelle, a beauty queen with a morbid twist. She gives a grounded performance in a bizarrely charming love story involving a mortician, capturing vulnerability and sweetness in equal measure. It’s a smaller, darker role that shows her depth beyond mainstream titles. The film may be under the radar, but her role is memorable and genuinely affecting. | © Goldcrest Films
Forget helpless victim – Lively goes full survival mode against a shark in The Shallows. It’s one woman versus the ocean, and she nails it. Her gritty, all-in performance makes this thriller more than just a beachside scarefest. It’s a thrilling, nail-biting ride, proving she’s got what it takes to carry a movie solo. Shark: 0, Blake Lively: 1. | © Columbia Pictures
The movie that started it all! As Bridget, the bold, adventurous soccer player, Lively radiates with youthful energy and charm. This film became a touchstone for friendship goals, and Blake’s performance is a big part of its heart. It’s an early role, but she makes an impact, connecting deeply with a generation of fans. | © Warner Bros. Pictures
If you thought Lively was all sweetness, A Simple Favor flips that on its head. As Emily, she’s wickedly mysterious, glamorous, and effortlessly cool, adding a new layer to her career. Her chemistry with Anna Kendrick keeps you guessing and intrigued until the end. Lively’s magnetic here, blending charm with a dangerous edge. | © Lionsgate
In The Town, Lively ditches her polished look for something gritty and real, playing Krista, a troubled woman caught in a world of crime. It’s raw and vulnerable, and she shines in an ensemble cast, showcasing her versatility. Despite the brief screen time, Lively delivers an emotional punch, proving she’s more than just a pretty face. It’s a career-defining role. | © Warner Bros. Pictures
Blake Lively has charmed audiences with her blend of elegance, charisma, and effortless wit across a variety of roles. From her breakout on the Upper East Side in Gossip Girl to complex roles on the big screen, she’s become more than just a Hollywood name – she’s a true talent who surprises us every time.
Join us as we dive into her top 15 movie roles, ranked from worst to best, and see just how her acting journey has evolved and captivated us along the way.
| © Justin Tallis
