Charlize Theron's top 20 movie roles, ranked from worst to best

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Ignacio Weil

Entertainment - November 22nd 2024, 18:00 GMT+1

Cropped About — About this gallery:

For this list, we have decided to focus only on movies where Charlize Theron 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!

| © Focus Features

Cropped Prometheus — 20. Prometheus (2012)

As Meredith Vickers, Charlize Theron plays the ice-cold corporate overseer in Ridley Scott’s *Prometheus*. While her character is all sharp edges and cold glares, the script doesn’t give her much to do beyond serving as a foil to the other crew members. She nails the role of a no-nonsense bureaucrat, but in a film full of existential questions and alien chaos, Vickers feels like a missed opportunity. Plus, let’s not forget *that* death scene – running sideways might have helped, Meredith! | © 20th Century Fox

Cropped The Fate of the Furious — 19. The Fate of the Furious (2017)

In *The Fate of the Furious*, Charlize Theron enters the *Fast & Furious* universe as Cipher, a high-tech villain with an affinity for chaos. While she chews the scenery like a pro, Cipher’s motivations are thin, and her over-the-top antics veer into cartoonish territory. Theron clearly has fun with the role, but the franchise’s increasingly ludicrous plotlines don’t leave her much room to shine. Still, she makes a pretty memorable villain – who else can hack cars like that? | © Universal Pictures

Cropped Snow White and the Huntsman — 18. Snow White and the Huntsman (2012)

Theron steals every scene she’s in as Queen Ravenna, the ultimate evil queen in *Snow White and the Huntsman*. Dripping with malevolence and elegance, she makes being bad look good. Unfortunately, the film’s plot is a slog, and the moments without Theron on screen lack the energy she brings. Her performance is a masterclass in villainy, but even she can’t save this overly long fairy tale from feeling, well, lifeless. | © Universal Pictures

Cropped Æon Flux — 17. Aeon Flux (2005)

Charlize Theron’s athleticism and commanding presence are on full display in *Aeon Flux*, a sci-fi action film that tries very hard to be cool but falls flat. The plot is convoluted, and the dialogue is cringeworthy at times, leaving Theron little to work with. While she commits fully to the futuristic assassin role, the movie’s underwhelming execution drags it down. It’s a cult curiosity at best, but far from her strongest work. | © Paramount Pictures

Cropped Hancock — 16. Hancock (2008)

In *Hancock*, Charlize Theron plays Mary Embrey, a mysterious woman with ties to Will Smith’s alcoholic superhero. While her performance is solid, the film suffers from tonal whiplash and a plot that doesn’t know what it wants to be. The twist involving her character adds intrigue, but the movie doesn’t give her enough space to explore Mary’s potential. It’s entertaining but frustratingly undercooked. | © Columbia Pictures

Cropped The Old Guard — 15. The Old Guard (2020)

Charlize Theron leads the charge as Andy, an immortal warrior grappling with centuries of battle fatigue, in *The Old Guard*. Her stoic intensity anchors the film, even when the pacing drags. The action sequences are brutal and engaging, showcasing Theron’s ability to command the screen in physically demanding roles. It’s a solid Netflix hit, but it doesn’t quite reach the heights of her best action films. | © Netflix

Cropped Head in the Clouds — 14. Head in the Clouds (2004)

In *Head in the Clouds*, Theron plays Gilda, a glamorous socialite caught in a love triangle during World War II. While she brings charisma and allure to the role, the film’s melodramatic tone and lack of focus undermine her efforts. It’s beautifully shot, but the story feels hollow, leaving her performance stranded in a movie that can’t quite decide what it wants to be. | © Sony Pictures Classics

Cropped Long Shot — 13. Long Shot (2019)

In *Long Shot*, Charlize Theron shows off her comedic chops as Charlotte Field, a presidential candidate who falls for Seth Rogen’s awkward journalist. Her sharp, charming performance elevates this unlikely rom-com, making the chemistry between her and Rogen surprisingly believable. It’s a lighter role for Theron, but she plays it with such wit and warmth that it’s impossible not to root for her. | © Lionsgate

Cropped The Italian Job — 12. The Italian Job (2003)

Charlize Theron adds a touch of class and sophistication to the slick heist film *The Italian Job*. As Stella, a safe-cracking expert seeking revenge for her father’s murder, she balances the film’s high-stakes action with a grounded, emotional performance. It’s a fun popcorn flick, and Theron brings her signature poise to a role that could have easily been overshadowed by the testosterone-fueled antics of her co-stars. | © Paramount Pictures

Cropped The Yards — 11. The Yards (2000)

In *The Yards*, Charlize Theron delivers a subtle yet impactful performance as Erica, a woman caught between loyalty and ambition. While the film focuses heavily on its male leads, Theron brings depth to a role that could have been one-note. Her chemistry with the cast and her ability to convey inner conflict make her a standout in this gritty crime drama. | © Miramax Films

Cropped Mighty Joe Young — 10. Mighty Joe Young (1998)

Charlize Theron shines as Jill, a compassionate caretaker to a giant gorilla in *Mighty Joe Young*. Her warmth and sincerity make this family-friendly adventure a nostalgic delight, even if the film’s story and effects feel dated today. It’s a lighter role, but Theron’s charm makes it clear she was destined for bigger things. Plus, who doesn’t love a heartwarming story about a girl and her giant ape? | © Walt Disney Pictures

Cropped In the Valley of Elah — 9. In the Valley of Elah (2007)

Theron delivers a grounded and poignant performance as Detective Emily Sanders in *In the Valley of Elah*. Tasked with investigating a soldier’s mysterious death, she brings a quiet determination to the role. The film’s somber tone and pacing might not be for everyone, but Theron’s nuanced portrayal adds a layer of humanity to this deeply emotional story. | © Warner Independent Pictures

Cropped The Devils Advocate — 8. The Devil's Advocate (1997)

Charlize Theron’s haunting portrayal of Mary Ann Lomax in *The Devil’s Advocate* is one of the film’s most memorable aspects. As her character descends into paranoia and despair, Theron brings raw vulnerability to the role. It’s a performance that stands out even amidst the film’s supernatural chaos and Al Pacino’s over-the-top antics. | © Warner Bros.

Cropped Bombshell — 7. Bombshell (2019)

In *Bombshell*, Theron transforms into Megyn Kelly with stunning precision, capturing her voice, mannerisms, and internal conflict. Her performance anchors the film, balancing the personal and political stakes of a story about workplace harassment. While the film itself can feel uneven, Theron’s ability to disappear into the role makes it a must-watch. | © Lionsgate

Cropped Tully — 6. Tully (2018)

Theron gives one of her most relatable performances in *Tully* as Marlo, a mother grappling with the chaos of parenthood. The film’s honest portrayal of motherhood, paired with Theron’s raw vulnerability and humor, makes this a standout role. Her collaboration with director Jason Reitman and writer Diablo Cody continues to bring out the best in her. | © Focus Features

Cropped North Country — 5. North Country (2005)

In *North Country*, Charlize Theron plays Josey Aimes, a trailblazing woman fighting against sexual harassment in a male-dominated mining industry. Her performance is raw and deeply empathetic, capturing the resilience of someone standing up against systemic injustice. Theron expertly balances vulnerability with fierce determination, making Josey a character you can’t help but root for. It’s an emotionally charged role that earned her an Oscar nomination, and rightfully so – it’s one of her most powerful performances. | © Warner Bros.

Cropped Atomic Blonde — 4. Atomic Blonde (2017)

Charlize Theron absolutely owns the screen as Lorraine Broughton in *Atomic Blonde*. This Cold War spy thriller is a visual feast of neon lights, killer stunts, and jaw-dropping fight choreography. Theron’s physical commitment to the role is extraordinary – her action sequences are some of the best in modern cinema. But it’s not all brawn; she brings a cool, calculating edge to Lorraine, making her both dangerous and captivating. It’s a role that cements Theron as an action star to be reckoned with. | © Focus Features

Cropped Young Adult — 3. Young Adult (2011)

In *Young Adult*, Charlize Theron delivers a pitch-perfect performance as Mavis Gary, an emotionally stunted, narcissistic author returning to her hometown. Her portrayal of Mavis is darkly hilarious, painfully relatable, and deeply uncomfortable to watch – but in the best way possible. Theron dives headfirst into the messy reality of her character, creating a performance that’s as cringe-inducing as it is brilliant. It’s a rare antihero role where you find yourself rooting for her, even when you know you shouldn’t. | © Paramount Pictures

Cropped Mad Max Fury Road — 2. Mad Max: Fury Road (2015)

As Imperator Furiosa in *Mad Max: Fury Road*, Charlize Theron redefined what it means to be an action hero. Furiosa is fierce, unrelenting, and deeply human, and Theron’s performance is the emotional backbone of this high-octane spectacle. She delivers every line and action with an intensity that demands your attention, and her physicality in the role is unmatched. Furiosa’s journey of redemption and survival makes this one of the most iconic performances in modern action cinema. | © Warner Bros.

Cropped Monster — 1. Monster (2003)

Charlize Theron’s performance in *Monster* is nothing short of transformative. As Aileen Wuornos, a real-life serial killer, she fully disappears into the role, delivering a performance that’s raw, haunting, and heartbreakingly human. Theron’s ability to evoke both sympathy and horror is a testament to her unparalleled skill as an actress. It’s a role that not only won her an Oscar but also cemented her legacy as one of the greatest performers of her generation. *Monster* isn’t just a career highlight – it’s a masterpiece of acting. | © Newmarket Films

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Charlize Theron has proven time and again that she’s one of the most versatile and captivating actresses in Hollywood. From action-packed blockbusters to deeply emotional dramas, she’s delivered unforgettable performances that showcase her range, intensity, and undeniable star power.

Whether she’s transforming into a gritty antihero or lighting up the screen with her comedic charm, Theron never fails to command attention. In this list, we’re diving into her top 20 movie roles, ranking them from worst to best, to celebrate the highs and reflect on the not-so-bright spots of her incredible filmography. Let’s see where your favorites land!