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Keira Knightley's top 20 movie roles, ranked from worst to best

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Ignacio Weil

Entertainment - December 3rd 2024, 18:00 GMT+1

Cropped About — About this gallery:

For this list, we have decided to focus only on movies where Keira Knightley 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!

| © Allure

Cropped Silent Night — 20. Silent Night (2021)

Keira Knightley spends a lot of this dark comedy trying to make an absurdly bleak Christmas dinner with friends feel… well, normal? It’s like if you threw *The Last Supper* into a blender with a holiday special, but without the festive cheer or a decent script. It’s a slow burn, and while Keira’s acting is never the problem, the whole movie feels a bit… *off.* There’s an interesting premise here – what happens when you know the world is ending, and you’re just trying to get through one last Christmas together? Sadly, the execution doesn’t live up to the hype. Maybe it’s a bit too “avant-garde” for its own good. | © AMC Studios

Cropped Jack Ryan Shadow Recruit — 19. Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit (2014)

Keira plays the token girlfriend here (yep, that’s about the depth of her role) in this pretty forgettable reboot of the Jack Ryan franchise. The movie’s less about spies and more about watching Keira stand next to Chris Pine while he tries to play action hero. While the plot’s trying hard to be tense, it all feels a bit like a generic spy flick that checks off every action movie cliché. Keira’s performance doesn’t exactly sparkle, but, hey, she makes the most of what she’s given. Not exactly a masterpiece, but at least it has explosions? | © Paramount Pictures

Cropped Seeking a Friend for the End of the World — 18. Seeking a Friend for the End of the World (2012)

Here’s the thing – Keira and Steve Carell? They’re *such* a weirdly great combo. The problem is, this movie seems to struggle with its tone, constantly teetering between quirky rom-com and apocalyptic existential crisis. Keira plays a woman trying to find the love of her life before the asteroid hits, and while she’s certainly charming, her character’s motivations are a little muddled. It’s one of those films where the cast clearly tries to bring it, but the script can’t quite make up its mind about whether it’s trying to break your heart or give you a hopeful, feel-good ending. The end result? A little bittersweet, and a little bland. | © Focus Features

Cropped Laggies — 17. Laggies (2014)

Keira’s got that “quirky girl who’s too afraid to grow up” vibe going on here, and while the film’s heart is in the right place, it doesn’t always hit the mark. It’s a coming-of-age dramedy where Keira’s character takes refuge in the life of a teenager (cue awkward bonding with Chloe Grace Moretz), which sounds like it could be fun – until you realize the plot never really takes you anywhere fresh. It’s like a one-dimensional mid-life crisis wrapped in a teen movie. Keira’s performance, as usual, is fine, but she deserves more than just being the adult who’s lost in her own life. | © A24

Cropped The Duchess — 16. The Duchess (2008)

Okay, here’s where we start to get into the good stuff. Keira’s portrayal of Georgiana, the Duchess of Devonshire, is a role that makes you realize why she’s so often cast as a historical figure. Her performance has the right balance of strength and vulnerability, making her a character you can’t help but root for – especially when it comes to her messy marriage and the politics of 18th-century British high society. However, the movie as a whole doesn’t quite reach the dramatic heights it aspires to, leaving some viewers feeling a little underwhelmed. Still, Keira’s regal looks and emotional depth make it a worthwhile watch. | © Paramount Vantage

Cropped Never Let Me Go — 15. Never Let Me Go (2010)

Keira takes on a much quieter, somber role in this dystopian drama about clones raised for organ donation. It's a film full of ethical dilemmas, heartbreak, and existential crises, and Keira gives a strong, nuanced performance. But, let’s be real, the movie’s so painfully slow and relentlessly bleak, it almost feels like a cinematic wet blanket. Keira and co-stars Carey Mulligan and Andrew Garfield are fantastic, but the film’s pacing and somber tone will leave you wondering if you’re watching a futuristic sci-fi or a dramatic nap-inducing experience. It’s a good watch if you’re in the mood to reflect on the fragility of life, but not exactly a feel-good flick. | © Fox Searchlight Pictures

Cropped Anna Karenina — 14. Anna Karenina (2012)

Keira Knightley in a corset, swishing about in a sweeping Russian epic – this adaptation of Leo Tolstoy's classic is as visually striking as it is emotionally distant. While Keira looks fantastic, it's hard to ignore that her Anna Karenina feels a little more “fashionable tragedy” than fully realized human being. The over-the-top theatrical staging of the film (think: a theater set with actual moving parts) distracts from the raw emotion the character’s supposed to evoke. Yes, Keira’s anguish is palpable, but the over-stylized setting undermines the emotional depth, leaving us with a visually stunning, but emotionally lacking, experience. | © Working Title Films

Cropped Boston Strangler — 13. Boston Strangler (2023)

Keira steps into the real-life story of the infamous Boston Strangler, playing a reporter determined to uncover the truth behind the killings. It’s a heavy subject matter, and Keira does her best to bring depth to her character’s pursuit of justice. But, while the film itself is well-crafted, Keira’s performance doesn’t have the same gripping intensity that makes you feel like she’s in the driver’s seat of the story. There’s an emotional distance here that leaves you feeling like you’re watching a crime drama from the outside rather than truly immersing yourself in the investigation. Keira’s solid, but not quite the standout. | © 20th Century Studios

Cropped Everest — 12. Everest (2015)

In this harrowing, true-life survival thriller, Keira plays the wife of climber Rob Hall (played by Jason Clarke), watching from the sidelines as disaster strikes on Mount Everest. Her role is rather small, but the emotional stakes are high as she wrestles with the uncertainty of whether her husband will survive. Keira, as always, brings a grounded intensity, but let’s be honest, her role is far from the movie’s main focus. Still, she’s a strong presence in a film where the focus is mainly on the dangerous climb itself. The movie’s gripping, but Keira’s contribution, while heartfelt, doesn’t quite rise to the level of the Everest adventure. | © Universal Pictures

Cropped Love Actually — 11. Love Actually (2003)

It’s hard to talk about *Love Actually* without feeling like we’re living in a Christmas movie cliché wonderland. Keira’s role as the newlywed wife caught in an emotional love triangle with her best friend's husband (played by Andrew Lincoln) is iconic, but also super dramatic for a holiday rom-com. The film has become a Christmas classic, but let’s not kid ourselves – Keira’s love-stricken moments are as cringeworthy as they are charming. Still, who can resist her earnest delivery and the *“To me, you are perfect”* moment that basically defines the movie? It’s not her most groundbreaking role, but it’s unforgettable in its own sugary, holiday way. | © Universal Pictures

Cropped A Dangerous Method — 10. A Dangerous Method (2011)

Keira Knightley as Sabina Spielrein, a troubled patient caught in the whirlwind of psychoanalysis with Carl Jung and Sigmund Freud? Sounds interesting, right? But while the film dives deep into the psychological drama, it feels a bit more like a dry lecture than an engaging movie. Keira’s performance is intense, bordering on over-the-top at times, as she contorts herself through emotional breakdowns and psychological unravelings. Yet, the film’s restrained pace and heavy reliance on dialogue make it hard to fully connect. It’s not that Keira’s bad – it’s just that the whole thing comes off a little cold and academic, making it a tough watch for anyone expecting a true drama. | © Sony Pictures Classics

Cropped Begin Again — 9. Begin Again (2014)

Keira shines in this light-hearted, music-infused drama about a singer-songwriter rediscovering her creative spark with the help of a washed-up music producer (Mark Ruffalo). She brings a sweet, charming vulnerability to her role, and her voice? *Beautiful.* The movie itself, though, is pretty predictable. It follows the usual “underdog makes it big” arc, but with a dash of indie quirk. While the film is fun and full of heart, it doesn’t bring anything particularly fresh to the genre. Still, Keira’s performance is a solid highlight, and she makes you believe in the possibility of second chances – if only the rest of the film were as magnetic. | © The Weinstein Company

Cropped Bend It Like Beckham — 8. Bend It Like Beckham (2002)

Keira Knightley made her mark as a football-loving, rule-breaking teen in this feel-good sports comedy that feels a little like an underdog fairy tale. Keira’s chemistry with Parminder Nagra, as her best friend, is undeniably fun, and their passion for football is infectious. Still, the film doesn’t shy away from cultural clashes and generational differences, and Keira’s character brings a strong dose of rebellion and self-determination. While the movie has its heart in the right place, it sometimes veers into predictability. But, let’s be honest, who didn’t fall in love with that “Bend it like Beckham” moment? | © StudioCanal

Cropped Misbehaviour — 7. Misbehaviour (2020)

In *Misbehaviour*, Keira plays a key figure in the real-life story of the 1970 Miss World competition protest. The film’s message about women’s rights, equality, and the beauty pageant’s problematic history is solid, but the tone sometimes straddles the line between drama and satire, making it a bit hard to digest. Keira’s role as the revolutionary feminist is admirable, but her performance gets somewhat overshadowed by a star-studded ensemble, including a fantastic turn by Jessie Buckley. It’s a noble cause, but the film doesn’t quite land as powerfully as it should. It’s entertaining, but it sometimes feels like it’s trying too hard to balance the humor and the politics. | © Pathé

Cropped Colette — 6. Colette (2018)

Keira Knightley’s portrayal of French author Colette is a captivating one, as she tackles the fiercely independent writer who fought for creative control in a male-dominated literary world. The film paints Colette as both a feminist icon and a complex woman, which Keira captures with her usual grace and intensity. It’s a period drama that doesn’t just rely on historical events but dives into Colette’s personal struggles and triumphs. While it’s not a perfect film, Keira’s fierce performance elevates it to something memorable. And let’s not forget, her wardrobe alone is enough to make anyone want to grab a quill and start writing. | © BFI Film Fund

Cropped Official Secrets — 5. Official Secrets (2019)

Keira Knightley plays Katharine Gun, a real-life whistleblower who exposed an illegal British government surveillance operation before the Iraq War. This political thriller is definitely timely and relevant, with Keira bringing a grounded, earnest intensity to the role. The problem? The movie’s pacing feels a bit too dry for such a dramatic topic. It’s got all the elements for an intense story, but it sometimes gets bogged down in procedural details rather than driving the emotional heart of Katharine’s journey. Still, Keira is strong in the role, and it’s worth watching for anyone who loves a good "underdog versus the system" story. But don’t expect it to be a *pulse-pounding* thriller. | © Entertainment One

Cropped Pirates of the Caribbean The Curse of the Black Pearl — 4. Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (2003)

Arguably Keira Knightley's most iconic role, playing Elizabeth Swann, the feisty governor's daughter turned pirate's love interest. This film skyrocketed her into superstardom and solidified her as the perfect blend of sass, charm, and wit. The movie itself is pure fun – a perfect mix of action, comedy, and pirate lore. While Keira’s character is often caught in a love triangle between Johnny Depp’s chaotic Jack Sparrow and Orlando Bloom’s dashing Will Turner, she holds her own with humor and bravery. Though her character doesn’t have quite as much depth as the surrounding chaos (hello, Captain Jack), Elizabeth Swann is a key ingredient in making this a beloved adventure classic. | © Walt Disney Pictures

Cropped The Imitation Game — 3. The Imitation Game (2014)

Keira’s portrayal of Joan Clarke, the only female mathematician on Alan Turing’s cryptography team, brings a much-needed human element to this otherwise male-dominated story. While Benedict Cumberbatch’s Turing rightfully steals the show, Keira’s subtle, understated performance is the emotional anchor. She plays the role of Turing’s confidante and close friend, someone caught between love and a career in a time when women weren’t expected to be in such fields. It’s not a role that gets a ton of screen time, but Keira nails it with quiet grace. This film's success is due in no small part to her contribution. | © The Weinstein Company

Cropped Atonement — 2. Atonement (2007)

Keira Knightley delivers one of her most nuanced performances in *Atonement*, playing Cecilia Tallis, a woman whose life is torn apart by a lie and the repercussions of a mistaken accusation. From the lush, period-drama atmosphere to the heart-wrenching plot, this movie is a masterclass in emotional storytelling, and Keira is *devastatingly* good in it. Her chemistry with James McAvoy (as Robbie Turner) is electric, and the pain of their separation – due to a crime neither committed – feels palpable. While the film's pacing at times may leave you emotionally drained, Keira’s performance carries the heart of the entire film, with the tragic conclusion still haunting viewers long after the credits roll. | © Universal Pictures

Cropped Pride Prejudice — 1. Pride & Prejudice (2005)

If there’s one role that defines Keira Knightley’s career, it’s her portrayal of Elizabeth Bennet in Joe Wright’s adaptation of *Pride & Prejudice*. She brings the perfect blend of wit, charm, and subtlety to one of literature’s most beloved characters. From the famous “You have bewitched me, body and soul” moments to her sharp repartee with Mr. Darcy, Keira’s Elizabeth feels modern and timeless at once. It’s not just her stunning looks or her poised demeanor; Keira nails the emotional depth of Elizabeth, especially in her evolving relationship with the brooding Darcy (played by the ever-dashing Matthew Macfadyen). This adaptation remains a fan favorite, and Keira’s performance is the jewel in its crown. | © Focus Features

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Keira Knightley is one of those actors whose name is practically synonymous with elegance, wit, and, let's face it, an absurdly good knack for period dramas. But just like any great actress, her career isn’t all tea parties and corsets – she’s dipped her toes in everything from swashbuckling adventures to gritty thrillers.

So, let’s have a bit of fun with this: we’re diving into Keira's top 20 movie roles, ranking them from “eh, not her best” to “Oscar-worthy, obviously.” Ready to see if your favorite made the cut (or got a bit knocked down a peg)? Let’s go!

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Keira Knightley is one of those actors whose name is practically synonymous with elegance, wit, and, let's face it, an absurdly good knack for period dramas. But just like any great actress, her career isn’t all tea parties and corsets – she’s dipped her toes in everything from swashbuckling adventures to gritty thrillers.

So, let’s have a bit of fun with this: we’re diving into Keira's top 20 movie roles, ranking them from “eh, not her best” to “Oscar-worthy, obviously.” Ready to see if your favorite made the cut (or got a bit knocked down a peg)? Let’s go!