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Margaret Qualley’s 15 Best Movies & TV Roles, Ranked from Worst to Best

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Ignacio Weil

Entertainment - March 17th 2025, 19:28 GMT+1

Cropped IO — 15. IO (2019)

Ah, *IO –* that Netflix sci-fi film where the Earth is basically unlivable, and humanity is packing its bags for a new home in the stars. Margaret Qualley plays Sam, one of the last people stubbornly clinging to the dying planet, because who doesn’t love a challenge? Alongside Anthony Mackie (yes, the Falcon himself), she navigates a world of solitude, science, and existential dread. It’s moody, atmospheric, and quietly compelling – but let’s be honest, it’s not exactly *Interstellar*. | © Netflix

Cropped Palo Alto — 14. Palo Alto (2013)

If you’ve ever wanted to see Margaret Qualley in peak *moody teen* mode, *Palo Alto* is your movie. Gia Coppola’s indie drama, based on James Franco’s short stories (yes, *that* James Franco), captures the reckless boredom of suburban youth. Qualley plays Raquel, a girl navigating the chaos of high school parties, unrequited crushes, and general teenage ennui. With Emma Roberts and Nat Wolff adding to the mix, it’s a stylish, angst-filled trip back to adolescence. | © Tribeca Film

Cropped Novitiate — 13. Novitiate (2017)

Margaret Qualley goes full-on *nun in crisis* mode in *Novitiate*, and honestly, she makes it fascinating. Playing a young woman questioning her faith in a strict convent, she shares the screen with Melissa Leo, who delivers a powerhouse performance as the iron-fisted Reverend Mother. It’s a slow-burn drama with a lot of repressed emotions, whispered prayers, and dramatic stares into candlelit halls. If you’re into period pieces with a side of religious turmoil, this one’s for you. | © Sony Pictures Classics

Cropped Drive Away Dolls — 12. Drive-Away Dolls (2024)

A Margaret Qualley road trip comedy directed by Ethan Coen? Say less. *Drive-Away Dolls* throws her into a chaotic adventure alongside Geraldine Viswanathan, where mistaken identities, quirky criminals, and unexpected mayhem are all part of the ride. It’s got that offbeat Coen Brothers flavor, plus a cast that includes Pedro Pascal and Beanie Feldstein for extra fun. Qualley’s natural charm shines through, making this a delightful, wild detour worth taking. | © Focus Features

Stars at noon msn — 11. Stars at Noon (2022)

Ah, nothing says romance like a steamy, slow-burning political thriller set in Central America. *Stars at Noon* pairs Margaret Qualley with Joe Alwyn in a sweaty, tension-filled story of intrigue and questionable life choices. Directed by Claire Denis, the film oozes atmosphere, even when the plot moves at the speed of molasses. Qualley is captivating as a journalist caught up in a dangerous game, proving once again that she can do *mysterious and reckless* like no other. | © A24

Cropped Fosse Verdon — 10. Fosse/Verdon (2019)

In *Fosse/Verdon*, Margaret Qualley steps into the world of jazz hands and behind-the-scenes Broadway drama, and she absolutely nails it. Playing Ann Reinking – the real-life dancer who got caught up in the chaotic orbit of Bob Fosse (played by Sam Rockwell) and Gwen Verdon (Michelle Williams) – she brings grace, charisma, and just the right amount of showbiz heartbreak. If you love dazzling choreography and messy creative geniuses, this miniseries delivers. Bonus: Qualley proves once again that she can command a dance floor. | © FX

Cropped My Salinger Year — 9. My Salinger Year (2020)

Imagine *The Devil Wears Prada* but with more literary angst and fewer designer handbags. In *My Salinger Year*, Margaret Qualley plays a wide-eyed aspiring writer who lands a job at a prestigious literary agency, where her main task is handling fan letters for the elusive J.D. Salinger. Sigourney Weaver plays her no-nonsense boss, adding the perfect amount of *intimidating mentor energy*. It’s a cozy, bookish drama that gives Qualley room to shine – even if we never actually see Holden Caulfield himself. | © IFC Films

Cropped Sanctuary — 8. Sanctuary (2022)

Margaret Qualley in a psychological power struggle inside a luxury hotel room? Say no more. *Sanctuary* is an intense two-hander where she plays a dominant mistress locked in a battle of wits (and wills) with her wealthy client, played by Christopher Abbott. It’s sexy, twisted, and surprisingly funny – kind of like if *Succession* had a secret underground side hustle. Qualley is electric, proving once again that she can go toe-to-toe with the best when it comes to mind games. | © Neon

Cropped The Nice Guys — 7. The Nice Guys (2016)

Before she was leading indie dramas, Margaret Qualley popped up in *The Nice Guys*, stealing scenes as the enigmatic and not-so-innocent Amelia. This Shane Black buddy-comedy-meets-murder-mystery pairs Ryan Gosling and Russell Crowe as mismatched detectives bumbling their way through ‘70s Los Angeles. Qualley’s role is small but memorable – she’s the kind of wildcard character who keeps you guessing. Plus, any movie that involves Gosling falling off balconies and screaming like a cartoon character is worth the watch. | © Warner Bros.

Cropped Poor Things — 6. Poor Things (2023)

Margaret Qualley sharing the screen with Emma Stone, Willem Dafoe, and Mark Ruffalo in a surreal, Frankenstein-inspired fever dream? Yes, please. In *Poor Things*, she plays Felicity, one of many eccentrics orbiting Stone’s Bella Baxter, a woman literally brought back to life. Directed by Yorgos Lanthimos, the film is weird, wondrous, and completely unhinged – in the best way possible. Qualley adds her own touch of charm to the madness, proving she can hold her own in a world of oddballs. | © Searchlight Pictures

Cropped Kinds of Kindness — 5. Kinds of Kindness (2024)

In *Kinds of Kindness*, Margaret Qualley teams up with director Yorgos Lanthimos for a triptych of tales that are as bizarre as they are captivating. Playing multiple roles alongside Emma Stone, Jesse Plemons, and Willem Dafoe, Qualley dives into a world where reality bends and twists in the most unexpected ways. It's like stepping into a surreal painting where each character reveals a different shade of humanity's quirks. If you're up for a cinematic experience that defies convention, this one's your ticket to the wonderfully weird. | © Searchlight Pictures

Cropped Maid — 4. Maid (2021)

Margaret Qualley shines as Alex, a young mother navigating the trials of single parenthood and domestic work in *Maid*. Sharing the screen with her real-life mother, Andie MacDowell, who plays her on-screen mom with eccentric flair, Qualley delivers a performance that's both heart-wrenching and inspiring. The series tackles heavy themes like poverty and abuse, but does so with a grace and authenticity that keeps you rooting for Alex every step of the way. Plus, the mother-daughter duo's chemistry is pure magic. | © Netflix

Cropped once upon a time in hollywood — 3. Once Upon a Time... in Hollywood (2019)

In Quentin Tarantino's love letter to 1969 Los Angeles, Margaret Qualley steals scenes as Pussycat, a free-spirited member of the Manson Family. Sharing the screen with heavyweights like Brad Pitt and Leonardo DiCaprio, Qualley's magnetic performance adds an extra layer of intrigue to the film's tapestry. Her portrayal of the enigmatic hitchhiker is both alluring and unsettling, capturing the essence of a tumultuous era. It's a small but unforgettable role that leaves a lasting impression. | © Sony Pictures Releasing

Cropped The Leftovers — 2. The Leftovers (2014–2017)

Margaret Qualley's breakout role as Jill Garvey in *The Leftovers* introduced audiences to her compelling screen presence. As the teenage daughter of Kevin Garvey (played by Justin Theroux), she navigates a world grappling with the sudden disappearance of 2% of the population. The series is a masterclass in exploring grief and existential questions, with Qualley's performance adding depth and authenticity to the ensemble cast. It's the role that put her on the map and showcased her potential as a rising star. | © HBO

Cropped The Substance — 1. The Substance (2024)

In *The Substance*, Margaret Qualley takes on the role of Sue, a younger version of a former Hollywood star portrayed by Demi Moore. The film delves into themes of aging and beauty standards, with Qualley embodying the manufactured perfection that society often demands. Her performance is both haunting and mesmerizing, capturing the duality of allure and artificiality. The film's striking visuals and thought-provoking narrative make it a standout, with Qualley's portrayal at its core. | © Universal Pictures

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Margaret Qualley has quickly become one of Hollywood’s most captivating talents, delivering standout performances across film and television. From indie gems to blockbuster hits, she’s proven her range with unforgettable roles. In this ranking, we break down Margaret Qualley’s 15 best movies and TV roles, from her early career to her latest successes.

Which performances shine the brightest, and which ones fall short? Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering her work, this list has all the must-watch picks. Let’s dive into her top roles, ranked from worst to best!

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Margaret Qualley has quickly become one of Hollywood’s most captivating talents, delivering standout performances across film and television. From indie gems to blockbuster hits, she’s proven her range with unforgettable roles. In this ranking, we break down Margaret Qualley’s 15 best movies and TV roles, from her early career to her latest successes.

Which performances shine the brightest, and which ones fall short? Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering her work, this list has all the must-watch picks. Let’s dive into her top roles, ranked from worst to best!