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Reese Witherspoon's top 20 movie roles, ranked from worst to best

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Ignacio Weil

Entertainment - December 18th 2024, 17:00 GMT+1

Cropped About — About this gallery:

For this list, we have decided to focus only on movies where Reese Witherspoon 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!

| © Vogue

Cropped Water for Elephants — 20. Water for Elephants (2011)

Here’s the thing about *Water for Elephants*: it’s a visually stunning movie that makes you want to run away and join the circus – until you realize how depressing the circus actually was in the 1930s. Reese Witherspoon plays Marlena, a star performer whose tragic backstory is as elaborate as her sparkly costumes. While she shares a decent amount of chemistry with Robert Pattinson, their romance feels more tepid than torrid, especially when contrasted with Christoph Waltz’s menacing portrayal of her abusive husband. Reese does her best to embody the glitz and heartbreak of her character, but she can only shine so brightly in a movie that often feels emotionally muted. The elephant, Rosie, might just be the real scene-stealer here! | © 20th Century Fox

Cropped Twilight — 19. Twilight (1998)

No, not *that* Twilight – this is an entirely different beast, and Reese Witherspoon plays a rebellious teen opposite Paul Newman in this moody crime drama. While the cast is stacked with heavy hitters, including Susan Sarandon and Gene Hackman, Reese’s role as the wildcard femme fatale wannabe feels more like an afterthought in the shadow of these cinematic giants. Her performance has its moments, but the script doesn’t give her much to chew on, and her character often comes across as bratty rather than compelling. Still, this early-career role showed a glimpse of her future star power—she was just waiting for a better script to sparkle in. | © Paramount Pictures

Cropped American Psycho — 18. American Psycho (2000)

If you blinked during *American Psycho*, you might’ve missed Reese Witherspoon’s turn as Evelyn, Patrick Bateman’s materialistic fiancée. To be fair, she’s playing a caricature, and she nails the shallow, image-obsessed archetype with biting precision. The problem? Evelyn doesn’t have much to do besides complain about Patrick’s schedule and plan their wedding while he, you know, murders people. Reese’s charisma still shines through, but it’s hard not to feel like she’s wasted in a movie that’s so laser-focused on Christian Bale’s deranged antihero. Still, her performance is a delicious little nugget in this cult classic – just not one of her career highs. | © Lions Gate Films

Cropped Rendition — 17. Rendition (2007)

In *Rendition*, Reese Witherspoon steps into the heavy world of post-9/11 political dramas as Isabella, a woman desperately trying to find her husband, who’s been detained under shady circumstances. Reese dives headfirst into the material, delivering an emotional performance that anchors the film’s tangled narrative. The problem? The movie itself tries to juggle too many storylines and tones, leaving her character feeling somewhat sidelined. It’s a role that shows her range, but the film struggles to find a rhythm, leaving even Reese’s considerable talents underutilized. We’ll always admire her commitment, though – even when the script doesn’t match her caliber. | © New Line Cinema

Cropped Sweet Home Alabama — 16. Sweet Home Alabama (2002)

Ah, *Sweet Home Alabama –* a guilty pleasure for some, a cringe-fest for others, and a Reese Witherspoon classic for all. As Melanie Smooter, Reese is in her element as a big-city girl forced to return to her Southern roots and sort out her messy love life. It’s a charming, fish-out-of-water rom-com that plays to her comedic strengths, but let’s be honest: the script leans on every Southern stereotype imaginable. Still, Reese’s charm and wit make it easy to overlook the clichés, and her chemistry with Josh Lucas adds just enough heart to keep you rooting for her. It’s fluff, sure, but it’s the kind of fluff Reese can make irresistibly watchable. | © Touchstone Pictures

Cropped Fear — 15. Fear (1996)

Ah, young love – so pure, so thrilling, so... absolutely terrifying when Mark Wahlberg is involved. In *Fear*, Reese Witherspoon plays Nicole, a naive teenager who falls for David (Wahlberg), a seemingly charming boyfriend who quickly turns into a psycho stalker. Reese’s performance as the vulnerable yet strong Nicole is commendable, but let’s be honest, this movie is a hot mess of ‘90s tropes. It’s part thriller, part melodrama, and all kinds of unintentionally hilarious. That rollercoaster scene? Iconic for all the wrong reasons. But hey, Reese makes it watchable, even if the movie feels like a lifetime special on steroids. | © Universal Pictures

Cropped The Importance of Being Earnest — 14. The Importance of Being Earnest (2002)

Oscar Wilde’s witty play gets a quirky film adaptation with *The Importance of Being Earnest*, and Reese Witherspoon steps into the corseted role of Cecily, the ingénue with a sharp tongue. While her Southern charm doesn’t exactly scream Victorian England, Reese holds her own against seasoned Brits like Colin Firth and Rupert Everett. The film itself feels a bit scattered, and the humor doesn’t always land, but Reese brings a lighthearted energy to the table. It’s not her most memorable performance, but it’s a delightful one if you’re in the mood for some fluffy period-piece shenanigans. | © Miramax Films

Cropped Wildflower — 13. Wildflower (1991)

In her film debut, Reese Witherspoon plays Ellie in *Wildflower*, a Hallmark-esque TV movie about two siblings who discover a deaf and abused girl, played by Patricia Arquette, hidden in a barn. It’s a touching story, albeit a little too saccharine for its own good. Reese shows early glimpses of her talent here, delivering a heartfelt performance that elevates the otherwise predictable narrative. It’s a sweet and well-meaning film that won’t change your life, but it’s an interesting peek into Reese’s beginnings as an actress. | © Lifetime Television

Cropped Just Like Heaven — 12. Just Like Heaven (2005)

Reese Witherspoon plays Elizabeth, a driven doctor turned ghost, in this sweet (if slightly absurd) rom-com. Her chemistry with Mark Ruffalo is undeniable, and the film has its fair share of charming moments. But let’s be real: the premise is so far-fetched that it borders on laughable. Reese’s natural charisma helps sell the idea of a supernatural love story, but *Just Like Heaven* ultimately feels like a fluffy dessert – it’s enjoyable while it lasts, but it doesn’t leave much of an impression once it’s over. Still, if you’re in the mood for lighthearted romance with a touch of the paranormal, this one delivers. | © DreamWorks Pictures

Cropped The Man in the Moon — 11. The Man in the Moon (1991)

Reese’s first major role, *The Man in the Moon*, is a coming-of-age story that showcases her raw talent at just 14 years old. Playing Dani, a tomboy navigating her first crush and family tragedy, Reese delivers an authentic and heartfelt performance that immediately set her apart as a rising star. The movie itself is a tender, bittersweet tale that captures the complexity of adolescence and the sting of growing pains. While it leans a bit on melodrama, Reese’s performance is a revelation, carrying the film with grace and emotional depth. It’s a reminder of why she became a household name in the first place. | © Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer

Cropped Mud — 10. Mud (2012)

In *Mud*, Reese Witherspoon takes on a more understated role as Juniper, the troubled love interest of the titular Mud (played by Matthew McConaughey). While Reese isn’t the star of this gritty Southern tale, she makes the most of her limited screen time. Juniper is a flawed, messy character, and Reese plays her with just the right mix of vulnerability and mystery. The film itself is a compelling coming-of-age story with beautiful cinematography and a strong cast. Reese’s performance might not be the centerpiece, but she adds depth to a story about love, betrayal, and the messiness of human relationships. It’s McConaughey’s show, but Reese proves she doesn’t need to be front and center to make an impact. | © Lionsgate

Cropped Freeway — 9. Freeway (1996)

If you’ve never seen *Freeway*, buckle up, because this movie is a wild ride. Reese Witherspoon plays Vanessa Lutz, a foul-mouthed, street-smart teen who ends up hitchhiking with a serial killer (played by Kiefer Sutherland). It’s a dark, twisted retelling of *Little Red Riding Hood*, but with way more swearing and violence. Reese is absolutely magnetic here, delivering a fearless, gritty performance that proves she’s not just America’s sweetheart. The movie itself is campy and bizarre, but Reese’s fiery energy and sharp comedic timing elevate it into something unforgettable. It’s not for everyone, but if you love a good dose of chaos, this one’s for you. | © Republic Pictures

Cropped The Good Lie — 8. The Good Lie (2014)

In *The Good Lie*, Reese Witherspoon steps into the role of Carrie, a woman who helps a group of Sudanese refugees adjust to life in America. It’s a heartfelt film with a powerful story, but Reese’s character often feels like a side dish to the main course, which is the refugees’ journey. While she delivers a solid performance, the real stars are the actors playing the Sudanese men and women – they bring raw authenticity and emotional depth to the film. Reese does her part well, but she’s ultimately overshadowed by the strength of the larger narrative. It’s a film that’s worth watching for its heartwarming message, even if Reese isn’t the standout. | © Warner Bros. Pictures

Cropped Cruel Intentions — 7. Cruel Intentions (1999)

Before Gossip Girl, there was *Cruel Intentions*, the deliciously wicked teen drama that oozes scandal and seduction. Reese Witherspoon plays Annette, the wholesome virgin caught in the manipulative web of Sarah Michelle Gellar and Ryan Phillippe’s characters. While Reese’s role is intentionally more subdued compared to the rest of the cast, she brings a grounded sweetness that serves as the moral compass in a story full of moral bankruptcy. It’s a campy, sexy mess of a movie, but it’s oh-so-watchable. Plus, Reese and Phillippe’s real-life romance at the time adds an extra layer of intrigue. It’s not her deepest role, but it’s one of her most memorable. | © Columbia Pictures

Cropped Wild — 6. Wild (2014)

In *Wild*, Reese Witherspoon delivers one of the most raw and transformative performances of her career. Based on Cheryl Strayed’s memoir, the film follows a woman hiking the Pacific Crest Trail to rediscover herself after a series of personal tragedies. Reese strips away her usual charm to play a character who is messy, flawed, and profoundly human. The movie is a quiet, introspective journey, and Reese carries it with a vulnerability that’s both heartbreaking and inspiring. Her Oscar nomination for this role was well-deserved, as *Wild* showcases her range like few other films in her career. It’s a movie about survival, healing, and finding strength in solitude, and Reese nails every moment. | © Fox Searchlight Pictures

Cropped Inherent Vice — 5. Inherent Vice (2014)

*Inherent Vice* is a trippy, noir-inspired fever dream, and Reese Witherspoon plays Penny, the straight-laced assistant district attorney who occasionally tangles with Joaquin Phoenix’s perpetually stoned detective. It’s a small role, but Reese’s buttoned-up presence provides a nice contrast to the film’s otherwise hazy, chaotic energy. That said, the movie is so dense with plot twists and quirky characters that Reese’s performance tends to get lost in the shuffle. Still, she makes the most of her scenes, adding a dash of groundedness to the psychedelic mayhem. It’s not her most memorable work, but it’s a fun addition to her resume. | © Warner Bros. Pictures

Cropped Pleasantville — 4. Pleasantville (1998)

Reese Witherspoon takes us on a journey from black-and-white repression to full-color liberation in *Pleasantville*, playing Jennifer, a rebellious teenager transported into a 1950s sitcom world with her brother (Tobey Maguire). Reese perfectly captures Jennifer’s transformation from shallow and self-absorbed to someone who discovers the value of empathy and curiosity. The film’s clever commentary on conformity and self-expression is bolstered by Reese’s performance, which sparkles with charm and depth. It’s a smart, stylish movie, and Reese’s energy is a key ingredient in making it such a delight. Plus, seeing her bring modern sass to a prim-and-proper world is endlessly entertaining. | © New Line Cinema

Cropped Legally Blonde — 3. Legally Blonde (2001)

What, like this ranking was hard? Reese Witherspoon is an absolute powerhouse in *Legally Blonde*, playing Elle Woods, the perky sorority queen who takes on Harvard Law School to prove that you can be both fashionable and formidable. Reese’s comedic timing, charisma, and iconic delivery of lines like “You got into Harvard? What, like it’s hard?” cement Elle as one of cinema’s most beloved characters. The movie’s feel-good feminist message and Reese’s radiant performance make it a modern classic. It’s impossible not to root for Elle, and Reese makes every moment sparkle brighter than Elle’s Swarovski-encrusted pink pens. | © MGM

Cropped Walk the Line — 2. Walk the Line (2005)

Reese Witherspoon’s Oscar-winning turn as June Carter in *Walk the Line* is a masterclass in blending charm, strength, and emotional depth. Playing opposite Joaquin Phoenix as Johnny Cash, Reese delivers a performance that’s both tender and fiery, capturing June’s humor and resilience while giving us goosebumps with her singing. The chemistry between Reese and Joaquin is electric, and Reese’s nuanced portrayal of a woman balancing love and self-respect is unforgettable. It’s a performance that proves Reese isn’t just a rom-com queen – she’s a force to be reckoned with in dramatic roles, too. | © 20th Century Fox

Cropped Election — 1. Election (1999)

Tracy Flick. Two words that define Reese Witherspoon’s career as much as Elle Woods. In *Election*, Reese plays the ambitious, overachieving high school student who will stop at nothing to win the student body presidency. Her performance is sharp, hilarious, and just the right amount of unsettling, capturing the obsessive drive that makes Tracy both relatable and terrifying. Reese’s portrayal of Tracy is so pitch-perfect that it’s hard to imagine anyone else pulling it off. The movie itself is a biting satire of ambition and morality, but Reese’s performance takes it to another level. It’s a role that solidified her as one of Hollywood’s most talented (and versatile) actors. | © Paramount Pictures

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Ah, Reese Witherspoon – a Hollywood treasure and the embodiment of Southern charm with a sprinkle of "I mean business." Over the years, she's made us laugh, cry, and shout, "What, like it’s hard?" from the rooftops. From rom-com royalty to Oscar-worthy drama queen, Reese’s career has been a rollercoaster of unforgettable performances (and, okay, a few head-scratchers).

Whether you’re here to relive her Legally Blonde legacy or defend her Wild adventures, this list is your Reese-centric guide to the best (and, yes, the less-than-best) moments of her cinematic reign. Buckle up – it’s going to be a Reese-aissance!

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Ah, Reese Witherspoon – a Hollywood treasure and the embodiment of Southern charm with a sprinkle of "I mean business." Over the years, she's made us laugh, cry, and shout, "What, like it’s hard?" from the rooftops. From rom-com royalty to Oscar-worthy drama queen, Reese’s career has been a rollercoaster of unforgettable performances (and, okay, a few head-scratchers).

Whether you’re here to relive her Legally Blonde legacy or defend her Wild adventures, this list is your Reese-centric guide to the best (and, yes, the less-than-best) moments of her cinematic reign. Buckle up – it’s going to be a Reese-aissance!