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Top 50 most iconic female movie characters

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Ignacio Weil

Entertainment - September 24th 2024, 10:30 GMT+2

Cropped About — About this gallery:

To create this gallery, we focused on fictional characters from live-action movies (so no iconic animated characters like Mulan or Elsa). Additionally, we decided to include only one character per franchise. Otherwise, we could easily have a list full of Marvel superheroines.

Lastly, remember this is a subjective list, and we focused on how popular and influential the character is, rather than how good the movie or the actress’s performance is (though that often plays a big part). If you disagree with any of the entries, why not leave us a comment? | © Marvel Studios

Cropped Barbarella — 50. Barbarella (Barbarella)

Barbarella became an iconic figure of the 1960s Cultural Revolution. Played by Jane Fonda, she is a bold and free-spirited adventurer who embraces both her femininity and strength while exploring surreal, often dangerous intergalactic environments. Barbarella's unapologetic beauty, combined with her bravery and resourcefulness, make her a symbol of liberation, blending campy science fiction with themes of empowerment and self-discovery. | © Paramount Pictures

Cropped Sugar Kane Kowalczyk Some Like It Hot — 49. Sugar Kane Kowalczyk (Some Like It Hot)

Sugar Kane, the lovable yet vulnerable singer from *Some Like It Hot*, is a mix of charm, naïveté, and longing for true love. Played by Marilyn Monroe, Sugar’s comedic timing and poignant moments of insecurity make her an unforgettable character. She represents the pursuit of happiness amidst the chaos of life, embodying both the glamour and fragility of classic Hollywood femininity. | © United Artists

Basic Instinct Catherine Tramell MSN — 48. Catherine Tramell (Basic Instinct)

In *Basic Instinct*, Catherine Tramell is the ultimate femme fatale, blending intelligence, allure, and danger. Her icy confidence, romantic dominance, and ability to manipulate those around her make her a thrilling and unpredictable antagonist. Catherine’s character challenges traditional gender dynamics and remains an iconic figure of seduction and psychological complexity. | © TriStar Pictures

Cropped Nurse Ratched — 47. Nurse Ratched (One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest)

In *One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest*, Nurse Ratched is the embodiment of institutional control and oppression. Her calm, authoritative demeanor masks a deeply manipulative and tyrannical nature, making her one of the most feared villains in cinema. She represents the dehumanizing effects of power in authoritarian systems, leaving an indelible mark as a symbol of cruelty cloaked in civility. | © United Artists

Cropped Blanche Dubois A Streetcar Named Desire — 46. Blanche Dubois (A Streetcar Named Desire)

Blanche Dubois, in *A Streetcar Named Desire*, is a tragic figure clinging to the remnants of her past and faded beauty. Her fragile psyche, masked by delusions and Southern charm, unravels as the harsh reality of her circumstances closes in. Blanche’s descent into madness is both heartbreaking and captivating, making her one of the most complex and iconic characters in American theater and film. | © Warner Bros.

Cropped Baby — 45. Baby (Dirty Dancing)

Frances "Baby" Houseman from *Dirty Dancing* is the classic example of a young woman stepping into adulthood through self-discovery, love, and dance. Her transformation from innocent idealist to confident, empowered individual is beautifully symbolized in the film’s climactic dance scene. Baby’s willingness to break social norms and stand up for herself makes her an enduring symbol of personal growth and independence. | © Vestron Pictures

Cropped Sally Albright — 44. Sally Albright (When Harry Met Sally)

Sally Albright in *When Harry Met Sally* is memorable for her quirky, independent spirit and her insistence on having things just the way she likes them. Her endearing neuroses, combined with her vulnerability in the complexities of love and friendship, make her a refreshing rom-com heroine. Sally’s character captures the nuances of modern relationships and the importance of honesty in love. | © Columbia Pictures

Pretty Woman Vivian Ward MSN — 43. Vivian Ward (Pretty Woman)

In *Pretty Woman*, Vivian Ward defies expectations as a charming and street-smart escort who finds love in an unexpected place. Her journey from being overlooked by society to finding her self-worth and happiness makes her a relatable, iconic character. Vivian’s transformation challenges traditional fairy tales, proving that everyone deserves love and respect regardless of their past. | © Touchstone Pictures

Cropped Charlotte Lost In Translation — 42. Charlotte (Lost In Translation)

*Lost in Translation*’s Charlotte is a young woman drifting through life, feeling disconnected from both her marriage and her surroundings in Tokyo. Her quiet introspection and deep, yet subtle bond with Bob Harris reflect the yearning for connection and understanding. Charlotte’s vulnerability and search for meaning in an alienating world make her a poignant symbol of emotional isolation and personal growth. | © Focus Features

Cropped Mrs Robinson — 41. Mrs. Robinson (The Graduate)

In *The Graduate*, Mrs. Robinson is the quintessential seductress, her allure and complexity lying in her dissatisfaction with her life. Her affair with the younger Benjamin Braddock exposes the generational divide and emotional emptiness in suburban life. She represents both a symbol of liberation and the consequences of unfulfilled desires, cementing her place as an iconic figure of 1960s cinema. | © Embassy Pictures

Cropped Sally Bowles — 40. Sally Bowles (Cabaret)

Sally Bowles in *Cabaret* is a symbol of carefree abandon and self-expression in pre-WWII Berlin. As a nightclub singer with dreams of stardom, Sally’s vibrant personality and chaotic life reflect the hedonism and instability of the times. Her character embodies both the joy and tragedy of pursuing freedom in a world on the brink of destruction. | © Allied Artists

Cropped Adrian Pennino Balboa — 39. Adrian Pennino Balboa (Rocky Franchise)

Adrian starts as the shy and reserved love interest in *Rocky* but grows into a pillar of emotional strength for her husband. Her quiet, supportive nature evolves into a powerful presence throughout the series, representing the importance of partnership, resilience, and inner strength in the face of life’s battles. | © United Artists

Cropped Nikita — 38. Nikita (La Femme Nikita)

In *La Femme Nikita*, Nikita is transformed from a street criminal into a highly trained assassin, torn between her violent life and her desire for freedom. Her internal conflict and strength in the face of control make her a complex anti-heroine, symbolizing the struggles of identity, redemption, and independence. | © Gaumont

Cropped Norma Desmond — 37. Norma Desmond (Sunset Boulevard)

*Sunset Boulevard*’s Norma Desmond is the quintessential fallen star, clinging to the glamour of her silent film days. Her obsession with returning to fame, despite the industry's indifference, makes her both tragic and iconic. Norma’s dramatic line, “I’m ready for my close-up,” represents the dark side of Hollywood’s allure and the dangers of living in the past. | © Paramount Pictures

Cropped Marge Gunderson — 36. Marge Gunderson (Fargo)

In *Fargo*, Marge Gunderson is a refreshing break from typical police officer archetypes. Her calm demeanor, kindness, and sharp investigative skills make her a standout character. Despite being pregnant, Marge doesn’t let anything shake her focus, making her a symbol of everyday heroism, decency, and intelligence. | © PolyGram Filmed Entertainment

Cropped M — 35. M (James Bond)

Judi Dench’s portrayal of M in the *James Bond* series brought a new level of gravitas and depth to the character. As the head of MI6, she represents authority, intelligence, and emotional complexity. Dench’s M is both a mentor and critic to Bond, embodying the weight of leadership and the cost of spycraft in a rapidly changing world. | © MGM

Cropped Lara Croft — 34. Lara Croft (Lara Croft: Tomb Raider)

Lara Croft, originally from the *Tomb Raider* video games and later brought to life on the big screen, is the ultimate female action-adventure hero. With her archaeological expertise and physical prowess, Lara represents independence, fearlessness, and intelligence. She became a cultural icon for breaking gender norms in the action genre. | © Paramount Pictures

Cropped Alice — 33. Alice (Alice in Wonderland)

The heroine of *Alice in Wonderland*, Alice’s journey through the surreal, chaotic world of Wonderland is a timeless exploration of curiosity and self-discovery. Her childlike wonder and refusal to conform to the absurdity around her make her an enduring symbol of imagination, innocence, and the pursuit of identity. | © Disney

Cropped Leeloo — 32. Leeloo (The Fifth Element)

In *The Fifth Element*, Leeloo is a mysterious and otherworldly being whose innocence and strength combine to make her the key to humanity’s survival. Her vibrant personality, physical prowess, and vulnerability make her a standout character in sci-fi cinema, symbolizing both the power of life and the fragility of existence. | © Columbia Pictures

Cropped Juno — 31. Juno MacGuff (Juno)

In *Juno*, the titular character’s wit, honesty, and strength shine as she navigates teenage pregnancy. Juno’s unique blend of quirkiness and emotional depth challenges stereotypes of young women, making her a refreshing and relatable figure. She embodies the complexities of youth, independence, and the courage to make difficult choices. | © Fox Searchlight Pictures

Cropped Lisbeth Salander — 30. Lisbeth Salander (The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo)

Lisbeth Salander is the epitome of a modern anti-heroine in *The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo*. A brilliant hacker with a traumatic past, she defies societal expectations and norms. Her intelligence, resilience, and refusal to be victimized make her a symbol of empowerment and justice, even in a dark and unforgiving world. | © Sony Pictures

Cropped Shoshanna Dreyfus — 29. Shoshanna Dreyfus (Inglourious Basterds)

In *Inglourious Basterds*, Shoshanna’s quiet rage and resilience drive her mission of vengeance against the Nazis. After surviving the massacre of her family, she devises a plan to destroy her enemies in her cinema. Her character embodies the power of resistance and the personal cost of seeking justice in the face of immense oppression. | © Universal Pictures

Cropped Selene Underworld — 28. Selene (Underworld Franchise)

Selene, the vampire warrior from *Underworld*, is defined by her fierce combat skills, loyalty, and internal struggle between duty and love. As a protector of her species and a seeker of justice, Selene is one of the few iconic female action heroes to hold her own in a genre dominated by male leads. | © Screen Gems

Cropped Gilda Mundson Farrell — 27. Gilda Mundson Farrell (Gilda)

In *Gilda*, the sultry and mysterious Gilda captivates audiences with her bold sensuality and inner vulnerability. As a femme fatale, her character is central to the film’s tension, blending glamour with emotional complexity. Gilda’s iconic performance of “Put the Blame on Mame” cements her as a classic symbol of Old Hollywood allure. | © Columbia Pictures

Cropped Annie Hall — 26. Annie Hall (Annie Hall)

In *Annie Hall*, Diane Keaton’s portrayal of the titular character redefined modern rom-com heroines. Annie’s neurotic charm, intellectual humor, and distinctive fashion sense made her an icon of 1970s cinema. She embodies the complexities of love, self-discovery, and individuality, leaving a lasting impact on how romantic leads are portrayed. | © United Artists

Cropped Amelie — 25. Amélie Poulain (Amélie)

*Amélie* follows the quirky and introverted Amélie Poulain, who finds joy in the small wonders of life and helping others in secret. Her unique worldview and sense of wonder make her a beloved figure of whimsy and kindness. She represents the magic in the everyday and the power of quietly making the world a better place. | © UGC Fox Distribution

Cropped Scarlett O Hara — 24. Scarlett O'Hara (Gone with the Wind)

*Gone with the Wind*’s Scarlett O’Hara is a complex Southern belle whose fierce determination to survive the Civil War sets her apart. Known for her cunning, selfishness, and resilience, Scarlett’s character defies the traditional mold of a heroine. Her iconic line, “Tomorrow is another day,” epitomizes her relentless will to rebuild her life, no matter the cost. | © MGM

Cropped Rose De Witt Bukater — 23. Rose DeWitt Bukater (Titanic)

Rose, the heroine of *Titanic*, starts as a young woman trapped by societal expectations and family pressure. Her transformative journey aboard the ill-fated ship allows her to embrace freedom, love, and adventure. Rose’s resilience and enduring spirit, long after the tragedy, make her a symbol of survival and empowerment. | © 20th Century Fox/Paramount Pictures

Cropped Sylvia — 22. Sylvia (La Dolce Vita)

Sylvia, portrayed in *La Dolce Vita*, is the epitome of glamorous escapism. As an international film star visiting Rome, her carefree spirit and magnetic allure represent the idealized version of beauty and fame. Sylvia’s iconic scene in the Trevi Fountain remains a cinematic symbol of indulgence and unattainable desire. | © Riama Film

Cropped Miranda Priestley — 21. Miranda Priestley (The Devil Wears Prada)

In *The Devil Wears Prada*, Miranda Priestley embodies icy authority and fashion industry ruthlessness. As the editor-in-chief of a prestigious magazine, her sharp wit and unrelenting expectations make her a formidable character. She represents the pressures of power and success, and her complexity lies in her ability to command respect while exposing the sacrifices women often make to stay on top. | © 20th Century Fox

Cropped Matilda Leon — 20. Matilda (Léon: The Professional)

Matilda, a young girl who forms an unlikely bond with a hitman in *Léon: The Professional*, is a character marked by her resilience and resourcefulness. Despite her youth, she exudes a quiet strength that allows her to navigate a violent and challenging world, making her a compelling and poignant figure. | © Gaumont

Cropped Regina George — 19. Regina George (Mean Girls)

*Mean Girls* introduced Regina George, the queen bee of high school cliques, whose manipulative and sharp-witted nature makes her both feared and admired. She represents the darker side of teenage popularity, embodying the power struggles and social dynamics of high school life. | © Paramount Pictures

Cropped Imperator Furiosa — 18. Imperator Furiosa (Mad Max Franchise)

n *Mad Max: Fury Road*, Furiosa is the heart of the rebellion against the oppressive warlord. Her fierce determination, tactical brilliance, and protective nature make her an iconic figure of female strength and leadership in an unforgiving dystopian world. | © Warner Bros.

Cropped Elizabeth Swann — 17. Elizabeth Swann (Pirates of the Caribbean Franchise)

Elizabeth Swann in *Pirates of the Caribbean* starts as a noblewoman but evolves into a fierce pirate captain. Her journey from prim and proper to bold and daring reflects her desire for freedom and adventure, making her a symbol of empowerment in an otherwise male-dominated pirate world. | © Walt Disney Pictures

Cropped Clarice Starling — 16. Clarice Starling (The Silence of the Lambs)

As the determined FBI agent in *The Silence of the Lambs*, Clarice Starling’s intelligence and courage set her apart. Her ability to hold her own against the manipulative Hannibal Lecter is a testament to her resilience. She represents the triumph of persistence and intellect in a male-dominated field. | © Orion Pictures

Cropped Holly Golightly — 15. Holly Golightly (Breakfast at Tiffany's)

*Breakfast at Tiffany's* introduced the world to Holly Golightly, a free-spirited socialite masking a vulnerable interior. Her effortless style and complex emotional depth make her a symbol of both charm and heartbreak, embodying the duality of independence and longing in modern women. | © Paramount Pictures

Cropped Beatrix Kiddo — 14. Beatrix "The Bride" Kiddo (Kill Bill Franchise)

In *Kill Bill*, Beatrix Kiddo is a force of vengeance, driven by betrayal and loss. Her journey is one of grit and determination, as she takes on a deadly mission to avenge her child and herself. Her lethal skills and unwavering willpower make her an unforgettable figure in modern action cinema. | © Miramax

Cropped Cleopatra — 13. Cleopatra

As portrayed in various films, including the iconic *Cleopatra* (1963), Cleopatra is the ultimate symbol of power, beauty, and intrigue. Her reign over Egypt and her ability to influence powerful men like Julius Caesar and Mark Antony make her one of history’s most compelling figures, embodying both seduction and intelligence. | © 20th Century Fox

Cropped Ramona Flowers — 12. Ramona Flowers (Scott Pilgrim vs. The World)

Ramona Flowers, from *Scott Pilgrim vs. The World*, is the ultimate indie dream girl. With her ever-changing hair color and mysterious aura, she’s both the object of affection and an enigma. Ramona represents the complexities of relationships and the notion of confronting one’s past to move forward. | © Universal Pictures

Cropped Dorothy Gale — 11. Dorothy Gale (The Wizard of Oz)

In *The Wizard of Oz*, Dorothy embarks on a journey of self-discovery in the magical land of Oz. Her innocence, compassion, and desire to return home resonate deeply with audiences. With her ruby slippers and heartfelt mantra, “There’s no place like home,” Dorothy remains a timeless character in cinematic history. | © MGM

Cropped Sarah Connor — 10. Sarah Connor (Terminator Franchise)

Sarah Connor, the mother of the future savior in *The Terminator*, evolves from a vulnerable waitress to a battle-hardened warrior. Her transformation showcases resilience and the strength of a mother willing to fight for her child’s future. She is a symbol of empowerment and an icon in the sci-fi genre. | © Orion Pictures

Cropped Trinity — 9. Trinity (Matrix Franchise)

In *The Matrix*, Trinity is an embodiment of strength, agility, and unwavering belief. As Neo’s guide and partner, she plays a pivotal role in the battle against machines, showing that even in dystopian worlds, belief in one’s own power can change everything. Her iconic fight scenes and black leather attire cement her as a cultural icon of cool. | © Warner Bros.

Cropped Black Widow — 8. Black Widow (Marvel Universe)

Natasha Romanoff, or Black Widow, is a deadly assassin turned Avenger, balancing her dark past with her quest for redemption. Her cunning intelligence, lethal combat skills, and complex emotional depth make her a unique character in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, representing strength, vulnerability, and resilience. | © Marvel Studios

Cropped Mary Poppins — 7. Mary Poppins

Mary Poppins is more than just a magical nanny; she represents whimsy, discipline, and heart. Her enigmatic persona combined with her no-nonsense approach to caregiving makes her a timeless figure of childhood fantasy. With a spoonful of sugar, she brings joy and wisdom to the lives of both children and adults. | © Walt Disney Pictures

Cropped Harley Quinn — 6. Harley Quinn (DC Universe)

Harley Quinn’s chaotic energy and unpredictable nature make her a fan favorite. With her striking look and tragic backstory of toxic love with the Joker, she’s evolved into a complex anti-hero who symbolizes the struggle for freedom from abusive relationships and societal norms. | © Warner Bros.

Cropped Ellen Ripley — 5. Ellen Ripley (Alien Franchise)

Ripley from *Alien* is a trailblazer for women in sci-fi. Not only is she resourceful and capable, but she’s also one of the first female protagonists to stand on equal footing with male counterparts in action and survival scenarios. Her fierce battle against the Xenomorph embodies resilience and a relentless will to survive. | © 20th Century Fox

Cropped Katniss Everdeen — 4. Katniss Everdeen (The Hunger Games Franchise)

As the reluctant hero of *The Hunger Games*, Katniss is a symbol of rebellion and survival. Her strength lies in her resourcefulness, loyalty, and sense of justice. Fighting against a tyrannical regime, she becomes a beacon of hope for the oppressed, showcasing that courage and compassion can spark revolutionary change. | © Lionsgate

Cropped Barbie — 3. Barbie (Barbie Franchise)

Representing endless possibilities, Barbie has been an enduring cultural symbol since her debut in 1959. She’s not just a doll; she’s a reflection of society’s evolving roles for women. Barbie’s ability to be anything—from an astronaut to a doctor—embodies empowerment, while recent iterations have deepened her character beyond beauty and style | © Warner Bros.

Cropped Leia Organa — 2. Leia Organa (Star Wars Franchise)

Princess Leia, a central figure in the *Star Wars* saga, breaks the mold of a damsel in distress. A fierce leader, diplomat, and warrior, Leia’s bravery and sharp wit make her a beacon of hope and strength for the Rebellion. She stands as one of the first iconic female characters in a sci-fi epic, celebrated for her resilience and compassion. | © 20th Century Fox, Lucasfilm, Disney

Cropped Hermione Granger — 1. Hermione Granger (Harry Potter Franchise)

Known for her intelligence, loyalty, and bravery, Hermione is the backbone of the *Harry Potter* series. She defies stereotypes by being both book-smart and fiercely courageous. As a symbol of female empowerment in a magical world dominated by wizards, Hermione’s dedication to justice and equality makes her an unforgettable role model. | © Warner Bros.

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In the history of cinema, certain characters transcend the screen to become cultural icons, influencing fashion, attitudes, and even societal norms. Female characters, in particular, have left an indelible mark, representing everything from strength and resilience to vulnerability and complexity.

From action heroines to romantic leads, these characters capture our imagination and reflect the evolving roles of women in society. In this article, we celebrate the Top 50 Most Iconic Female Movie Characters, honoring their impact and the timeless performances that brought them to life.

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In the history of cinema, certain characters transcend the screen to become cultural icons, influencing fashion, attitudes, and even societal norms. Female characters, in particular, have left an indelible mark, representing everything from strength and resilience to vulnerability and complexity.

From action heroines to romantic leads, these characters capture our imagination and reflect the evolving roles of women in society. In this article, we celebrate the Top 50 Most Iconic Female Movie Characters, honoring their impact and the timeless performances that brought them to life.