Hailee Steinfeld Movies: Her Best Films Ranked
Hey guys! Ever wondered about the best Hailee Steinfeld movies to add to your watchlist? This amazing actress has been killing it since she was super young, and she's got a filmography that's seriously impressive. From her breakout role in True Grit to her awesome performances in comedies, dramas, and action flicks, Hailee always brings something special to the screen. Let’s dive into some of her top movies and see what makes them so great!
True Grit (2010)
When talking about Hailee Steinfeld movies, you absolutely have to start with True Grit. This was her breakout role, and it's still one of her most iconic performances. At just 14 years old, Hailee played Mattie Ross, a tough and determined young girl who hires a U.S. Marshal, Rooster Cogburn (played by Jeff Bridges), to hunt down her father’s killer. The Coen Brothers directed this remake, and they did an incredible job of capturing the grit and intensity of the original novel.
Hailee's performance is nothing short of phenomenal. She holds her own against veteran actors like Jeff Bridges and Matt Damon, delivering her lines with a confidence and maturity that's way beyond her years. Mattie Ross is a complex character, and Hailee manages to portray her intelligence, stubbornness, and vulnerability with such nuance. It's no wonder she was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for this role. True Grit isn't just a great Western; it's a testament to Hailee's talent and potential as a leading actress. The film itself is beautifully shot, with stunning cinematography that captures the harsh landscapes of the American West. The story is gripping, full of suspense, and features some unforgettable characters. If you haven't seen it yet, add it to your must-watch list immediately. You won't be disappointed!
True Grit isn’t just a film; it's a cultural reset for young actresses in Hollywood. It set the bar incredibly high, proving that young performers could deliver performances that rivaled those of seasoned veterans. The Coen Brothers' direction, combined with the stellar cast, created a cinematic masterpiece that continues to resonate with audiences today. Hailee’s ability to embody Mattie Ross's spirit and determination made her an instant star, and it's a role that she will forever be remembered for. This movie is a perfect example of why she is considered one of the most talented actresses of her generation. True Grit remains a standout performance in her career, and it is a must-see for anyone interested in seeing her incredible range and talent on full display.
Ender’s Game (2013)
Next up in the list of Hailee Steinfeld movies is Ender’s Game. This sci-fi action film is based on the classic novel by Orson Scott Card, and Hailee plays Petra Arkanian, one of Ender Wiggin's allies and friends at Battle School. While the movie itself received mixed reviews, Hailee's performance was generally praised, and it's a great example of her versatility as an actress.
Ender’s Game is set in a future where Earth is threatened by an alien race known as the Formics. To prepare for the next invasion, gifted children are trained at Battle School to become military leaders. Ender Wiggin (played by Asa Butterfield) is a brilliant strategist, and Petra is one of the students who recognizes his potential. Hailee brings a sense of strength and intelligence to her role as Petra. She's not just a side character; she's a key player in Ender's journey, offering him support and guidance when he needs it most. The movie explores themes of war, morality, and the sacrifices that are made in the name of protecting humanity. Although it may not be a perfect adaptation of the book, Ender’s Game is still a visually stunning and thought-provoking film. And of course, it's always a treat to see Hailee Steinfeld on screen. Even in a supporting role, she manages to make a lasting impression. Her ability to convey complex emotions with just a look or a gesture is truly remarkable.
Ender’s Game offered Hailee a chance to step into the sci-fi genre, expanding her range and showing that she could handle roles that required physical and emotional depth. The film's futuristic setting and high-stakes plot provided a great backdrop for her to showcase her acting skills. Although the film had its critics, Hailee’s portrayal of Petra was consistently highlighted as one of the film’s strengths, proving her ability to shine even in ensemble casts and complex narratives. Ender’s Game remains a significant entry in her filmography, demonstrating her willingness to take on challenging roles and contribute to diverse cinematic projects. This role underscored her potential to be a leading figure in various genres, from Westerns to science fiction.
Begin Again (2013)
Begin Again is another gem in Hailee Steinfeld’s filmography. This musical drama tells the story of a heartbroken singer-songwriter (played by Keira Knightley) who teams up with a struggling record producer (Mark Ruffalo) to create an album in New York City. Hailee plays Violet Mulligan, the teenage daughter of Mark Ruffalo’s character. This role allows her to show a more contemporary and relatable side, as she navigates the typical challenges of adolescence while dealing with her parents' complicated lives.
In Begin Again, Hailee portrays Violet with a mix of teenage angst and genuine affection for her father. She captures the awkwardness and vulnerability of a young girl trying to find her place in the world. Her character’s relationship with her father is a central theme in the movie, and Hailee does a great job of portraying the ups and downs of that dynamic. The film itself is a feel-good story about the power of music to heal and connect people. It features a fantastic soundtrack with catchy tunes and heartfelt lyrics. Begin Again is a reminder that sometimes, the best things in life come from unexpected places. And Hailee Steinfeld’s performance adds an extra layer of emotional depth to this already heartwarming film. The movie’s setting in New York City provides a vibrant backdrop for the story, and the chemistry between the cast members is palpable. It’s a film that will leave you feeling uplifted and inspired.
Begin Again allowed Hailee to explore a more grounded and realistic character, showcasing her ability to connect with audiences through relatable emotions and experiences. Her portrayal of Violet added a layer of authenticity to the film, making her character feel like a real teenager dealing with real-life issues. This role demonstrated her capacity to blend seamlessly into ensemble casts and contribute to narratives that focus on human connection and personal growth. Begin Again is a testament to her versatility as an actress, proving that she can shine in both dramatic and lighter roles. The film's success further solidified her reputation as a rising star capable of handling diverse and compelling characters.
The Edge of Seventeen (2016)
If you're looking for a coming-of-age story that's both hilarious and heartfelt, The Edge of Seventeen is a must-see Hailee Steinfeld movie. She plays Nadine Franklin, a socially awkward teenager who's struggling to navigate the ups and downs of high school. This is arguably one of her best performances, and it earned her critical acclaim and a Golden Globe nomination.
Hailee perfectly captures the angst, insecurity, and humor of a teenage girl trying to figure out who she is. Nadine is a complex character, and Hailee brings her to life with such honesty and authenticity. The film explores themes of friendship, family, and self-discovery, and it does so in a way that feels both relatable and insightful. The Edge of Seventeen isn't just another teen movie; it's a smart, funny, and poignant look at the challenges of growing up. The supporting cast is also fantastic, with standout performances from Woody Harrelson as Nadine’s sarcastic but supportive teacher, and Blake Jenner as her popular older brother. The film's soundtrack is also on point, featuring a mix of indie and alternative tracks that perfectly capture the mood of the story. The Edge of Seventeen is a movie that will stay with you long after the credits roll, and it's a testament to Hailee Steinfeld's talent as an actress.
The Edge of Seventeen is a defining role for Hailee, showcasing her ability to carry a film and deliver a performance that resonates with audiences of all ages. Her portrayal of Nadine is both humorous and heartbreaking, capturing the essence of teenage angst and the search for identity. This role cemented her status as a leading actress in Hollywood, proving that she could handle complex and nuanced characters with grace and authenticity. The Edge of Seventeen is a film that not only entertains but also offers a genuine and relatable portrayal of the challenges of adolescence. It remains a standout performance in her career, and it is a must-see for anyone interested in seeing her incredible range and talent on full display.
Bumblebee (2018)
Time for some action! Bumblebee is a spin-off of the Transformers franchise, and it's set in the 1980s. Hailee plays Charlie Watson, a teenager who discovers a beat-up Volkswagen Beetle that turns out to be the Autobot Bumblebee. This movie is a fun and action-packed adventure, and it's a great example of Hailee's ability to handle both dramatic and comedic roles.
In Bumblebee, Hailee brings a sense of warmth and vulnerability to her character. Charlie is dealing with the loss of her father, and she finds solace in her friendship with Bumblebee. The movie is a coming-of-age story, as Charlie learns to trust herself and find her place in the world. The action sequences are exciting and well-choreographed, and the special effects are top-notch. But what really makes Bumblebee stand out is the heart and humor that Hailee brings to her role. She has great chemistry with the CGI Bumblebee, and their interactions are both funny and touching. The film's 1980s setting adds to its charm, with a killer soundtrack and plenty of nostalgic references. Bumblebee is a crowd-pleasing blockbuster that's sure to entertain fans of all ages. And it's another great showcase for Hailee Steinfeld's talent.
Bumblebee marked a significant step for Hailee into the realm of blockbuster action films, showcasing her ability to lead a large-scale production and connect with a broad audience. Her portrayal of Charlie was both relatable and inspiring, making her character someone that viewers could root for. This role expanded her repertoire and demonstrated her versatility as an actress, proving that she could excel in both dramatic and action-oriented roles. Bumblebee is a testament to her growing star power and her ability to captivate audiences with her charm and charisma. The film’s success further solidified her position as one of Hollywood's most promising and versatile actresses.
So, there you have it! These are just a few of the best Hailee Steinfeld movies that you should definitely check out. From her amazing breakout role in True Grit to her fantastic performances in more recent films like Bumblebee and The Edge of Seventeen, Hailee has proven time and time again that she's one of the most talented actresses of her generation. Whether you're a fan of Westerns, sci-fi, dramas, or comedies, there's a Hailee Steinfeld movie out there for you. Happy watching, guys!
