Jamie Lee Curtis has been a Hollywood icon for over four decades, starring in everything from horror classics to heartwarming comedies. With her return as Tess Coleman in Freakier Friday, fans are eager to explore more of her impressive filmography. Here are 11 of her best movies that showcase her incredible range.
Halloween (1978)
Jamie Lee Curtis made her breakthrough as Laurie Strode in John Carpenter’s Halloween. The film follows a masked killer, Michael Myers, who escapes from a psychiatric hospital and targets Laurie. This role cemented her as the original “scream queen” and launched her career.
The movie remains one of the most influential horror films ever made. Curtis reprised her role in multiple sequels, including Halloween Ends (2022), where she finally confronts Michael Myers one last time.
True Lies (1994)
In this action-comedy directed by James Cameron, Curtis plays Helen Tasker, a bored housewife who discovers her husband (Arnold Schwarzenegger) is a secret agent. Her performance earned her a Golden Globe for Best Actress.
The film blends humor, romance, and high-octane action. One standout scene features Curtis doing a striptease, showcasing her comedic and dramatic skills.
Freaky Friday (2003)
The original film that started it all, Freaky Friday pairs Jamie Lee Curtis with Lindsay Lohan as a mother and daughter who magically switch bodies. Curtis’s comedic timing shines as she portrays a teenager trapped in an adult’s body. The film was a box office hit, earning $160 million worldwide, and Curtis received a Golden Globe nomination for her role.
Curtis’s portrayal of a teenager trapped in an adult’s body was praised for its humor and authenticity. The film’s success led to the upcoming sequel, reuniting the original cast.
Knives Out (2019)
In Rian Johnson’s whodunit mystery, Curtis plays Linda Drysdale, the entitled daughter of a wealthy crime novelist. The film features an all-star cast, including Daniel Craig as detective Benoit Blanc.
Her performance balances sharp wit with emotional depth, making Linda one of the most memorable characters in the movie.
Everything Everywhere All at Once (2022)
Curtis won her first Academy Award for playing Deirdre Beaubeirdre, a grumpy IRS agent, in this multiverse adventure. The film stars Michelle Yeoh as a laundromat owner battling alternate versions of herself.
Curtis’s transformation across different universes—including one where she has hot dog fingers—showcases her versatility.
Trading Places (1983)
This classic comedy stars Eddie Murphy and Dan Aykroyd as two men whose lives are swapped as part of a bet. Curtis plays Ophelia, a kind-hearted sex worker who helps them.
Her role earned her a BAFTA and proved she could excel outside horror.
A Fish Called Wanda (1988)
Curtis shines as Wanda Gershwitz, a con artist involved in a diamond heist. The film, co-starring John Cleese and Kevin Kline, is a masterclass in comedy.
Her performance earned her a Golden Globe nomination and remains one of her most beloved roles.
Blue Steel (1990)
Directed by Kathryn Bigelow, this thriller stars Curtis as Megan Turner, a rookie cop hunted by a psychopathic killer. The film blends action and psychological tension.
It’s a gripping performance that highlights her ability to carry intense dramas.
The Last Showgirl (2024)
Curtis plays Annette, a former Las Vegas showgirl, in this drama about aging and reinvention. The film co-stars Pamela Anderson and explores life after fame.
Her role adds emotional weight to the story, showing her skill in more mature, reflective performances.
Beverly Hills Chihuahua (2008)
In this family comedy, Curtis voices Aunt Viv, the owner of a spoiled Chihuahua. While lighter than her other roles, it’s a fun addition to her diverse career.
My Girl (1991)
Curtis has a supporting role in this coming-of-age drama about a young girl dealing with loss. Though not a lead, her presence adds warmth to the film.
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Credits: Rotten Tomatoes, IMDb
