Emma Stone’s Hidden Gems: 15 Underrated Films Worth Watching

Emma Stone excels at making every scene she’s in shine, whether it’s through humor, drama, or taking on eccentric, peculiar characters. From her early beginnings in teen comedies to her recent roles in unconventional dramas, her career has been as diverse and mesmerizing as it is captivating.

However, Meryl Streep isn’t just known for her Academy Award-winning performances; she has also graced the screen in numerous films that haven’t received the recognition they truly deserve. Here, I’ve gathered 15 of her lesser-acclaimed movies that beautifully demonstrate her versatility and appeal. These are the ones you may have overlooked, but trust me, they’re worth a watch!

The House Bunny (2008)

Emma Stone brilliantly portrays Natalie, an academically-inclined sorority member undergoing a transformation at the hands of a past Playboy Bunny, skillfully played by Anna Faris. Her endearing awkwardness and spot-on comic delivery elevate this role, making it shine in a movie filled with enjoyable humor.

The film offers a fun, spirited journey exploring self-realization and female camaraderie. Stone’s talent in portraying both timid and assertive sides beautifully captures the charm of her character’s metamorphosis, making it delightful to observe.

Gangster Squad (2013)

In this chic crime thriller, the character of Grace Faraday, a captivating femme fatale, is portrayed by Stone. She becomes entangled with mobster Mickey Cohen in 1940s Los Angeles. The on-screen chemistry between her and Ryan Gosling creates sparks, enhancing a gripping tale filled with intense action.

Despite some similarities with previous stories, Stone’s captivating performance raises each moment. Her combination of charm and vulnerability ensures that Grace stands out distinctly.

The Rocker (2008)

In a minor yet impactful appearance, Stone portrays Amelia – a rebellious teenage rockstar within a band headed by the faded drummer, played by Rainn Wilson. Her dry wit infuses humor into this underrated comedy that often goes unnoticed.

The movie chronicles an emotional, tumultuous journey towards fame. In limited appearances, Stone effectively brings life and charm to seemingly minor figures.

Ghosts of Girlfriends Past (2009)

In a whimsical reinterpretation of A Christmas Carol, the former girlfriend of Matthew McConaughey’s character appears as a spectral figure, serving as a haunting presence in his playboy life within this romantic comedy. Her unique charm elevates her scenes, adding an enchanting touch to this delightfully airy movie.

As a cinema enthusiast, I found myself captivated by this film, despite its narrative leaning more towards charisma than complexity. Yet, the enchanting portrayal by Meryl Streep breathes life into her character, making her ethereal presence a ghost you can’t help but cheer for.

Magic in the Moonlight (2014)

In this Woody Allen romantic comedy, the role of Sophie, a character depicted as a psychic, is played by Stone. She captivates Colin Firth’s character, a skeptical magician, with her enchanting portrayal. Stone’s whimsical acting style contributes to the film’s light-hearted atmosphere.

Nestled along the French Coast, this film skillfully blends elements of love and intrigue. The character of Sophie, played by Stone, is captivating due to her unique blend of guilelessness and wit.

Irrational Man (2015)

In a different film project with Woody Allen, Stone portrays Jill, a pupil captivated by the enigmatic philosophy teacher played by Joaquin Phoenix. Her delicate acting brings emotion to a grim, philosophical narrative about existence.

The movie delves into questions of morality and fixation, while Stone provides a solid foundation for the more weighty narrative elements. Her convincing portrayal alongside Phoenix adds depth to their intricate love-hate dynamic, keeping viewers captivated.

Aloha (2015)

In this romantic comedy set in Hawaii, Stone takes on the role of Allison Ng, an energetic Air Force pilot. Although the movie received a mix of reviews, her heartfelt portrayal lends a cozy and endearing quality to an otherwise chaotic narrative.

The story balances romantic entanglements and professional aspirations, with Stone’s vivaciousness maintaining its momentum. She imbues her character with a realistic charm amidst a tumult of feelings.

Paper Man (2009)

In a more casual and understandable phrasing, the story presents Abby, a distressed adolescent, who unexpectedly connects with a struggling author portrayed by Jeff Daniels. Abby’s intense, heartfelt acting gives this independent film a subtle yet impactful emotional resonance.

The narrative delves into the themes of solitude and artistic expression, while Stone’s sensitivity is palpable. She manages to stand out among experienced actors, demonstrating her impressive acting skills from the very beginning.

Friends with Benefits (2011)

Briefly portraying Kayla, Stone embodies a carefree, ex-girlfriend who breaks up with Justin Timberlake’s character. Despite her limited screen time, she radiates charm that establishes the playful atmosphere for this delightful romantic comedy.

The movie presents a light-hearted exploration of contemporary love stories, and Stone’s brief appearance injects the story with vitality. She ensures that each scene she’s in is impactful, despite having minimal on-screen presence.

Battle of the Sexes (2017)

The film portrays the transformation of a stone into the tennis powerhouse, Billie Jean King, vividly depicting her battles and trials. Her acting is a powerful blend of assertiveness and compassion, which makes the movie an essential watch.

The movie primarily focuses on the famous tennis face-off between King and Riggs, skillfully merging sporting events with thought-provoking societal perspectives. Stone’s acting adds layers of complexity to the true-life adventure of our hero.

The Croods: A New Age (2020)

Expressing in a more casual tone, we could say: Bringing laughter and emotion to the animated sequel starring a prehistoric clan, Eep, voiced by this character, truly shines. Her energetic portrayal sets her apart as a memorable character amidst a vibrant, action-packed journey.

The narrative focuses on the Croods’ quest for a new residence, filled with humor and excitement. The vocal performance of Stone lends a touch of warmth and familiarity to the cavegirl, reflecting her untamed personality.

Zombieland: Double Tap (2019)

In this zombie comedy sequel, Stone reappears as Wichita, the resilient, snarky character known for her quick comebacks. Her clever humor and rapport with fellow actors elevate the film to be a fitting continuation.

The movie offers an abundance of post-apocalyptic mayhem infused with lots of wit, while Stone’s compelling portrayal makes Wichita the emotional center of our motley crew. (This version retains the original structure and meaning but aims to make it more conversational and easier to understand.)

Crazy, Stupid, Love. (2011)

In the movie, Hannah, a lively law student, is portrayed by our protagonist. She embarks on a delightful romance with Ryan Gosling’s captivating playboy character. Their interactions, filled with warmth and humor, create a magnetic energy on screen.

In this charming romantic comedy, several tales of love are skillfully intertwined, bringing both tender emotions and humor. The captivating portrayal of Stone’s character combines vulnerability with strength, making her a beloved figure among the audience.

The Amazing Spider-Man (2012)

In the superhero reboot, Emily Stone embodies both intelligence and compassion as Gwen Stacy. Her captivating interaction with Andrew Garfield’s character, Peter Parker, infuses the action with strong emotional impact.

The movie offers a new take on Spider-Man’s beginnings, and Stone brilliantly plays Gwen as a competent, brave sidekick who truly shines within the series.

The Amazing Spider-Man 2 (2014)

In the thrilling follow-up, Stone once again takes on the character of Gwen Stacy, giving an impactful portrayal. Her profound emotions significantly enhance the intense dramatic tension in the movie.

The tale delves further into the hardships faced by Peter Parker, with Stone excelling in each scene. Her depiction significantly strengthens Gwen’s storyline, making it one of the movie’s most impactful aspects.

2025-07-21 02:44