Happy Birthday Julia Roberts: Revisiting Her Top 5 Movie Roles As Actress Turns 57

As a lifestyle expert with a penchant for all things cinematic, I must say that Julia Roberts is nothing short of a Hollywood treasure. Her illustrious career, spanning over three decades, has been marked by remarkable performances in a diverse array of films, leaving an indelible impact on the world of cinema.


Today marks the birthday of Julia Roberts, a renowned figure in Hollywood who’s famous for her captivating grin and exceptional acting talent. Over a 35-year span, she has graced numerous movies, winning over viewers from all corners of the globe.

Roberts has delivered captivating performances that range from delightful romantic comedies to gripping dramas, leaving a significant mark on the film industry. As we honor her enduring impact, let’s revisit five of her unforgettable roles.

1. Erin Brockovich – Erin Brockovich (2000)

In Steven Soderbergh’s movie “Erin Brockovich,” Julia Roberts gave a performance that is widely considered her finest. Portraying the true-life Erin Brockovich, a determined single mother who fought against a powerful corporation responsible for contaminating water in Hinkley, California, Roberts convincingly took on the role of a tenacious crusader for justice.

Her depiction was not just emotionally moving, but powerfully inspiring too, showcasing the resilience of a hardworking woman who’s committed to creating change in her community.

Robert’s performance was honored with an Oscar, marking her initial victory. Additionally, she added more trophies to her collection by winning at the BAFTAs, Golden Globes, and Screen Actors Guild Awards as well.

A memorable instance occurs when Brockovich, urging her boss not to rescind the newfound respect she has experienced for the first time, states, “For the very first time in my existence, people are showing me respect. I beg you, do not make me lose this.

2. Vivian Ward – Pretty Woman (1990)

In the film Pretty Woman, Julia Roberts takes on the role of Vivian Ward, a woman struggling financially who works as an escort. Edward Lewis, a wealthy businessman played by Richard Gere, hires her. This part catapulted Roberts to fame, and her portrayal of Vivian, a character brimming with warmth and wit, left audiences everywhere spellbound.

In one of the movie’s memorable sequences, Vivian, having been disregarded earlier, revisits a store and delivers the well-known quip to an unimpressed salesperson: “That’s a major oversight! Massive, even!” This part highlighted Roberts’ aptitude for blending comedy and drama.

Regarding the part she played, Roberts stated, “I pursued that role relentlessly, like a determined dog… I was captivated by the character. My feelings towards her were a mix of curiosity and apprehension.” This role significantly boosted her career and cemented her position as Hollywood’s beloved darling.

3. Tess Ocean – Ocean’s Eleven (2001)

In the film Ocean’s Eleven directed by Steven Soderbergh, Julia Roberts played the role of Tess Ocean, the former spouse of Danny Ocean (portrayed by George Clooney), with her enduring allure.

Despite having a smaller role in the heist movie, Roberts managed to keep pace with stars like Clooney, Brad Pitt, and Matt Damon. Her quick humor and strong on-screen dynamic with Clooney’s character brought an element of refinement to the plotline.

In Ocean’s Twelve, the storyline expanded with Tess humorously assuming the role of Julia Roberts in a cunning plan to pilfer a valuable artifact. One standout moment features Don Cheadle’s character, Basher Tarr, instructing Tess on mastering a Southern accent to convincingly portray Julia Roberts.

4. Anna – Closer (2004)

In the film “Closer,” directed by Mike Nichols, Julia Roberts portrayed Anna, a photographer who found herself entangled in intricate and harmful relationships. Alongside Clive Owen, Natalie Portman, and Jude Law, Roberts delved into a deeper, multifaceted character with a darker side.

As a lifestyle expert, I’d say my analysis reveals that the emotionally intense moments between my character and Larry (played by Clive Owen) truly highlight my acting prowess, as I’m not afraid to tackle challenging themes head-on.

In the gripping drama of Closer, I found myself deeply engrossed in the intense argument between my characters, Anna and Larry. During this heated exchange, Larry presses Anna about her past relationship with Dan (played brilliantly by Jude Law). Natalie Portman’s portrayal of Anna was truly captivating as she fearlessly confronted the complexities and inconsistencies in her own character. This raw, unadulterated dialogue between the two characters was both unsettling and powerful, showcasing a level of emotional honesty that left a lasting impact on viewers.

5. Anna Scott – Notting Hill (1999)

In Notting Hill, Roberts takes on the role of Anna Scott, a renowned movie star who unintentionally enters the world of a simple bookstore proprietor, portrayed by Hugh Grant. To many viewers, the character of Anna seemed reminiscent of Roberts herself, providing glimpses into both the triumphs and tribulations that come with being famous.

One unforgettable line from the movie, “I’m merely a woman, expressing affection towards a man, yet I’d like him to reciprocate,” quickly became a cultural touchstone and remains one of Julia Roberts’ most cherished career moments. The blend of romantic sentiment and self-deprecating wit in Notting Hill, combined with Roberts’ heartfelt performance, have made this film an enduring classic.

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2024-10-28 04:37