The Best Amy Adams Movies

Ranker Film
Updated March 1, 2024 56.9K views
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Vote up what you think are the best Amy Adams movies, regardless of box office or ratings.

Amy Adams is a Hollywood powerhouse, captivating audiences with her remarkable range of characters. From playing charming Disney princesses in the Enchanted movies to complex characters dealing with mental health issues, she has proven herself time and again as an actress of great talent. To celebrate this amazing screen star, thousands of movie fans have come together to vote on their favorite Amy Adams movies.

The list below showcases some of the most iconic roles along with hidden gems that may have been overlooked. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just getting into her work for the first time, there's something here for everyone. What sets these films apart from others in their respective genres is not only Adams' acting ability but also how they tackle important themes such as love, family dynamics, mental illness struggles and social issues. From heartwarming dramas like Arrival (2016) to politically charged comedies like Vice (2018), these movies offer more than entertainment – they provide valuable insights into our world today.

We invite you to check out this ranked list below and don't forget to vote up your favorites. Let's pay tribute to Amy Adams by discovering her very best work yet.

Most divisive: Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby
Over 1.1K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Amy Adams Movies
  • Enchanted
    1

    Enchanted

    Amy Adams, Patrick Dempsey, James Marsden
    491 votes
    Enchanted, a delightful blend of live-action and animation, introduces us to the world of Giselle (Amy Adams), a fairytale princess abruptly thrust into modern-day New York City by the conniving Queen Narissa (Susan Sarandon). Struggling to navigate this strange new landscape, she crosses paths with Robert (Patrick Dempsey), a cynical divorce lawyer. As their worlds intertwine, they find themselves questioning their perceptions of love and happiness. A standout feature is its Oscar-nominated music score. Enchanted seamlessly weaves humor, romance and adventure into a film that appeals to all ages.
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  • American Hustle
    2

    American Hustle

    Christian Bale, Bradley Cooper, Jeremy Renner
    256 votes
    In American Hustle, con artist Irving Rosenfeld (Christian Bale) and his cunning partner Sydney Prosser (Amy Adams) are forced into the unpredictable world of the New Jersey mafia by an out-of-control FBI agent, Richie DiMaso (Bradley Cooper). As they navigate this dangerous game, their loyalties and love are tested, while Carmine Polito (Jeremy Renner), a passionate but volatile political operator caught between the cons and Feds, complicates matters further. This brilliant crime drama, directed by David O. Russell, earned 10 Oscar nominations for its compelling narrative and standout performances.
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  • Arrival
    3

    Arrival

    Amy Adams, Jeremy Renner, Forest Whitaker
    252 votes
    In the acclaimed sci-fi drama Arrival, linguistics professor Louise Banks (Amy Adams) is thrust into an extraordinary situation when twelve extraterrestrial spacecrafts appear around the world. She's enlisted by the U.S. government, alongside theoretical physicist Ian Donnelly (Jeremy Renner), to decipher the aliens' complex language and determine their purpose on Earth. As global tensions rise, Banks makes groundbreaking linguistic discoveries that could change humanity's future. Directed by Denis Villeneuve, Arrival won an Oscar for Best Sound Editing and was nominated in several other categories, including Best Picture. It's a cerebral exploration of communication, time, and what it means to be human.
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  • Doubt
    4

    Doubt

    Meryl Streep, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Amy Adams
    262 votes
    In 1964 the winds of change are sweeping through Sister Aloysius' (Meryl Streep) St. Nicholas school. Father Flynn (Philip Seymour Hoffman), a charismatic priest, is advocating reform of the school's strict customs, and the first black student has just been accepted. When a fellow nun (Amy Adams) tells Sister Aloysius that Father Flynn may be paying too much personal attention to the student, Sister Aloysius begins a personal crusade against the priest -- despite her lack of evidence.
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  • Sunshine Cleaning
    5

    Sunshine Cleaning

    Amy Adams, Emily Blunt, Alan Arkin
    246 votes
    Though they once seemed to have a bright future, life seems to be passing by the Norkowski sisters. Rose (Amy Adams), once the most popular girl in high school, is a single mom and works as a maid. Norah (Emily Blunt) still lives at home with their father (Alan Arkin) and parties all the time. When Rose's married lover tells her about the lucrative field of crime-scene cleanup, she pours all her remaining resources into her new business, and recruits the squeamish Norah to help.
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  • The Master
    6

    The Master

    Joaquin Phoenix, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Amy Adams
    200 votes
    Freddie Quell (Joaquin Phoenix) is a troubled, boozy drifter struggling with the trauma of World War II and whatever inner demons ruled his life before that. On a fateful night in 1950, Freddie boards a passing boat and meets Lancaster Dodd (Philip Seymour Hoffman), the charismatic leader of a religious movement called the Cause. Freddie tries hard to adhere to Dodd's weird teachings and forms a close bond with his mentor, even as other members of Dodd's inner circle see him as a threat.
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  • Junebug
    7

    Junebug

    Amy Adams, Embeth Davidtz, Benjamin McKenzie
    217 votes
    On the way to meet with an independent artist in the South, newlywed art dealer Madeleine (Embeth Davidtz) is convinced by her husband, George (Alessandro Nivola), that they should stop to meet his family in North Carolina. Madeleine's affluent lifestyle clashes with the family, but she befriends George's wide-eyed and pregnant sister-in-law, Ashley (Amy Adams), who is nearing her due date. Through the family, Madeleine gains greater insight into George's character.
  • Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian
    8

    Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian

    Ben Stiller, Robin Williams, Amy Adams
    288 votes
    In Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian, Larry Daley (Ben Stiller) is back, now as a successful inventor and entrepreneur. The exhibits at his old workplace, the Natural History Museum, are being shipped to federal storage at the Smithsonian Institution. Amidst this change, the magical Egyptian tablet that brings museum exhibits to life gets misplaced. This leads to an all-out battle between good and evil exhibits in the world's largest museum complex. With his old friends like Teddy Roosevelt (Robin Williams), Sacagawea (Mizuo Peck), and new ones such as Amelia Earhart (Amy Adams), Larry must save the day once again. This adventure comedy sequel is a rollercoaster ride packed with humor, history, and action.
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  • Miss Pettigrew Lives for a Day
    9

    Miss Pettigrew Lives for a Day

    Frances McDormand, Amy Adams, Lee Pace
    212 votes
    It's 1939 and governess Guinevere Pettigrew finds herself out of work and on the bread line. Middle-aged and running out of options, Miss Pettigrew takes an uncharacteristic gamble when, after being refused work at an employment agency,she steals the details of a juicy assignment and pursues the job herself.
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  • The Fighter
    10

    The Fighter

    Mark Wahlberg, Christian Bale, Amy Adams
    318 votes
    In the gritty drama The Fighter, Micky Ward (Mark Wahlberg), a struggling boxer from the hard-knock streets of Lowell, Massachusetts, fights to break free from the shadow of his older brother, Dicky Eklund (Christian Bale). Eklund, once a promising boxer himself, now battles drug addiction and failed dreams. With fierce determination and unyielding spirit, Ward navigates family loyalty, personal ambition, and the brutal world of boxing. Amy Adams plays Charlene Fleming, Ward's steadfast girlfriend who stands by him through his tumultuous journey. This film won two Oscars for Best Supporting Actor (Bale) and Best Supporting Actress (Melissa Leo).
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  • Leap Year
    11

    Leap Year

    Amy Adams, John Lithgow, Matthew Goode
    368 votes
    Leap Year is a 2010 Irish-American romantic comedy film directed by Anand Tucker and written by Harry Elfont and Deborah Kaplan. Loosely based on I Know Where I'm Going, and It Happened One Night the film stars Amy Adams and Matthew Goode.
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  • Julie & Julia
    12

    Julie & Julia

    Meryl Streep, Amy Adams, Stanley Tucci
    269 votes
    In Julie & Julia, Julie Powell (Amy Adams) embarks on an ambitious culinary project, cooking her way through Julia Child's (Meryl Streep) iconic cookbook. As she stirs, sautés, and simmers, her life intertwines with that of Child's in the 1950s, who was finding her own footing in the French culinary world. This comedy-drama explores the transformative power of food and passion, weaving two parallel narratives into a delightful feast for viewers. Meryl Streep's performance won her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. The film is a poignant tribute to two women who found their calling in the kitchen.
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  • The Muppets
    13

    The Muppets

    Jason Segel, Amy Adams, Chris Cooper
    231 votes
    In The Muppets, a musical comedy, iconic puppet characters unite to save their old theater from a ruthless oil tycoon. Gary (Jason Segel), his girlfriend Mary (Amy Adams), and his brother Walter (a Muppet fan) rally Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy, and the rest of the gang for one big performance. Despite their individual pursuits and challenges, they come together once more for this grand endeavor. This 2011 film, directed by James Bobin, combines humor, music, and friendship in a heartwarming tale about preserving a cherished legacy.
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  • Trouble with the Curve
    14

    Trouble with the Curve

    Clint Eastwood, Amy Adams, Justin Timberlake
    299 votes
    For decades Gus Lobel (Clint Eastwood) has been one of baseball's best scouts -- but now his age is catching up with him. Still, he refuses to be benched even though his bosses are questioning his judgment. Tasked with checking out the country's hottest batting prospect, Gus is forced to accept help from his daughter, Mickey (Amy Adams). Though they haven't spent time together in years, father and daughter make new discoveries about their shared past, which could change their future.
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  • Her
    15

    Her

    Joaquin Phoenix, Amy Adams, Scarlett Johansson
    183 votes
    Her, a distinct fusion of romance and science fiction, sweeps viewers into the near future where Theodore Twombly (Joaquin Phoenix) finds solace in an advanced operating system. Samantha (voiced by Scarlett Johansson), the artificial intelligence, evolves beyond her programming to form a deep bond with Theodore. This Spike Jonze-directed film dances on the edge of reality and digital companionship, blurring lines between human connection and technological dependency. A recipient of multiple awards including an Oscar for Best Original Screenplay, Her is a poignant exploration of love in the modern age.
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  • Nocturnal Animals
    16

    Nocturnal Animals

    Amy Adams, Jake Gyllenhaal, Michael Shannon
    142 votes
    A successful Los Angeles art-gallery owner's idyllic life is marred by the constant traveling of her handsome second husband. While he is away, she is shaken by the arrival of a manuscript written by her first husband, who she has not seen in years. The manuscript tells the story of a teacher who finds a trip with his family turning into a nightmare. As Susan reads the book, it forces her to examine her past and confront some dark truths.
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  • Catch Me If You Can
    17

    Catch Me If You Can

    Leonardo DiCaprio, Tom Hanks, Christopher Walken
    355 votes
    In the thrilling film Catch Me If You Can, we follow the intriguing escapades of Frank Abagnale Jr. (Leonardo DiCaprio), a master of deception and a skilled forger. With his cunning, he successfully poses as a pilot, doctor, and lawyer, all while cashing millions in fraudulent checks. Hot on his heels is seasoned FBI agent Carl Hanratty (Tom Hanks), who's made it his mission to capture him. Navigating through this cat-and-mouse game, the movie explores themes of identity and deception. Directed by Steven Spielberg, this biographical crime film was nominated for two Academy Awards.
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  • Man of Steel
    18

    Man of Steel

    Henry Cavill, Amy Adams, Michael Shannon
    278 votes
    In Man of Steel, Clark Kent (Henry Cavill) is a young journalist grappling with his alien origins. Raised on Earth by adoptive parents Martha (Diane Lane) and Jonathan Kent (Kevin Costner), Clark's extraordinary abilities set him apart. Meanwhile, General Zod (Michael Shannon), a militant from Clark's home planet Krypton, threatens humanity. Lois Lane (Amy Adams), an intrepid reporter, uncovers Clark's secret identity. The film is a reimagining of the classic Superman tale, presenting a darker take on the iconic superhero's story. Directed by Zack Snyder, this action-packed origin story dives into themes of identity and responsibility in a world teetering on the brink of destruction.
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  • Charlie Wilson's War
    19

    Charlie Wilson's War

    Tom Hanks, Julia Roberts, Philip Seymour Hoffman
    192 votes
    In Charlie Wilson's War, the spotlight shines on Charlie Wilson (Tom Hanks), an unassuming Texas congressman. His life takes a turn when socialite Joanne Herring (Julia Roberts) pulls him into the covert world of Afghanistan's freedom fighters, battling Soviet forces in the 1980s. Guided by rogue CIA agent Gust Avrakotos (Philip Seymour Hoffman), Wilson embarks on a mission that changes the course of history. This political drama, based on a true story, won Hoffman an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actor and is a vivid portrayal of power-play and diplomacy gone awry.
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  • Drop Dead Gorgeous
    20

    Drop Dead Gorgeous

    Kirsten Dunst, Ellen Barkin, Allison Janney
    157 votes
    In the dark comedy film Drop Dead Gorgeous, a small-town Minnesota beauty pageant, directed by Michael Patrick Jann, spirals into chaos. The ambitious contestant Becky Leeman (Denise Richards) and her ruthless mother Gladys (Kirstie Alley), are pitted against the sweet-natured Amber Atkins (Kirsten Dunst). As the competition intensifies, contestants start to meet with bizarre and deadly accidents. Amidst this absurdity, ex-beauty queen and reporter Iris Clark (Mindy Sterling) attempts to unravel the mystery behind these incidents. This satirical exploration of American beauty pageants is a quirky commentary on vanity and ambition.
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  • Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby
    21

    Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby

    Will Ferrell, John C. Reilly, Sacha Baron Cohen
    199 votes
    Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby, a sports comedy, features the adventures of NASCAR driver, Ricky Bobby (Will Ferrell). Raised in the world of speed, his life shifts gears when French Formula One driver, Jean Girard (Sacha Baron Cohen), challenges his throne. This film intertwines humor with racing drama, providing a unique look into the sport's culture. It was directed by Adam McKay and received two MTV Movie Award nominations for Best Comedic Performance and Best On-Screen Team. Packed with high-speed thrills and laughs, it's an entertaining ride through the fast-paced world of NASCAR.
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  • Becoming Enchanted: A New Classic Comes True
    22
  • Underdog
    23

    Underdog

    Jason Lee, Jim Belushi, Peter Dinklage
    107 votes
    After a lab accident gives him extraordinary powers, including the ability to speak, a canine (Jason Lee) declares himself the protector of Capitol City and, especially, of a fetching spaniel named Polly Purebred (Brad Garrett). Underdog must save the day when evil scientist Simon Barsinister (Peter Dinklage) and his giant henchman (Patrick Warburton) hatch a plot to destroy Capitol City.
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  • The Wedding Date
    24

    The Wedding Date

    Debra Messing, Dermot Mulroney, Amy Adams
    172 votes
    With the wedding of her younger sister (Amy Adams) fast approaching, Kat Ellis (Debra Messing) faces the undesirable prospect of traveling alone to London for the ceremony. While this is bad enough, Jeffrey (Jeremy Sheffield), the man who left her as they moved closer to marriage, happens to be the groom's best man. Determined to show everyone -- most of all Jeffrey -- that her romantic life is as full and thrilling as ever, Kat hires a charming male escort (Dermot Mulroney) as her date.
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  • Disenchanted
    25

    Disenchanted

    Amy Adams, Patrick Dempsey, James Marsden
    33 votes
    Giselle upsets the balance of Andalasia and the real world.
  • Standing Still
    26

    Standing Still

    James Van Der Beek, Mena Suvari, Colin Hanks
    99 votes
    A chain reaction of confrontations and romantic encounters occurs when college friends reunite for one's wedding.
  • The Woman in the Window
    27

    The Woman in the Window

    Amy Adams, Gary Oldman, Anthony Mackie
    33 votes
    Agoraphobic Dr. Anna Fox witnesses something she shouldn't while keeping tabs on the Russell family, the seemingly picture perfect clan that lives across the way.
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  • On the Road
    28

    On the Road

    Garrett Hedlund, Sam Riley, Kristen Stewart
    68 votes
    An aspiring writer (Sam Riley), his new friend (Garrett Hedlund) and his friend's seductive wife (Kristen Stewart) heed the call of the open road.
  • Cruel Intentions 2
    29

    Cruel Intentions 2

    Robin Dunne, Amy Adams, Sarah Thompson
    107 votes
    Teenage playboy Sebastian Valmont (Robin Dunne) moves to New York City to live with his socialite stepmother, Tiffany Merteuil (Mimi Rogers), and his conniving stepsister, Kathryn (Amy Adams). At their exclusive prep school, Sebastian falls for the headmaster's beautiful daughter, Danielle Sherman (Sarah Thompson), while Kathryn vows to ruin another wealthy classmate (Keri Lynn Pratt). As the school year progresses, Kathryn and Sebastian spin a web of seduction and manipulation.
  • Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice
    30

    Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice

    Ben Affleck, Henry Cavill, Amy Adams
    102 votes
    In Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, a clash of iconic heroes unfolds. Batman, portrayed by Ben Affleck, is a vigilant crusader of Gotham City, while Superman, played by Henry Cavill, is the revered savior of Metropolis. Their worldviews collide when they perceive each other as threats to humanity's safety. The movie, directed by Zack Snyder, is an action-packed spectacle that sets the stage for the formation of the Justice League. It features memorable performances from Jesse Eisenberg as Lex Luthor and Gal Gadot making her debut as Wonder Woman. This superhero drama intertwines political undertones with epic battles, crafting a cinematic universe where gods and men are forced to coexist.
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