The Best Movies With Ellen Burstyn
1Ellen Burstyn, Alan Alda, Ivan BonarIn the realm of romantic comedies, Same Time, Next Year holds a special place as a delightful and charming tale that showcases the extraordinary chemistry between Ellen Burstyn and Alan Alda. Adapted from Bernard Slade's Broadway play, this film chronicles the annual rendezvous of two individuals who are married to others but share a connection that transcends time and convention. Burstyn's performance as the lovable Doris is heartwarming and showcases her impeccable comedic timing while also delving into deeper emotional territory as their relationship evolves over 26 years.
2Ellen Burstyn, Kris Kristofferson, Billy Green BushMartin Scorsese's Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore features an incredible performance by Ellen Burstyn in her Academy Award-winning role as Alice Hyatt. The film tells the story of a widow who embarks on a journey with her young son to pursue her dreams of becoming a singer, defying societal expectations along the way. Burstyn brings depth and complexity to this strong-willed character, making Alice someone viewers can root for despite her flaws.
3Ellen Burstyn, Jared Leto, Jennifer ConnellyDarren Aronofsky's visually stunning and emotionally harrowing film Requiem for a Dream features one of Ellen Burstyn's most captivating performances as Sara Goldfarb. In this exploration of addiction and its devastating consequences, Burstyn completely transforms herself into an elderly woman consumed by delusions in pursuit of fame on television after becoming addicted to amphetamines prescribed for weight loss. Her portrayal is both heartbreaking and hauntingly unforgettable.
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4Ellen Burstyn, Linda Blair, Max von SydowAs one of the most iconic horror films in cinema history, The Exorcist sends chills down the spine while exploring the psychological and supernatural realms. Ellen Burstyn delivers a gripping performance as Chris MacNeil, a mother desperate to save her daughter from demonic possession. Her portrayal of anguish and desperation is heart-wrenching and undeniably memorable.
5Ellen Burstyn, Sam Shepard, Richard FarnsworthEllen Burstyn shines in Resurrection, directed by Daniel Petrie Sr., where she plays Edna Mae McCauley – a woman who discovers she has miraculous healing powers following a near-death experience. This spiritual drama explores themes such as faith, redemption, and human connection, making it a must-watch for those seeking an uplifting and thought-provoking film. Burstyn received an Academy Award nomination for her deeply moving portrayal of this complex character.
6Ellen Burstyn, Tom Skerritt, Gordon PinsentIn Silence of the North, Ellen Burstyn plays Olive Frederickson, a woman who embarks on an arduous journey to survive in the Canadian wilderness during the early 1900s with her trapper husband. This inspiring tale showcases Burstyn's incredible range as an actress - effortlessly portraying Olive's strength, resilience, and vulnerability despite facing unimaginable hardships.
7Timothy Bottoms, Jeff Bridges, Cybill ShepherdThe Last Picture Show, directed by Peter Bogdanovich, offers viewers a nostalgic glimpse into small-town life in Texas during the 1950s while exploring universal themes such as love, loss, and coming-of-age experiences. As Lois Farrow – a lonely wife searching for solace outside her marriage – Ellen Burstyn delivers an understated yet powerful performance that garnered her first Academy Award nomination.
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8Jack Nicholson, Bruce Dern, Ellen BurstynWith Jack Nicholson and Bruce Dern as co-stars, The King of Marvin Gardens features Ellen Burstyn in a striking supporting role as Sally Roundtree - a fading beauty queen caught up in dreams of wealth and glamour. Directed by Bob Rafelson, this introspective drama delves into themes of disillusionment and the American Dream through its unconventional narrative structure.
9Art Carney, Ellen Burstyn, Chief Dan GeorgeIn Paul Mazursky's poignant road movie Harry and Tonto, Ellen Burstyn plays a supporting role as Shirley Mallard – the estranged daughter of Art Carney's titular character. As Harry embarks on a cross-country journey with his cat Tonto, their paths eventually intersect with Shirley, allowing Burstyn to showcase her ability to bring depth and nuance even to smaller roles.
10Sandra Bullock, Ellen Burstyn, Fionnula FlanaganIn Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood, Ellen Burstyn stars alongside Sandra Bullock, Ashley Judd, and Maggie Smith in an ensemble cast that brings Rebecca Wells's best-selling novel to life. This heartwarming film uses a series of flashbacks to explore themes of friendship, love, and forgiveness as it delves into the complex relationship between a mother (Burstyn) and her adult daughter (Bullock).
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Queen Bees
Ellen Burstyn, James Caan, Ann-MargretQueen Bees, directed by Michael Lembeck, is a delightful comedy-drama that explores themes of aging, friendship, and romance within the confines of a retirement community. Ellen Burstyn leads an all-star cast – including James Caan, Ann-Margret, Jane Curtin, Loretta Devine – bringing humor and heart to this feel-good film.
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12John Gielgud, Dirk Bogarde, Ellen BurstynAlain Resnais' enigmatic drama Providence features Ellen Burstyn in an offbeat role as Sonia Langham – the wife of an aging British novelist grappling with his own mortality. The film is renowned for its surreal narrative structure which blurs the lines between dream and reality, allowing Burstyn's character to appear both as herself and in various fictional incarnations created by her husband's imagination.
13Hugh Jackman, Rachel Weisz, Ellen BurstynIn Darren Aronofsky's visually arresting sci-fi drama The Fountain, Ellen Burstyn takes on a supporting role as Dr. Lillian Guzetti - a scientist attempting to find a cure for brain cancer while also serving as a mentor to Hugh Jackman's character, Tom. Burstyn's performance adds an emotional weight and depth to this complex film.
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14Alison Elliott, Ellen Burstyn, Marcia Gay HardenThe Spitfire Grill, directed by Lee David Zlotoff, tells the heartwarming story of Percival “Percy” Talbott (Alison Elliott) - a young woman seeking to rebuild her life in a small town after being released from prison. Ellen Burstyn stars as Hannah Ferguson, the owner of the titular diner who becomes an unlikely mentor and friend to Percy, her performance adding depth and nuance to this inspiring tale of redemption.
15Nicolas Cage, Ellen Burstyn, Kate BeahanIn Neil LaBute's remake of the cult classic The Wicker Man, Ellen Burstyn takes on the role of Sister Summersisle – the enigmatic leader of an isolated community steeped in pagan rituals and traditions. Though not critically acclaimed like its predecessor, Burstyn brings gravitas and nuance to her role in this psychological thriller.
16Bryce Dallas Howard, Chris Evans, Ellen BurstynBased on a previously unproduced screenplay by Tennessee Williams, The Loss of a Teardrop Diamond is an evocative southern Gothic drama that showcases Ellen Burstyn's exceptional acting skills in her role as Miss Addie – the enigmatic matriarch of a wealthy family whose secrets gradually unravel throughout the narrative.
17Elizabeth Banks, Ellen Burstyn, Martin LandauLovely, Still is a poignant romantic drama that explores themes of aging, love, and memory through its central characters Robert (Martin Landau) and Mary (Ellen Burstyn). As they navigate the complexities of late-life romance amid the backdrop of winter holiday season, Burstyn's heartfelt performance adds warmth and charm to this bittersweet narrative.
18Winona Ryder, Maya Angelou, Anne BancroftHow to Make an American Quilt weaves together multiple narratives through its ensemble cast - including Winona Ryder, Anne Bancroft, Maya Angelou, and Ellen Burstyn - as they share stories of love and loss while creating quilts at their weekly gathering. Burstyn plays Hy Dodd – one half of a feuding sister duo whose complex relationship adds further dimension to this feel-good film.
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19Louise Fletcher, Jason Miller, Ellen BurstynThe legacy of Ellen Burstyn's chilling performance in the original The Exorcist has endured throughout its various sequels and spin-offs, serving as a testament to her incredible talent and lasting impact on horror cinema. Her portrayal of Chris MacNeil remains a hauntingly memorable part of the franchise's enduring appeal.
20Rock Hudson, Robert Mitchum, Ellen BurstynThe Ambassador sees Ellen Burstyn take on the role of Jean Haney – the wife of American ambassador Peter Hackes (Robert Mitchum). Set against the backdrop of escalating tensions in Cold War-era Berlin, this atmospheric political thriller is elevated by Burstyn's nuanced portrayal, which aptly conveys both vulnerability and resolve despite challenging circumstances.
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Within These Walls
Ellen Burstyn, Laura Dern, LaTanya RichardsonIn Within These Walls, Ellen Burstyn gives a powerful performance as Sister Pauline Quinn – a Catholic nun dedicated to helping incarcerated women train dogs for those with disabilities. This inspirational TV movie highlights issues within the criminal justice system while showcasing Burstyn's ability to tackle complex roles with conviction and compassion.
22Ellen Burstyn, Kevin Zegers, Elliot PageBased on Margaret Laurence's celebrated novel, The Stone Angel features Ellen Burstyn in yet another exceptional performance as Hagar Shipley – a fiercely independent woman grappling with the weight of her past and the inevitability of aging. Burstyn's portrayal is both heart-wrenching and inspiring, bringing depth to this literary adaptation.
23Jon Voight, Ellen Burstyn, Jeff DanielsBased on Mitch Albom's best-selling novel, The Five People You Meet in Heaven is an inspiring TV movie that delves into themes such as redemption, forgiveness, and self-discovery through its protagonist Eddie (Jon Voight), who encounters five individuals instrumental in shaping his life after his death. Ellen Burstyn delivers a powerful performance as one these titular characters - Ruby, the woman for whom Eddie's diner was named.
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24Renée Zellweger, Tim Roth, Ellen BurstynIn Deceiver, Ellen Burstyn delivers an intense performance as Mook Brink – a psychiatrist caught up in a complex web of lies surrounding her patient Wayland (Tim Roth), who is accused of murder. This gripping neo-noir thriller showcases Burstyn's incredible range as she expertly navigates the twists and turns of its intricate plot.
25Debbie Reynolds, Tony Curtis, Ellen BurstynGoodbye Charlie, directed by Vincente Minnelli, is an offbeat comedy about reincarnation featuring Ellen Burstyn as Rusty Sartori – a woman whose late husband returns as Debbie Reynolds' character Charlie. This quirky film showcases Burstyn's comedic chops and ability to hold her own against Hollywood legends like Reynolds.
26Andy Garcia, Meg Ryan, Lauren TomWhen a Man Loves a Woman tells the story of an alcoholic wife (Meg Ryan) and her husband (Andy García) as they struggle through her recovery process. Ellen Burstyn takes on the role of Emily Jordan – Ryan's character's mother – offering emotional support amid familial challenges in this powerful drama.
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27Julia Roberts, Campbell Scott, Vincent D'OnofrioDying Young is an emotional romantic drama that tackles issues such as terminal illness, love, and loss through its central characters Hilary O'Neil (Julia Roberts) and Victor Geddes (Campbell Scott). Ellen Burstyn takes on the supporting role of Victor's overbearing mother, Mrs. Geddes, adding further depth to this tearful narrative.
28Ellen Burstyn, Pat Corley, Mark HamillWalking Across Egypt, based on Clyde Edgerton's novel, follows Mattie Rigsbee (Ellen Burstyn) - an elderly woman who forms an unlikely friendship with Wesley Benfield (Jonathan Taylor Thomas), a young delinquent escaping his troubled past. This heartwarming drama highlights themes such as redemption and human connection while showcasing Burstyn's ability to create memorable characters.
29Gene Hackman, Ellen Burstyn, Ann-MargretIn Twice in a Lifetime, Ellen Burstyn delivers a powerful performance as Kate MacKenzie - a woman struggling to come to terms with her husband (Gene Hackman) leaving her for another woman after 30 years of marriage. This emotional drama delves into themes such as love, loss, and second chances, elevated by Burstyn's heartrending portrayal.
30Schuyler Fisk, Bre Blair, Rachael Leigh CookEllen Burstyn appears in the beloved adaptation of Ann M. Martin's popular book series The Baby-Sitters Club as Emily Haberman – the grandmother of tomboy Kristy (Schuyler Fisk). Burstyn's performance lends a warm and nurturing presence to this family-friendly film.
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