10 Essential Jennifer Lawrence Movies, Ranked

Jennifer Lawrence rose to fame quickly, beginning with her role in Winter's Bone at just 17. This film earned her the first of several Oscar nominations and put her on Hollywood’s map. Two years later, she became a global sensation playing Katniss Everdeen in The Hunger Games. Since then, Lawrence has demonstrated her versatility across a wide range of genres, from comedies and dramas to popular superhero franchises.

Early Roles and Breakthrough

While not the lead in 2011's Like Crazy, Lawrence’s role as Sam highlights her emerging talent. The film explores the relationship between Anna (Felicity Jones), a British exchange student, and Jacob (Anton Yelchin), an American student. After Anna is denied reentry to the U.S., their long-distance relationship hits a critical point, leading Jacob to date Sam, played by Lawrence.

"Their connection is immediate, but after Anna is denied reentry into the United States, the two hit a wall, and try their best to keep their relationship alive, even if it means opening it while they're apart."

Range and Versatility

Winter's Bone – The film that marked Lawrence’s dramatic debut and earned her critical acclaim.
The Hunger Games – The blockbuster series that turned her into an international star.
Silver Linings Playbook – A brilliant showcase of her comedic and dramatic skills.
Like Crazy – A supporting role that underlines her depth even in secondary parts.
Various other genres, including superhero films, reflecting her wide acting range.

Jennifer Lawrence has successfully built a diverse career with memorable performances that capture both the complexity and relatability of her characters.

Author’s summary: Jennifer Lawrence’s career trajectory showcases her exceptional talent and adaptability, making her one of Hollywood’s most compelling actresses across diverse film genres.

Collider — 2025-11-07