The Best Dakota Johnson Movies: A Definitive Ranking
Dakota Johnson is an American actress who quickly rose to the spotlight with her critically praised and commercially successful performances in movies like “Fifty Shades of Grey.” With her expansive filmography, fans of Johnson’s work are often left wondering what her best movies are. To make it easy, here is a definitive ranking of the best movies Johnson has starred in.
10. A Bigger Splash (2015)
At number ten, we have “A Bigger Splash”, a 2015 British-Italian drama directed by Luca Guadagnino and co-starring Ralph Fiennes, Tilda Swinton, and Matthias Schoenaerts. Johnson plays Penelope, a rebellious college student on holiday in Italy with her jealous and possessive older boyfriend. Johnson excels in her role here, adding depth and nuance to a potentially shallow character.
9. Under the Silver Lake (2018)
Coming in at number nine is “Under the Silver Lake”, a 2018 neo-noir mystery film written and directed by David Robert Mitchell. Johnson stars alongside Andrew Garfield in the film, playing Sara, a mysterious woman with a dark secret. This was Johnson’s first and only leading role thus far, and she does a great job of carrying the film.
8. How to Be Single (2016)
At number eight is “How to Be Single”, a 2016 comedy film directed and written by Christian Ditter. Johnson plays Alice, a young single professional who is looking for love in New York City. As is often the case with Johnson’s performances, she is very likable and relatable, while also managing to make her character unique and interesting.
7. Bad Times at the El Royale (2018)
Coming in at number seven is “Bad Times at the El Royale”, a 2018 neo-noir thriller film written, co-produced, and directed by Drew Goddard. Johnson stars alongside an all-star cast in the film, playing Emily Summerspring, a downtrodden cult leader. Johnson’s performance propels the film forward with her captivating and chilling portrayal.
6. Suspiria (2018)
At number six is “Suspiria”, a 2018 supernatural horror film directed by Luca Guadagnino. Johnson stars in the leading role, playing Susie Bannion, a young American dancer who finds herself in the midst of a mysterious dance company. Johnson’s performance is powerful and emotionally layered, a testament to her skill as an actor.
5. The Social Network (2010)
At number five is “The Social Network”, a 2010 biographical drama film directed by David Fincher and written by Aaron Sorkin. Johnson plays the small but important role of Marylin Delpy, a law student who queries Mark Zuckerberg in a deposition. Johnson’s performance is confident and mesmerizing, and she stands out in an already outstanding cast.
4. The Five-Year Engagement (2012)
At number four is “The Five-Year Engagement”, a 2012 romantic comedy film produced, written, and directed by Nicholas Stoller. Johnson stars in the leading role alongside Jason Segel, playing Violet Barnes, a chef who is stuck in a long-term engagement. Though the film is often overlooked, Johnson is one of the highlights, delivering an attractive and relatable performance.
3. 21 Jump Street (2012)
At number three we have “21 Jump Street”, a 2012 action comedy film directed by Phil Lord and Christopher Miller. Johnson plays the minor role of Molly Tracey, the sister of Channing Tatum’s character, Kevin. Though the role is quite small, Johnson brings life to the character with her natural charisma.
2. How to Be a Latin Lover (2017)
Coming in at number two is “How to Be a Latin Lover”, a 2017 comedy film written and directed by Ken Marino. Johnson stars in the leading role, playing Julie, a young coffeehouse worker who is trying to help her grandmother find love again. Johnson is very convincing in her role and manages to portray an emotionally complex character with ease.
1. Fifty Shades Freed (2018)
At the top of this list is “Fifty Shades Freed”, a 2018 American erotic romantic drama film directed by James Foley. Johnson takes the leading role of Anastasia Steele, a recent graduate who finds herself in a passionate relationship with Christian Grey. Johnson nails the role here, infusing her performance with power and vulnerability.
Dakota Johnson is an incredibly talented actress whose career is only beginning. With an already impressive filmography and numerous upcoming projects, it will be exciting to see what she does next. This list has compiled Johnson’s best films, making it easier for fans to decide which ones to watch first.
