Few actors possess the chameleon-like versatility of Cate Blanchett. Since her arrival in Hollywood from her native Australia, the 55-year-old double Oscar winner has cemented her reputation as a transformative character actor. From regal monarchs to unconventional movie stars, conservative activists, ethereal elves, and even the goddess of death, Blanchett has embodied a captivating spectrum of characters. Her latest role as a respected journalist whose life spirals into chaos in Alfonso Cuarón’s Apple TV+ thriller, ‘Disclaimer,’ continues to highlight her captivating presence.
Here are 11 of Blanchett’s most unforgettable performances that deserve a rewatch:
Elizabeth (1998) and Elizabeth: The Golden Age (2007):
As the deathly pale, redheaded Elizabeth I in Shekhar Kapur’s stately biopics, Blanchett catapulted to fame and earned her first Oscar nomination. Her portrayal of the fiery monarch navigating a divided nation is a tour de force.
The Talented Mr Ripley (1999):
In Anthony Minghella’s twisted thriller, Blanchett delivers a captivating performance as Meredith Logue, the bubbly American heiress caught in the web of a social-climbing sociopath (Matt Damon). Her glamorous wardrobe, featuring stunning ball gowns, cashmere sweaters, and wasp-waisted coats, is a visual delight.
The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001) and Sequels:
Blanchett brings a touch of ethereal grace to the role of Galadriel, the elf queen who guides Frodo (Elijah Wood) on his perilous journey in Peter Jackson’s epic fantasy world. Her presence, both powerful and comforting, is a memorable element in the trilogy.
Coffee and Cigarettes (2003):
In Jim Jarmusch’s episodic saga, Blanchett showcases her incredible range by playing two distinct characters. She embodies a prim version of herself and her fictional cousin Shelly, a slouchy, shaggy-haired rocker who resents her relative’s fame.
The Aviator (2004):
To embody screen legend Katharine Hepburn in Martin Scorsese’s lavish period piece, Blanchett adopts Hepburn’s signature gait, overblown speaking style, and elegant attire. Her performance is so captivating that she outshines co-star Leonardo DiCaprio, winning her first Oscar for Best Supporting Actress.
Notes on a Scandal (2006):
In Richard Eyre’s gripping tale of obsession and blackmail, Blanchett plays Sheba, a free-spirited teacher who becomes the target of her colleague’s (Judi Dench) dangerous fascination. The film explores the complexities of relationships and the consequences of crossing boundaries.
I’m Not There (2007):
In Todd Haynes’s experimental music biopic, six actors explore different facets of Bob Dylan’s complex personality. Blanchett’s transformation as a weary, cynical critic is a striking portrayal of Dylan’s artistic defiance.
Carol (2015):
Blanchett’s performance in Todd Haynes’s sweeping romance is one of her most beloved. She portrays Carol, a wealthy woman in the midst of a divorce in the 1950s, who falls for a young photographer (Rooney Mara) and risks everything for their forbidden love.
Thor: Ragnarok (2017):
Chris Hemsworth’s Thor faces his ultimate adversary in Blanchett’s Hela, the powerful and swaggering goddess of death, in Taika Waititi’s superhero blockbuster. Blanchett’s performance is electrifying, featuring elaborate costumes, witty one-liners, and thrilling action sequences.
Mrs America (2020):
Dahvi Waller’s miniseries offers a nuanced perspective on the fight for women’s liberation in the 1970s. Blanchett delivers a compelling performance as Phyllis Schlafly, a conservative activist who fiercely opposes the Equal Rights Amendment.
