There’s no denying that Jennifer Lawrence is still one of the most gifted and sexiest actresses in Hollywood today. In fact, she’s the most fantasized about celebrity according to our recent poll. How can you not fall in love with such an undeniable talent? Her parts in the X-Men series and The Hunger Games films alone would be enough to deserve this admiration. Which of her roles did it for you? I will forever be in love with Katniss Everdeen. To determine the top 10 best Jennifer Lawrence films, we turned to IMDb ratings, letting the viewers decide the best of the best.
Top 10 Highest-Rated Jennifer Lawrence Movies of All Time, According to IMDb
- X-Men: Apocalypse (2016) – 6.9
- Passengers (2016) – 7.0
- Winter’s Bone (2010) – 7.1
- American Hustle (2013) – 7.2
- Don’t Look Up (2021) – 7.2
- The Hunger Games (2012) – 7.2
- The Hunger Games: Catching Fire (2013) – 7.5
- X-Men: First Class (2011) – 7.7
- Silver Linings Playbook (2012) – 7.7
- X-Men: Days of Future Past (2014) – 7.9
10 ‘X-Men: Apocalypse’ (2016)
IMDb: 6.9/10 451K | Popularity: 996 | Metascore:
Duration: 2h 24m | Genres: Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi
Director: Bryan Singer
Cast: James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender, Jennifer Lawrence
Whoever had the idea to put Jennifer Lawrence in a nearly nude suit for her role as Mystique deserves a raise. It’s easily one of the hottest and badass superhero characters ever derived. There, I said it, and I dare anyone to prove me wrong.
Transforming Jennifer into Mystique was an intricate process. The detailed body paint and prosthetics took hours, presenting challenges. Yet, she embraced every part of it, resulting in one of the most iconic looks in the series. Lawrence may have hated the suit and suffered a bit of a reaction to the body paint, but it proved worth it.
Mystique has always been a character of intrigue in the X-Men series. In ‘X-Men: Apocalypse,’ this takes a new turn as she steps into a leadership role, guiding the younger mutants. Lawrence’s portrayal captures this evolution, displaying a side of Mystique that’s nurturing yet fierce.
Jennifer Lawrence is known for her dedication, often taking on her own stunts. This commitment brought authenticity to her role, making each action sequence feel raw and real.
In ‘X-Men: Apocalypse,’ Mystique’s role is pivotal. She’s at the forefront, uniting mutants against the formidable Apocalypse. Lawrence’s portrayal showcases her depth and range as an actress.
Her role as Mystique was well-received. Both fans and critics praised her performance, further solidifying her place in the X-Men legacy.
9 ‘Passengers’ (2016)
IMDb: 7.0/10 429K | Popularity: 745 | Metascore:
Duration: 1h 56m | Genres: Drama, Romance, Sci-Fi
Director: Morten Tyldum
Cast: Jennifer Lawrence, Chris Pratt, Michael Sheen
Imagine being stuck on a spaceship, hurdling through the vast emptiness of space, with only one other person for company. Now imagine if that person was the incredibly talented and charismatic Jennifer Lawrence. Sounds like a dream, right?
In ‘Passengers,’ this dream becomes a complex reality. Lawrence, alongside Chris Pratt, delivers a performance that oscillates between romance, despair, and the sheer weight of solitude.
The movie offers a fresh perspective on the challenges of love and morality when survival is at stake. Lawrence’s character, Aurora, beautifully embodies the dilemmas of unexpected companionship in a futuristic setting. Her on-screen chemistry with Pratt is palpable, making their journey through space a must-watch.
This sci-fi drama proves, yet again, that Lawrence can effortlessly transcend genres, capturing audiences’ hearts whether she’s in a dystopian arena or a malfunctioning spaceship.
8 “Winter’s Bone” (2010)
IMDb: 7.1/10 147K | Popularity: 1572 | Metascore:
Duration: 1h 40m | Genres: Drama, Mystery
Director: Debra Granik
Cast: Jennifer Lawrence, John Hawkes, Garret Dillahunt
Ever imagine what a redneck trainwreck would look like? That would be this movie. Before Katniss Everdeen was ever a twinkle in Jennifer’s eye, she was out here in the Ozarks, hunting down her missing dad like a bloodhound on steroids. Seriously, if you thought she was fierce with a bow and arrow, wait until you see her go full detective mode in flannel and worn-out jeans.
“Winter’s Bone” isn’t your usual Jennifer Lawrence glam fest. Nope, this movie throws her in the deep end of a cold, murky pond and says, “Swim, girl!” And swim, she does. Ree Dolly might not be fighting futuristic dictators or blue mutants, but she’s battling something equally terrifying: poverty, meth, and the possibility of losing her home. Think of it as “The Hunger Games,” but with more frostbite and fewer killer bees.
Why did she take on such a role? Beats me. Maybe she lost a bet? Or perhaps she wanted to show Hollywood she could act her socks off without the need for sparkly dresses or CGI flames. Spoiler: she nailed it. Lawrence’s role in this film earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress, showcasing her incredible talent early on in her career.
If you want to see J-Law in a gritty “I’m not here to play games” role, this hillbilly flick is for you. Just remember to keep your hands and feet inside the vehicle at all times. And maybe bring a jacket. It gets cold.
7 ‘American Hustle’ (2013)
IMDb: 7.2/10 493K | Popularity: 650 | Metascore:
Duration: 2h 18m | Genres: Crime, Drama
Director: David O. Russell
Cast: Christian Bale, Amy Adams, Bradley Cooper
You ever put on a polyester suit, crank up some Bee Gees, and think, “Man, I could totally pull off some shady deals right now?” No? Just me? Well, someone in Hollywood clearly had the same thought, and thus, “American Hustle” was born.
Gone is the image of J-Law as the rugged Ozark girl or the arrow-shooting heroine. Say hello to Rosalyn, the Long Island housewife with a penchant for dramatics and a thing for that foil “science oven.” Lawrence sashays onto the screen, draped in sequined dresses and hair so high it’s touching the heavens. And boy, does she bring the chaos!
Now, “American Hustle” isn’t just about her. We’ve got Christian Bale rocking a combover that deserves its own Oscar, Amy Adams mastering the art of the deep V-neck, and Bradley Cooper getting his curls tighter than a disco ball’s spin. But amongst this bunch of con artists, swindlers, and FBI agents, it’s Lawrence who stands out. Her unpredictable nature, her love for nail polish (and its smell), and that one memorable rendition of “Live and Let Die” makes you think, “Dang, that’s why she’s the queen.”
If you’re in the mood for a wild ride of 70s fashion, dodgy deals, and a side of Jennifer Lawrence you’ve never seen before, this con-flick is just the ticket. But a word of advice: maybe keep your fancy new microwave away from her. Just a thought.
6 ‘Don’t Look Up’ (2021)
IMDb: 7.2/10 570K | Popularity: 370 | Metascore:
Duration: 2h 18m | Genres: Comedy, Drama, Sci-Fi
Director: Adam McKay
Cast: Leonardo DiCaprio, Jennifer Lawrence, Meryl Streep
So, let’s play pretend. Imagine you’re Jennifer Lawrence, casually chilling with your Hollywood BFFs Leo and Meryl. What’s the one thing that could ruin this A-list tea party? Oh, I don’t know, maybe a GIANT METEOR racing toward Earth? Yeah, that might do it.
Welcome to “Don’t Look Up,” a film where J-Law gets to be a brilliant scientist (not a stretch) who discovers said meteor and is like, “Hey, World! We might wanna do something about this?” But, the world, being… well, the world, decides to focus on other pressing matters, like political feuds, media circuses, and… fashion choices? Why address an impending doomsday when you can debate about who wore it better?
Directed by Adam McKay, the guy who brought us “The Big Short,” this flick is more of a scathing satire than your standard end-of-the-world drama. Jennifer, with her signature charisma and intensity, is forced to navigate the bureaucracy, politics, and general human stupidity, all while trying to prevent global annihilation.
The film might be billed as a comedy, but Lawrence’s performance has layers. She’s funny, yes, but she’s also poignant, frustrated, and downright heartbreaking at times. Plus, any chance to see J-Law share screen time with Leonardo DiCaprio and Meryl Streep is a win in our books.
So, if you’re in the mood for a laugh-out-loud critique of our sometimes-absurd society with a splash of existential dread, this is your jam. Just maybe… look up once in a while.
5 ‘The Hunger Games’ (2012)
IMDb: 7.2/10 960K | Popularity: 171 | Metascore:
Duration: 2h 22m | Genres: Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi
Director: Gary Ross
Cast: Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth
If you’ve been living under a rock for the last decade or were too busy rewatching “Twilight” on loop (no judgment), let me introduce you to the phenomenon that is “The Hunger Games.” Picture this: a dystopian world where teenagers are thrown into an arena to fight to the death on live TV, and the nation’s favorite pastime is debating which district is superior.
Enter Jennifer Lawrence as Katniss Everdeen, the badass “Girl on Fire,” who can shoot an arrow better than Cupid on Valentine’s Day. Before J-Law was schmoozing with Leo and Meryl, she was too busy saving her sister, leading a revolution, and making braided hair the ultimate style statement.
Gary Ross‘s adaptation of Suzanne Collins‘s bestselling novel throws Katniss into a whirlwind of danger, love triangles, and really questionable fashion choices (I’m looking at you, Capitol). But J-Law’s portrayal of Katniss is iconic. She’s fierce, she’s vulnerable, and she makes you question why you never took up archery.
This movie didn’t just cement Lawrence’s place as a Hollywood A-lister. It started a global phenomenon. “The Hunger Games” isn’t just a film; it’s a movement. So, grab your bow and arrow, maybe a mockingjay pin for good measure, and dive headfirst into the arena. And may the odds be ever in your favor!
4 ‘The Hunger Games: Catching Fire’ (2013)
IMDb: 7.5/10 692K | Popularity: 950 | Metascore:
Duration: 2h 26m | Genres: Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi
Director: Francis Lawrence
Cast: Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth
Did you think one round in the death arena was enough for our “Girl on Fire”? Think again. Just when Katniss Everdeen thought she could take a breather, sip some Capitol champagne, and have a game night with Peeta, the stakes get raised to a whole new level in “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire.”
Now, if you thought the first movie was a wild rollercoaster, strap in because this sequel is like a rollercoaster…on fire…in space.
Katniss goes from being the Capitol’s darling to public enemy number one faster than you can say, “I volunteer as tribute!” And J-Law? She ups her game, bringing more depth, grit, and that signature sass to Katniss.
Directed by Francis Lawrence (no relation to J-Law, but wouldn’t that be a fun plot twist?), this installment sees our heroine navigate the murky waters of fame, politics, and PTSD, all while trying not to get killed in a new, improved, and even more treacherous arena. Oh, and the love triangle? It’s still burning bright, making it even harder to choose between the brooding Gale and the ever-so-lovable Peeta.
And just when you thought “Catching Fire” couldn’t get any more iconic, Sesame Street went ahead and gave us “The Hungry Games- Catching Fur.” A parody worth its weight in cookies!
“Catching Fire” isn’t just a sequel; it’s a glow-up. With even more thrilling action sequences, emotional depth, and those flaming costumes (literally!), this chapter is on fire (pun very much intended). So if you’re looking for heart-stopping drama and J-Law in all her arrow-slinging glory, this is your stop. Just remember: tick-tock, the arena’s a clock.
3 ‘X-Men: First Class’ (2011)
IMDb: 7.7/10 711K | Popularity: 1343 | Metascore:
Duration: 2h 11m | Genres: Action, Sci-Fi
Director: Matthew Vaughn
Cast: James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender, Jennifer Lawrence
Before the world was almost destroyed by mutants a gazillion times, before Wolverine got his shiny metal skeleton, and before Magneto and Professor X became frenemies for life, there was “X-Men: First Class.” It’s like a superhero yearbook, giving us a glimpse into the young, wild, and free days of our favorite mutants. And guess who’s smack dab in the middle of all this? A young blue shapeshifter named Raven, AKA Mystique.
Jennifer Lawrence was painted blue from head to toe, making it look effortless. Who knew that blue could be the new black? J-Law’s performance as Mystique is one for the books, navigating the fine line between friend and foe, between embracing her true self and trying to fit in. And boy, does she serve some killer looks – both figuratively and literally.
Directed by Matthew Vaughn, “X-Men: First Class” isn’t just another mutant movie. It’s a ’60s retro-fest, complete with groovy outfits, Cold War tension, and a killer soundtrack. But beyond the aesthetics, it delves deep into the psyche of these characters, exploring themes of identity, acceptance, and, of course, the age-old battle between good and evil.
While McAvoy’s Professor X and Fassbender’s Magneto do their bromance dance, Lawrence’s Mystique is the emotional core, torn between two worlds and two ideologies. It’s no easy feat, especially when you’re juggling it with kicking butt and taking names.
This film is where we see Mystique’s journey truly begin. From being Charles Xavier’s adoptive sister to becoming Magneto’s right hand, her transformation (pun intended) is both captivating and heart-wrenching. And Lawrence? She does it with a depth and nuance that makes you forget she’s covered in scales.
So, if you want to watch Jennifer Lawrence rock blue like no one else, and if you’re into groovy mutant action, “X-Men: First Class” is the ticket. Just remember: mutant and proud!
2 ‘Silver Linings Playbook’ (2012)
IMDb: 7.7/10 728K | Popularity: 833 | Metascore:
Duration: 2h 2m | Genres: Comedy, Drama, Romance
Director: David O. Russell
Cast: Bradley Cooper, Jennifer Lawrence, Robert De Niro
Think about your wildest dinner table conversation, then multiply it by ten. Welcome to “Silver Linings Playbook,” where chaos is the norm and every character is a tad unhinged. Here’s the tea: Bradley Cooper plays Pat, a man fresh out of a mental institution, hell-bent on winning back his ex-wife. Simple plan, right? Enter our lady, Jennifer Lawrence, as Tiffany, a young widow with her own set of quirks and baggage.
This David O. Russell movie is the quirky rom-com we didn’t know we needed. It’s like watching two loose cannons ricocheting off each other in a dance of passion, anger, and eccentricity. When Tiffany offers to help Pat reconnect with his ex in exchange for a small favor – joining her in a dance competition – we’re treated to some of the most comically awkward dance practices in film history.
But beneath the humor, the film delves deep. It’s a raw portrayal of mental health, grief, and the human need for connection. J-Law delivers one of her most memorable performances, juggling between fierce outbursts, vulnerable moments, and dance moves that’ll make you chuckle. The dynamic between Lawrence and Cooper crackles, with a chemistry so palpable, you’d think they’d been tangoing for years.
It’s not just about the dance, though. “Silver Linings Playbook” is an ode to those struggling, a reminder that there’s always a silver lining, even in the darkest clouds. And Lawrence? She took home the Academy Award for Best Actress for this role, proving once again that she can dance, act, and basically rule our screens. The movie’s mantra, “Excelsior!” meaning ‘ever upward,’ perfectly sums up Lawrence’s career trajectory post this movie. Get ready for a whirlwind of emotions and a dance routine that’s equal parts hilarious and heartwarming.
1 ‘X-Men: Days of Future Past’ (2014)
IMDb: 7.9/10 732K | Popularity: 1280 | Metascore:
Duration: 2h 12m | Genres: Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi
Director: Bryan Singer
Cast: Patrick Stewart, Ian McKellen, Hugh Jackman
Boom! The X-Men universe goes back in time, and trust me, it’s not to fix a bad hair day. “X-Men: Days of Future Past” takes us on a whirlwind ride where the X-Men, in a desperate move to save their kind, send Wolverine (the forever ripped Hugh Jackman) to the past to prevent a series of events that lead to a dystopian future. Got that? Good.
Now, nestled within this mutant time-tangling mess is our leading lady, Jennifer Lawrence, back as Mystique. Gone is the timid mutant from the earlier films. This Mystique is fierce, determined, and on a mission of her own. Think blue scales, striking yellow eyes, and an attitude that says, “I’m here to kick butt and take names.”
This Bryan Singer installment amps up the stakes. But it’s not all mind-bending time travel and action-packed sequences. At its core, the film delves into themes of identity, acceptance, and the weight of one’s choices. J-Law beautifully portrays Mystique’s internal struggle, torn between her thirst for revenge and the potential consequences of her actions.
As if navigating a war-torn 1970s isn’t challenging enough, Mystique also finds herself at the epicenter of the unfolding chaos. Her choices could very well determine the fate of both mutants and mankind. No pressure, right?
In a sea of A-listers and an ensemble cast, Jennifer Lawrence truly shines, proving that whether she’s leading a revolution in Panem or shape-shifting in the world of mutants, she’s a force to be reckoned with. And “X-Men: Days of Future Past”? It’s not just another X-Men movie. It’s THE X-Men movie, all thanks to a blue-skinned, red-haired dynamo. Don’t miss it.
More Popular Jennifer Lawrence Movies
Despite not making the top 10 highest-ranked Jennifer Lawrence films, these movies are still worth mentioning because of their popularity.
‘No Hard Feelings’ (2023)
IMDb: 6.4/10 63K | Popularity: 12 | Metascore:
Duration: 1h 43m | Genres: Comedy, Romance
Director: Gene Stupnitsky
Cast: Jennifer Lawrence, Andrew Barth Feldman, Laura Benanti
Ready to laugh, cry, and question some very questionable parenting choices?
Meet Maddie Barker (played by Jennifer Lawrence): a 32-year-old, Uber-driving, bartending, home-losing woman from Montauk. As bankruptcy looms, Maddie stumbles upon a Craigslist ad so wild it just might work. The task? Date a socially awkward, introverted 19-year-old named Percy Becker (Andrew Barth Feldman), courtesy of his overly concerned helicopter parents. The reward? A Buick Regal and a shot at saving her childhood home. Simple, right? Wrong.
Cue awkward encounters! From Maddie’s failed seduction at an animal shelter (yes, you read that right) to a nude beach brawl, Percy’s introduction to the wild side of life is anything but smooth. But as the pair navigate skinny dips gone wrong, police chases, and prom night do-overs, an unexpected bond forms. Maddie and Percy’s escapades are hilariously heartwarming, proving there’s no age limit on personal growth or making questionable decisions.
However, as summer progresses, the comedy takes a turn for the complicated. A botched deal, a betraying Buick, and a disastrous dinner bring tensions to a boil. With Percy’s Princeton dreams on the line and Maddie’s financial freedom at stake, both are forced to confront their true feelings and fears.
“No Hard Feelings” is a roller-coaster ride of hilarity, heartbreak, and questionable decisions. It’s a testament to the lengths we’ll go for love, family, and a chance at a fresh start. Whether you’re here for the laughs, the lessons, or to see Jennifer Lawrence in her comedic prime, this movie promises not to disappoint. Buckle up and enjoy the ride!
‘Red Sparrow’ (2018)
IMDb: 6.6/10 195K | Popularity: 616 | Metascore:
Duration: 2h 20m | Genres: Action, Drama, Thriller
Director: Francis Lawrence
Cast: Jennifer Lawrence, Joel Edgerton, Matthias Schoenaerts
Dive into the world of espionage, seduction, and survival.
Jennifer Lawrence trades in her bow and arrow for the sultry world of spy games in this pulse-pounding thriller. Portraying Dominika Egorova, a former Russian ballerina turned spy, she’s trained in the arts of seduction and manipulation at the mysterious Sparrow School. But this isn’t your typical “twist and twirl” dance academy. Oh no, the Sparrow School crafts weapons, not dancers, and its graduates are a different breed of operatives known as ‘Sparrows.’
Teaming up with CIA agent Nate Nash, played by the dashing Joel Edgerton, Dominika is caught in a deadly game of cat and mouse. With every move monitored and loyalty tested, she must decide where her allegiance truly lies. Is it with her motherland or with the man she’s supposed to seduce and betray?
Director Francis Lawrence, no stranger to working with J-Law (remember “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire”?), paints a world of intrigue and suspense. As the stakes rise and secrets unfold, audiences are left gripping their armrests, wondering who’s playing whom.
While the Metascore might give you pause, Lawrence’s transformation into the seductive yet vulnerable Dominika is mesmerizing. Supported by a talented cast, including Matthias Schoenaerts, this movie delves deep into the dark and dangerous world of international espionage.
“Red Sparrow” isn’t just about spies and covert operations; it’s a story of survival, determination, and the blurred lines between right and wrong. It’s a ballet of deception, where every step can lead to danger or redemption. So, tighten your shoelaces and prepare for a dance you won’t forget. Just remember, trust no one. Not even yourself.
‘Mother!’ (2017)
IMDb: 6.6/10 240K | Popularity: 912 | Metascore:
Duration: 2h 1m | Genres: Drama, Horror, Mystery
Director: Darren Aronofsky
Cast: Jennifer Lawrence, Javier Bardem, Ed Harris
Hold onto your seats because “Mother!” isn’t just a movie; it’s a fever dream of epic proportions.
In perhaps one of her most intense roles to date, Jennifer Lawrence portrays a character only known as “Mother,” the devoted wife of a once-successful poet, played by the magnetic Javier Bardem. Their tranquil life in their isolated home starts to unravel when uninvited guests, played by Ed Harris and Michelle Pfeiffer, begin to show up, turning their haven into a chaotic nightmare.
Directed by the visionary Darren Aronofsky, the same mind behind “Black Swan” and “Requiem for a Dream,” “Mother!” is a cinematic experience that dives headfirst into the realms of psychological horror, biblical allegories, and environmental themes. As the story unfolds, so does the anxiety, pulling audiences into an emotional whirlwind of confusion, horror, and intrigue.
While the film received a Metascore that would make cinephiles nod in agreement, the audience’s reaction was polarized. Some hailed it as a masterpiece of surrealism and allegory, while others were left scratching their heads or straight-up fleeing theaters. But that’s the beauty of “Mother!” It’s meant to provoke, disturb, and leave you pondering long after the credits roll.
If you’re searching for a straightforward narrative, this might not be the film for you. But if you’re in the mood for a mind-bending journey that will challenge your perceptions and ignite heated discussions, then step into the enigmatic world of “Mother!” But be warned: this is not a casual Sunday afternoon watch. It’s a ride through the darkest corners of Aronofsky’s imagination, with J-Law leading the way. Embrace the chaos, and let it consume you.
Senior Editor, BuddyTV