Julia Roberts is one of Hollywood’s most famous and respected actresses. Whether she’s playing a role or producing, this talent has been lighting up the silver screen for over 20 years. She stars in Ryan Murphy’s upcoming flick Eat, Pray, Love, which is based on Elizabeth Gilbert’s best-selling memoir of the same name. That being said, we at Player Affinity thought it would be proper to honor the actress and countdown Miss Roberts' top five screen roles.
5. Daisy Arujo (Mystic Pizza)
Roberts played opposite Annabeth Gish and Lili Taylor in this coming-of-age flick about two sisters and a friend. Playing one of the sisters, Roberts showcased her natural acting talent, convincing audiences in moments of hilarity, sadness, and anger. She received an Independent Spirit Award nomination for her leading role.
4. Shelby Eatenton Latcherie (Steel Magnolias)
Arguably one of Roberts’ breakthroughs to mainstream film, she shares the screen with Sally Field, Shirley MacLaine, and Dolly Parton in this comedic melodrama. She brings a brilliant vulnerability and quiet strength to this conflicted woman. She won her first Golden Globe and received her first Academy Award nomination for her performance.
3. Julianne Potter (My Best Friend’s Wedding)
It might not be a prestigious film or even a truly terrific one, but how could you not completely fall in love with this film and Roberts’ amazing work in it? She has a unique spark that instantly captivates audiences as the friend who has realized that she has fallen in love too little, too late. She also has excellent chemistry with love interest Rupert Everett, Dermot Mulroney as her gay best friend, and her love interest's fiancé portrayed by Cameron Diaz.
2. Erin Brockovich (Erin Brockovich)
This Steven Soderbergh film finally got Roberts a long overdue Academy Award, as well as a slew of other awards. It wasn’t undeserved either. She melds her normal likability and charm with a sharp wit and emotional release that we aren’t used to seeing from her. She also gets everything right on a personal level, aptly portraying a mother who will do anything for her children.
1. Vivian Ward (Pretty Woman)
She may have taken home Oscar gold for “Brockovich,” but this is the role that Roberts will always be remembered for. Vivian has been referred to by some as “the hooker with a heart of gold" and rightfully so. Whether she’s giggling hysterically over I Love Lucy reruns, performing a ridiculously off-key rendition of Prince’s “Kiss,” or shopping on Rodeo Drive, it’s impossible to resist Roberts’ absolutely perfect performance.
