Dakota Johnson has firmly established herself as a versatile and talented actress in Hollywood. From her breakout role in the “Fifty Shades” series to critically acclaimed performances in indie films, Johnson’s career showcases a range of compelling characters. Here, we rank best of Dakota Johnson’s movie performances, exploring the nuances of each role and why they stand out.

Best of Dakota Johnson’s Movie Performances Ranked

1. “Suspiria” (2018) – Susie Bannion

In Luca Guadagnino’s reimagining of Dario Argento’s horror classic “Suspiria,” Dakota Johnson takes on the role of Susie Bannion, an American dancer who joins a prestigious dance academy in Berlin. Johnson’s portrayal of Susie is both haunting and mesmerizing, capturing the character’s mysterious allure and underlying strength. Her performance is layered, revealing Susie’s transformation and dark journey with a compelling intensity that earned critical acclaim.

Guadagnino’s version of “Suspiria” is a departure from the original, delving deeper into themes of motherhood, power, and identity. Johnson’s commitment to the physically demanding role is evident, as she trained extensively in dance to convincingly portray Susie. While Dakota Johnson did not win any major awards for this role, her performance was praised by critics and solidified her reputation as a serious actress.

2. “A Bigger Splash” (2015) – Penelope Lanier

In “A Bigger Splash,” Dakota Johnson plays Penelope Lanier, a provocative and enigmatic young woman who disrupts the tranquility of a vacationing couple.Dakota Johnson’s performance is captivating, as she effortlessly exudes a mix of innocence and seduction. Her chemistry with co-stars Tilda Swinton, Ralph Fiennes, and Matthias Schoenaerts adds depth to the film, making Penelope one of her most memorable characters.

The film, directed by Luca Guadagnino, is a complex narrative of desire, jealousy, and rock-and-roll hedonism. Dakota Johnson’s ability to hold her own among a stellar cast and bring nuance to her character’s motivations showcases her range as an actress. Although Johnson did not receive any awards for this role, her performance was widely recognized and appreciated.

3. “The Peanut Butter Falcon” (2019) – Eleanor

“The Peanut Butter Falcon” is a heartwarming adventure film where Dakota Johnson stars as Eleanor, a caregiver searching for a runaway with Down syndrome. Johnson’s portrayal of Eleanor is tender and empathetic, showcasing her ability to connect with her character’s emotional journey. Her performance adds a layer of authenticity and warmth to the film, making it a standout role in her career.

The film, directed by Tyler Nilson and Michael Schwartz, follows the story of Zak, a young man with Down syndrome who dreams of becoming a professional wrestler. Johnson’s role as Eleanor requires her to balance compassion and resilience, and she delivers a performance that is both moving and genuine. “The Peanut Butter Falcon” won the Audience Award at the SXSW Film Festival, highlighting the film’s broad appeal, though Johnson herself did not receive individual awards.

4. “Bad Times at the El Royale” (2018) – Emily Summerspring

In the neo-noir thriller “Bad Times at the El Royale,” Johnson plays Emily Summerspring, a mysterious woman with a hidden agenda. Dakota Johnson’s performance is marked by a gritty determination and complexity, as she navigates the film’s twists and turns. Her ability to convey strength and vulnerability in equal measure makes Emily one of her most intriguing roles to date.

Directed by Drew Goddard, the film is set in a rundown hotel that becomes the backdrop for a series of interconnected stories filled with secrets and deceit. Johnson’s portrayal of Emily, a woman on a mission to save her sister, adds emotional depth to the ensemble cast. Her strong screen presence and the ability to hold her own in a film with multiple storylines and characters highlight her acting prowess. Despite the film’s critical success, Johnson did not receive individual awards for her role.

5. “Fifty Shades of Grey” (2015) – Anastasia Steele

Dakota Johnson’s breakout role as Anastasia Steele in the “Fifty Shades” trilogy brought her international fame. While the films received mixed reviews, Dakota Johnson’s performance was consistently praised for bringing depth and relatability to the character. Her portrayal of Anastasia’s evolution from a shy college student to a confident woman in control of her desires is a testament to her acting skills.

The “Fifty Shades” series, based on E.L. James’s best-selling novels, explores the complex and controversial relationship between Anastasia and Christian Grey, played by Jamie Dornan. Johnson’s ability to navigate the emotional and physical demands of the role earned her recognition and a loyal fanbase. For her performance in “Fifty Shades of Grey,” Johnson won the People’s Choice Award for Favorite Dramatic Movie Actress, highlighting her popularity among audiences.

6. “The High Note” (2020) – Maggie Sherwoode

In “The High Note,” Johnson stars as Maggie Sherwoode, an aspiring music producer working as an assistant to a famous singer. Dakota Johnson’s performance is both charming and determined, capturing Maggie’s passion for music and her struggle to break into the industry. Her chemistry with co-star Tracee Ellis Ross adds to the film’s appeal, making Maggie a likable and relatable character.

Directed by Nisha Ganatra, “The High Note” is a feel-good film that balances humor and heartfelt moments. Johnson’s portrayal of Maggie, who dreams of becoming a music producer while working for the diva Grace Davis, played by Ross, is engaging and inspiring. Her journey of self-discovery and perseverance resonates with audiences, showcasing Johnson’s ability to bring authenticity to her roles. While the film was well-received, Johnson did not win any awards for her performance.

7. “Our Friend” (2019) – Nicole Teague

Based on a true story, “Our Friend” features Dakota Johnson as Nicole Teague, a woman battling terminal cancer. Johnson delivers a heartfelt and poignant performance, portraying Nicole’s strength, vulnerability, and enduring spirit. Her ability to convey the emotional weight of the character’s journey resonates deeply with audiences, making it one of her most powerful roles.

Directed by Gabriela Cowperthwaite, the film explores the impact of Nicole’s illness on her family and friends, particularly focusing on the support they receive from their best friend, played by Jason Segel. Johnson’s portrayal of Nicole is both nuanced and emotionally charged, capturing the complexities of living with a terminal illness. Her performance is a testament to her ability to take on challenging roles and deliver with sincerity and depth. Johnson did not receive individual awards for this role, but the film was praised for its sensitive handling of a difficult subject.

8. “Wounds” (2019) – Carrie

In the psychological horror film “Wounds,” Johnson plays Carrie, a bartender’s girlfriend who becomes entangled in a series of disturbing events. Johnson’s performance is unsettling and intense, as she navigates the film’s eerie atmosphere and psychological tension. Her ability to portray fear and confusion adds to the film’s unsettling tone, making Carrie a memorable character.

Directed by Babak Anvari, “Wounds” delves into themes of paranoia and supernatural occurrences, with Johnson’s character at the center of the unfolding horror. Her portrayal of Carrie’s descent into madness is compelling, showcasing her range in handling darker, more complex roles. The film’s haunting narrative is bolstered by Johnson’s ability to convey the terror and instability of her character. Johnson did not win any awards for her role in “Wounds,” but her performance was noted for its intensity.

9. “How to Be Single” (2016) – Alice Kepley

In the romantic comedy “How to Be Single,” Dakota Johnson stars as Alice Kepley, a young woman navigating the complexities of single life in New York City. Johnson’s performance is refreshing and relatable, bringing humor and heart to Alice’s journey of self-discovery. Her comedic timing and chemistry with co-stars Rebel Wilson and Leslie Mann make this film a delightful addition to her filmography.

Directed by Christian Ditter, “How to Be Single” explores various perspectives on relationships and singlehood. Johnson’s portrayal of Alice, who decides to take a break from her long-term boyfriend and experience single life, is both endearing and entertaining. Her ability to balance comedic moments with genuine emotional beats highlights her versatility as an actress. Although Johnson did not receive any awards for this role, her performance was praised for its charm and relatability.

10. “Black Mass” (2015) – Lindsey Cyr

In the crime drama “Black Mass,” Johnson portrays Lindsey Cyr, the girlfriend of notorious gangster Whitey Bulger. Although her screen time is limited, Johnson makes a significant impact with her portrayal of Lindsey’s conflicted emotions and loyalty. Her scenes with Johnny Depp, who plays Bulger, are particularly compelling, showcasing her ability to hold her own alongside seasoned actors.

Directed by Scott Cooper, “Black Mass” is a gritty and intense portrayal of Bulger’s criminal empire. Johnson’s role as Lindsey, the mother of Bulger’s son, adds a humanizing element to the film’s portrayal of the infamous gangster. Her performance, though brief, is impactful, demonstrating her ability to deliver strong supporting roles that leave a lasting impression. Johnson did not receive individual awards for her role, but her performance contributed to the film’s overall acclaim.

Conclusion

Dakota Johnson’s diverse filmography demonstrates her versatility and talent as an actress. From intense dramas to light-hearted comedies, she has consistently delivered captivating performances that resonate with audiences. Each role showcases a different facet of her acting abilities, whether it’s portraying complex emotional journeys, navigating psychological thrillers, or bringing humor and warmth to romantic comedies.

As she continues to take on new and challenging roles, Johnson’s star in Hollywood is undoubtedly on the rise, and her best performances are yet to come.

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