Kirsten Dunst’s Top 15 Films Ranked by IMDb Score

Kirsten Dunst has been a captivating presence on screen since her childhood, evolving from a gifted young actor to a versatile star in diverse roles. Her career spans heartfelt dramas, quirky comedies, and blockbuster hits, showcasing her knack for bringing depth and charm to every character.

I’ve ranked her top 15 movies based on IMDb scores, starting from the lowest to the highest. Each film highlights her ability to shine, whether she’s a teen icon or a complex adult lead, making her one of Hollywood’s most enduring talents.

15. ‘Mona Lisa Smile’ (2003)

‘Mona Lisa Smile’ opens with Julia Roberts’ free-spirited professor arriving at a conservative women’s college, where Dunst’s Betty Warren clashes with her progressive ideas. The 1950s setting and sharp dialogue set a lively tone for this drama about defying norms.

Dunst’s portrayal of the smug, tradition-bound Betty is both sharp and layered, revealing cracks in her polished facade. Her performance adds bite to the ensemble, making the film a compelling, if underrated, entry in her career.

14. ‘Bachelorette’ (2012)

‘Bachelorette’ kicks off with a biting reunion of high school friends roped into bridesmaid duties for a woman they once mocked. Dunst’s Regan, a control-freak maid of honor, drives the chaotic, darkly funny opening with her tightly wound energy.

Her biting wit and unraveling composure steal the show, balancing humor and vulnerability. This raunchy comedy lets Dunst flex her comedic chops in a refreshingly unpolished role.

13. ‘Wimbledon’ (2004)

The romantic comedy ‘Wimbledon’ starts with Paul Bettany’s fading tennis pro meeting Dunst’s rising star, Lizzie Bradbury, sparking a flirty, upbeat vibe. The sunlit courts and quick banter set a lighthearted tone for their underdog love story.

Dunst’s confident, playful performance anchors the film’s charm, making Lizzie both relatable and magnetic. It’s a breezy, feel-good role that showcases her rom-com appeal.

12. ‘On the Road’ (2012)

‘On the Road’ opens with a restless Sal Paradise hitting the road, where Dunst’s Camille, a free-spirited artist, appears in a vibrant, jazz-fueled montage. The Beat Generation aesthetic sets a dreamy, rebellious tone for this Jack Kerouac adaptation.

Dunst’s brief but soulful performance captures Camille’s longing and defiance, adding emotional weight to the sprawling story. Her presence elevates the film’s fleeting, poetic moments.

11. ‘Elizabethtown’ (2005)

‘Elizabethtown’ begins with Orlando Bloom’s character facing a career flop, only to meet Dunst’s quirky flight attendant, Claire, whose sunny optimism lights up the opening. Her warm, eccentric energy sets the stage for a heartfelt road trip.

Dunst’s radiant performance as Claire brings a touch of magic to the film’s bittersweet tone. Despite mixed reviews, her charm makes this Cameron Crowe romance memorable.

10. ‘The Cat’s Meow’ (2001)

‘The Cat’s Meow’ dives into a glamorous 1920s yacht party, where Dunst’s Marion Davies navigates a web of Hollywood intrigue. The moody, jazz-soaked opening hints at the scandal and murder to come in this Peter Bogdanovich drama.

Dunst’s lively yet vulnerable portrayal of the real-life actress is captivating, blending charm with quiet strength. Her performance grounds the film’s mix of glitz and mystery.

9. ‘Bring It On’ (2000)

‘Bring It On’ bursts open with a high-energy cheer routine led by Dunst’s Torrance Shipman, instantly hooking you with its sharp wit and infectious spirit. The colorful, campy vibe sets up this cult classic teen comedy.

Dunst’s natural charisma and comedic timing make Torrance a lovable leader, tackling rivalry and romance with heart. This role cemented her as a teen movie icon.

8. ‘Jumanji’ (1995)

‘Jumanji’ starts with two kids, including Dunst’s Judy, finding a magical board game that unleashes jungle chaos. The fast-paced, eerie opening, paired with Robin Williams’ wild energy, grabs you from the first roll of the dice.

Dunst, only 13, holds her own as a grieving yet brave teen, adding emotional depth to the adventure. Her performance helped make this a beloved ‘90s classic.

7. ‘Dick’ (1999)

The satirical comedy ‘Dick’ opens with Dunst and Michelle Williams as giddy teens stumbling into the Watergate scandal during a White House tour. Their goofy charm and absurd antics set a hilarious tone for this Nixon-era parody.

Dunst’s bubbly, naive Betsy is a comedic gem, perfectly balancing innocence and cunning. Her chemistry with Williams makes this quirky film a standout.

6. ‘The Beguiled’ (2017)

Sofia Coppola’s ‘The Beguiled’ begins with a tense, misty scene as a wounded soldier enters an all-girls’ school during the Civil War. Dunst’s Edwina, a repressed teacher, adds quiet unease to the gothic atmosphere.

Her subtle, aching performance conveys longing and restraint, elevating the film’s slow-burn drama. Dunst’s third collaboration with Coppola showcases her knack for nuanced roles.

5. ‘Spider-Man’ (2002)

‘Spider-Man’ opens with Tobey Maguire’s Peter Parker pining for Dunst’s Mary Jane Watson, setting up a vibrant, comic-book world. The energetic high school scenes and iconic spider bite kick off Sam Raimi’s superhero classic.

Dunst’s warm, relatable Mary Jane grounds the blockbuster action, making her a perfect girl-next-door. Her chemistry with Maguire, especially in the upside-down kiss, is unforgettable.

4. ‘Little Women’ (1994)

‘Little Women’ starts with the March sisters’ cozy, wartime home, where Dunst’s young Amy March brings mischief and charm. The warm, period setting draws you into this heartfelt Louisa May Alcott adaptation.

Dunst, just 12, steals scenes with her spirited, bratty energy, making Amy both irritating and lovable. Her performance earned her a Young Artist Award.

3. ‘Interview with the Vampire’ (1994)

The gothic horror ‘Interview with the Vampire’ opens with a haunting New Orleans flashback, where Dunst’s Claudia, a child vampire, is born into eternal torment. Her eerie, angelic presence sets a chilling tone.

At 12, Dunst delivers a stunning performance, blending innocence and rage as Claudia grapples with her cursed existence. Her Golden Globe-nominated role launched her career.

2. ‘The Power of the Dog’ (2021)

‘The Power of the Dog’ begins with a stark Montana ranch, where Dunst’s Rose, a widowed mother, faces tension with her new brother-in-law, played by Benedict Cumberbatch. The moody, expansive opening sets up Jane Campion’s gripping psychodrama.

Dunst’s raw, vulnerable performance as Rose, unraveling under subtle cruelty, earned her an Oscar nomination. Her emotional depth makes this a career highlight.

1. ‘Melancholia’ (2011)

Lars von Trier’s ‘Melancholia’ opens with surreal, dreamlike visuals of a planet colliding with Earth, introducing Dunst’s Justine, a bride spiraling into depression. The haunting imagery and raw emotion grip you instantly.

Dunst’s fearless performance, which won her Best Actress at Cannes, captures Justine’s inner turmoil with heartbreaking clarity. This sci-fi drama is her finest work, blending fragility and strength.

Which Kirsten Dunst movie tops your list, or is there a hidden gem I missed? Drop your favorites in the comments!