Jodie Foster’s Career: From ‘Napoleon and Samantha’ to ‘Nyad’

Jodie Foster has built a remarkable career in Hollywood, starting as a child actor and becoming a celebrated actress and director. She first appeared on television at the age of three and quickly moved into films, showing a talent far beyond her years. Her early roles demonstrated her range, setting the stage for a successful transition into more mature and complex characters as she grew older.

Over several decades, Foster has consistently chosen challenging and diverse roles. She is known for her powerful performances, earning numerous awards and critical acclaim. From playing a teenage victim in a controversial film to portraying a brilliant FBI trainee, her filmography showcases her ability to tackle demanding parts. Her work reflects a dedication to her craft and a preference for telling meaningful stories.

‘Napoleon and Samantha’ (1972)

In this early Disney film, Jodie Foster played the role of Samantha. The story follows two children who, after the death of Samantha’s grandfather, run away with a retired circus lion to escape being sent to an orphanage. Foster’s performance as the determined and resourceful Samantha was praised, showcasing her natural acting ability at a young age.

The film was a significant starting point for Foster in feature films. It established her as a capable child actress in Hollywood. Her chemistry with her co-star Michael Douglas and the gentle lion, Major, made the movie a memorable family adventure. It was a clear sign of the promising career that lay ahead for her.

‘Kansas City Bomber’ (1972)

In this sports drama, Jodie Foster took on the supporting role of Rita, the daughter of a roller derby star, K.C. Carr. The film centers on K.C.’s life as a single mother navigating the competitive and often brutal world of roller derby. Foster’s role as the daughter provides a glimpse into the personal life and motivations of the main character.

Although a smaller part in her early career, the role placed Foster in a major studio production alongside a prominent star. Her presence added an emotional layer to the story, highlighting the sacrifices her mother makes. The film itself offered a look into the popular, theatrical world of Roller Games.

‘Tom Sawyer’ (1973)

Jodie Foster portrayed Becky Thatcher in this musical adaptation of Mark Twain’s famous novel. As Tom Sawyer’s love interest, her character is a key part of his adventures and maturation. Foster brought a youthful charm to the role of the well-mannered girl who becomes entangled in Tom’s escapades in their Missouri town.

The film was a family-friendly musical that featured a cast of young actors. Foster’s performance as Becky was a notable part of the ensemble, and she shared the screen with Johnny Whitaker, with whom she had worked the previous year. The role continued to build her experience in mainstream film productions.

‘One Little Indian’ (1973)

In this Western comedy, Jodie Foster plays Martha McIver, a young girl who is part of a family traveling by wagon. She befriends a U.S. Cavalry corporal who is on the run with a camel and a young Native American boy. Foster’s character is a sweet and supportive presence in the unusual group’s journey.

The film was another of Foster’s early roles for Disney, blending adventure, comedy, and family-friendly themes. Her performance as Martha added to the heartwarming aspects of the story. It provided her with more experience in the Western genre and showcased her ability to connect with audiences as a young, likable character.

‘Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore’ (1974)

Jodie Foster took on the role of Audrey, a rebellious and tomboyish girl, in Martin Scorsese’s film. Audrey befriends the son of the main character, Alice, and her small but impactful performance added a layer of realism to the story of a woman starting her life over. Foster held her own alongside seasoned actors.

This part marked a move toward more mature and complex characters for Foster. Working with a director like Martin Scorsese at such a young age provided her with valuable experience. Her portrayal of Audrey was authentic and demonstrated her ability to play characters with a tough exterior, a skill she would refine in later roles.

‘Taxi Driver’ (1976)

In one of her most iconic roles, Jodie Foster played Iris Steensma, a teenage prostitute. The role was controversial due to her young age, but her performance was widely acclaimed for its maturity and depth. She portrayed Iris with a compelling mix of vulnerability and street smarts, earning her an Academy Award nomination.

This film was a turning point in Foster’s career, proving she could handle intensely dramatic and challenging material. Her collaboration with director Martin Scorsese and actor Robert De Niro resulted in a powerful and unforgettable performance. The role of Iris established her as a serious actress and remains one of the most talked-about performances of her career.

‘Echoes of a Summer’ (1976)

Jodie Foster starred as Deirdre Striden, a young girl with a terminal heart condition whose parents try to give her one last happy summer. Her performance was central to the film’s emotional weight, portraying a character who is aware of her mortality but still full of life. She navigates her feelings and the concerns of her family with a maturity that was becoming her trademark.

The role was a demanding and dramatic one for a young actress, requiring her to convey a wide range of emotions. Foster’s portrayal was praised for its depth and sensitivity, further demonstrating her ability to handle serious subject matter. The film itself is a touching story about family, love, and loss, with Foster’s performance at its core.

‘Bugsy Malone’ (1976)

In this unique musical gangster spoof, Jodie Foster played Tallulah, a speakeasy singer and the girlfriend of a mob boss. The film famously features an all-child cast playing adult roles, using “splurge guns” that shoot whipped cream instead of bullets. Foster’s performance as the confident and glamorous Tallulah was a standout.

Her role showcased her versatility and screen presence, even in a stylized and unconventional film. Director Alan Parker praised her intelligence and understanding of the filmmaking process. For her work in both ‘Bugsy Malone’ and ‘Taxi Driver,’ Foster won two BAFTA awards, highlighting her remarkable talent at a young age.

‘The Little Girl Who Lives Down the Lane’ (1976)

Jodie Foster starred as Rynn Jacobs, a mysterious and intelligent teenager living alone in a secluded house. She must protect her dark secret from the prying eyes of her landlord and his predatory son. Foster’s portrayal of the self-sufficient and resourceful Rynn was central to the film’s suspense and psychological tension.

The role further solidified Foster’s ability to play complex and mature young characters. She carried the film with a performance that was both commanding and nuanced. The movie became a cult classic, and her character’s intellect and resilience were hallmarks of the strong female roles she would continue to seek throughout her career.

‘Freaky Friday’ (1976)

In this Disney comedy, Jodie Foster played Annabel Andrews, a teenager who magically switches bodies with her mother. Foster skillfully portrayed the dual role of a tomboyish teen and her more conservative mother trapped in a teen’s body. Her comedic timing and ability to switch personas were key to the film’s success.

‘Freaky Friday’ showcased Foster’s versatility and her talent for comedy. The film was a commercial hit and became a beloved classic, demonstrating that she could excel in both lighthearted and dramatic genres. Her energetic performance was a highlight, proving her wide appeal to audiences of all ages.

‘Moi, fleur bleue’ (1977)

In this French film, also known as ‘Stop Calling Me Baby!’, Jodie Foster played Isabelle Tristan, a teenager nicknamed “Fleur bleue.” The story follows two sisters, with Foster’s character experiencing the confusions of adolescence and desire. The role was a notable European project for the young actress.

The film explored mature themes and required a nuanced performance from Foster, who was already building a reputation for tackling complex characters. She also recorded songs for the movie’s soundtrack and promoted it on French television, which demonstrated her connection with international cinema early in her career.

‘Casotto’ (1977)

Jodie Foster appeared in this Italian comedy film, titled ‘Beach House’ in English. The movie follows the intertwined stories of various characters during a single Sunday in a large beach cabin. Foster played Teresina Fedeli, a pregnant young woman who is trying to convince her boyfriend to marry her.

Her role in ‘Casotto’ was part of an ensemble cast in a classic Italian comedy style. It marked another of her European film projects, showcasing her willingness to work with international directors and explore different cinematic traditions. The film presented a humorous and observational look at a group of people from different generations.

‘Candleshoe’ (1977)

Jodie Foster starred as Casey Brown, a tough orphan from Los Angeles who is recruited by a con man for a scheme in England. She must pose as the long-lost granddaughter of a wealthy aristocrat to find a hidden treasure. Foster’s character is street-smart and initially resistant but eventually grows fond of the people she is meant to deceive.

This Disney film was an adventure-comedy that blended suspense and humor. Foster’s performance was the anchor of the movie, and she convincingly portrayed Casey’s transformation from a cynical schemer to a caring individual. Her chemistry with the veteran cast, including Helen Hayes and David Niven, was a highlight of the film.

‘Foxes’ (1980)

Jodie Foster led a young cast as Jeanie, the responsible figure in a group of four teenage girls navigating life in the San Fernando Valley. Her character acts as the anchor for her friends as they deal with parties, parents, and personal struggles. Foster provided a grounded and mature performance that captured the complexities of adolescence.

The film was a significant step for Foster into more adult-oriented teen dramas. It realistically portrayed the challenges of growing up and allowed her to explore themes of friendship and responsibility. Her role as the group’s “mother hen” was a departure from her more troubled characters and showed her range as a young adult actress.

‘Carny’ (1980)

In this drama, Jodie Foster played Donna, a small-town waitress who runs away to join a traveling carnival. She becomes involved with two of the carnival’s workers, creating a complicated triangular relationship. Foster’s character is drawn into the strange and often dark world of carnival life.

The role was another step in her transition to more adult characters and themes. The film offered a gritty, atmospheric look at a unique subculture. Foster’s performance captured the mix of fascination and danger her character experiences, holding her own alongside more experienced actors like Gary Busey and Robbie Robertson.

‘O’Hara’s Wife’ (1982)

Jodie Foster appeared as Barbara O’Hara in this comedy-drama. The film centers on a man who begins receiving advice from the ghost of his recently deceased wife. Foster plays the daughter of the main character, dealing with the loss of her mother and her father’s subsequent strange behavior.

In a supporting role, Foster provided an emotional anchor to the film’s blend of supernatural comedy and family drama. Her character reacts to the family’s unusual situation with a mix of concern and disbelief. The film explored themes of grief and moving on, with Foster’s performance contributing to the story’s heart.

‘The Hotel New Hampshire’ (1984)

Jodie Foster played Frannie Berry, one of the siblings in a large, eccentric family that buys and operates a series of hotels. The film follows the family through various trials and bizarre events. Foster’s character is strong-willed and central to many of the story’s dramatic and emotional moments.

This role continued Foster’s transition into adult roles, tackling complex themes within a quirky and unconventional narrative. She delivered a standout performance amidst a talented ensemble cast. The film allowed her to portray a character over a significant period of her life, showcasing her growth and versatility as an actress.

‘Mesmerized’ (1986)

In this psychological drama, Jodie Foster starred as Victoria Thompson, a young New Zealand orphan who marries an older, wealthy man. Her marriage becomes a dark and manipulative relationship, leading to a mysterious death. Foster portrayed a character caught in a web of obsession and control.

The film, which Foster also co-produced, was a dark and atmospheric period piece. It was a challenging role that required her to depict a complex psychological journey. Her performance explored themes of power, isolation, and Victorian-era societal constraints on women.

‘Siesta’ (1987)

Jodie Foster had a supporting role as Nancy in this experimental drama. The film follows a daredevil stuntwoman who wakes up in Spain with amnesia and tries to piece together the events of the past few days. Foster’s character is part of the strange and decadent world the main character navigates.

‘Siesta’ was an art-house film with a non-linear narrative and surreal imagery. Foster was part of an ensemble cast that included Ellen Barkin, Gabriel Byrne, and Isabella Rossellini. Her role contributed to the movie’s mysterious and enigmatic atmosphere.

‘Five Corners’ (1988)

Jodie Foster played Linda in this independent drama set in the Bronx in the 1960s. Her character is being stalked by a disturbed man who was recently released from prison for attempting to assault her. She seeks help from a former neighborhood protector who has since become a pacifist.

The film received positive reviews, and Foster’s performance earned her an Independent Spirit Award. The role was part of her return to acting after college and showcased her ability to portray strong and resilient women facing intense situations. It was a key performance leading up to her breakthrough into major adult roles.

‘Stealing Home’ (1988)

In this drama, Jodie Foster portrayed Katie Chandler, the free-spirited childhood friend of a former baseball player. The story is told through flashbacks as the main character returns home after learning of Katie’s death. Foster’s character is remembered as a vibrant and influential figure in his life.

Although her character appears only in memories, Foster’s performance is central to the film’s emotional core. She portrayed Katie as a complex and captivating individual whose memory inspires the protagonist to re-evaluate his own life. The role was praised for its warmth and luminous quality.

‘The Accused’ (1988)

In a powerful and defining role, Jodie Foster portrayed Sarah Tobias, a young woman who is brutally assaulted in a bar. The film follows her fight for justice against her attackers and the onlookers who encouraged the crime. Foster’s performance was raw, courageous, and deeply moving, earning her first Academy Award for Best Actress.

‘The Accused’ was a landmark film that brought a difficult subject to mainstream audiences. Foster’s portrayal was praised for its honesty and emotional intensity, solidifying her status as a leading dramatic actress. The role had a significant cultural impact and remains one of the most important performances of her career.

‘Catchfire’ (1990)

Jodie Foster starred as Anne Benton, an artist who witnesses a mob killing and goes on the run. A hitman, played by director Dennis Hopper, is sent to eliminate her, but he becomes obsessed and decides he wants her love instead of her life. The film follows their unusual dynamic as they are pursued by both the mob and the police.

The production was known for its on-set difficulties, and the final film was disowned by its director. Under the title ‘Backtrack’, a director’s cut was later released. Despite the troubled production, Foster’s role as a woman in peril who must navigate a dangerous and obsessive relationship was a central part of this action thriller.

‘The Silence of the Lambs’ (1991)

Jodie Foster delivered an unforgettable performance as Clarice Starling, a top FBI trainee hunting a serial killer. To understand the killer’s mind, she must interview the brilliant but manipulative cannibalistic murderer, Dr. Hannibal Lecter. Foster’s portrayal of Starling’s intelligence, determination, and vulnerability was central to the film’s success.

This role earned Foster her second Academy Award for Best Actress and cemented her place as a Hollywood A-lister. The film was a massive critical and commercial success, and her character became a cultural icon. The dynamic between Starling and Lecter is one of the most famous in cinema history, largely due to Foster’s compelling performance.

‘Little Man Tate’ (1991)

In her directorial debut, Jodie Foster also starred as Dede Tate, a working-class single mother raising a child prodigy. She struggles to provide her intellectually gifted son with a normal childhood while also nurturing his extraordinary abilities. Her performance was heartfelt and captured the protective instincts of a mother in a difficult situation.

This project was a major milestone for Foster, showcasing her talents both in front of and behind the camera. Her portrayal of Dede was praised for its warmth and authenticity. The film was a personal and successful endeavor that demonstrated her capabilities as a filmmaker and her commitment to character-driven stories.

‘Shadows and Fog’ (1991)

In Woody Allen’s black-and-white comedy thriller, Jodie Foster had a supporting role as Dorrie, a prostitute. The film is set in a European town where a mild-mannered man is woken up and pressured to join a vigilante group searching for a killer. Dorrie is part of a group of prostitutes who discuss their work and lives.

The role was part of a large ensemble cast filled with well-known actors. Foster’s appearance was a small but notable part of the film’s atmospheric and stylized world. It demonstrated her interest in working with acclaimed directors on diverse and unconventional projects.

‘Sommersby’ (1993)

Jodie Foster starred opposite Richard Gere as Laurel Sommersby, a woman whose husband returns from the Civil War a changed and better man. As she falls in love with this new version of her husband, she begins to suspect he may be an imposter. Foster’s performance was graceful and emotionally complex.

The film was a romantic period drama that showcased a different side of Foster’s acting. She brought strength and subtlety to the role of a woman torn between her past and a hopeful future. Her chemistry with Richard Gere was a key element of the movie’s appeal, and she delivered a compelling and nuanced performance.

‘Maverick’ (1994)

In this Western comedy, Jodie Foster played Mrs. Annabelle Bransford, a charming and cunning poker player with a Southern accent. She joins Bret Maverick and another gambler in a high-stakes poker tournament, with her true motives remaining a mystery. Foster displayed her comedic talents and had great chemistry with her co-stars.

The role was a fun and lighthearted departure from her more dramatic work. Foster proved she could be witty and playful, holding her own alongside Mel Gibson and James Garner. Her performance added a clever and unpredictable element to the entertaining film, showcasing her versatility as an actress.

‘Nell’ (1994)

Jodie Foster took on the challenging role of Nell Kellty, a young woman raised in an isolated cabin who speaks her own unique language. When discovered, a doctor tries to study her and protect her from the outside world. Foster’s portrayal was physically and vocally demanding, requiring immense dedication.

She received an Academy Award nomination for her deeply committed and transformative performance. Foster also served as a producer on the film, showing her growing influence behind the scenes. Her portrayal of Nell was a testament to her willingness to take on unconventional and difficult roles.

‘Contact’ (1997)

Jodie Foster played Dr. Eleanor “Ellie” Arroway, a brilliant and dedicated scientist who discovers a signal from an extraterrestrial intelligence. She leads the effort to decipher the message and embarks on a journey that tests her scientific beliefs and personal convictions. Foster’s performance was intelligent and emotionally resonant.

The film, based on Carl Sagan’s novel, was a thought-provoking science fiction drama. Foster’s portrayal of a woman driven by a lifelong search for truth was the heart of the story. She convincingly conveyed the wonder, frustration, and determination of her character, making the film a compelling exploration of faith and science.

‘Anna and the King’ (1999)

In this period drama, Jodie Foster portrayed Anna Leonowens, a British schoolteacher who travels to Siam (now Thailand) in the 1860s to teach the children of King Mongkut. The film explores the cultural clashes and the eventual deep respect that develops between Anna and the King. Foster brought strength and intelligence to the role.

The film was a visually stunning production, and Foster’s performance was central to its narrative. She depicted Anna as a forward-thinking woman who stands by her principles while navigating a foreign and traditional court. Her portrayal was elegant and captured the spirit of a woman who made a significant impact on a nation’s history.

‘The Dangerous Lives of Altar Boys’ (2002)

Jodie Foster played Sister Assumpta, a stern, one-legged nun who teaches at a Catholic school in the 1970s. She serves as the main antagonist to a group of rebellious boys who create a comic book to escape their restrictive lives. Foster’s character is the rigid authority figure the boys constantly challenge.

In this supporting role, which she also produced, Foster was almost unrecognizable. She brought a formidable and unsympathetic presence to the character, making the boys’ acts of rebellion more impactful. The film was a well-received independent feature that blended live-action with animated sequences from the boys’ comic book.

‘Panic Room’ (2002)

Jodie Foster starred as Meg Altman, a recently divorced mother who, along with her daughter, is trapped in their new home’s panic room during a terrifying home invasion. Foster delivered a tense and physical performance as a mother fighting to protect her child against a group of determined burglars.

Directed by David Fincher, the film was a high-stakes thriller that largely took place in a single location. Foster’s ability to convey fear, resourcefulness, and fierce maternal instinct was crucial to the movie’s suspense. Her powerful performance drove the film and kept audiences on the edge of their seats.

‘A Very Long Engagement’ (2004)

In this French romantic war film, Jodie Foster had a supporting role as Elodie Gordes. The story follows a young woman’s search for her fiancé, who may have been killed during World War I. Foster’s character is a Polish woman living in France, and she delivers her lines entirely in French.

Her small but significant role was praised for its authenticity and emotional depth. Foster, who is fluent in French, seamlessly integrated into the acclaimed European production. The part demonstrated her continued interest in international cinema and her ability to deliver a compelling performance in another language.

‘Flightplan’ (2005)

In this thriller, Jodie Foster played Kyle Pratt, an aircraft engineer whose daughter vanishes during a transatlantic flight. No one on the plane remembers seeing her daughter, and the crew begins to doubt Kyle’s sanity. Foster gave a compelling performance as a frantic mother questioning her own reality while searching for her child.

The role required Foster to carry the emotional weight of the film, portraying a character on the verge of a breakdown. She effectively conveyed the desperation and determination of a parent in a nightmare scenario. The film was a commercial success, thanks in large part to her intense and believable performance.

‘Inside Man’ (2006)

Jodie Foster played Madeline White, a powerful and mysterious fixer hired to protect a bank founder’s sensitive secret during a tense hostage situation. She acts as a calm and calculating player in a high-stakes game between the lead detective and the mastermind behind the bank heist.

In a strong ensemble cast directed by Spike Lee, Foster’s character was an intelligent and morally ambiguous force. She brought a sharp, confident energy to the role, portraying a woman who operates with precision and authority in a world of power and influence. Her performance added a fascinating layer to the clever and stylish thriller.

‘The Brave One’ (2007)

Jodie Foster starred as Erica Bain, a New York radio host who, after a brutal attack leaves her fiancé dead and her own life shattered, becomes a vigilante. She buys a gun for protection and begins to take justice into her own hands, stalking the city streets at night. Foster’s performance was intense and emotionally complex.

The role earned her a Golden Globe nomination and was praised for its raw depiction of trauma and revenge. Foster explored the psychological transformation of her character from a victim to an empowered, yet troubled, figure. The film was a dark and thought-provoking thriller anchored by her powerful central performance.

‘Nim’s Island’ (2008)

Jodie Foster starred as Alexandra Rover, a reclusive, agoraphobic author of adventure novels. She is contacted by a young girl named Nim who lives on a remote island and needs the help of the fictional hero from her books. To help Nim, Alexandra must venture out of her apartment for the first time in months and face her own fears.

In a departure from her more serious roles, Foster embraced a comedic and physically awkward character. The family adventure film was a commercial success and showed a lighter side of her acting, which she had not explored since ‘Maverick’. Her performance was a key part of the movie’s charm and humor.

‘The Beaver’ (2011)

In this psychological drama, which she also directed, Jodie Foster played Meredith Black. She is the wife of a depressed toy executive who begins to communicate solely through a beaver hand puppet. Her character struggles to hold her family together while dealing with her husband’s bizarre new coping mechanism.

The film explored themes of mental illness and family crisis with a unique and challenging premise. Foster’s role as the supportive but strained wife was crucial to grounding the story’s unusual narrative. She delivered a sensitive performance opposite Mel Gibson, navigating the line between the story’s dark humor and its serious emotional core.

‘Carnage’ (2011)

In this dark comedy, Jodie Foster played Penelope Longstreet, one of two mothers who meet with their husbands to civilly discuss a playground fight between their sons. The polite meeting quickly descends into chaos and verbal warfare. Foster excelled in the ensemble cast, portraying her character’s self-righteous and unraveling personality.

Directed by Roman Polanski and based on a play, the film’s single-location setting relied heavily on the strength of its actors. Foster’s performance was a masterclass in comedic and dramatic tension, capturing the passive-aggressive and later outright hostile nature of her character with precision. She was nominated for a Golden Globe for her role.

‘Elysium’ (2013)

Jodie Foster took on the role of Secretary of Defense Jessica Delacourt, the ruthless and determined official in charge of protecting the utopian space station Elysium. She is a cold and formidable antagonist who will stop at nothing to maintain the luxurious lifestyle of Elysium’s citizens and keep immigrants from Earth out.

In this science fiction action film, Foster played a powerful and villainous character. She adopted a distinct accent and a commanding presence to portray the film’s main antagonist. The role was a departure for her, showcasing her ability to play an icy and uncompromising figure in a large-scale blockbuster.

‘Hotel Artemis’ (2018)

Jodie Foster played Jean Thomas, also known as The Nurse, the stern manager of a secret, members-only hospital for criminals in a futuristic Los Angeles. For over two decades, she has run the high-tech facility, but her strict rules are put to the test on one chaotic night.

Foster’s performance was a highlight of the stylish action-thriller. She portrayed a character burdened by her past, who finds a sense of purpose in her unusual and dangerous job. It was a distinctive role that allowed her to play a tough, world-weary character at the center of a unique and action-packed story.

‘The Mauritanian’ (2021)

Jodie Foster portrayed Nancy Hollander, the determined defense attorney who takes on the case of Mohamedou Ould Slahi, a man imprisoned at Guantanamo Bay without charge for years. Foster’s character fights for his right to a fair trial, uncovering a far-reaching conspiracy in the process.

For her compelling and principled performance, Foster won the Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actress. She masterfully depicted the tenacity and conviction of a lawyer fighting an uphill battle against a powerful system. The role was a return to the types of strong, justice-seeking characters that have defined much of her celebrated career.

‘Nyad’ (2023)

In this biographical film, Jodie Foster played Bonnie Stoll, the coach and steadfast friend to long-distance swimmer Diana Nyad. Stoll supports Nyad’s ambitious goal of swimming from Cuba to Florida. Foster’s performance captured the loyalty and tough-love encouragement essential to their partnership.

Her portrayal earned her nominations for an Academy Award and a Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actress. She brought warmth, humor, and a grounded strength to the role, perfectly complementing Annette Bening’s lead performance. The chemistry between the two actresses was praised as the heart of the film.

Now that you’ve journeyed through Jodie Foster’s incredible filmography, which of her many roles has resonated with you the most?