The Best Actress Performances of 2025

The cinematic landscape of 2025 was defined by a diverse range of powerful performances from leading women across every major genre. Audiences witnessed a blend of legendary stars returning to form and rising talents who solidified their status as modern icons. These actresses navigated complex narratives involving high stakes action, intimate psychological drama, and vibrant musical storytelling. This collection highlights the most impressive work that graced the silver screen over the past twelve months.

Cynthia Erivo – ‘Wicked: For Good’ (2025)

Cynthia Erivo concludes her journey as Elphaba in the second installment of the massive musical adaptation. Her vocal performance anchors the emotional weight of the story as her character fully embraces her identity as the Wicked Witch of the West. The actress explores the cost of standing up for her principles against the corruption of Oz. Her transformation is both heartbreaking and empowering for viewers who followed the story from its inception.

Ariana Grande – ‘Wicked: For Good‘ (2025)

Ariana Grande reprises her role as Glinda the Good in this concluding chapter of the epic fantasy saga. She balances comedic timing with a deepening sense of regret as the political climate of the land shifts. The performance highlights her growth from a superficial socialite to a leader burdened by the expectations of her people. Grande earns praise for her vocal precision and her ability to humanize a character often seen through a lens of perfection.

Rachel Brosnahan – ‘Superman’ (2025)

Rachel Brosnahan steps into the iconic role of Lois Lane in this fresh interpretation of the legendary superhero story. She portrays the tenacious reporter with a blend of sharp wit and unwavering professional integrity as she pursues the truth in Metropolis. Her chemistry with the Man of Steel provides the emotional core of the film while she maintains her own agency as a skilled journalist. Critics noted that her performance successfully modernizes the character for a contemporary audience.

Vanessa Kirby – ‘The Fantastic Four: First Steps’ (2025)

Vanessa Kirby brings depth and intelligence to the role of Sue Storm in this long awaited entry into the superhero genre. She portrays the invisible woman as the grounding force of the team while exploring her unique scientific expertise. The actress navigates the challenges of balancing her newfound powers with her personal relationships in a world of high stakes science fiction. Her performance highlights the strength and resilience necessary to lead a family of heroes.

Scarlett Johansson – ‘Jurassic World Rebirth’ (2025)

Scarlett Johansson leads the latest installment of the prehistoric franchise as a skilled covert operations expert. She delivers a physically demanding performance that emphasizes her character’s resourcefulness in the face of ancient predators. The actress brings a grounded intensity to the survival narrative while uncovering a conspiracy that threatens the global ecosystem. This role marks a significant return to major blockbuster action for the acclaimed star.

Ana de Armas – ‘Ballerina’ (2025)

Ana de Armas portrays an assassin trained in the traditions of the Ruska Roma in this expansion of the John Wick universe. She seeks revenge against the individuals responsible for the murder of her family through a series of expertly choreographed combat sequences. The actress performs intense physical stunts while displaying a raw emotional vulnerability throughout her quest for justice. Her performance cements her status as a formidable lead in the action genre.

Jessie Buckley – ‘The Bride!’ (2025)

Jessie Buckley delivers a haunting and visceral performance as the central character in this reimagining of a classic horror tale. She explores themes of identity and autonomy as she navigates a world that views her as a monstrous creation. The actress uses her expressive physicality to convey the internal struggle of a being coming into her own consciousness. Her work in the film has been described as a transformative and deeply disturbing look at rebirth.

Jennifer Lawrence – ‘Die, My Love’ (2025)

Jennifer Lawrence stars as a woman grappling with the isolation and intensity of motherhood in a rural environment. She portrays a character descending into a state of psychological unrest as she struggles with the expectations of her domestic life. The actress provides a raw and uninhibited performance that captures the chaos of a fractured mind. This role showcases her ability to tackle complex and demanding dramatic material with total commitment.

Emma Stone – ‘Bugonia’ (2025)

Emma Stone collaborates once again with visionary director Yorgos Lanthimos in this unique science fiction thriller. She plays a woman caught in a bizarre conspiracy involving corporate secrets and extraterrestrial theories. The actress delivers a performance full of dry wit and eccentric energy that perfectly matches the surreal tone of the film. Her ability to navigate the absurd while maintaining emotional truth remains a highlight of her career.

Cate Blanchett – ‘Black Bag’ (2025)

Cate Blanchett leads this high stakes espionage thriller with her signature sophistication and commanding screen presence. She portrays a veteran intelligence officer caught in a web of international deceit and internal betrayal. The actress masterfully navigates the tension of the narrative while keeping her character’s true motivations shrouded in mystery. Her work adds a layer of prestige and gravitas to the fast paced world of modern spy cinema.

Naomi Ackie – ‘Mickey 17’ (2025)

Naomi Ackie provides a standout performance as a key companion to the protagonist in this philosophical science fiction adventure. She brings warmth and intelligence to a character navigating a dangerous colonization mission on an ice world. The actress explores the ethical dilemmas of survival and the nature of human connection in extreme circumstances. Her performance serves as a vital emotional anchor in the grand scale of the production.

Toni Collette – ‘Mickey 17’ (2025)

Toni Collette delivers a sharp and often terrifying performance as a high ranking official overseeing a perilous space mission. She embodies the cold pragmatism of a corporation that treats human lives as expendable resources. The actress utilizes her immense range to create a character who is both efficient and morally ambiguous. Her presence on screen creates a constant sense of tension for the heroes of the story.

Rachel Zegler – ‘Snow White’ (2025)

Rachel Zegler takes on the title role in this live action adaptation of the classic fairy tale with a modern sensibility. She brings her formidable vocal talents to new musical sequences that expand the history of the character. The actress portrays a leader who must find her own voice and strength to reclaim her kingdom from a dark influence. Critics praised her ability to honor the roots of the story while offering a fresh perspective.

Jodie Comer – ’28 Years Later’ (2025)

Jodie Comer stars in the revival of the iconic zombie franchise as a survivor navigating a world long after the initial outbreak. She provides a gritty and resilient performance that captures the weariness of a life lived in constant danger. The actress balances intense action with quiet moments of reflection on the loss of civilization. Her involvement brings a new level of psychological depth to the established horror series.

Zendaya – ‘The Drama’ (2025)

Zendaya anchors this intimate character study as a young woman caught in the middle of a collapsing relationship. She delivers a naturalistic performance that focuses on the subtle shifts in emotion and communication during a personal crisis. The actress demonstrates her maturity as a performer by carrying the weight of the film through dialogue and expression rather than spectacle. This role highlights her status as one of the most versatile talents of her generation.

Anne Hathaway – ‘Mother Mary’ (2025)

Anne Hathaway portrays a fictional pop star navigating the pressures of fame and public scrutiny in this vibrant musical drama. She performs original songs with a theatrical flair that captures the energy of a global stadium tour. The actress also explores the private loneliness and artistic frustration that exist behind the glamorous facade of celebrity. Her performance is a multifaceted look at the intersection of art and commerce in the modern world.

Michaela Coel – ‘Mother Mary’ (2025)

Michaela Coel stars as a renowned fashion designer who forms a complex and intense bond with a world famous singer. She brings a sharp intellect and a fierce sense of style to a role that demands both creative and emotional transparency. The actress explores the dynamics of power and inspiration within a high profile professional partnership. Her presence provides a compelling counterpoint to the musical spectacle of the narrative.

Angelina Jolie – ‘Maria’ (2025)

Angelina Jolie delivers a transformative performance as the legendary opera singer Maria Callas during her final days in Paris. She captures the elegance and the immense tragedy of a woman whose voice defined an era of music. The actress utilizes a refined physicality to portray the fragility and the lingering fire of a global icon. This role has been hailed as a significant achievement that showcases her profound dramatic capabilities.

Lupita Nyong’o – ‘The Woman in the Yard’ (2025)

Lupita Nyong’o leads this psychological thriller as a woman haunted by a mysterious presence in her own home. She portrays a mother driven to the edge of sanity as she tries to protect her family from an unseen threat. The actress excels at conveying a sense of escalating dread through her expressive eyes and physical tension. Her performance is the driving force behind the film’s most terrifying and suspenseful moments.

Mila Kunis – ‘Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery’ (2025)

Mila Kunis joins the star studded cast of the third Benoit Blanc mystery as a character with a hidden agenda. she brings a sharp wit and a sense of unpredictability to the ensemble of suspects in a high stakes murder investigation. The actress navigates the intricate plot with a performance that keeps the audience guessing about her true intentions. Her comedic timing and chemistry with the rest of the cast make her a standout in the film.

Glenn Close – ‘Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery’ (2025)

Glenn Close delivers a formidable and commanding performance as the matriarch of a family caught in a web of lies. She embodies a character of great wealth and secret resentment who challenges the investigative skills of Benoit Blanc. The actress uses her veteran presence to command every scene she inhabits with a blend of grace and menace. Her role adds a layer of classic Hollywood prestige to the contemporary mystery franchise.

Kerry Washington – ‘Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery’ (2025)

Kerry Washington portrays a strategic and observant guest at the center of a deadly puzzle in this detective sequel. She brings a focused energy to the screen as her character attempts to navigate the dangerous accusations flying around the group. The actress skillfully handles the complex dialogue and shifting allegiances that are trademarks of the series. Her performance provides a grounded and intelligent perspective within the chaotic investigation.

Elizabeth Olsen – ‘Eternity’ (2025)

Elizabeth Olsen stars in this romantic fantasy as a woman who discovers her connection to a cycle of reincarnation. She portrays her character across different time periods with subtle changes in mannerism and temperament. The actress explores the themes of enduring love and the weight of memory in a narrative that spans centuries. Her performance is central to the film’s exploration of what it means to truly know another person.

Anya Taylor-Joy – ‘Sacrifice’ (2025)

Anya Taylor-Joy leads this dark and atmospheric thriller as a woman drawn into a dangerous cult with ancient roots. She delivers a performance that transitions from curiosity and wonder to a desperate struggle for survival. The actress uses her unique screen presence to highlight the unsettling nature of the community she has entered. Her work in the film is both visually striking and emotionally resonant as she faces impossible choices.

Salma Hayek – ‘Sacrifice’ (2025)

Salma Hayek portrays the charismatic and intimidating leader of a secretive society in this suspenseful drama. She commands the screen with a performance that balances maternal warmth with a ruthless devotion to her group’s ideology. The actress creates a character who is both alluring and terrifying as she exerts control over those around her. Her presence is vital to the film’s exploration of power and manipulation within a closed community.

Margaret Qualley – ‘Honey Don’t!’ (2025)

Margaret Qualley stars in this dark comedy as a woman who becomes entangled in the world of a strange private investigator. She brings a quirky energy and a sense of frantic determination to her character’s chaotic journey. The actress demonstrates her talent for physical comedy while maintaining a sense of genuine stakes for her character. Her performance is a highlight of this unconventional and fast paced narrative.

Aubrey Plaza – ‘Honey Don’t!’ (2025)

Aubrey Plaza delivers a deadpan and expertly timed performance as a mysterious figure with a penchant for investigation. She utilizes her signature comedic style to create a character who is both enigmatic and deeply cynical. The actress plays off her costars with a sharp wit that drives the humor of the film. Her work adds a layer of dry irony to the increasingly bizarre events of the plot.

Greta Lee – ‘Tron: Ares’ (2025)

Greta Lee joins the digital world of the Grid as a brilliant programmer who bridges the gap between reality and simulation. She brings a sense of wonder and intellectual curiosity to a story focused on the evolution of artificial intelligence. The actress navigates the heavy visual effects with a grounded performance that keeps the human element at the center of the action. Her role is essential to the film’s themes of creation and responsibility in a high tech future.

Shira Haas – ‘Captain America: Brave New World’ (2025)

Shira Haas enters the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Ruth Bat-Seraph in this global political thriller. She portrays a character with a complex past and unique abilities who must navigate the shifting alliances of the modern world. The actress brings a quiet intensity and a sense of mystery to her role as she assists the new Captain America. Her performance has been noted for its subtlety and the way it adds depth to the film’s espionage themes.

Sydney Sweeney – ‘Echo Valley’ (2025)

Sydney Sweeney stars as a young woman struggling to recover from a personal tragedy in this tense psychological thriller. She delivers a performance that focuses on the fragility and the burgeoning strength of a survivor. The actress works alongside a veteran cast to create a realistic portrayal of a family dealing with secrets and lies. Her ability to convey internal turmoil through nuanced expressions is a key element of the film’s success.

Julianne Moore – ‘Echo Valley’ (2025)

Julianne Moore plays a mother who will go to extreme lengths to protect her daughter in this dark family drama. She portrays a woman whose life is upended by a sudden act of violence and the subsequent cover up. The actress delivers a performance full of grit and maternal desperation as she navigates a series of moral dilemmas. Her work adds a profound sense of urgency and emotional weight to the suspenseful narrative.

Zoe Saldaña – ‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ (2025)

Zoe Saldaña returns as Neytiri in the third installment of the groundbreaking science fiction franchise. She portrays the warrior mother as she faces new threats to her people and her family from within Pandora itself. The actress continues to master the art of performance capture to deliver a deeply emotional and physically expressive character. Her work remains the emotional heartbeat of the series as it explores the darker sides of Na’vi culture.

Michelle Yeoh – ‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ (2025)

Michelle Yeoh joins the cast of the epic saga as a human scientist who has a deep understanding of the world of Pandora. She brings a calm and authoritative presence to a role that bridges the gap between the warring factions. The actress explores the ethical implications of her character’s research and her loyalty to the environment. Her performance adds a level of gravitas and wisdom to the expanding universe of the film.

Jessie Buckley – ‘Hamnet’ (2025)

Jessie Buckley takes on the role of Agnes Hathaway in this historical drama about the family of William Shakespeare. She portrays a woman of great intuition and strength who must cope with the devastating loss of her young son. The actress delivers a performance that is both intimate and epic in its emotional scope as it explores grief and motherhood. Her work captures the spirit of a woman who lived in the shadow of history but possessed a soul of her own.

Saoirse Ronan – ‘Bad Apples’ (2025)

Saoirse Ronan stars as a dedicated primary school teacher who finds herself in a bizarre and increasingly dangerous situation. She brings a sense of normalcy and decency to a narrative that slowly descends into surreal chaos. The actress excels at portraying a character who is trying to maintain order while her world falls apart around her. Her performance is a testament to her ability to lead a story with intelligence and relatable emotion.

Dakota Johnson – ‘Materialists’ (2025)

Dakota Johnson leads this modern romantic comedy set against the backdrop of high end matchmaking in New York City. She portrays a woman who finds herself caught between a stable relationship and a passionate past flame. The actress delivers a performance full of charm and dry humor that explores the complications of love in a materialistic society. Her chemistry with her costars makes the film a refreshing and entertaining look at contemporary dating.

Rosamund Pike – ‘Edith’ (2025)

Rosamund Pike stars in this biographical drama about a woman who defies societal expectations in the early twentieth century. She portrays her character with a fierce intelligence and a refusal to conform to the limitations placed upon her gender. The actress navigates the character’s journey through various triumphs and scandals with a consistent sense of dignity. Her performance is a powerful tribute to a historical figure who paved the way for future generations.

Cailee Spaeny – ‘Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery’ (2025)

Cailee Spaeny brings a youthful and inquisitive energy to the ensemble cast of the latest Benoit Blanc mystery. She plays a character who might be more observant than she initially appears to be during the investigation. The actress demonstrates her range by holding her own alongside veteran stars in a script filled with fast paced dialogue. Her performance adds a layer of fresh perspective to the complex and winding plot of the film.

Florence Pugh – ‘Thunderbolts*’ (2025)

Florence Pugh returns as Yelena Belova in this ensemble action film focused on a team of antiheroes. She portrays the character with a mix of lethal precision and sarcastic wit as she navigates a dangerous government mission. The actress continues to develop the emotional complexity of a woman seeking her own path outside of her past as a spy. Her chemistry with the other members of the team provides many of the film’s most engaging moments.

Sandra Hüller – ‘Rosebushpruning’ (2025)

Sandra Hüller stars in this challenging and artistic drama that explores the intricate power dynamics of a family. She delivers a performance that is both austere and deeply felt as her character navigates a world of tradition and repressed emotion. The actress uses her incredible focus to command the audience’s attention in every scene. Her work in the film has been praised for its intellectual depth and its refusal to offer easy answers.

Elle Fanning – ‘A Complete Unknown’ (2025)

Elle Fanning portrays a pivotal figure in the life of a young Bob Dylan in this biographical look at the 1960s folk scene. She brings a sense of bohemian grace and intellectual curiosity to her role as a muse and companion. The actress captures the spirit of a changing era through her performance and her interactions with the legendary musician. Her work provides a vital human connection in a story about the birth of a cultural icon.

Tilda Swinton – ‘The Room Next Door’ (2025)

Tilda Swinton stars in this intimate drama that explores the relationship between two women facing a life altering decision. She delivers a performance of great quietude and profound emotional honesty as she navigates the complexities of friendship and mortality. The actress demonstrates her ability to convey a vast internal world with minimal dialogue. Her collaboration with her costar is the primary focus of this moving and deeply human story.

Julianne Moore – ‘The Room Next Door’ (2025)

Julianne Moore provides a powerful counterpoint to her costar in this story about the enduring bonds of friendship. She portrays a woman who must confront her own feelings about life and death while supporting someone she loves. The actress brings a sense of warmth and vulnerability to a role that demands great empathy and strength. Her performance is a masterclass in nuanced dramatic acting and emotional resonance.

Fernanda Torres – ‘I’m Still Here’ (2025)

Fernanda Torres delivers a tour de force performance as a mother fighting for the truth during a period of political upheaval in Brazil. She portrays a character of immense resilience who refuses to be silenced by an oppressive regime. The actress captures the exhaustion and the unwavering determination of a woman seeking justice for her missing family members. Her work has been recognized as one of the most significant and moving performances of the year.

Mikey Madison – ‘Anora’ (2025)

Mikey Madison stars as a young sex worker who becomes involved in a whirlwind romance with the son of an oligarch. She brings a raw and energetic presence to a role that shifts from romantic fantasy to a desperate scramble for survival. The actress navigates the film’s chaotic and often humorous journey with a performance that is both gritty and deeply sympathetic. Her work in the film solidified her as a major breakout talent in the independent cinema scene.

Karla Sofía Gascón – ‘Emilia Pérez’ (2025)

Karla Sofía Gascón delivers a groundbreaking performance as a cartel leader who undergoes gender affirming surgery to start a new life. She portrays the character’s transition with a profound sense of courage and emotional depth. The actress balances the high stakes drama of her past with the hopeful possibilities of her future in this unique musical crime film. her work is a historic achievement that has resonated with audiences and critics globally.

Selena Gomez – ‘Emilia Pérez’ (2025)

Selena Gomez plays a key role in this unconventional musical drama as a woman affected by the decisions of a powerful figure. She delivers a performance that showcases her maturity as an actress and her ability to handle complex emotional material. The actress contributes to the film’s vibrant musical sequences while maintaining a grounded and relatable character. Her involvement adds a contemporary and popular appeal to the ambitious production.

Marianne Jean-Baptiste – ‘Hard Truths’ (2025)

Marianne Jean-Baptiste stars in this powerful character study about a woman facing the realities of her past and her family. She brings a fierce and uncompromising energy to a role that demands total emotional transparency. The actress explores themes of regret and reconciliation with a performance that is both painful and cathartic to watch. Her work is a reminder of her incredible talent for capturing the complexities of the human spirit.

Amy Adams – ‘Nightbitch’ (2025)

Amy Adams delivers a visceral and transformative performance as a mother who begins to believe she is turning into a dog. She explores the primal urges and the psychological strain of domestic life through a physically demanding role. The actress manages to balance the absurdity of the premise with a genuine sense of emotional stakes and maternal longing. Her performance is a bold and fearless exploration of identity and the female experience.

Pamela Anderson – ‘The Last Showgirl’ (2025)

Pamela Anderson provides a career defining performance as a veteran showgirl facing the end of her long running production in Las Vegas. She captures the dignity and the heartbreak of a performer who must figure out her next steps in a world that values youth. The actress brings a surprising depth and vulnerability to a role that mirrors her own journey in the public eye. Critics hailed her work as a poignant and highly effective return to the spotlight.

Please share which of these incredible performances left the greatest impact on you in the comments.