Emma Stone’s Career: From ‘Superbad’ to ‘Eddington’

Emma Stone has become one of Hollywood’s most celebrated actors, known for her incredible range and captivating performances. She first captured audience attention with her natural comedic timing and raspy voice in popular teen comedies. It wasn’t long before she proved her talents extended far beyond making people laugh, taking on complex roles that showcased her dramatic depth.

Her journey has been marked by smart career choices, leading her from high school comedies to blockbuster franchises and critically acclaimed independent films. Stone has collaborated with some of the industry’s most visionary directors and has earned numerous accolades, including two Academy Awards. Her evolution from a funny and relatable screen presence to a powerhouse performer solidifies her status as a true movie star.

‘Superbad’ (2007)

This film served as Emma Stone’s big-screen debut and immediately established her comedic talent. She played Jules, the intelligent and cool high school student who is the object of Jonah Hill’s character’s affection. Though not the main character, she made a memorable impression with her sharp wit and grounded performance among the chaotic antics of the male leads.

The movie itself became a cultural phenomenon and is considered a modern comedy classic. Stone’s role was a crucial stepping stone that introduced her to a wide audience and opened the door for more significant parts. Her natural charisma shone through, proving she could hold her own in a cast of future comedy stars and setting the stage for her rapid rise in Hollywood.

‘The Rocker’ (2008)

In this comedy, Emma Stone played Amelia Stone, the bassist for a high school rock band that recruits a washed-up drummer played by Rainn Wilson. Her character is serious and focused on the band’s success, often acting as the straight-laced counterpart to the wild antics of their new older member. The film follows the band’s unexpected journey to fame.

Stone learned to play the bass for her role in the film, adding another skill to her growing resume. While the movie was not a major box office success, it gave her a more prominent supporting role and continued to build her reputation as a reliable comedic actor. It also showcased her ability to be a grounding presence within an ensemble cast.

‘The House Bunny’ (2008)

Emma Stone starred in this comedy as Natalie Sandler, the brainy and socially conscious president of an unpopular sorority. Her group of misfit sisters gets a makeover and a lesson in popularity from a former Playboy bunny, played by Anna Faris. Stone’s character is initially resistant to the changes but learns to embrace a new side of herself.

The film was a commercial success and found a dedicated audience, becoming something of a cult favorite among fans of early 2000s comedies. Stone’s performance was a key part of the film’s heart, showing her ability to play an intelligent character undergoing a personal transformation. The role further solidified her place as a rising star in Hollywood comedy.

‘Ghosts of Girlfriends Past’ (2009)

In this romantic comedy, Emma Stone played Allison Vandermeersh, the ghost of a former girlfriend who haunts the main character, a womanizer played by Matthew McConaughey. Her character is quirky and energetic, representing his awkward teen years as the “Ghost of Girlfriends Past.” She helps guide him through his history of failed relationships.

The film is a modern retelling of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, but it substitutes romantic partners for the traditional holiday ghosts. Stone’s role was small but memorable, allowing her to stand out with a comedic and slightly unhinged performance. She wore brown contact lenses and braces for the part to fit the character’s flashback persona.

‘Paper Man’ (2009)

Emma Stone took on a dramatic role in this independent film opposite Jeff Daniels. She played Abby, a troubled high school student who forms an unlikely friendship with a struggling novelist who confides in an imaginary superhero friend. Her character has a tragic backstory that she slowly reveals over the course of the film.

The movie explores themes of loneliness, friendship, and the difficulty of growing up. Stone’s performance was praised by critics for its maturity and emotional depth, demonstrating her range beyond the comedic roles she was known for at the time. The film premiered at the Los Angeles Film Festival and showed her commitment to taking on challenging material.

‘Zombieland’ (2009)

This horror-comedy hit featured Emma Stone in a starring role as Wichita, a cynical and resourceful survivor of a zombie apocalypse. Alongside her younger sister Little Rock, she uses her wits to con other survivors, including characters played by Woody Harrelson and Jesse Eisenberg. Her character is tough on the outside but eventually reveals a more vulnerable side.

The film was a massive critical and commercial success, praised for its clever script, humor, and action sequences. Stone’s role as Wichita made her a bona fide star, showcasing her ability to handle action scenes while delivering sharp, comedic dialogue. The character became a fan favorite and a signature role in her early career.

‘Marmaduke’ (2010)

In this family comedy based on the classic comic strip, Emma Stone provided the voice for Mazie, a clever and down-to-earth Australian Shepherd. Her character befriends the titular Great Dane after he moves to a new neighborhood in California. She helps him navigate the social hierarchies of the local dog park.

This marked one of Stone’s first major voice-acting roles in a feature film. She worked alongside a cast of well-known actors, including Owen Wilson, who voiced Marmaduke. The film brought her work to a younger family audience and demonstrated her versatility as a voice performer.

‘Easy A’ (2010)

This smart high school comedy was Emma Stone’s first leading role and it catapulted her to stardom. She played Olive Penderghast, a quick-witted student who uses the school’s rumor mill to her advantage after a white lie about her weekend spirals out of control. The film is a modern tribute to Nathaniel Hawthorne’s novel The Scarlet Letter.

Stone’s performance was widely praised by critics and audiences, earning her a Golden Globe nomination. She carried the entire film with her charm, humor, and relatable vulnerability, delivering a now-iconic monologue directly to the audience via webcam. The movie was a commercial and critical success that proved Stone was a compelling leading lady.

‘Friends with Benefits’ (2011)

Emma Stone had a small but memorable role in this romantic comedy starring Justin Timberlake and Mila Kunis. She played Kayla, the quirky and slightly unstable ex-girlfriend of Timberlake’s character who breaks up with him in the film’s opening scene. Her character is obsessed with John Mayer and delivers a hilarious exit.

Although her screen time was brief, her performance was a standout moment that set the comedic tone for the rest of the movie. The role showed her willingness to take on smaller parts in projects she found interesting. Her appearance was a fun surprise for audiences who were already familiar with her from her leading roles.

‘Crazy, Stupid, Love.’ (2011)

This romantic comedy solidified Emma Stone’s status as a rom-com queen and marked her first on-screen pairing with Ryan Gosling. She played Hannah, a law student who gets swept up in a whirlwind romance with a suave ladies’ man played by Gosling. The film features an ensemble cast and weaves together multiple interconnected love stories.

The movie was celebrated for its smart script and the undeniable chemistry between its leads. The famous scene where Gosling’s character performs a lift from the movie ‘Dirty Dancing’ with Stone’s character became an instantly memorable movie moment. The film’s success highlighted Stone’s versatility, showing she could be both hilarious and a compelling romantic lead.

‘The Help’ (2011)

In this period drama, Emma Stone took on the serious role of Eugenia “Skeeter” Phelan, an aspiring journalist in 1960s Mississippi. Her character decides to write a book from the perspective of African American maids, exposing the racism they face while working for white families. The film is based on the best-selling novel of the same name.

The movie was a massive box office hit and a major awards contender, receiving an Academy Award nomination for Best Picture. Stone’s performance was praised for its sincerity as she portrayed Skeeter’s journey from naive socialite to determined ally. Working alongside a powerful ensemble cast, she demonstrated her capability in a dramatic and emotionally charged setting.

‘The Amazing Spider-Man’ (2012)

Entering the world of superhero blockbusters, Emma Stone took on the iconic role of Gwen Stacy opposite Andrew Garfield’s Peter Parker. In this reboot of the franchise, her character was portrayed not as a damsel in distress but as a sharp, capable science student who was Peter’s intellectual equal. She played a crucial part in helping Spider-Man face his adversaries.

The film was a global box office success, and Stone’s portrayal of Gwen was a major highlight for fans and critics. Her chemistry with co-star Andrew Garfield was particularly praised, bringing a fresh and heartfelt dynamic to the superhero romance. The role introduced her to an even broader international audience and cemented her place as a major Hollywood star.

‘Gangster Squad’ (2013)

In this stylish crime film set in 1949 Los Angeles, Emma Stone played Grace Faraday, a sophisticated etiquette coach entangled with the ruthless mob boss Mickey Cohen. She becomes the love interest of a police sergeant, played by Ryan Gosling, who is part of a secret LAPD unit trying to take down Cohen’s empire. This was her second film with Gosling.

Stone’s character captured the classic femme fatale archetype of old Hollywood noir films. She brought glamour and vulnerability to the role of a woman caught between two dangerous men. The film was noted for its slick visual style and action sequences, giving Stone a chance to star in a gritty period piece.

‘Movie 43’ (2013)

Emma Stone appeared in one segment of this controversial anthology comedy film. She starred alongside Kieran Culkin in a vignette titled “Veronica,” playing a woman on a date whose witty banter with her ex-boyfriend takes a bizarre and shocking turn in a grocery store. The film is known for its large ensemble cast and outrageous sketch-style humor.

The project was filmed over several years with many different directors contributing to the various segments. Stone’s involvement was part of a star-studded cast that included dozens of A-list actors. Despite being panned by critics, the film has gained a reputation for its uniquely absurd and boundary-pushing comedy.

‘The Croods’ (2013)

Emma Stone lent her voice to the character of Eep in this animated adventure film. Eep is the curious and rebellious teenage daughter of a family of prehistoric cavemen who must venture into an unknown world after their cave is destroyed. She is fascinated by the outside world and eager for adventure.

The film was a huge international box office success and was praised for its stunning animation and heartwarming story about family. Stone’s voice work captured Eep’s energetic and adventurous spirit perfectly. The role led to a successful new franchise for the actress, and she would later return to voice the character in sequels and a television series.

‘The Amazing Spider-Man 2’ (2014)

Emma Stone reprised her role as Gwen Stacy in the sequel to the superhero blockbuster. Her character’s relationship with Peter Parker is a central focus of the film as they struggle to balance their love for each other with the dangers of his life as Spider-Man. Gwen also pursues her own ambitions, including an opportunity to study at Oxford University.

The film featured a faithful adaptation of one of the most famous and tragic storylines from the Spider-Man comic books. Stone’s performance was again highly praised for its emotional weight and the powerful chemistry she shared with Andrew Garfield. Her character’s arc in the film remains one of the most talked-about elements of the series.

‘Magic in the Moonlight’ (2014)

In this romantic comedy directed by Woody Allen, Emma Stone starred as Sophie Baker, a charismatic American spiritualist and clairvoyant in the 1920s French Riviera. Her talents attract the attention of a cynical English magician, played by Colin Firth, who sets out to debunk her as a fraud but finds himself falling for her instead.

The film was noted for its beautiful period setting, witty dialogue, and charming atmosphere. Stone’s luminous performance was a highlight, capturing both the mysterious allure and the down-to-earth personality of her character. The role allowed her to work with a legendary director and showcase her skills in a lighthearted, old-fashioned romantic story.

‘Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance)‘ (2014)

This critically acclaimed film earned Emma Stone her first Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. She played Sam Thomson, the recovering addict daughter and personal assistant to a washed-up superhero actor, played by Michael Keaton. The film is famous for its technical style, as it was edited to appear as if it were shot in one continuous take.

Her performance was a powerful departure from her earlier work, showcasing a raw and cynical side that impressed critics. A key scene features an explosive monologue where she confronts her father about his irrelevance, which was frequently cited as a standout moment. The film went on to win the Academy Award for Best Picture, further elevating Stone’s profile as a serious dramatic actor.

‘Aloha’ (2015)

Emma Stone starred in this romantic comedy-drama from director Cameron Crowe. She played Captain Allison Ng, an enthusiastic and idealistic Air Force pilot assigned to work with a military contractor, played by Bradley Cooper, in Hawaii. Her character is a quarter Hawaiian and a quarter Chinese, a heritage that becomes part of the story.

The film featured a star-studded cast but was met with controversy and poor reviews upon its release. The casting of Stone as a character of Asian and Hawaiian descent drew criticism, and both Stone and the director later acknowledged the concerns about whitewashing. The experience was a notable and challenging point in her career.

‘Irrational Man’ (2015)

This was Emma Stone’s second collaboration with director Woody Allen. She played Jill Pollard, a bright college student who becomes fascinated with her new philosophy professor, a tormented and brilliant man played by Joaquin Phoenix. She finds herself drawn into his dark worldview and his plot to commit a perfect crime.

The film is a philosophical mystery that explores themes of morality, chance, and existential dread. Stone’s character acts as the audience’s guide into the professor’s troubled mind, portraying a mix of intellectual curiosity and romantic infatuation. Her performance was noted for its intelligence and for capturing the moral complexity of her character’s situation.

‘La La Land’ (2016)

This modern musical masterpiece won Emma Stone her first Academy Award for Best Actress. She starred as Mia Dolan, an aspiring actress in Los Angeles who falls for a struggling jazz musician, played by her frequent co-star Ryan Gosling. The film is a vibrant and bittersweet love letter to the dreamers who move to the city to pursue their passions.

Stone’s performance required her to sing and dance, skills she impressively showcased throughout the film’s elaborate musical numbers. She captured Mia’s hope, heartbreak, and resilience with a performance that felt both magical and deeply human. The film was a worldwide phenomenon, beloved by critics and audiences alike for its stunning visuals, beautiful music, and poignant story.

‘Battle of the Sexes’ (2017)

Emma Stone portrayed the real-life tennis legend Billie Jean King in this biographical sports film. The movie focuses on the famous 1973 exhibition match between King and former men’s champion Bobby Riggs, played by Steve Carell. It also delves into King’s personal struggles with her sexuality and her fight for equal pay for female athletes.

To prepare for the role, Stone underwent intense physical training and worked closely with Billie Jean King herself. Her performance was widely acclaimed for capturing King’s athletic prowess, quiet determination, and internal conflict. She earned Golden Globe and Screen Actors Guild award nominations for her transformative portrayal of the sports icon.

‘The Favourite’ (2018)

In this darkly comedic period piece, Emma Stone received another Academy Award nomination for her role as Abigail Masham. The film is set in the early 18th-century English court, where she plays a cunning new servant who charms her way into the circle of the frail and volatile Queen Anne. She finds herself in a bitter rivalry with the Queen’s established advisor.

The film was lauded for its sharp, witty script and the outstanding performances of its three female leads. Stone expertly handled the film’s unique tone, blending ambition, vulnerability, and ruthless opportunism into a complex character. The role allowed her to dive into a historical setting with a modern, satirical twist, further proving her incredible versatility.

‘Zombieland: Double Tap’ (2019)

A decade after the original, Emma Stone returned to her popular role as Wichita in this highly anticipated sequel. The film reunites the original four survivors, who are now navigating a world with new kinds of evolved zombies. Wichita’s relationship with Columbus, played by Jesse Eisenberg, is tested as they grapple with the idea of settling down.

The sequel was a box office success that was praised for recapturing the humor and chemistry of the first film. Stone effortlessly stepped back into the role, showing Wichita’s growth while retaining the tough, sarcastic edge that fans loved. The movie was a fun reunion for both the cast and the audience who had followed their journey.

‘The Croods: A New Age’ (2020)

Emma Stone once again voiced the adventurous cave-teen Eep in this sequel to the animated hit. In this new adventure, the Crood family encounters another family, the Bettermans, who are more evolved and live in a walled-off paradise. Eep finds a new friend in the Bettermans’ daughter, Dawn, and their two families must learn to coexist.

The film was released during a challenging time for theaters but became a commercial success, praised for its vibrant animation and positive messages. Stone’s energetic voice performance continued to bring Eep’s character to life, driving the story forward with her curiosity and bravery. The movie was also nominated for a Golden Globe Award for Best Animated Feature Film.

‘Cruella’ (2021)

Emma Stone took on the origin story of a classic Disney villain in this stylish crime comedy. She played Estella, a clever and creative grifter in 1970s London who slowly transforms into the outrageous and vengeful fashion designer known as Cruella de Vil. The film explores the events that led to her infamous personality.

Stone’s performance was widely praised for bringing a punk-rock energy and sympathetic complexity to the well-known character. She also served as an executive producer on the project, demonstrating her growing influence behind the camera. The film was a commercial success, celebrated for its spectacular costume design and Stone’s charismatic and commanding lead performance.

‘Poor Things’ (2023)

This uniquely bizarre and brilliant film won Emma Stone her second Academy Award for Best Actress. She played Bella Baxter, a young woman brought back to life by a mad scientist who embarks on a whirlwind journey of self-discovery across the continents. The film is a surreal and fantastical tale about freedom, identity, and experience.

Stone’s performance was hailed as a tour de force, as she masterfully portrayed Bella’s rapid evolution from a childlike state to a fully empowered woman. Her physical comedy and fearless emotional vulnerability were central to the film’s success. The role is considered by many to be a career-defining achievement, showcasing her extraordinary talent and willingness to take on bold projects.

‘Kinds of Kindness’ (2024)

This film marked Emma Stone’s third collaboration with director Yorgos Lanthimos. It is a triptych fable, telling three separate stories with the same core group of actors playing different characters in each segment. Stone plays three distinct roles, including a woman searching for someone with a special ability and another who is unnerved when her husband returns changed after being lost at sea.

The movie is an absurdist black comedy that pushes the boundaries of conventional storytelling. Stone’s performances in the three different segments demonstrate her remarkable range, as she shifts between personas that are by turns submissive, commanding, and bewildered. The film competed for the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival, continuing her successful partnership with the acclaimed director.

‘Eddington’ (2025)

This neo-western black comedy marked Emma Stone’s first collaboration with acclaimed director Ari Aster. The film is set in a small New Mexico town during the COVID-19 pandemic and follows the escalating rivalry between the local sheriff and the mayor. Stone plays Louise Cross, the emotionally unstable wife of the sheriff, played by Joaquin Phoenix.

The movie proved to be highly divisive among critics and audiences for its satirical take on the political and social turmoil of 2020. Stone’s character arc involves her leaving her husband and finding a new connection with a charismatic cult leader. The film features a large ensemble cast and blends genres to create a pointed and often chaotic look at a society in conflict.

What is your favorite Emma Stone performance from her incredible career so far?