Scarlett Johansson’s Career: From ‘North’ to ‘Jurassic World Rebirth’

Scarlett Johansson’s career is a remarkable journey of talent and transformation. She began as a child actor, appearing in films and stage productions from a young age. Her ability to portray complex emotions with a maturity beyond her years quickly set her apart. This early start laid a strong foundation for a diverse and acclaimed filmography that would span decades, showcasing her versatility across a wide range of genres. From small independent films to massive blockbuster franchises, Johansson has consistently delivered compelling performances.

Over the years, she has seamlessly transitioned from promising young star to one of Hollywood’s most respected and highest-grossing actors. Her roles have explored the depths of human experience, from quiet introspection to heroic action. Johansson’s dedication to her craft is evident in every character she embodies, making each performance a noteworthy event. Her career is not just a collection of films but a testament to her enduring presence and influence in the world of cinema.

‘North’ (1994)

Scarlett Johansson made her film debut at the age of nine in the fantasy comedy ‘North’. She played the role of Laura Nelson, the daughter of John Ritter’s character. Although her screen time was brief, it marked the first professional film set experience for the young actress. It was here that she began to display the natural poise and intuitive understanding of acting that would define her career.

Despite the film receiving largely negative reviews, it served as an important first step for Johansson. The role placed her in a large ensemble cast and under the direction of Rob Reiner, providing invaluable early exposure to the filmmaking process. Her calm and focused performance stood out, hinting at the powerful talent that was waiting to be more fully explored in future projects.

‘Just Cause’ (1995)

In the mystery thriller ‘Just Cause’, Scarlett Johansson took on a minor role as Katie Armstrong. She portrayed the daughter of the characters played by Sean Connery and Kate Capshaw. This film continued her early career trend of working alongside established Hollywood actors in supporting parts.

Appearing in ‘Just Cause’ allowed Johansson to gain more experience on a major film production. The role, while small, added another credit to her growing resume and further accustomed her to the dynamics of a professional movie set. It was another stepping stone in her steady rise from a child actor to a future leading lady.

‘If Lucy Fell’ (1996)

Scarlett Johansson had a small role as an art student in the romantic comedy ‘If Lucy Fell’. This appearance was part of her early work as a young actress, taking on minor parts in various films. The role was another opportunity to be on a film set and observe more experienced actors at work.

Her participation in this film, though not a major part, contributed to the series of roles that helped build her early career. Each small part provided more experience and exposure within the film industry, paving the way for more significant roles to come.

‘Manny & Lo’ (1996)

Scarlett Johansson landed her first leading role in the independent film ‘Manny & Lo’. She played Amanda, also known as Manny, the younger sister of a pregnant teenager who runs away from their foster home. This role was a significant step up for Johansson, giving her the chance to showcase her acting abilities in a central part. Her performance earned her a nomination for the Independent Spirit Award for Best Female Lead.

The film was a coming-of-age story that allowed Johansson to display a range of emotions and a maturity beyond her years. Her portrayal of Manny was praised for its depth and authenticity, marking a critical moment in her transition from minor roles to becoming a recognized and acclaimed young actress.

‘Fall’ (1997)

In the drama ‘Fall’, Scarlett Johansson appeared in a minor role as a little girl. This was another small part in the early stages of her career as she continued to build her filmography. The role kept her active in the film industry and provided more on-set experience.

While not a significant role, her appearance in ‘Fall’ was part of the foundation of her acting career. It was one of several small parts she took on as a child actor, each contributing to her growth and development in front of the camera.

‘Home Alone 3’ (1997)

Scarlett Johansson played the role of Molly Pruitt in the family comedy ‘Home Alone 3’. In the film, she is the older sister of the new protagonist, Alex. This was one of her more visible roles as a young actress, placing her in a well-known movie franchise.

Her character, Molly, initially doubts her younger brother’s stories about criminals in their neighborhood. Johansson’s performance captured the typical dynamic of an older sibling, adding a relatable element to the film’s family story. The movie offered her wider exposure to mainstream audiences.

‘The Horse Whisperer’ (1998)

Scarlett Johansson gained widespread attention for her role as Grace MacLean in ‘The Horse Whisperer’. She played a teenager who is emotionally and physically scarred after a traumatic riding accident. Directed by and starring Robert Redford, the film provided a major platform for the young actress. Her performance was critically acclaimed and established her as a rising talent to watch.

To prepare for the role, Johansson learned to ride horses, adding a layer of authenticity to her portrayal. She captured the complex emotional journey of her character, from anger and withdrawal to healing and hope. This powerful performance was a turning point in her career, demonstrating her ability to handle demanding and dramatic roles.

‘My Brother the Pig’ (1999)

In the fantasy-comedy film ‘My Brother the Pig’, Scarlett Johansson starred as Kathy Caldwell. She plays the older sister of a boy who is magically transformed into a pig. The film follows their adventures as they travel to Mexico to find a way to reverse the spell.

This leading role gave Johansson the opportunity to carry a film and explore a lighter, more comedic side of her acting. It was a family-oriented movie that showcased her versatility as a young performer, moving between the dramatic roles that earned her critical acclaim and more lighthearted fare.

‘The Man Who Wasn’t There’ (2001)

Scarlett Johansson appeared in the Coen brothers’ neo-noir film ‘The Man Who Wasn’t There’. She played the role of Rachel “Birdy” Abundas, a teenage pianist. Her character becomes a point of focus for the film’s protagonist, played by Billy Bob Thornton.

Working with the acclaimed Coen brothers was a significant step in her career. The role allowed her to be part of a distinct and stylized film, further diversifying her portfolio. Her performance added to her growing reputation as a versatile actress capable of fitting into unique cinematic worlds.

‘Ghost World’ (2001)

In the critically acclaimed black comedy ‘Ghost World’, Scarlett Johansson played Rebecca Doppelmeyer. She co-starred as one of two cynical best friends who have just graduated from high school. The film explores their complex friendship as they navigate the transition to adulthood.

Her portrayal of Rebecca, the more grounded and practical of the two friends, was praised for its subtlety and realism. The film became a cult classic and showcased Johansson’s ability to shine in character-driven independent films. It further solidified her status as a talented actress moving into more adult roles.

‘An American Rhapsody’ (2001)

Scarlett Johansson portrayed the teenage version of Suzanne Sandor in ‘An American Rhapsody’. The film is based on the true story of its director, Eva Gardos, and follows a young Hungarian girl’s journey to reunite with her family in America.

Johansson played the character during her rebellious adolescent years, struggling to connect with the family she barely knows. Her performance captured the emotional turmoil of a teenager grappling with a fractured identity and a difficult past. The role allowed her to delve into a complex, character-driven narrative.

‘Eight Legged Freaks’ (2002)

In the comedy-horror film ‘Eight Legged Freaks’, Scarlett Johansson played Ashley Parker. Her character is the daughter of the town sheriff in a community that becomes overrun by giant, mutated spiders. She joins the group of townspeople fighting to survive the arachnid invasion.

This role placed Johansson in a fun, genre-based movie that was a departure from her more dramatic work. It showed her ability to handle action sequences and contribute to a B-movie-style creature feature. The film offered a different kind of entertainment and showcased another facet of her acting range.

‘Lost in Translation’ (2003)

Scarlett Johansson delivered a breakout performance in Sofia Coppola’s ‘Lost in Translation’. She starred as Charlotte, a young college graduate feeling adrift while staying in Tokyo with her photographer husband. Her path crosses with an aging movie star, played by Bill Murray, leading to an unlikely and meaningful connection.

Her portrayal of Charlotte earned her widespread critical acclaim, including a BAFTA Award for Best Actress. The role captured a sense of quiet melancholy and introspection, and her chemistry with Murray was a highlight of the film. ‘Lost in Translation’ marked a significant moment in her career, solidifying her transition to complex adult roles.

‘Girl with a Pearl Earring’ (2003)

In ‘Girl with a Pearl Earring’, Scarlett Johansson played Griet, a young servant in the household of the 17th-century Dutch painter Johannes Vermeer. The film imagines the story behind Vermeer’s famous painting of the same name. Griet becomes the painter’s assistant and the model for his iconic work.

Johansson’s performance was largely non-verbal, relying on her expressive face to convey Griet’s thoughts and emotions. She earned Golden Globe and BAFTA nominations for her portrayal, which was praised for its subtlety and depth. The role demonstrated her ability to command the screen with a quiet and powerful presence.

‘The Perfect Score’ (2004)

Scarlett Johansson starred in the teen comedy ‘The Perfect Score’. She played Francesca Curtis, a rebellious and intelligent high school student who is part of a group that decides to steal the answers to the SAT exam. Her character comes from a privileged background but feels pressured by her father’s expectations.

The film was a lighthearted heist movie aimed at a younger audience. Johansson’s role as the cool and cynical Francesca added a sharp edge to the ensemble cast. It was another example of her work in mainstream teen films during this period of her career.

‘A Love Song for Bobby Long’ (2004)

In the drama ‘A Love Song for Bobby Long’, Scarlett Johansson played Pursy Will. Her character is a troubled teenager who returns to her childhood home in New Orleans after her mother’s death. There, she forms an unconventional family with two of her mother’s older friends, played by John Travolta and Gabriel Macht.

Johansson’s performance as the resilient and headstrong Pursy earned her a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress. She brought a compelling mix of vulnerability and toughness to the role. The film allowed her to explore complex themes of family, loss, and belonging in a richly atmospheric setting.

‘A Good Woman’ (2004)

Scarlett Johansson appeared in ‘A Good Woman’, a romantic comedy-drama based on Oscar Wilde’s play ‘Lady Windermere’s Fan’. She played Meg Windermere, a young, naive newlywed in 1930s New York high society. Her seemingly perfect marriage is threatened by the arrival of a notorious older woman.

The role of Meg allowed Johansson to portray a character of innocence and virtue. The film itself was a period piece with witty dialogue and intricate social dynamics. It gave her the chance to work within a classic literary adaptation and explore the themes of reputation and hidden secrets.

‘The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie’ (2004)

Scarlett Johansson lent her voice to the character of Princess Mindy in ‘The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie’. Mindy is the kind and intelligent daughter of King Neptune. She helps SpongeBob and Patrick on their quest to retrieve her father’s stolen crown.

This voice role was a fun and different project for Johansson, allowing her to be part of a beloved animated franchise. She brought warmth and charm to the character of Princess Mindy. Her involvement in the film demonstrated her interest in exploring various forms of acting, including voice work.

‘In Good Company’ (2004)

In the comedy-drama ‘In Good Company’, Scarlett Johansson played Alex Foreman. She is the daughter of a middle-aged ad executive, played by Dennis Quaid, whose life is turned upside down when his company is taken over and his new boss is a man half his age, played by Topher Grace. Alex complicates matters further when she begins a relationship with her father’s young boss.

Johansson’s character is at the center of the film’s generational and romantic conflicts. Her performance was noted for its maturity and charm, effectively navigating the complexities of her character’s relationships. The film was a smart and well-received comedy that benefited from her engaging presence.

‘Match Point’ (2005)

Scarlett Johansson began her collaboration with director Woody Allen in the psychological thriller ‘Match Point’. She played Nola Rice, an aspiring American actress who becomes entangled in a fateful affair with a former tennis pro, played by Jonathan Rhys Meyers. Her character is a central figure in the film’s themes of luck, ambition, and morality.

Her performance as the alluring and ultimately tragic Nola was highly praised by critics. She earned a Golden Globe nomination for Best Supporting Actress. The film was a departure for both Johansson and Allen, and her compelling portrayal was a key element of its success.

‘The Island’ (2005)

In the science fiction action film ‘The Island’, Scarlett Johansson starred alongside Ewan McGregor. She played Jordan Two Delta, an inhabitant of a seemingly utopian but isolated compound in the mid-21st century. She and her fellow residents are told they are survivors of a global contamination, but they soon discover the dark truth about their existence.

The role required Johansson to handle significant action and stunt work. She portrayed both the innocent Jordan Two Delta and her “sponsor,” a real-world model named Sarah Jordan. The film was a big-budget summer blockbuster that showcased her ability to lead a major action movie.

‘Scoop’ (2006)

Scarlett Johansson reunited with director Woody Allen for the lighthearted mystery-comedy ‘Scoop’. She played Sondra Pransky, an American journalism student in London who gets a tip from a ghost about a potential serial killer. Teaming up with a magician, played by Allen, she goes undercover to investigate an aristocrat, played by Hugh Jackman.

In contrast to their previous collaboration, ‘Scoop’ was a comedic and whimsical film. Johansson’s character is clumsy and enthusiastic, a departure from the more dramatic roles she was known for. The movie highlighted her comedic timing and her versatile working relationship with Woody Allen.

‘The Black Dahlia’ (2006)

In Brian De Palma’s neo-noir crime thriller ‘The Black Dahlia’, Scarlett Johansson played Kay Lake. She is the former girlfriend of a police officer, played by Josh Hartnett, who becomes involved in the investigation of a famous Hollywood murder. Her character is a classic femme fatale with a mysterious past.

The film was a stylized period piece set in 1940s Los Angeles. Johansson’s portrayal of Kay Lake captured the glamour and danger of the film noir genre. She embodied the enigmatic quality of her character, contributing to the film’s dark and complex atmosphere.

‘The Prestige’ (2006)

Scarlett Johansson was part of the ensemble cast in Christopher Nolan’s mystery thriller ‘The Prestige’. She played Olivia Wenscombe, the assistant to a magician, played by Hugh Jackman, in a story of rivalry and obsession between two stage magicians in 19th-century London. Her character becomes a pawn in their dangerous competition.

Johansson’s role was pivotal, as her character’s shifting allegiances affect the central conflict of the film. She brought a captivating presence to the screen, holding her own amongst a talented cast. The film was a critical and commercial success, known for its intricate plot and compelling performances.

‘The Nanny Diaries’ (2007)

In the comedy-drama ‘The Nanny Diaries’, Scarlett Johansson starred as Annie Braddock. Her character is a recent college graduate who takes a job as a nanny for a wealthy and dysfunctional family on Manhattan’s Upper East Side. The film is a satirical look at the lives of the rich through the eyes of their hired help.

Johansson provided the film’s narrative voice, offering humorous and insightful observations about her employers. She portrayed Annie’s journey from a naive outsider to someone who learns to stand up for herself and the child in her care. The role allowed her to showcase her comedic and dramatic abilities in a lead role.

‘The Other Boleyn Girl’ (2008)

Scarlett Johansson co-starred with Natalie Portman in the historical drama ‘The Other Boleyn Girl’. She played Mary Boleyn, the sister of Anne Boleyn, who both vie for the affection of King Henry VIII. The film explores the intense rivalry and political intrigue within the Tudor court.

As Mary, Johansson portrayed the gentler and more compassionate of the two sisters. Her character is initially favored by the King before being overshadowed by the ambitious Anne. The role allowed her to delve into a period drama filled with romance, betrayal, and high-stakes court politics.

‘Vicky Cristina Barcelona’ (2008)

In her third collaboration with Woody Allen, ‘Vicky Cristina Barcelona’, Scarlett Johansson played Cristina. She is one of two American friends who spend a summer in Spain and become involved with a charismatic artist, played by Javier Bardem, and his volatile ex-wife, played by Penélope Cruz.

Johansson’s character, Cristina, is adventurous and open to new experiences, which leads her into a complex and unconventional romantic situation. The film was a critical success, praised for its witty script and strong performances. Her role was central to the film’s exploration of love, art, and relationships.

‘The Spirit’ (2008)

Scarlett Johansson appeared in the neo-noir superhero film ‘The Spirit’, directed by Frank Miller. She played Silken Floss, the intelligent and deadly sidekick to the film’s main villain, the Octopus, played by Samuel L. Jackson. The movie is based on the comic strip of the same name and features a highly stylized, visual aesthetic.

As Silken Floss, Johansson embraced the film’s comic book tone. Her character is cool, calculating, and glamorous, providing a formidable presence alongside the eccentric villain. The role was another foray into genre filmmaking for Johansson, showcasing her in a more fantastical and over-the-top world.

‘He’s Just Not That Into You’ (2009)

In the romantic comedy ‘He’s Just Not That Into You’, Scarlett Johansson was part of a large ensemble cast. She played Anna, a yoga instructor and aspiring singer who becomes involved with a married man, played by Bradley Cooper. Her storyline is one of several interconnected plots exploring the challenges of modern relationships.

Johansson’s character is at the center of a complicated love triangle. Her portrayal of Anna explored themes of temptation and the pursuit of an unavailable partner. The film was a commercial success that resonated with audiences for its relatable depiction of dating and romantic misunderstandings.

‘Iron Man 2’ (2010)

Scarlett Johansson made her debut in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) in ‘Iron Man 2’. She was introduced as Natasha Romanoff, also known as Black Widow, an undercover S.H.I.E.L.D. agent posing as Tony Stark’s new personal assistant. This marked the beginning of her long and iconic run as the character.

Her introduction as Black Widow was a standout element of the film. She displayed formidable combat skills and a mysterious demeanor that immediately captured the attention of audiences. The role established her as a major player in the emerging MCU and set the stage for her character’s evolution over many films.

‘We Bought a Zoo’ (2011)

In the family drama ‘We Bought a Zoo’, Scarlett Johansson played Kelly Foster. She is the head zookeeper at a struggling wildlife park that is purchased by a grieving single father, played by Matt Damon. Her character is passionate about the animals and initially skeptical of the new owner’s abilities.

Johansson’s role provided a grounded and warm presence in the film. She portrayed Kelly as a dedicated and knowledgeable professional who eventually becomes a source of support and a potential love interest for the main character. The film was a heartwarming story that benefited from her sincere and engaging performance.

‘The Avengers’ (2012)

Scarlett Johansson reprised her role as Natasha Romanoff / Black Widow in the blockbuster superhero film ‘The Avengers’. She was a core member of the team of heroes assembled by Nick Fury to stop Loki from conquering Earth. This was the first time her character fought alongside Iron Man, Captain America, Thor, and the Hulk.

Black Widow played a crucial role in the team’s dynamics, using her espionage skills and intelligence to outwit their enemies. Johansson’s performance further developed the character, revealing more of her backstory and showcasing her importance to the team beyond her fighting abilities. The film was a massive critical and commercial success that solidified the MCU’s cultural impact.

‘Hitchcock’ (2012)

In the biographical drama ‘Hitchcock’, Scarlett Johansson portrayed actress Janet Leigh. The film focuses on the life of director Alfred Hitchcock during the making of his iconic horror film ‘Psycho’. Johansson’s role involved recreating some of the famous scenes from ‘Psycho’, including the infamous shower scene.

She captured the look and essence of Janet Leigh, one of the famous “Hitchcock blondes.” The role required her to step into the shoes of a real-life Hollywood star and embody her persona during a specific moment in film history. Her performance was a key part of the movie’s tribute to the classic era of filmmaking.

‘Don Jon’ (2013)

Scarlett Johansson starred in ‘Don Jon’, a romantic comedy-drama written and directed by and starring Joseph Gordon-Levitt. She played Barbara Sugarman, the idealized girlfriend of a man who is addicted to online pornography. Her character represents the perfect woman from romantic comedies, with specific expectations about love and relationships.

Johansson’s portrayal of Barbara was both comedic and insightful. She embodied the stereotypes of a “perfect girlfriend” while also hinting at the insecurities and desires beneath the surface. The film used her character to explore themes of fantasy versus reality in modern relationships.

‘Under the Skin’ (2013)

In the science fiction art film ‘Under the Skin’, Scarlett Johansson delivered a haunting and transformative performance. She played an enigmatic alien entity disguised as a human woman who drives around Scotland preying on men. The film is a visually stunning and deeply unsettling exploration of identity and humanity.

Johansson’s role was largely silent, relying on her physical presence and subtle expressions to convey her character’s journey. She portrayed the alien’s gradual shift from a detached predator to a being experiencing a form of human consciousness. The performance was widely acclaimed as one of the best and most daring of her career.

‘Her’ (2013)

Scarlett Johansson provided the voice for Samantha in the science fiction romance ‘Her’. Samantha is a highly advanced and intuitive computer operating system who develops a close and romantic relationship with a lonely writer, played by Joaquin Phoenix. Although she never appears on screen, her voice is a central element of the film.

Her voice performance was celebrated for its warmth, intelligence, and emotional depth. She brought Samantha to life as a fully realized character, earning critical acclaim and winning the Best Actress award at the Rome Film Festival. The role demonstrated the power of voice acting to create a compelling and memorable character.

‘Chef’ (2014)

In the comedy-drama ‘Chef’, Scarlett Johansson had a supporting role as Molly. She is the hostess and manager of a high-end restaurant where the main character, a chef played by Jon Favreau, has a creative meltdown. Her character is also a friend and confidante to the chef.

Although a smaller role, Johansson’s presence added charm and warmth to the film’s early scenes. She portrayed Molly with a friendly and supportive demeanor, helping to establish the world of the restaurant and the main character’s professional life. The film was a feel-good story that was praised for its heart and humor.

‘Lucy’ (2014)

Scarlett Johansson starred in the title role of the science fiction action film ‘Lucy’. Her character is a woman who is forced to become a drug mule and inadvertently gains psychokinetic abilities when a powerful synthetic drug is absorbed into her bloodstream. As her brain capacity increases, she transforms into a being beyond human comprehension.

The film was a box office success that showcased Johansson’s ability to carry an action-packed, high-concept movie. She portrayed Lucy’s dramatic transformation from a vulnerable young woman to an all-powerful entity. The role solidified her status as a major action star.

‘Captain America: The Winter Soldier’ (2014)

Scarlett Johansson returned as Natasha Romanoff / Black Widow in ‘Captain America: The Winter Soldier’. She had a major co-starring role alongside Chris Evans’ Captain America. The film follows them as they uncover a conspiracy within S.H.I.E.L.D. and are forced to go on the run.

This film was a significant step for Black Widow’s character development. It explored her past as a spy and the moral complexities of her work. Her dynamic partnership with Captain America was a central focus, establishing a deep and trusting friendship between the two heroes.

‘Avengers: Age of Ultron’ (2015)

In ‘Avengers: Age of Ultron’, Scarlett Johansson once again played Natasha Romanoff / Black Widow as a key member of the superhero team. The film sees the Avengers facing off against Ultron, a sentient artificial intelligence bent on human extinction. It also delved deeper into Black Widow’s traumatic past in the Red Room.

The movie further explored the personal side of her character, including a developing romance with Bruce Banner / the Hulk. Johansson continued to portray the character with a mix of toughness and vulnerability. She remained an essential part of the team’s fight to save the world.

‘Captain America: Civil War’ (2016)

Scarlett Johansson reprised her role as Natasha Romanoff / Black Widow in ‘Captain America: Civil War’. The film depicted a major conflict between the Avengers, splitting them into two factions led by Captain America and Iron Man. Black Widow finds herself caught in the middle, torn between her loyalty to her friends and her pragmatic view of the situation.

Her character plays a crucial and complex role in the ideological battle. She initially sides with Iron Man but ultimately helps Captain America escape, showcasing her ability to think for herself and make difficult choices. Johansson’s performance highlighted the character’s intelligence and nuanced perspective on the superhero conflict.

‘Hail, Caesar!’ (2016)

In the Coen brothers’ comedy ‘Hail, Caesar!’, Scarlett Johansson played DeeAnna Moran. Her character is a glamorous 1950s Hollywood swimming star, reminiscent of Esther Williams. The film is a satirical look at the golden age of Hollywood and follows a studio “fixer” who has to deal with the various crises of his eccentric movie stars.

Johansson’s role was a comedic and memorable part of the ensemble cast. She performed an elaborate synchronized swimming number and portrayed the off-screen drama of a starlet dealing with an unexpected pregnancy. It was another successful collaboration with the Coen brothers that showcased her comedic talents.

‘The Jungle Book’ (2016)

Scarlett Johansson lent her voice to the character of Kaa in the live-action adaptation of ‘The Jungle Book’. Kaa is a massive and hypnotic python who encounters the young boy Mowgli in the jungle. Her mesmerizing voice is used to lure her prey into a trance.

Johansson’s distinctive voice was perfect for the enchanting and dangerous character of Kaa. She gave a seductive and chilling performance that made the character a memorable part of the film. This role was another example of her successful work as a voice actress.

‘Sing’ (2016)

In the animated musical comedy ‘Sing’, Scarlett Johansson voiced the character of Ash. Ash is a crested porcupine who is a punk rocker with a powerful singing voice. She auditions for a singing competition with her boyfriend, but only she makes it through, leading to a journey of self-discovery as a solo artist.

Johansson did her own singing for the role, performing original songs that showcased her vocal talents. The character of Ash was a fan favorite, admired for her independent spirit and rock-and-roll attitude. The film was a box office hit that allowed Johansson to combine her acting and singing abilities.

‘Ghost in the Shell’ (2017)

Scarlett Johansson starred as Major Mira Killian in the live-action adaptation of the famous manga and anime, ‘Ghost in the Shell’. Her character is a cyborg super-soldier who grapples with her past and her identity as she leads an elite task force against cyber-criminals.

The film was a visually impressive science fiction action movie that placed Johansson at the center of a complex and futuristic world. The role required intense physical training and allowed her to explore themes of what it means to be human in a technologically advanced society. Her casting generated some controversy, but her performance was a committed and central part of the film.

‘Rough Night’ (2017)

In the black comedy ‘Rough Night’, Scarlett Johansson played Jessica “Jess” Thayer. She is a bride-to-be whose bachelorette party with her college friends goes horribly wrong when they accidentally kill a male stripper. The film follows the group’s chaotic and hilarious attempts to cover up the incident.

Johansson led an ensemble cast of talented comedic actresses. The role allowed her to dive into broad, physical comedy and explore the dynamics of female friendship under extreme circumstances. The film was a raunchy and energetic comedy that showcased her versatility.

‘Isle of Dogs’ (2018)

Scarlett Johansson lent her voice to the stop-motion animated film ‘Isle of Dogs’, directed by Wes Anderson. She voiced Nutmeg, a beautiful and skilled show dog who is one of the exiled canines on Trash Island. She becomes a love interest for the main dog character, Chief.

Her voice performance brought elegance and charm to the character of Nutmeg. She was part of a large and acclaimed ensemble cast in a visually unique and critically praised film. The role marked her second collaboration with director Wes Anderson, following her voice work in ‘Fantastic Mr. Fox’.

‘Avengers: Infinity War’ (2018)

Scarlett Johansson returned as Natasha Romanoff / Black Widow in the epic superhero film ‘Avengers: Infinity War’. She reunites with Captain America and Falcon as a fugitive, joining the fight against the powerful villain Thanos, who seeks to collect the Infinity Stones and wipe out half of all life in the universe.

In this high-stakes installment, Black Widow is a seasoned and determined warrior, fighting on multiple fronts to protect the world. Johansson portrayed the character’s unwavering resolve and her deep connections to her fellow Avengers. The film was a massive cinematic event that brought together numerous characters from the MCU.

‘Avengers: Endgame’ (2019)

In ‘Avengers: Endgame’, Scarlett Johansson delivered a powerful and pivotal performance as Natasha Romanoff / Black Widow. The film picks up after the devastating events of ‘Infinity War’, with the remaining Avengers attempting to undo Thanos’s actions. Black Widow takes on a leadership role, holding the team together in the face of immense loss.

Her character makes the ultimate sacrifice in the film, giving her life to obtain the Soul Stone and save the universe. It was a deeply emotional and heroic arc that served as a culmination of her journey in the MCU. Johansson’s performance was praised for its depth and emotional resonance, providing a fitting and poignant conclusion for the character.

‘Marriage Story’ (2019)

Scarlett Johansson starred in the critically acclaimed drama ‘Marriage Story’. She played Nicole Barber, an actress who is going through a difficult, bi-coastal divorce from her theater director husband, played by Adam Driver. The film provides an intimate and compassionate look at the dissolution of a marriage and the family at its center.

Her performance as Nicole was hailed by critics as one of the best of her career. She earned Academy Award and Golden Globe nominations for Best Actress. Johansson brought a raw vulnerability and emotional complexity to the role, capturing the pain, anger, and love inherent in the process of separation.

‘Jojo Rabbit’ (2019)

In Taika Waititi’s satirical black comedy ‘Jojo Rabbit’, Scarlett Johansson played Rosie Betzler. She is the mother of a young German boy in Nazi Germany who discovers that his mother is hiding a Jewish girl in their home. Her character is a vibrant and compassionate woman who secretly works for the resistance.

Johansson’s performance was widely praised for its warmth, humor, and emotional depth. She earned Academy Award and Golden Globe nominations for Best Supporting Actress, making her one of the few actors to be nominated in two different acting categories in the same year. Her portrayal of Rosie was a powerful and moving part of the film.

‘Black Widow’ (2021)

Scarlett Johansson finally starred in the solo film for her iconic character in ‘Black Widow’. The movie, set between the events of ‘Captain America: Civil War’ and ‘Avengers: Infinity War’, follows Natasha Romanoff as she confronts her past and deals with the Red Room, the program that trained her to be an assassin. She also served as an executive producer on the film.

The film provided a long-awaited deep dive into Black Widow’s backstory, introducing her surrogate family and exploring her origins. It was a fitting send-off for the character, blending intense action with emotional family dynamics. Johansson’s performance was both a celebration of the character’s journey and a final showcase of her dedication to the role.

‘Sing 2’ (2021)

Scarlett Johansson returned to voice the character of Ash the porcupine in the animated musical sequel ‘Sing 2’. In this film, Ash and the rest of the singing group try to put on a show in the entertainment capital of Redshore City. Ash plays a key role in convincing a reclusive rock legend to return to the stage.

Once again, Johansson performed her own singing, including a memorable duet with U2’s Bono. She reprised her role with the same punk-rock energy and heart that made the character a favorite in the first film. The movie was another commercial success that highlighted her vocal talents.

‘Asteroid City’ (2023)

Scarlett Johansson joined the ensemble cast of Wes Anderson’s comedy-drama ‘Asteroid City’. She played Midge Campbell, a famous and melancholic movie star who is attending a Junior Stargazer convention in a desert town in the 1950s. The film features a play-within-a-play structure and Anderson’s signature visual style.

Her character develops a connection with a recently widowed war photographer, played by Jason Schwartzman. Johansson’s performance captured the glamour and underlying sadness of a classic Hollywood actress. She fit seamlessly into the film’s quirky and stylized world.

‘My Mother’s Wedding’ (2023)

In the drama ‘My Mother’s Wedding’, Scarlett Johansson played Katherine, one of three sisters who return to their childhood home for their mother’s third wedding. The film explores the complex dynamics of the family as they navigate old tensions and new beginnings.

As one of the central figures in the family drama, Johansson’s character deals with personal and relational challenges. The role allowed her to be part of an intimate, character-driven story focused on the bonds of sisterhood and family history.

‘Fly Me to the Moon’ (2024)

Scarlett Johansson starred in and produced the romantic comedy ‘Fly Me to the Moon’. She played Kelly Jones, a marketing specialist brought in by NASA to stage a fake moon landing as a backup in case the real Apollo 11 mission fails. The film is set against the backdrop of the 1960s space race.

Her character clashes with the launch director, played by Channing Tatum, leading to a classic romantic comedy dynamic. The role showcased her sharp comedic timing and her ability to lead a charming and entertaining film. Her work as a producer also demonstrated her growing influence behind the camera.

‘Transformers One’ (2024)

In the animated film ‘Transformers One’, Scarlett Johansson voiced the character of Elita-1. The movie explores the origins of the Autobots and Decepticons on their home planet of Cybertron. Elita-1 is a key figure in the early days of the conflict and a close associate of Orion Pax, who will become Optimus Prime.

This voice role placed Johansson in another major and beloved franchise. She brought strength and intelligence to the character of Elita-1, a capable and important figure in the Transformers lore. Her involvement added another significant voice acting credit to her diverse filmography.

‘The Phoenician Scheme’ (2025)

Scarlett Johansson appears in the film ‘The Phoenician Scheme’. In this movie, she takes on the role of Cousin Hilda, adding another unique character to her extensive filmography. The film is a noteworthy project in her recent body of work.

Her participation in the film adds to her diverse career, which spans multiple genres. The role of Cousin Hilda showcases her continued versatility as an actress, and fans can see her bring another distinct character to life on the screen.

‘Jurassic World Rebirth’

Scarlett Johansson stars in the latest installment of the ‘Jurassic World’ franchise, titled ‘Jurassic World Rebirth’. The film launches a new era for the popular series, introducing a fresh storyline and new characters. Her leading role marks her addition to another major blockbuster franchise.

This role places her at the forefront of one of cinema’s most iconic series. The film promises thrilling action and a new chapter in the story of dinosaurs co-existing with humans, representing another significant milestone in her remarkable and ever-evolving career.

What is your favorite Scarlett Johansson performance from her long and varied career?