As a film critic with a keen eye for capturing the essence of an actor’s performance, I must say that Aubrey Plaza has left me spellbound throughout her career. Her ability to embody complex and multifaceted characters, each one unique yet undeniably hers, is nothing short of extraordinary.
Aubrey Plaza’s journey in the film industry appears to be a passionate ode to independent cinema and unwavering determination. Prior to gaining widespread recognition for her deadpan wit as April Ludgate on Parks and Recreation, Plaza was making a name for herself in Hollywood by tackling unusual projects, one after another. Her initial steps in the industry began with her stint as an NBC page, and she honed her comedic skills through standup performances. Her humor was characterized by incisive observations mixed with a subtle, self-aware touch. Brief yet impactful roles in Funny People and Scott Pilgrim vs. the World demonstrated her ability to command attention, even when given limited lines.
Plaza isn’t just a standout performer; she’s versatile, able to adapt effortlessly among various genres. Over the course of her career, she has gracefully navigated from sharp comedy, bizarre drama, and avant-garde cinema, positioning herself as one of the most captivating actors of her time. Known for her love for unconventional roles, she has taken on quirky projects such as “Safety Not Guaranteed” and “Black Bear”, garnering praise for her nuanced portrayals.
Currently, she’s making waves with hit shows like “The White Lotus” and “Agatha All Along,” demonstrating that her captivating screen presence can carry projects of all sizes. What truly distinguishes Plaza is her dedication to portraying complex characters. No matter if she’s playing a zombie girlfriend, a cunning Instagram addict, or a passionate nun, her roles are always rich, authentic, and strikingly unique. Below you’ll find a list of her lesser-known films – these hidden treasures showcase the full extent of her talent and her daring storytelling style.
10 ‘Life After Beth’ (2014)
Aubrey Plaza’s debut project with Jeff Baena transcends mere comedy in the zombie genre; it delves deeply into themes of grief and letting go. In this film, Aubrey Plaza portrays Beth, a girlfriend who returns from the dead but not quite as she was before. She straddles the boundary between the absurd and tender, introducing humor to moments of intense sorrow.
Zombies, Love, and Loss
In simple terms, her acting significantly improves the movie, overcoming its strange storyline. This transformation of Beth’s character from a peculiar sidekick to an unstable zombie serves as a symbol for the unexpected changes that occur with grief. Additionally, the film highlights Aubrey Plaza’s ability to evoke deep emotions even in unusual situations.
9 ‘The To Do List’ (2013)
In this frankly funny sex-themed comedy, Plaza portrays Brandy, a meticulous high school graduate who sets out on an exploration of various sexual experiences before college. Rather than being just another crude comedy, it transforms into a profound and amusing coming-of-age story, thanks to Plaza’s brave acting.
Bold, Awkward, and Hilarious
In a more casual and straightforward manner: Brandy’s hilarious sense of humor and her ability to handle awkward situations fearlessly make her both relatable and incredibly funny. The movie “The To Do List” is unique because it tackles the complexities of young adulthood head-on, challenging traditional gender roles in sex comedies, with Plaza taking the lead.
8 ‘Ned Rifle’ (2014)
Hal Hartley’s concluding part of his trilogy provided Plaza an arena to showcase her sharp wit and peculiar charm with her portrayal as Susan, a writer fascinated by the main character. In this role, Plaza adds a sarcastic undertone to Hartley’s typical deadpan dialogue.
Indie Eccentricity Meets Plaza’s Depth
Her acting adds an essential spark to the diverse ensemble of the independent film, demonstrating that her skills are most brilliant when combined with unique narratives. Plaza’s character Susan is both mysterious and lovable, drawing viewers back with her power to captivate even in low-key performances, showcasing her talent for stealing the spotlight.
7 ‘The Little Hours’ (2017)
In the film “The Little Hours,” directed by Jeff Baena, comedic genius Plaza plays Fernanda, a mischievous nun who gets up to all sorts of naughty, humorous exploits in this bawdy medieval setting. This movie is a wickedly funny reinterpretation of Giovanni Boccaccio’s “The Decameron,” updating its themes of desire and authority with sharp, disrespectful humor.
Medieval Mischief with Modern Absurdity
In contrast to the excessive situations in the movie, Plaza’s straightforward acting style produces hilarious results, positioning her as one of the noteworthy actors alongside Alison Brie and Kate Micucci. Fernanda represents a joyful deviation from Plaza’s usual subdued characters, demonstrating her versatility in absurd comedy.
6 ‘Spin Me Round’ (2022)
once more, Plaza teams up with Jeff Baena for a wickedly funny thriller where a corporate retreat spirals out of control. In the role of Kat, a puzzling and alluring character, Plaza skillfully infuses her portrayal with uncertainty, leaving viewers in suspense about her real motives. Her acting prowess serves as the key element maintaining the movie’s delicate balance between the ridiculous and the tense.
Subtle Chaos in an Italian Retreat
Despite being somewhat unorthodox, Plaza’s knack for making bizarre instances seem relatable gives “Spin Me Round” an authentic, genre-bending charm that sets it apart.
5 ‘Happiest Season’ (2020)
In a movie brimming with holiday spirit and romantic undercurrents, Riley, played by Plaza, steals every moment. With her dry wit and evident empathy, she stands out. Her interactions with Kristen Stewart enrich the film’s themes of self-discovery and family obligations, as Riley acts both as a contrasting character and a stabilizing force.
The Ex Who Stole the Show
The subtlety in Plaza’s acting has ignited discussions about whether the movie’s main character chose the right romantic partner. By infusing Riley with depth and understated charm, Plaza transforms a secondary role into one of the film’s most impactful elements, demonstrating her talent for breathing complexity into even minor roles.
4 ‘Safety Not Guaranteed’ (2012)
In the role of Darius, a journalist harboring doubts about a time-travel advertisement, Plaza skillfully anchors this unconventional independent comedy. With her blend of subtle wit and concealed sensitivity, she embodies the core of the movie, providing a grounded perspective that harmonizes its eccentric storyline with a touch of authenticity.
Anchoring Quirk with Humanity
For me, Safety Not Guaranteed was a pivotal moment in my career. This film demonstrated my capability to lead a story with understated elegance and captivating charm. The movie’s examination of hope, remorse, and human connection seems evergreen, largely due to my authentic portrayal on screen.
3 ‘Ingrid Goes West’ (2017)
In her portrayal of Ingrid, a character consumed by social media and slipping into fixation, Plaza delivers an unnerving yet relatable depiction. This thought-provoking satire showcases how Plaza skillfully conveys the isolation and despair that fuels Ingrid’s escalating actions.
Unhinged and Relatable
The film’s pointed criticism of influencer culture and contemporary vanity resonates more powerfully due to Plaza’s fearless performance, which oscillates between comedic excess and emotionally raw vulnerability. The movie Ingrid Goes West serves as a testament to Plaza’s talent for portraying complex, imperfect, and strikingly realistic characters, transforming them into indelible examinations of human nature.
2 ‘Black Bear’ (2020)
In “Black Bear,” actress Aubrey Plaza delivers an outstanding performance as Allison, a filmmaker grappling with both creative turmoil and personal upheaval while isolated in a cabin surrounded by a peculiar cast and team. The movie’s storyline skillfully confuses the boundaries between reality and art, and Plaza’s chilling portrayal of a woman on the brink of collapse is absolutely captivating.
A Meta Masterpiece
The character’s knack for switching between humor, anger, and sadness gives the film’s unusual elements a sense of reality, making her role a remarkable demonstration of emotional depth. In “Black Bear”, Plaza not only exhibits her skill but also asserts her position among the boldest actors of her contemporary generation.
1 ‘Emily the Criminal’ (2022)
As a devoted cinephile, I must say that Plaza’s portrayal of Emily, an artist diving into credit card fraud to escape overwhelming debt in LA, is nothing short of gripping and authentic. This isn’t your typical tale of easy salvation or glamorous burglaries; instead, it’s a sobering, grounded narrative that delves deep into the harsh realities of desperation. Plaza’s fearless acting makes this survival story in a flawed system even more captivating.
Grit and Resilience
Emily the Criminal showcases Plaza’s skill in portraying characters wrestling with moral complexities and societal injustices, resulting in a performance that’s both compelling and relevant. This film is an exceptional demonstration of Plaza’s talent for bringing genuine emotion and layers to every role, making it one of her most impactful performances thus far.
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2024-12-07 20:02