1. Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance) (2014)
Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance) (2014) follows Riggan Thomson (played by Michael Keaton), a former Hollywood star who once portrayed the superhero Birdman. At the height of his fame, Thomson unexpectedly abandoned the blockbuster franchise and almost disappeared from the public eye. Decades later, the once-hero is now a mere shadow of his former self, struggling with his career and identity.
Emma Stone delivers a stunning performance as Riggan’s rebellious daughter, Sam. With her large, expressive eyes, she plays the disaffected young woman who constantly challenges everything, seeking relief only when she isolates herself on a rooftop. One of Sam's most memorable moments is when she candidly tells her father that he is nothing but a dreamer, that his play is a vanity project, and that no one will remember it once it’s over...
After her roles in romantic comedies and two installments of The Amazing Spider-Man, Emma Stone proves she’s more than capable of handling serious artistic projects, and her first Oscar nomination for Birdman was a well-deserved recognition of her talent.
IMDb Rating: 7.7
Tomatometer Score: 91%
Audience Rating: 78%

2. The Amazing Spider-Man (2012)
The Amazing Spider-Man (2012) brings Spider-Man back to his teenage years, when Peter Parker was a lively high school student. His parents mysteriously disappeared when he was young, and Peter was raised by his loving Aunt May and Uncle Ben. As he grows, Peter inherits his father’s scientific talents. One day, he stumbles upon a mysterious briefcase left by his father, leading him to a chance encounter with his father’s former colleague, Dr. Curt Connors, which changes Peter’s life and transforms him into the extraordinary Spider-Man.
With a budget of $220 million, the film stands out for its stunning visuals and impressive special effects. Director Marc Webb’s creative vision brings breathtaking, colorful, and smooth lighting effects that captivate the audience.
Alongside Spider-Man, the female lead in The Amazing Spider-Man is not the iconic redhead Mary Jane Watson, but the blonde beauty Gwen Stacy. Emma Stone, one of Hollywood’s most praised actresses, plays Gwen Stacy, though her character in the film lacks much depth or differentiation from other love interests in superhero films.
IMDb Rating: 7.1
Tomatometer Score: 72%
Audience Rating: 77%

3. The Help (2011)
The Help (2011) is a film adaptation of the novel by American author Kathryn Stockett. It tells the story of African-American maids working in white families' homes in Jackson, Mississippi, during the early 1960s. Skeeter, an aspiring journalist, decides to write a book that sheds light on the lives of the black maids, exposing the stark racial discrimination they face from the white families they work for.
The Help is not a tear-jerker, but it evokes a bittersweet, reflective emotion that lingers after the film ends. The optimism within the characters' actions and emotions adds depth, making the film stand out after its release.
The film’s success is also due to the stellar performances by its female cast. From seasoned veterans like Sissy Spacek and Allison Janney to rising stars like Emma Stone and Jessica Chastain, all the actresses deliver natural performances that make it feel as though they truly inhabit their characters.
IMDb Rating: 8.1
Tomatometer Score: 76%
Audience Rating: 89%

4. Crazy, Stupid, Love (2011)
Crazy, Stupid, Love (2011) follows Cal Weaver, a man living the American dream. He has a great job, a beautiful house, wonderful kids, and a stunning wife named Emily. However, his seemingly perfect life is turned upside down when he discovers that Emily has been unfaithful and wants a divorce. At over 40 and suddenly single, Cal is thrust into the world of dating. Enter Jacob Palmer, a self-proclaimed player, who takes Cal under his wing and shows him the ropes of his new bachelor life.
The film is praised by critics for its ensemble cast. With seasoned actors like Steve Carell, Ryan Gosling, Julianne Moore, and Emma Stone, their professional performances carry the film and win over even the most discerning critics.
At the People’s Choice Awards, Emma Stone took home two awards: Favorite Actress and Favorite Comedic Actress for her supporting role in this film.
IMDb Rating: 7.4
Tomatometer Score: 79%
Audience Rating: 78%

5. Easy A (2010)
Easy A (2010) follows Olive Penderghast, a high school student who, in a moment of careless chatter, lies to her best friend, claiming she spent her weekend having sex with a boy. What seems like a harmless fib quickly spirals out of control as the story spreads throughout the school, and Olive becomes the subject of gossip and ridicule from everyone around her.
This film marks Emma Stone's first leading role, and she seized the opportunity, delivering a performance that perfectly balanced youthful innocence with a budding awareness of her sexuality. She plays off Penn Badgley in a charming romance while trying to avoid Amanda Bynes. Stone’s natural talent and magnetic screen presence make it look effortless.
The film impressed critics, earning Stone a Golden Globe nomination for her role. It also exceeded financial expectations, becoming a commercial success far beyond what the producers and director had hoped for.
IMDb Rating: 7.0
Tomatometer Score: 85%
Audience Rating: 77%

6. Zombieland (2009)
Zombieland (2009) follows two men trying to survive in a post-apocalyptic world overrun by zombies. Columbus is a weakling, but his overwhelming fear of being eaten by zombies keeps him alive. Tallahassee is a zombie-hunting hero, determined to wipe out every last undead creature on Earth. When they join forces with Wichita and Little Rock, two other survivors, they must decide whether it's better to stick together or to sacrifice themselves to the zombies in a last-ditch attempt to escape.
Zombieland brings a unique sense of humor to the zombie genre. The film offers light-hearted moments and plenty of laughter, with its quirky characters delivering hilarious jokes and antics that make it a fun watch.
IMDb Rating: 7.6
Tomatometer Score: 89%
Audience Rating: 86%

7. Superbad (2007)
This is a romantic comedy about teenage sexuality, Superbad, which follows two best friends, Seth and Evan, who are about to graduate from high school. They get drunk and make a bet to find their dream girl before the night ends...
Superbad (2007) was Emma Stone's film debut, where she played Seth's girlfriend. Although her role might be overshadowed by the male leads, her supporting performances still made a significant impression. She brought humor and charm to the screen, showcasing her comedic talent, which quickly led to her breakthrough career. Emma soon became a lucky charm for films like Sony's The House Bunny, Zombieland, Easy A, Friends With Benefits, The Amazing Spider-Man, and more.
If Emma Stone hadn't made such a strong impression in Superbad, who knows if she'd be one of the biggest movie stars in the world today. Everyone starts somewhere, and today's behind-the-scenes cameraman could be tomorrow's Oscar-winning actress.
IMDb Rating: 7.6
Tomatometer: 87%
Audience Rating: 65%

8. The Favourite (2018)
The Favourite (2018) centers around a fierce rivalry between two cousins who vie for the favor of Queen Anne (Olivia Colman) in early 18th century England. Queen Anne is portrayed as a heavyset, depressed woman, suffering from the excruciating pain of gout. All governmental affairs are controlled by her advisor and secret lover, Sarah Churchill (Rachel Weisz). However, the arrival of Abigail Hill (Emma Stone), Sarah's younger cousin, threatens to topple Sarah's position of power.
The three lead actresses deliver standout performances, becoming the heart of the film, and all received Oscar nominations. Olivia Colman masterfully portrays the Queen's petulance and childlike mood swings, transitioning smoothly in scenes that demand emotional depth. Rachel Weisz captures Sarah's strength through her gaze and physicality, while Emma Stone skillfully transforms into the two-faced Abigail. After her Oscar win for La La Land, Stone continued to impress with her remarkable acting talent.
The Favourite offers viewers a rich contrast in everything from its visual style to the personalities of its characters.
IMDb Rating: 7.5
Tomatometer: 93%
Audience Rating: 70%

9. Battle of the Sexes (2017)
Battle of the Sexes (2017) is based on the true story of the 1973 tennis match between Billie Jean King and 55-year-old Bobby Riggs. At the time, Billie Jean was already a well-known figure in tennis, but for some reason, she was compelled to face off against the former tennis pro Bobby Riggs. She had to win, not only for her pride but to prove her worth on the court. The intense buildup to this historic match will keep viewers at the edge of their seats, focusing on every detail of the film.
Emma Stone brings to life a fearless opponent, portraying Billie Jean as a determined and confident athlete. She also deftly handles the film's romantic subplot, particularly the natural chemistry between Billie Jean and her partner Marilyn Barnett. While at its core a sports drama, Battle of the Sexes is much more than that—it also serves as a call for gender equality, a battle that still rages on today.
IMDb Rating: 6.7
Tomatometer: 84%
Audience Rating: 71%

10. La La Land (2016)
La La Land is a musical film that delivers heartfelt and joyous emotions through meaningful songs, with deep messages about life and love. It's one of the most touching and significant musical films that explores the themes of love and dreams, and it's a must-watch for anyone looking for an inspiring cinematic experience.
The film tells the story of individuals chasing their dreams in the beautiful city of Los Angeles. La La Land has made a significant mark on global cinema, winning numerous prestigious awards and receiving an overwhelmingly positive response from audiences.
Emma Stone's remarkable performance as Mia, along with Ryan Gosling as Seb, played a key role in the success of this film. From their captivating dance sequences to emotional moments that speak to the heart, both characters brought the film to life with exceptional skill.
IMDb Rating: 8.0
Tomatometer: 91%
Audience Rating: 81%
