Emma Stone continues to shine as one of the most celebrated actresses in contemporary cinema, having made a significant impact in the film industry over the past two decades. Rising to fame through a series of popular comedies such as Superbad, Zombieland, and Easy A, Stone's ability to blend humor with drama has earned her critical acclaim and numerous accolades. Between 2014 and 2023, she received four Academy Award nominations, winning two of them before reaching the age of 40, a remarkable feat for any actor.
Among her notable performances, four films stand out, showcasing her versatility and talent. These films not only highlight her acting prowess but also reflect the evolution of her career from comedic roles to more complex characters.
The first of these films is La La Land (2016), which marked a pivotal moment in Stone's career. In this vibrant musical, she portrays Mia, an aspiring actress whose love story with a jazz musician, played by Ryan Gosling, unfolds against the backdrop of Los Angeles. The film, a homage to classic musicals, earned Stone her first Oscar for Best Actress. Critics praised her performance for its emotional depth and charm, making La La Land one of the best musicals of the last few decades.
Following this triumph, Stone starred in Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance) (2014), a film that won the Academy Award for Best Picture. In this dark comedy, she plays Sam, the daughter of a washed-up actor attempting to revive his career on Broadway. The film's unique narrative style, which gives the illusion of being filmed in one continuous shot, adds to the tension and urgency of the story. Stone’s performance was integral to the film's success, and her nomination for Best Supporting Actress solidified her status as a leading talent in Hollywood.
In 2018, Stone took on a supporting role in The Favourite, a film that explores the power dynamics of two women vying for the affection of Queen Anne, played by Olivia Colman. Stone’s portrayal of Abigail Masham showcases her ability to navigate complex emotions and dark humor, earning her another Oscar nomination. Although the film is largely centered around Colman's character, Stone's performance is memorable and adds depth to the intricate narrative.
Most recently, Stone starred in Poor Things (2023), a film that marks her third collaboration with director Yorgos Lanthimos. This surreal comedy, which won Stone the Oscar for Best Actress, tells the story of a woman brought back to life with a new brain, embarking on a wild journey of self-discovery in a fantastical version of Victorian London. With its bold visuals and Stone's fearless performance, the film garnered critical acclaim and showcased her range as an actress.
In addition to her film work, Stone has also ventured into television and production, further expanding her creative horizons. Her role as a producer on Poor Things exemplifies her commitment to storytelling and her desire to shape the narratives she is a part of.
On May 5, 2025, Emma Stone's portrayal of Cruella de Vil in the live-action film Cruella will be featured on TV Globo's popular program Tela Quente. Directed by Craig Gillespie, the film provides a fresh take on the iconic villain from Disney's 101 Dalmatians, exploring her origins in the vibrant fashion scene of 1970s London. Stone's performance in this film has been widely praised, showcasing her ability to blend vulnerability with a rebellious spirit.
Cruella not only earned Stone a Golden Globe nomination but also won the Oscar for Best Costume Design in 2022. The film's extravagant visuals, combined with a punk rock soundtrack featuring hits from bands like Blondie and Queen, create an energetic atmosphere that resonates with audiences. The film grossed an impressive $233.5 million worldwide upon its release in 2021, demonstrating Stone's drawing power as a leading actress.
Set against the backdrop of London's cultural revolution, Cruella follows Estella, a young orphan who becomes the rebellious Cruella de Vil. The film captures the essence of the punk movement, with its bold fashion choices and a narrative that explores themes of identity, ambition, and revenge. Stone's transformation from a marginalized youth to a fashion icon is central to the story, and her performance has been described as both magnetic and nuanced.
Critics have noted that the film's costume design, led by Jenny Beavan, plays a significant role in conveying Estella's evolution into Cruella. With over 47 unique looks designed for Stone, each outfit reflects her character's journey and the film's overall aesthetic. The production invested approximately $10 million in wardrobe, further emphasizing the importance of visual storytelling in Cruella.
As the film continues to resonate with audiences, it has sparked discussions about the portrayal of villains in contemporary cinema. Cruella offers a complex character study that humanizes the iconic antagonist without excusing her darker tendencies. This nuanced approach has drawn comparisons to other recent reimaginings of classic villains, such as Maleficent.
With its successful theatrical run and subsequent digital release on Disney+, Cruella has solidified its place in popular culture. The film's success has also paved the way for a sequel, Cruella 2, which is currently in pre-production and promises to explore new narratives within the character's universe.
Emma Stone's ability to take on diverse roles and her dedication to her craft continue to captivate audiences worldwide. As she prepares for her upcoming appearances, including the screening of Cruella on TV Globo, fans eagerly anticipate her next projects and the continued evolution of her remarkable career.
