Meryl Streep has once again proved her unmatched standing within the film industry, as her performance in Sophie’s Choice (1982) has been voted the greatest Oscar Best Actress winner ever. A recent poll conducted by Gold Derby underscored this achievement, highlighting not only Streep's formidable talent but also the lasting impact of her work.
Streep, who has garnered three Academy Awards, holds the record for the most nominations in Oscar history with 21 nods. She also boasts 30 Golden Globe nominations, winning eight times, solidifying her rank as the titan of the acting world. Her transformative performances across multiple genres have captivated audiences for over five decades, earning her acclaim from critics and fans alike.
According to Gold Derby, following Streep's iconic portrayal of Sophie, Diane Keaton's Annie Hall (1977) and Jodie Foster's role in The Silence of the Lambs (1991) rounded out the top three performances. These results not only reiterate Streep's prowess but also provide insights on how her characters resonate with viewers.
Streep's filmography is undeniably impressive, reflecting her dedication to her craft. Notable roles over the years include the cunning Miranda Priestly from The Devil Wears Prada (2006), which, as rumored, may soon see a sequel with Streep poised to reprise her role. Initial reports from Puck and Variety suggest Disney has greenlit the sequel, also featuring Emily Blunt. The screenplay is expected to explore the modern challenges of the magazine industry, offering yet another chance for Streep to showcase her formidable talent.
Streep's ability to span genres—from dramatic pieces like The French Lieutenant's Woman (1981) to hilarious comedies such as Death Becomes Her (1992)—has made her performances iconic. Her 2009 role as Julia Child in Julie & Julia earned her another Oscar nomination and showcased her versatility as she balanced humor with heartfelt inspiration.
Her performance is often cited as not just impersonation but rather as channeling Child's vibrance, bringing to life her passion for cooking and her impressive personal challenges. The film’s success also reflects how Streep's portrayal of relatable characters can resonate across generations, ensuring her performances remain timeless.
Streep's influence transcends mere acting; she has become synonymous with excellence. Notably, her role in The Post (2017) saw her addressing themes of journalistic responsibility during the publication of the Pentagon Papers. This part came during a time when the relevance of the press was under scrutiny, demonstrating how cinema continues to reflect and impact societal issues. Streep, portraying Katharine Graham, presented her character's challenges with both poise and gravity, securing her 21st Academy Award nomination.
Critics have steeply praised Streep’s ability to evoke raw emotion, particularly observed during the intense and heart-wrenching scenes of Sophie’s Choice. Viewers felt the weight of her character's past as she navigated the horrors of the Holocaust, making her breakdown scene unforgettable. This film not only secured Streep her second Academy Award but is often called the high-water mark of her extensive career.
The accolades aside, Streep's career serves as immense inspiration for upcoming actors and actresses who dream of enduring impact. Each role she takes contributes to her legacy, and the anticipation surrounding her future projects continues to grow, especially with talk of The Devil Wears Prada sequel. Fans and critics alike are eager to see how she will interpret Miranda's character in the changing climate of the fashion industry.
While Streep's behalf of nuanced performances has won her countless awards and accolades, it's her choice of roles and commitment to depth, character, and story, which keep her at the forefront of film. Indeed, she has established herself as not just an actress but as a cultural icon whose influence will be felt for generations to come.
With each new performance, Meryl Streep reminds audiences why she deserves every single accolade heaped upon her. From confrontational dramas to enlightening biopics, her varied filmography suggests she’s just getting started, and as fans await her new projects, one thing is clear: Meryl Streep's impact on cinema is far from over.
