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Dakota Johnson’s 15 Best Movies and TV Show Performances, Ranked

From Steamy Dramas to Superhero Epics: Ranking Dakota Johnson’s Best On-Screen Moments.

Dakota Johnson Best Movies
Frederic J. Brown/AFP via Getty Images

Dakota Johnson has proven herself as a versatile actress, delivering memorable performances across a variety of genres, from romantic dramas to suspenseful thrillers and even action-packed superhero flicks. Rising to fame with her breakout role in Fifty Shades of Grey, Johnson has since built a diverse filmography that highlights her talent and range. In this slideshow, we rank her Top 15 movies and TV show performances, including iconic roles and her latest project, Madame Web.

15. Cymbeline (2014)

Dakota Johnson
Lionsgate

In this modern adaptation of Shakespeare’s play, Johnson plays Imogen, a young woman caught in a web of love and betrayal. Her performance is bold and engaging, as she handles the complex language and emotional stakes of the story with ease. Johnson’s portrayal brings a contemporary twist to a classic role, demonstrating her capacity for both dramatic intensity and classical storytelling.

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14. Wounds (2019)

Dakota Johnson
Hulu

In this psychological thriller, Johnson delivers a chilling performance as Carrie, a woman whose life unravels after her partner discovers a disturbing phone. The film’s eerie atmosphere is heightened by Johnson’s ability to convey fear and tension, as her character becomes increasingly entangled in a supernatural mystery. Her performance stands out in a genre that requires subtlety and precision, proving her talent for suspenseful storytelling.

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13. Cha Cha Real Smooth (2022)

Dakota Johnson
Apple TV+

In this indie drama, Johnson portrays Domino, a young mother navigating the complexities of single parenthood and new relationships. Her nuanced performance brings depth to the character, as she balances light-hearted moments with the emotional weight of her character’s circumstances. Johnson’s work in Cha Cha Real Smooth highlights her ability to deliver subtle, intimate performances that resonate with audiences.

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12. The High Note (2020)

Dakota Johnson
Focus Features

As Maggie, an ambitious assistant aspiring to become a music producer, Johnson steps into the world of Hollywood’s music scene in The High Note. Her performance captures the optimism and determination of a young woman chasing her dreams. Johnson’s rapport with co-star Tracee Ellis Ross adds a dynamic element to the film, making it a charming and feel-good watch that showcases her range in contemporary stories.

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11. How to Be Single (2016)

Dakota Johnson
Warner Bros. Pictures

Johnson shines as Alice, a young woman exploring single life in New York City. In How to Be Single, she balances comedy and drama, delivering a performance that’s both relatable and entertaining. Her chemistry with the ensemble cast, including Rebel Wilson and Leslie Mann, brings a sense of fun and camaraderie to the film, proving her ability to thrive in lighthearted romantic comedies.

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10. Our Friend (2019)

Dakota Johnson
Gravitas Ventures

In Our Friend, Johnson portrays Nicole Teague, a woman facing a terminal illness while trying to maintain a sense of normalcy for her family. Her performance is both emotional and authentic, capturing the strength and vulnerability of someone navigating an incredibly challenging chapter. Johnson’s portrayal, alongside Casey Affleck and Jason Segel, adds depth and sincerity to this poignant drama.

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9. The Peanut Butter Falcon (2019)

Dakota Johnson
Roadside Attractions

As Eleanor, a social worker who forms an unlikely bond with two drifters, Johnson delivers a heartfelt performance in The Peanut Butter Falcon. The film’s touching narrative allows her to display a softer, more compassionate side, blending warmth with determination. Johnson’s chemistry with her co-stars, particularly Zack Gottsagen, is genuine and moving, contributing to the film’s emotional impact.

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8. Madame Web (2024)

Dakota Johnson
Sony Pictures

In one of her most anticipated roles, Dakota Johnson takes on the titular character in Madame Web, an upcoming addition to Sony’s Spider-Man universe. While the movie didn’t measure up to expectations, Johnson’s involvement did generate significant buzz. Her ability to handle action and intensity in previous films suggests she can do more action movies in the future.

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7. A Bigger Splash (2015)

Dakota Johnson
StudioCanal 

Playing Penelope Lanier, Johnson steps into the role of a seductive and enigmatic young woman in A Bigger Splash. Sharing the screen with acting heavyweights like Tilda Swinton and Ralph Fiennes, Johnson stands her ground, adding an air of mystery to her character. Her performance is both subtle and captivating, drawing audiences into a narrative where emotions run high and tensions simmer beneath the surface.

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6. Bad Times at the El Royale (2018)

Dakota Johnson
20th Century Fox

In Bad Times at the El Royale, Johnson portrays Emily Summerspring, a mysterious woman with a hidden agenda. The film’s suspenseful narrative allows Johnson to showcase her edgier side, as she navigates a web of secrets and danger. Her commanding presence and layered performance bring an element of unpredictability to the character, proving her capability in the thriller genre.

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5. The Lost Daughter (2021)

Dakota Johnson
Netflix

Johnson’s supporting role in The Lost Daughter as Nina, a young mother with a mysterious connection to Olivia Colman’s character, earned her critical praise. She skillfully brings a sense of unease and intrigue to her character, blending vulnerability with a hint of danger. The film highlights her ability to shine alongside a talented ensemble cast, adding nuance and depth to a complex story about motherhood and personal identity.

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5. Daddio (2023)

Dakota Johnson
Sony Pictures Classics

Dakota Johnson takes on one of her most intimate and challenging roles yet. The film, a two-hander set almost entirely in the confines of a New York City taxi, follows the journey of her character, a woman named Jess, as she engages in a revealing conversation with her cab driver, played by Sean Penn. This setup allows for a deeply personal and character-driven story, putting the focus squarely on Johnson’s ability to convey emotion and depth with minimal physical movement or distraction.

4. Suspiria (2018)

Dakota Johnson
Amazon Studios

In this daring horror remake, Johnson plays Susie Bannion, a dancer who becomes entangled in the dark secrets of a prestigious dance academy. Her performance is haunting and compelling, as she fully immerses herself in the physically and emotionally demanding role. Johnson’s portrayal is captivating, and she demonstrates her versatility by embracing the film’s disturbing and eerie tone, proving that she’s more than capable of handling challenging and unconventional material.

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3. Fifty Shades Freed (2018)

Dakota Johnson
Universal Pictures

Concluding the trilogy, Fifty Shades Freed allows Johnson to present Anastasia in a new light as she steps into her role as a wife and partner facing new dangers. Johnson’s strong performance emphasizes the character’s evolution from an innocent young woman to a confident and resilient figure. She successfully wraps up the story with poise, solidifying her mark in one of the decade’s most talked-about franchises.

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2. Fifty Shades Darker (2017)

Dakota Johnson
Universal Pictures

In Fifty Shades Darker, Johnson further develops the character of Anastasia Steele as she grapples with the consequences of her relationship with Christian. The sequel adds a new layer of intensity, and Johnson rises to the challenge, showing Anastasia’s growth, determination, and independence. Her chemistry with co-star Jamie Dornan remains electric, and the emotional stakes she brings to the role help elevate the narrative beyond its provocative premise.

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1. Fifty Shades of Grey (2015)

Dakota Johnson
Universal Pictures

The film that catapulted Dakota Johnson into the limelight, Fifty Shades of Grey showcases her as Anastasia Steele, a young woman caught in a complicated and passionate relationship with Christian Grey. Johnson’s portrayal brought depth and sensitivity to the character, navigating the complexities of desire, power, and vulnerability. Her performance turned a highly anticipated adaptation into a cultural phenomenon and demonstrated her capability to lead a major film franchise.

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More From Nerdspin – Margot Robbie’s 16 Best Movie Performances, Ranked

Margot Robbie
Image Press Agency / Depositphotos.com

Margot Robbie’s 16 Best Movie Performances, Ranked
This list ranks our favorite Margot Robbie’s performances.

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Also check out – Megan Fox’s 13 Best Movies and TV Show Performances, Ranked

Megan Fox’s 13 Best Movies
Popular Images / S_Bukley / Depositphotos.com

Megan Fox’s 13 Best Movies and TV Show Performances, Ranked
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