It was 2000, and films had seen some truly iconic movies, loved even till today. But it was also the year when many super talented actresses gave performances that you simply can’t forget, snagging awards and winning over audiences everywhere. So, let’s check out the top 5 actresses whose performances totally shaped the movie scene in 2000.
Top 5 actresses performances 2000
1. Julia Roberts in Erin Brockovich
Julia Roberts absolutely stunned everyone with her role as Erin Brockovich, a super determined single mom who ends up being a legal assistant and takes on a big corporation. Her acting was so real, authentic, and emotional that it scored her an Academy Award for Best Actress. This part really locked in Roberts as one of the most versatile actresses in Hollywood.
Why it was memorable:
- Julia added depth and realism to the tenacity of Erin Brockovich.
- Her performance was a mix of vulnerability and strength.
- The movie portrayed a very realistic story, which Roberts’ charm made even stronger.
2. Ellen Burstyn in Requiem for a Dream
Ellen Burstyn absolutely nailed it as Sara Goldfarb, this woman who is completely obsessed with her dream of being on TV. Watching her spiral into addiction and madness was both super sad and really scary. Burstyn’s acting was so on point that it stuck with you and got her an Academy Award nomination.
Why was it memorable?
- Burstyn’s portrayal of addiction was brutally honest.
- Her performance captured the fragility of human dreams.
- She received widespread critical acclaim for her transformative acting.
3. Renee Zellweger in Nurse Betty
Renee Zellweger totally nailed it as Betty, a waitress who dives into a fantasy world after a rough patch, and her performance was both super funny and really moving. The way Zellweger mixed comedy with serious moments made her stand out, and she ended up winning a Golden Globe for it.
Why was it memorable?
- Renee really added some charm and humor to that heavy storyline.
- They identified with her quest.
- This role really reflected her acting talent.
4. Björk in the movie Dancer in the Dark.
You probably know Björk primarily as a musician, but she absolutely floored everyone with her super-emotionally charged role as Selma, a factory worker going blind, in Lars von Trier’s Dancer in the Dark. The performance was so realistic and gut-wrenching that she won Best Actress at Cannes Film Festival.
Why it was memorable
- Björk’s vulnerability brought Selma’s plight to life.
- Her performance was complemented by a haunting soundtrack.
- The movie’s tragic narrative was elevated by her extraordinary acting.
5. Joan Allen in The Contender
Joan Allen as Senator Laine Hanson was very applied in The Contender. The film revolved around gender politics and personal integrity, and Allen was the power behind it all. She was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress for her efforts.
And this truly made it unforgettable:
- It was dignified and fierce, just like Allen.
- The film covered vital socio-political issues.
- That performance should be counted among the career bests of hers.
Honorable Mentions
While these five actresses delivered some of the most iconic performances of 2000, others also left a mark:
- Cate Blanchett in The Gift
- Laura Linney in You Can Count on Me
- Juliette Binoche in Chocolat
Final Thoughts
It was what we could safely describe as the year 2000. Not only did it showcase incredible talent, but also a wide diversity of acts. These actresses entertained, but along with that entertained so many fans in their performances on-screen, inspiring many others with their dedication toward craft. Their performances shall stand in time-honored remembrance, telling us why the process of telling through celluloid is so powerful.
Which of these is your favorite performance? Tell us in the comments!