How Scarlett Johansson went from teen talent to industry titan
What's the story
Scarlett Johansson has established herself as a household name in US cinema, thanks to her phenomenal acting and varied roles. From a child artist to one of Hollywood's biggest stars, her journey has been nothing short of remarkable, with plenty of milestones and makeovers along the way. Here's a look at how her career has evolved over the years, with some key performances and changes.
Early roles
Early beginnings in 'The Horse Whisperer'
Johansson's big break came with 1998's The Horse Whisperer. The actor starred as Grace MacLean in the film, and she was the heart and soul of it. This performance showcased how promising a talent she was at such a young age and earned the actor critical acclaim, paving the way for future opportunities. Her ability to convey complex emotions caught the attention of filmmakers, paving the way for more substantial roles.
Career shift
Transition to adult roles with 'Lost in Translation'
In 2003, Johansson starred in Lost in Translation, making her transition from child actor to adult roles. Her portrayal of Charlotte was widely praised, and she received several award nominations for it. The film did wonders for her image as an actor who could handle nuanced characters, and further solidified her place in Hollywood.
Action star
Embracing action with 'The Avengers' series
Johansson widened her spectrum by doing action-packed roles, most famously as Black Widow in The Avengers series from 2012. Her performance not only made the character more layered but also proved her versatility across genres. The success of these films also played an important role in making her an international star.
Genre exploration
Exploring diverse genres with 'Her' and beyond
Beyond action films, Johansson dabbled in different genres with movies like Her, which was released in 2013. In this movie, she offered only voice acting but gave an unforgettable performance that struck a chord with audiences across the globe. Her risk-taking ability to choose unconventional projects has been instrumental in staying relevant over time.
Recent works
Continued success with recent projects
In the past few years, Johansson has also kept delivering riveting performances in various genres such as drama and comedy films like Marriage Story (2019). These projects have not just received critical acclaim but also shown how she continues to evolve in US cinema without being stuck in any one genre or typecast role.