10 Movies That Made Diane Keaton ‘One of a Kind’

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I was genuinely stunned to hear about Diane Keaton’s passing this weekend. It’s different when someone fades from public view, but Keaton was still actively working, and her death at 79 feels particularly sharp. You simply can’t talk about American cinema without mentioning her. She starred in two absolute classics – *Annie Hall* and *The Godfather* – and those are just the beginning. She quietly built an incredible career, racking up over 75 film and television credits from 1970 all the way up to this year. I’ve picked out ten of my favorite performances below, and included where you can stream or rent them.

Annie Hall (1977)

https://youtube.com/watch?v=watch?v=5WPSwGZ5UVE

Woody Allen wrote the main character specifically for Diane Keaton, who had previously impressed him in his 1968 play, *Play It Again, Sam*, and his films *Sleeper* and *Love and Death*. This 1977 film showcased Keaton’s versatility, as she transitioned from a critically acclaimed dramatic role in *The Godfather* (1972) to a starring role in this beloved comedy. Keaton is wonderful in this groundbreaking romantic comedy, which treated its characters and the genre with remarkable sincerity, making them feel authentic. You can watch it on Tubi (free), Prime Video, and MGM+.

Baby Boom (1987)

https://youtube.com/watch?v=watch?v=rldIHm50cHM

Diane Keaton delivers a surprisingly nuanced performance in this 1987 comedy, co-written by the talented Nancy Meyers. The film centers on the challenges of a new mother juggling a career and a young child, a role that could easily fall into tired tropes. However, Keaton brings a refreshing honesty and relatability to the part. This was a hallmark of her acting – she could take familiar characters and make them feel completely authentic, something few other actors could achieve. You can watch it on Tubi, The Roku Channel (both free), and MGM+.

The Family Stone (2005)

Diane Keaton starred in many heartwarming family comedies in the 1990s and 2000s, and this one remains a favorite for good reason. It’s a Christmas movie centered around the Stone family, with a cast including Sarah Jessica Parker, Dermot Mulroney, Luke Wilson, Claire Danes, Craig T. Nelson, and Rachel McAdams. However, it’s Keaton’s performance as the mother that truly makes the film work. She had a knack for making viewers feel connected to the characters and their lives, as if they were old friends. You can watch it on Prime Video.

Father of the Bride (1991)

https://youtube.com/watch?v=watch?v=YXpPWwgATAg

Director Charlie Shyer and writer Nancy Meyers teamed up again with the star of their film *Baby Boom* to create a remake that spawned a popular series. This updated version of the 1950 movie starring Spencer Tracy and Elizabeth Taylor is a beloved film of the Gen-X generation, featuring Steve Martin in the lead role and Diane Keaton as the “Mother of the Bride.” It was incredibly successful and has become a yearly tradition for many viewers, leading to a 1995 sequel (also starring Keaton) and a 2022 remake. You can currently watch it on Hulu and Disney+.

The First Wives Club (1996)

Director Hugh Wilson aimed for a similar vibe as the movie *9 to 5* when he brought together three beloved actresses – Diane Keaton, Bette Midler, and Goldie Hawn – to play divorced women seeking revenge. The 1996 film was a major success, earning over $180 million globally by appealing to an audience that hadn’t been well-represented on screen. It’s also credited with helping revitalize the careers of all three stars after a period of fewer roles. You can watch it on Pluto TV (free) and Kanopy.

The Godfather (1972)

https://youtube.com/watch?v=watch?v=G7tK-3EUJ9A

While often celebrated for the performances of stars like Al Pacino and Marlon Brando, it’s Diane Keaton who truly anchors *The Godfather* films. As Kay Adams, she brilliantly portrays a woman who sees the man beneath the ruthless mafia boss Michael Corleone, understanding his vulnerability even as he becomes increasingly cold. Her expression in the final scene is a remarkable acting achievement. Available on demand.

Looking for Mr. Goodbar (1977)

Often overshadowed by *Annie Hall*, this thrilling film is a standout in Diane Keaton’s work and well worth watching. Adapted from Judith Rossner’s 1975 novel inspired by the 1973 murder of Roseann Quinn, it follows a teacher’s search for romance in a big city that takes a terrifying turn, ultimately leading to a shocking and violent climax. The film also helped launch the careers of Richard Gere, LeVar Burton, Tom Berenger, and Brian Dennehy, and features one of Keaton’s strongest dramatic performances. Currently available on demand.

Marvin’s Room (1996)

https://youtube.com/watch?v=watch?v=28vax7CX-1E

Leonardo DiCaprio praised Diane Keaton as truly unique, recalling a memorable early career experience working with her on the 1996 drama. The film, adapted from a critically acclaimed 1990 play, stars Keaton as a woman battling leukemia, alongside Meryl Streep and Robert De Niro. This role earned Keaton her third Best Actress Oscar nomination. You can watch it for free on PlutoTV and Kanopy.

Reds (1981)

Warren Beatty co-wrote and directed this sweeping, nearly three-hour film about the October Revolution, starring Diane Keaton as activist Louise Bryant and Jack Nicholson as Eugene O’Neill. Keaton earned her second Oscar nomination for her performance. The movie skillfully combines personal stories with the larger political upheaval of the time and received widespread critical praise, including nominations for Best Picture, Best Director, and all four acting awards. You can watch it for free on Pluto TV and Kanopy.

Something’s Gotta Give (2003)

https://youtube.com/watch?v=watch?v=KErfQYwQ1Ms

Diane Keaton and Nancy Meyers teamed up again for this funny and heartwarming movie, with Meyers directing. Keaton also reconnected with her *Reds* co-star Jack Nicholson in a story about finding love at any age and how well opposites can complement each other. It’s a perfect showcase for both actors’ strengths – Nicholson’s playful humor and Keaton’s delightful energy. The film was a major success, earning over $250 million worldwide and earning Keaton another Oscar nomination. Her emotional and genuine performance is sure to lift your spirits. Available on demand.

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2025-10-14 19:56