Every Demi Moore Movie Performance, Ranked

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Demi Moore has joined our conversation, and her remarkable portrayal in Coralie Fargeat’s film “The Substance” contributed significantly to a resurgence in her career. This culminated in her first Oscar nomination. The character she played, Elizabeth Sparkle, an actress struggling against the industry’s ageism by taking drastic measures and splitting herself, is a powerful blend of Moore’s acting skills, the role, and a poignant moment in time.

For approximately two decades, Moore has predominantly worked in secondary roles within independent films, representing a conscious choice after she became a trailblazer in Hollywood during the 1990s as the highest-earning actress. During that period, her series of culturally impactful movies, high-profile marriage to Bruce Willis, and public image – including a contentious 1991 Vanity Fair cover featuring her nude and pregnant – elevated her to global stardom. Despite films like Ghost, Indecent Proposal, and Disclosure establishing her as one of the few female stars capable of launching a film at the box office, Moore frequently faced criticism from critics.

This year at the Golden Globes, Moorespoke powerfully after winning her initial major acting award in her career. She recounted an incident where a producer labeled her as a “popcorn actress,” implying that she was not meant for awards or serious acting. However, he couldn’t have been more wrong! A glance at her filmography shows her to be one of the greatest “popcorn actresses” of the last fifty years, but she was also much more than what people gave her credit for during that time. Of course, there were mistakes along the way, and some indie films that have been forgotten over time. But Moore frequently took center stage in movies or carried a film to the finish line with her powerful presence, or simply delivered an outstanding performance.

For the very first time in her impressive four-decade-long career, The Substance’s performance has catapulted her into the Oscar race. She’s already won the Golden Globe and Critics Choice Awards for Best Actress, and added the Screen Actors Guild Award to her collection. Furthermore, she’s been nominated at BAFTA, the Gothams, Independent Spirit awards, and countless regional critics prizes. In just a few brief days, she could take home her initial Academy Award.

In honor of Demi Moore’s well-deserved debut at Awards Season, let’s reminisce about the numerous movies – more than 40 in total – that showcase her talent as both a film star and an actress.

In compiling this list, we chose not to feature films where Moore appeared in significant but brief roles, such as “Young Doctors in Love”, “Love Sonia”, and “The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent”. Furthermore, the film “Wild Oats” was disregarded because it initially aired on cable, while “Bunraku” and “Happy Tears” were omitted due to their unavailability for online streaming. Lastly, this list exclusively focuses on films and does not include any television productions.

43.
The Scarlet Letter (1995)

Roland Jaffe’s opinion on the film adaptation of “The Scarlet Letter,” starring Demi Moore as Hester Prynne and Gary Oldman as the minister, is that it accurately reflects its harsh reputation. The slow-moving plotline and awkward dialogue, combined with departures from the original story like an unexplained bath scene, contribute to a cinematic blunder for eternity. Despite everyone involved suffering damage, Moore appears particularly miscast, resembling a character who might travel through time from the ’90s to this Puritan era via a Palm Pilot. Alas, it’s just wishful thinking.

42.
Half Light (2006)

As a seasoned movie critic, I find myself reflecting on “Half Light,” a film that seems to have predicted the rise of streaming content a good decade before it became mainstream. The narrative revolves around an author, played by Moore, who embarks on a journey to the Scottish coast to grapple with the tragic loss of her young son. This tale is hauntingly intertwined with her guilt, spectral encounters with her departed child, and, for added dramatic flair, a deceptive husband and confidante.

Moore’s performance in this film feels somewhat detached, as though she had sensed the inherent challenges of the production from the outset, giving her acting a certain nonchalance that seems to suggest the project was beyond redemption by the first day on set.

41.
Parasite (1982)

In Moore’s second major screen appearance, she stars in a low-budget horror film titled “Dr. Paul Deen’s Postapocalyptic Journey” or “B-Movie Horror: The Parasite Incubator.” This film features Michael Shoob as Dr. Paul Deen, who is carrying a lethal parasite across the post-disaster United States. During his travels, he encounters Moore’s character, Patricia, a compassionate and nurturing lemon farmer. The movie’s quality leaves me pondering an intriguing question: What role do lemons play in a dystopian future? Is lemonade a parasite’s favorite drink? Are lemons serving as currency in our new society? Moore has distanced herself from her early film roles, and with just cause.

40.
Blind (2017)

The reunion of Baldwin and Moore, a duo I ran to the cinema at 15 to see in ‘The Juror’, was something nobody anticipated. Discovering this film exists is surprising; learning it came out as recently as 2017 sends a shiver down your spine. Regrettably, its existence is the most noteworthy aspect of it, as nothing within holds up. It requires an additional five levels of cheesiness to reach ‘Autumn in New York’ level of camp, making it eventually a movie you can’t help but feel remorseful for watching.

39.
Choices (1981)

In what sense isn’t “Choices” a movie? This is Moore’s first big-screen appearance, yet it feels like you’re viewing it through a camera lens due to its low quality. The film is so dimly lit (not in terms of storyline — the movie lacks one) that it’s hard to spot Moore when she appears as the protagonist’s love interest midway through. Despite the acting and production being a mix of adult content, educational TV shows, and home videos, there’s something about Moore’s screen presence that captures your attention. It’s not quite a star-is-born moment, but her radiance is bright enough to be the only clear aspect of “Choices” you can focus on.

38.
Blame It on Rio (1984)

As a film enthusiast, I can’t help but confess my intrigue (and slight discomfort) with “Blame It on Rio.” Indeed, Demi Moore’s characterization of it as a “dirty old man” comedy rings true. The narrative revolves around two middle-aged gentlemen, Michael Caine and Joseph Bologna, who embark on an adventure in the vibrant city of Rio de Janeiro. Their pursuit? Young women, amidst their own marital troubles.

Here’s where things get a bit tangled: Michael Caine’s character is hot on the trail of Joseph Bologna’s daughter, Michelle Johnson. To make matters more complicated, Johnson refers to her new boyfriend as “Uncle Matthew.”

But wait, there’s more! Due to Johnson being underage at the time, she required a court order to appear nude in the film. It all feels more like an episode of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit than a light-hearted comedy.

However, the film manages to avoid the bottom rung of the list thanks to Demi Moore’s character, Nikki, who is Caine’s daughter in the movie. Fortunately (or unfortunately, depending on your perspective), she is spared from any questionable romantic entanglements with her father’s friend, as she disappears for much of the film.

37.
Nothing But Trouble (1991)

I find it challenging to sit through the movie “Nothing But Trouble.” It’s not hard to locate, but it’s tough to get through. I’d love to elaborate on the plot, but I fear a wellness check might be called for. The film seems to have no chance of success, and when Dan Aykroyd takes on dual roles as a deformed judge and an overgrown, diaper-wearing man-baby, it’s clear that Demi Moore is in over her head. She lacks any chemistry with co-star Chevy Chase (who I must admit, is quite charming), and neither plays it straight nor broad enough to rise above the chaos. To be fair, perhaps breaking through a movie set in a dumpster, featuring a roller coaster named “Mr. Bonestripper,” and showcasing John Candy playing both a police officer and his own twin sister is an unattainable goal. Moore later proved to be a more enjoyable, lighter presence on screen, but this debut attempt at broad comedy isn’t her finest hour.

36.
Songbird (2020)

The film titled “Songbird” is set in 2024, where the virus COVID-23, a mutated form of the original COVID-19, has prolonged the world into its fourth year of lockdown. Moore’s character portrays a wealthy matron who deals in illicit immunity bands in this altered societal structure; her backstory is complex and not easily summarized. She becomes entwined with characters like Archie from Riverdale, among others. Considering we are in the ninth month of our current pandemic, it’s hard to imagine a movie less appealing for viewing at this time – or perhaps even in the fifth year to come.

35.
LOL (2012)

Picture a scenario where the line “You know the problem with this generation? They’re always on their phones!” from your grandpa is expanded into a film titled “Connected, Yet Disconnected”. In this movie, Meryl Streep portrays Anne, a divorced mother struggling to bridge the gap with her defiant daughter Lola (Miley Cyrus), who is engrossed in texting instead of communicating with her mom. This film, completed years ago, seems as outdated as your seldom-used Friendster account. Despite Streep’s earnest efforts, the movie overlooks Anne’s exasperated single motherhood, focusing instead on her frequent wine consumption and constant worry.

34.
The Butcher’s Wife (1991)

https://youtube.com/watch?v=watch?v=oWuYilt9hX8

In contrast to several of her peers such as Meg Ryan, Julia Roberts, and Sandra Bullock, Meryl Streep chose not to delve into the world of romantic comedies. After viewing “The Butcher’s Wife,” it becomes clear why she might have chosen to avoid this genre. In this film, Streep plays Marina, a clairvoyant from Ocracoke, North Carolina, who believes that the butcher who washes ashore on her island is the soul mate she foresaw in her dreams. She marries him and moves to New York City, where every resident treats the local butcher shop like Central Perk, dropping by for lamb chops and advice that’s as homespun as it is love-laden. Streep portrays Marina as a blend of Ariel after her transformation in “The Little Mermaid,” bewildered by everything around her, and Amy Adams in “Junebug” if she had been struck by lightning. The movie seems indecisive about its fairy tale foundations, and Streep’s performance on screen appears uncertain — regardless of how exaggerated her blonde wig or broad her southern accent.

33.
Corporate Animals (2019)

In this film resembling a dark comedy by Ruben Östlund, Moore portrays an eccentric CEO who leads her team on a retreat that culminates in cannibalism. The movie is over-the-top, yet it falls short of its intended satirical impact. It tackles sensitive topics freely, appearing to boast about being provocative. However, there are moments when the absurdity of the plot makes me chuckle, often due to Moore’s captivatingly insane portrayal. The character she plays is among the most detestable ever filmed, reveling in her role; I only wish the viewers could feel the same enthusiasm. Despite being set in a cave, Moore delivers an exceptional performance that fills the entire theater as one of the most despicable characters ever captured on film. She seems to be having fun; I just wish the spectators did too.

32.
Deconstructing Harry (1997)

During the mid-90s, following the successes of “Bullets Over Broadway” and “Mighty Aphrodite,” it seemed almost mandatory for top actors to appear in one of Woody Allen’s films as part of an ensemble. Unfortunately, for Moore, her role was limited due to Woody Allen’s apparent contempt for the character, a fictionalized portrayal of his ex-wife in the movie. Moore is given a scene that is surrealistic in nature, where she confronts Allen’s character, but it fails to deliver the impact and anger that her character should have felt towards him.

31.
Another Happy Day (2011)

This intensely melancholic film about a troubled family gathering for a wedding, penned and orchestrated by Sam Levinson, the mastermind behind “Euphoria”, leaves no stone unturned in portraying its misery. From drug-addled adolescents to generic familial strife to an overwhelming amount of dramatic outbursts, it serves as a blueprint for the extreme highs and self-indulgent lows seen in “Euphoria”. As the groom’s stepmother, Moore is the second wife that haunts Ellen Barkin’s dreams. Contrary to expectations, we are expected to detest Moore’s arrogant intruder, Patty. Yet, surprisingly, we find ourselves sympathizing with her. The movie fails to grasp just how much we also dislike Barkin’s unpredictable Lynn. Moore is bitingly sarcastic and bitter, but there are so many more layers of wretchedness that we wish she would explore in this despicable character.

30.
We’re No Angels (1989)

A prominent actor, his potential successor, and an up-and-coming director from another country. It’s not hard to imagine why an actress on the rise like Demi Moore would want to act alongside Robert De Niro and Sean Penn in Neil Jordan’s remake of a 1955 film starring Humphrey Bogart. (Think of it this way: if Leonardo DiCaprio and Timothée Chalamet were to star in a remake of “Rain Man” directed by Justine Triet, which sounds quite unappealing, but you get the idea.) Moore portrays Molly, a strong-willed single mother who occasionally works as a sex worker. She gets entangled with De Niro’s character, an escaped convict named Ned. While Moore holds her own against De Niro (I would have liked to see her and Penn together), her role doesn’t offer much more than delivering a thick New York accent that’s almost like she’s yelling, “Why I shouldn’t!”.

29.
Very Good Girls (2013)

Year after year, another movie finds Meryl Streep playing a secondary role, and given how selective she became with projects later on in her career, this one seems rather puzzling. It’s not that the film “Very Good Girls“, about two best friends (Dakota Fanning and Elizabeth Olsen) who both fall for the same man, is terrible – at its worst, it’s merely unremarkable. Instead, it raises questions as to why Streep accepted a role with such minimal involvement. Despite her limited on-screen presence, it’s pleasant to see Streep portraying a supportive, warm, and safe haven for her character’s daughter.

28.
Mr. Brooks (2007)

Following a series of group projects, independent roles, and supporting films, in 2007 Moore once again took on co-starring roles alongside other prominent actors. However, the highly anticipated pairing of ’90s cinema royalty Demi Moore and Kevin Costner in a film fell flat in this illogical thriller. Despite Moore delivering her usual strong performance as a troubled cop pursuing serial-killer Costner, the movie strangely chose to limit her involvement in the main plot by reducing her interactions with Costner. Instead, she primarily focuses on a different group of fugitive killers and Costner’s protege, an aspiring serial killer played by Dane Cook. Indeed, it was Dane Cook who appeared more frequently. It seemed Moore deserved a better role in this production.

27.
Passion of the Mind (2000)

Moore delivers a commendable performance in this romantic drama where a woman leads two lives concurrently. Her portrayal of her predicament, the affection for the men in her life, and the danger posed by her choices is impressive, a quality that seems to be missing from her recent parts. Regrettably, the movie itself is a slow-moving, tedious experience, as it’s often referred to as a “slog.” Interestingly, the film’s writer-director, Coralie Fargeat, previously worked as an assistant director on “The Passion of the Mind.

26.
Wisdom (1986)

Demi Moore co-starred with her future spouse, Emilio Estevez, in his first directorial project, which can be likened to a modern-day Bonnie and Clyde version of the Muppet Babies. In this film, Estevez portrays John Wisdom, a college graduate who finds himself jobless after a brush with the law. To escape his predicament, he adopts a Robin Hood approach by turning into a bank robber, leaving a trail of destroyed mortgage documents behind. Moore is primarily depicted as The Girlfriend, tagging along on this dangerous escapade. She occasionally serves as the voice of reason and sometimes aides in the crimes. However, she remains a one-dimensional character throughout the movie. Remarkably, it’s Moore’s acting prowess that manages to create an impact despite her minimal role in the storyline.

25.
Forsaken (2015)

Previously known for her challenging reputation in Hollywood during the ’90s, Moore has surprisingly collaborated with numerous co-stars across various films, including Alec Baldwin, Glenn Headley, Rob Lowe, Michael Caine, and Estevez. In this underrated western, she reunites with her former co-stars from “Disclosure” and “A Few Good Men,” as well as the father-son duo Donald and Kiefer Sutherland. Moore delivers a subdued performance as Mary Alice, Kiefer’s past lover in the film. The poignant moments of silence between them leave you yearning for more focus on their relationship instead of the narrative revolving around a former outlaw drawn back into his violent past.

24.
The Joneses (2009)

An intriguing premise: The Joneses are a mobile group of undercover influencers who settle in communities to discreetly peddle goods to their suburban residents. Moore portrays Kate, the family matriarch and sales team leader. On-screen and through her lines, Kate appears to embody the traits of being highly charismatic, manipulative, and career-driven; however, these characteristics are not fully demonstrated. Moore effectively delivers the satire when marketing her products, but in her private life with her sales team/imitation family, a more tense and Monica Geller-esque character is expected.

23.
Rough Night (2017)

https://youtube.com/watch?v=watch?v=FSNEZPRcgP4

Despite facing stiff competition from the 2017 summer hit comedy, “Girl’s Trip,” “Rough Night” manages to remain an enjoyable film, largely due to its energetic cast who thrive in the eccentric Looney Tunes-esque atmosphere. In this movie, Leslie Mann and Ty Burrell portray neighbors with a shared interest in wooing Zoë Kravitz. While Mann takes a supporting role, allowing Burrell to carry most of the comedic burden, she still brings plenty of laughter to the table, particularly during an extended skit reminiscent of Will Ferrell and Rachel Dratch’s “Love-ahs” sketch from “Saturday Night Live.

22.
Beavis and Butt-Head Do America (1996)

Demi Moore is often underappreciated for her comedic skills and ability to portray villainous roles effectively. This dual talent of hers shines particularly in the movie adaptation of the TV series Beavis and Butt-Head, where she gets to showcase both. Interestingly, this was one of only two films that Moore and her then-spouse, Bruce Willis, collaborated on together.

21.
The Seventh Sign (1988)

In a remarkable debut as the lead actor, Moore portrays Abby, a woman carrying the expected return of Jesus Christ. The birth of this child will bring about an unfortunate event – the apocalypse. Unfortunately, the film fails to capitalize on its intriguing yet predictable concept by delving deep into Catholic mythology and populating it with numerous secondary biblical figures reminiscent of a Dan Brown novel. Moore’s strong performance is what prevents the movie from soaring off into the afterlife.

20.
Please Baby Please (2022)

In Amanda Kramer’s 2022 film, Demi Moore delivers a standout performance that solidifies her status as both an art-house darling and a prominent figure within the LGBTQ+ community – two roles she had previously hinted at but not fully embraced. Despite her long association with independent cinema, Please Baby Please distinguishes itself as a true art-house production under Kramer’s auteur direction, featuring Surrealism, multiple realities, dream sequences, and Andrea Riseborough. However, what sets this film apart is the fact that Demi Moore, a well-known actress, has built a dedicated fanbase among Twitter’s LGBTQ+ community through roles like her portrayal of a Swan who uses a derogatory term in Feud: Capote vs. the Swans and her Oscar-buzzworthy performance in The Substance. Yet, it’s crucial not to overlook Please Baby Please in this illustrious lineup of queer entertainment.

19.
Now and Then (1995)

In Now and Then, we find a shared nostalgia among millennials, both male, female, and LGBTQ+, as the lives of four childhood friends (Moore, Rosie O’Donnell, Rita Wilson, and Melanie Griffith) intersect. The story unfolds around the birth of Wilson’s first child, prompting these old friends to recall a pivotal summer that left an indelible mark on their lives. While the adult characters appear at the beginning and end of the film, the majority of the action centers around their younger counterparts (Christina Ricci, Thora Birch, Ashley Aston Moore, and Gaby Hoffman). This group of friends delves into topics such as life, death, divorce, boys, bodily changes, and friendship dynamics. It’s a charming film that remains fondly remembered for various reasons, including the fact that it marks the second time Ricci and Devon Sawa shared a kiss within the same year. (They were indeed the Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan of their generation.) The adult leads effectively create a quick, comfortable camaraderie, although the editing sometimes gives the impression they never shared the same space. Moore earns extra praise for convincingly delivering some awkward narration like “as we grow older, it becomes challenging to just believe.

18.
No Small Affair (1984)

The tale of Jon Cryer and Demi Moore growing up, often overlooked, may deserve another look. In this film, Cryer portrays an aspiring teenage photographer who develops feelings for Moore’s lead singer in a rock band, having first captured her image. Although the movie is somewhat underdeveloped, it retains the appeal of ’80s teen comedies, featuring young Tim Robbins as a school tormentor, Louis DiMucchi from “Grease 2”, Norm from “Cheers”, and an incredibly youthful Jennifer Tilly as a sexually charged nerd infatuated with Cryer. What makes this movie stand out is Demi Moore in her initial shared leading role. Although she primarily serves as the desired object for Cryer’s character, Charles, it offers a sneak peek into the fierce yet compassionate, intelligent, and seductive on-screen persona that would propel Moore to stardom in the near future.

17.
The Juror (1996)

Reflecting on the past, it seems like we didn’t fully realize the abundance of quality cinema we were enjoying. Back then, blockbuster movies based on popular airport novels, penned by Academy Award-winning writers, and featuring A-list celebrities, were regularly gracing our movie screens. One such example is “Primary Colors,” where Meryl Streep portrays a single mother chosen for jury duty in the trial of a mob boss. Alec Baldwin plays her menacing assassin tasked with pressuring her into influencing the verdict. Their intricate game of cat-and-mouse keeps audiences engaged until the film’s finale, set, surprisingly, in a Guatemalan cave. Despite young Joseph Gordon-Levitt’s iconic long-haired phase, Streep maintains a heroine that we empathize with and support throughout the movie.

16.
One Crazy Summer (1986)

In the late 80s and early 90s, Demi Moore and John Cusack were prominent actors in the movie “One Crazy Summer,” a popular cable TV show. The film was known for its comedic improvisations and laid-back feel. Unfortunately, despite being a fun movie, “the girl” (Demi Moore) didn’t get many chances to take center stage, even during the crucial regatta race where she wasn’t invited on the boat. However, Moore added an unmistakable coolness to the story with her braided hair and earthy demeanor. She also delivered a standout performance in a scene where she defended her man against the town bully.

15.
Striptease (1996)

Demonstrating a fresh perspective, here’s how we could rephrase the given text:

In an unprecedented move, Moore earned $12.5 million for her role in the film Striptease, serving as a stark reminder of the entanglement between her acting career and celebrity status at the time. Despite being panned by critics and shunned by audiences, which seems puzzling today, it made profits on home video and overseas sales. Disregard the negative reviews, tainted by misogyny, as Striptease is not a dreadful spectacle to watch.

Admittedly, it may not be as amusing as the original Carl Hiaasen novel or as progressive as intended, but it effectively portrays its unique world and showcases remarkable performances from Ving Rhames, Burt Reynolds, and Moore, who convincingly plays a struggling FBI secretary turned stripper fighting for her daughter’s custody. There are instances in Moore’s performance that truly tap into her star power, especially during her dance scenes. Ultimately, despite the controversy surrounding Striptease, its most significant flaw lies in being excessively… satisfactory.

14.
Disclosure (1994)

The plotline of the movie “Disclosure” – where a woman sexually harasses a man – is given the same belief as Michael Crichton’s sci-fi novels, like “Jurassic Park” and “Congo”, which became blockbusters. This makes sense since the film portrays Moore’s character, Meredith, like a velociraptor in a miniskirt when it comes to sexual politics. Although the portrayal of gender issues and VR technology may seem outdated now, Moore’s performance as Meredith has become more captivating over time. She savors her debut as a villain, preying on Michael Douglas, delivering intimidating monologues about the state of women’s sexuality in the ’90s that are both delicious and absurd. While Meredith may lack depth as a character beyond being a powerful woman, Moore delivers lines like “I am a sexually aggressive woman. I like it. Tom knew it, and you can’t handle it” with such venom that you can’t help but cheer.

13.
Margin Call (2011)

Among the standout films from Moore’s recent stint as a supporting actress in independent movies, “Margin Call” immerses viewers in the nerve-wracking 24-hour timeframe that ultimately led to the 2008 financial crisis, as high-ranking executives race against time to prevent catastrophe. Moore stands out as the sole female presence amidst the testosterone-dominated boardroom, a detail that never escapes her or the viewers’ notice. She exhibits a cool-headedness that serves her well, allowing her testosterone-fueled colleagues (including Paul Bettany, Kevin Spacey, and Jeremy Irons) to display their bravado, while she quietly plots her survival not only for the day but also the next one.

12.
The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996)

https://youtube.com/watch?v=watch?v=upZH2WMIl4Y

Known affectionately as one of the darkest films during Disney’s renaissance era, “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” (1996) features Demi Moore lending her voice to Esmeralda, a compassionate Romani woman who assists the troubled Quasimodo and, surprisingly for a children’s movie, sparks desire in the villainous Judge Frollo during the song “Hellfire.” In contrast to Disney princesses who often surrendered their freedom or voice to a handsome prince, Esmeralda offered a refreshing change. Despite discussions about the portrayal of Roma people in 1996, Esmeralda embodies the characteristics that one might expect from a Demi Moore-type character: intelligent, kind-hearted, alluring, playful, and mischievous – she truly delivers on screen.

11.
Flawless (2007)

In this delightful diamond heist comedy, Michelle Pfeiffer joins forces with her “Blame It on Rio” co-star Michael Caine. This unexpected gem is hidden within Pfeiffer’s extensive filmography. Caine plays Mr. Hobbs, a janitor who persuades Laura Quinn (Pfeiffer), a disgruntled manager at the London Diamond Company in 1960, to steal from the company. Hobbs bears a grudge against the company’s upper management, and Quinn, the only female manager, is consistently overlooked for promotions that are given to less deserving men. The story takes unexpected twists and turns, but throughout, the electrifying chemistry between Caine and Pfeiffer keeps the action lively. Cane delivers a charmingly devious performance, while Pfeiffer skillfully portrays a mix of weariness, frustration, and anger at being consistently undervalued. While the aging makeup used on her character in the opening and closing scenes might be noticeable, it doesn’t detract from their captivating performances.

10.
Bobby (2006)

Moore collaborated once more with Emilio Estevez in this intricate, occasionally overly sentimental, yet effectively played film (it was nominated for a SAG Best Cast award) that bears similarities to the style of director Altman. In this Altman-esque production, Moore delivers a powerful performance as troubled singer Virginia, who foreshadows her character in “The Substance” as another fading star coming to terms with the end of her time in the limelight. While “Bobby” is quite blunt in its messaging and presentation, many viewers from the ’90s would agree that its most memorable scene is the interaction between Moore’s Virginia and Sharon Stone’s character, Miriam, the beautician. Witnessing these two iconic figures – both victims of industry mistreatment due to their talent, beauty, and power during the peak of their stardom – engaging and sparring is nothing short of electrifying. It’s a spectacle worth the ticket price.

9.
Mortal Thoughts (1991)

In a subsequent film appearance together, Demi Moore and Bruce Willis portrayed characters on screen for a thriller with a somewhat harsh tone, though it was generally well-received. Moore played Cynthia, a hairdresser in Bayonne, New Jersey alongside her friend Joyce (Glenne Headley). If one were to compare Bayonne to a character in Sex and the City, it would be like the third meatball in Mortal Thoughts – somewhat overshadowed but still significant. The larger-than-life hairdos and thick accents could have taken viewers out of the film’s somber atmosphere, if not for the influences of characters like Snooki, Sopranos, Gorgas, and Guidicis from decades later that gave these characters a sense of reality. Despite being a box-office disappointment in 1991, it seems to play better now.

The film is presented as a flashback, with Cynthia under interrogation for the murder of Joyce’s abusive husband, Jimmy (played by Willis). In the present day, the movie raises questions about Cynthia’s innocence and credibility as a narrator through Moore’s guarded, wide-eyed portrayal. As the story unfolds in flashback, Moore becomes increasingly suspicious of Joyce and realizes she may be dealing with an untrustworthy friend who could pose a threat. Moore’s strongest moments are when she senses she might be left behind in whatever agreement these two women have made. The game changes, and Moore swiftly transitions from confusion to horror as she comes to understand the situation. Director Alan Rudolph admitted they improvised the ending, and the movie has a makeshift feel to it, but ultimately, it delivers thanks to the compelling performances of the two leads.

8.
A Few Good Men (1992)

Following her high-profile marriage to Bruce Willis, a scandalous Vanity Fair cover, and achieving new heights of stardom after Ghost, Demi Moore encountered a brief setback in her career with a series of underwhelming to disastrous films in 1991. Faced with financial obligations, she had no other choice but to deliver a powerful performance. Moore found herself as the lone female in an ensemble cast dominated by testosterone, featuring Tom Cruise, Kevin Bacon, Kiefer Sutherland, Jack Nicholson, and Kevin Pollak. Her character, Lieutenant Joanne Galloway, served as the emotional core of the film, preventing justice for the two marines accused of murder from getting overshadowed by the power struggle between Cruise’s arrogant lawyer, Lieutenant Daniel Kaffee, and Nicholson’s dictatorial Colonel Nathan Jessup. Despite some criticism about the absence of a romantic plotline between Moore and Cruise at the time, the film benefited from their professional, platonic dynamic rooted in mutual respect. Moore effectively portrayed her character’s evolution from initial disappointment with Kaffee’s lackluster approach to the case to near-admiration for his legal prowess by the end of the film.

7.
G.I. Jane (1997)

The film “G.I. Jane,” directed by Ridley Scott, was so deeply ingrained in popular culture that a joke about it during the Oscars 25 years later resulted in Chris Rock being slapped by Will Smith. After the mixed reception of “The Scarlet Letter” and “Striptease,” critics and audiences appeared resolute in not allowing Moore to succeed, even in a crowd-pleaser like “G.I. Jane.” Unfortunately, it seems that the film needed a slightly more serious tone to garner any genuine respect; however, it should have been an easy box office success. In this role, which would be one of her last leading parts in a major studio film for quite some time, Moore delivers a steel-hard performance as Jordan O’Neil, the first woman to undergo Navy SEAL training. She skillfully manages the machismo and gender bias among her fellow recruits while engaging in a strategic sparring match with Anne Bancroft’s character, a senator manipulating O’Neil for political purposes. Regrettably, this was a missed opportunity for Moore to receive awards recognition.

6.
About Last Night (1986)

In many of her roles, Moore often finds herself as the primary female character in predominantly male narratives such as “A Few Good Men”, “G.I. Jane”, and “One Crazy Summer”. When she has female co-stars, she frequently takes on an antagonistic role, like in “Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle” or “The Substance”. Even in “Ghost”, a significant portion of her scenes with Whoopi Goldberg are portraying Patrick Swayze. With few romantic comedies in her filmography, Moore lacked the opportunity to work with actresses like Judy Greer or Joan Cusack. However, films such as “St. Elmo’s Fire”, “Now and Then”, and “About Last Night” showcase her ability to connect well with female energy. The movie “Sex, Lies, and Videotape” is a reinterpretation of a David Mamet play that focuses on two single characters (Moore and Rob Lowe) in Chicago who fall in love, live together, ruin each other’s lives, and eventually reconcile. Each character has a best friend: Lowe with James Belushi, while Moore works with Elizabeth Perkins, her former roommate. The chemistry between Moore and Perkins is the strongest aspect of the film, offering believable, lived-in, and compelling interactions between the two characters, more so than what transpires between the male leads or between Moore and Lowe themselves.

5.
Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle (2003)

Demi Moore made a comeback in big studio films after a five-year hiatus, appearing as the villainous Madison Lee in “Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle”. Her character exudes a genuine air of authority and menace, even in the film’s absurdly silly plot. Watching her go head-to-head with the new crop of leading ladies (Drew Barrymore, Cameron Diaz, and Lucy Liu) adds layers of meta-commentary to the sequel of an already lighthearted original hit.

If “Charlie’s Angels” had been filmed in 1993, Demi Moore would have undoubtedly been cast in the role typically portrayed by Jaclyn Smith. Moreover, Moore is keenly aware of the film she’s starring in and delivers the campy, over-the-top performance it demands.

The film never quite reaches its full potential, but Madison Lee’s villain reveal—where she sheds a tear, brandishes her oversized golden gun, and declares “I was never good. I was great”—is an unforgettable moment that transcends the movie as a whole.

4.
St. Elmo’s Fire (1985)

In this iconic Brat Pack movie, Demi Moore made an indelible impact among her peers who were more renowned at the time. Portraying Jules, the reckless member of a friend group, she captivated audiences with her unruly behavior that mirrored many of our own 20-something friends – chaotic yet endearing. From flirting inappropriately with her boss to setting up her friends in questionable situations, doing massive amounts of cocaine, and making regrettable life choices, Jules was a disaster we couldn’t help but root for. Despite Demi Moore’s personal struggles with substance abuse during filming and her eventual recovery under director Joel Schumacher, she delivered an authentic portrayal that made us want to spend the evening with her, fall in love with her at midnight, have the best time of our lives with her at 1 a.m., but by 3 a.m., things start getting troubling. The film was a massive success in 1985, though opinions on it have evolved over the past four decades. Critics now find this group of privileged, white Georgetown students rather irritating, but Demi Moore’s stardom continued to soar.

3.
Indecent Proposal (1993)

In a similar fashion to Glenn Close preceding her and Diane Lane succeeding, Demi Moore worked alongside director Adrian Lyne, at times quite contentiously, to achieve professional milestones. The movie “Indecent Proposal” may not be as strong as either “Fatal Attraction” or “Unfaithful”, with its second half appearing somewhat disjointed and becoming engulfed in the cultural dialogue surrounding its central theme: Would you allow your partner to sleep with another person for $1 million? This topic might seem insufficient to sustain a film in 2025, given the growing acceptance of ethical non-monogamy, polyamory, and open relationships as common brunch topics, but in 1993, it was the subject of endless conversation. After the initial uproar subsided, one can truly appreciate Demi Moore’s exceptional performance. She excels at melodrama and brings an intriguing undertone to her acting – she seems to be almost mocking the men fighting over her for their lack of intelligence. One man desires to purchase her, while another believes he already owns her. However, she maintains all the power and carries it off admirably. Despite the film’s superficial nature, it provides an excellent platform for Moore to showcase her skills.

2.
Ghost (1990)

The film that propelled Demi Moore to stardom was none other than “Ghost”, a classic from the ’80s and ’90s during the peak of VHS culture and cable-movie channels. I must confess that I’ve watched this movie, either completely or partially, an estimated 2,583 times over the years. Each viewing is as captivating as the first. This film offers a timeless love story between Sam Wheat (Patrick Swayze) and Molly Jensen (Demi Moore), whose bond transcends death through the haunting melody of “Unchained Melody” and an unconventional form of intimacy involving pottery. Whoopi Goldberg also delivers a remarkable performance as the reluctant medium Oda Mae Brown, earning her one of the rare, perfect Oscar wins. The supernatural thriller revolves around the murder of Sam by his best friend, but the motive doesn’t really matter because… well, money! Who cares!

Demi Moore’s acting in “Ghost” is not just about her remarkable ability to cry on screen; it encompasses every nuance of loss and grief that Molly experiences after losing her partner suddenly. From hoarding a pack of Rolaids that Sam once touched to slapping Carl when he suggests she should move on with her life, Moore delivers an outstanding portrayal of the irrationality of grief. Anyone who has sought closure after losing a loved one can relate to the hope, reluctance, and anger that Molly expresses during her initial encounters with Oda Mae. Although the iconic haircut, love scenes, and undeniable cheesiness of the movie often overshadow Moore’s performance, it is essential to acknowledge the tremendous acting she delivers in this film. And yes, she certainly knows how to cry convincingly.

1.
The Substance (2024)

https://youtube.com/watch?v=watch?v=O9nfzMT05ck

Demi Moore‘s recent role might be seen as an example of recency bias, but it’s also true that she hasn’t had a chance to shine like this before. The formula seems to be something like Actor + Exceptional Role + Star Power = Contender for Best Actress. This is the ideal intersection of an actor and a role, where Moore brings something unique to the table. Her passion for this opportunity is palpable, and once she gets started, she doesn’t let go. The director’s unique vision and script have given Moore the platform to draw on her decades of acting experience and personal life to create a captivating performance as Elizabeth Sparkle, a fading starlet who will do anything to cling to her youth and relevance in an industry ruled by manipulative men.

The film’s success story started at Cannes, moved to a midnight screening at the Toronto International Film Festival, and ended up being nominated for five Oscars, including Best Picture – quite an accomplishment for a body-horror-comedy about aging women in Hollywood that was distributed by Mubi. There really are no comparable movies out there.

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2025-02-24 21:57