20 Must-See Movies Starring Meryl Streep
(20 Must-See Movies Starring Meryl Streep Image Credits:WHYY)

When discussing the actors of all time Streep's name is often among the first to be mentioned. This sentiment is clearly echoed by her track record at the Oscars. Selecting the 20 Streep movies was no task but we've managed to compile a list that showcases her immense talent and earned her acclaim from the Academy.

#1  The Deer Hunter (1978)

The Deer Hunter (1978)
(The Deer Hunter Image Credits:The Oldie)

Streep’s on screen debut came in the film "Julia." After she delivered a performance in "The Deer Hunter '' earning herself a well deserved nomination for Best Supporting Actress in this critically acclaimed Best Picture winner. Sharing screen space with actors, like Robert De Niro, Christopher Walken (who won an Oscar) and her then partner John Cazale added depth to her portrayal.

Also Read: Get To Know About Zendaya's Journey Fashion As Her Role In Euphoria

#2  Manhattan (1979)

Manhattan (1979)
(Manhattan Image Credits: IMDb)

Discussing Woody Allen films can be somewhat uncomfortable considering his life. It's hard to deny the impact of his early filmography, which includes "Manhattan." Despite any reservations one may have towards Allen himself his body of work remains impressive.
"Manhattan '' is perhaps even shadier than most due to events. It's also widely regarded as Allens finest movie by many.

Also Read: The Cast Of Friends: Where Are They Now?

#3  Kramer vs. Kramer (1979)

Kramer vs. Kramer (1979)
(Kramer vs. Kramer (1979) Image Credits: TCM)

"Kramer, vs. Kramer '' (1979) was the film that solidified Streep's status as an actor. Acting alongside Dustin Hoffman in a family drama both Streep and Hoffman won Oscars. This marked Streep's Oscar victory. Definitely not her last.

#4  The French Lieutenant's Woman (1981) 

The French Lieutenant's Woman (1981)
(The French Lieutenant's Woman (1981) Image Credits: GoldDerby)

"The French Lieutenant's Woman" (1981) is a romantic drama of the '80s encompassing all the beloved elements of the genre. It garnered attention during its release. Finds its place, on this list due to its adept execution within this particular style.

#5  Sophie's Choice (1982)

Sophie's Choice (1982)
(Sophie's Choice (1982) Image Credits: Sophie's Choice (1982))

"Sophie's Choice '' (1982) stands as an raw drama that has left a mark on our cultural lexicon. It holds the distinction of being Meryl Streep's Best Actress winning performance wherein she delivers a portrayal of Sophie herself evoking deep emotions and flawlessly embodying a convincing Polish accent.

Also Read: Kelly Brook’s Lifestyle & Beauty Tips For Stunning Lingerie Model look

#6  Silkwood (1983)

Silkwood (1983)
(Silkwood (1983) Image Credits: Blu-ray.com)

Moving into "Silkwood" (1983) Streep continues her foray into thought provoking films from the late '70s to early '80s. While perhaps not as bleak as "Sophie's Choice " it certainly doesn't shy away from delving into subject matter presenting a narrative that remains far from lighthearted.

#7   Out of Africa (1985)

Out of Africa (1985)
(Out of Africa (1985) Image Credits: Into Film)

The timeless classic "Out of Africa '' (1985) earned its accolades for reasons one being the captivating pairing of Streep and Robert Redford on screen. These two iconic actors bring their charisma to the forefront making it no surprise that this film received high praise at prestigious award ceremonies.

#8  Heartburn (1986)

Heartburn (1986)
(Heartburn (1986) Image Credits: Realweegiemidget Reviews - WordPress.com)

We have "Heartburn (1986)...This is Streep's film, on the list directed by the incredible Mike Nichols following "Silkwood." "Heartburn" has a tone compared to that, giving Streep and Jack Nicholson some room to be charming and even have a bit of fun.

#9  A Cry in the Dark (1988)

A Cry in the Dark (1988)
(A Cry in the Dark (1988) Image Credits: IMDb)

Released as "Evil Angels" in Australia "A Cry in the Dark" is famously known for one thing. It's the movie where you often hear someone say in an accent "A dingo ate my baby!"

#10  Postcards from the Edge (1990)

Postcards from the Edge (1990)
(Postcards from the Edge (1990) Image Credits: Blu-ray Authority)

Let's continue our exploration of Nichols' work, with another film that is based on a novel. "Postcards from the Edge '' released in 1990 takes inspiration from a novel penned by Carrie Fisher.

#11   Defending Your Life (1991)

Defending Your Life (1991)
(Defending Your Life (1991) Image Credits: IndieWire)

Moving on to Streep's films we come across "Defending Your Life" (1991). In this afterlife comedy by Albert Brooks Streep portrays a character named Julia who embodies perfection in every way.

#12  Death Becomes Her (1992)

Death Becomes Her (1992)
(Death Becomes Her (1992) Image Credits: Vulture)

Shifting gears towards comedy we find "Death Becomes Her" (1992) a dark comedy where Streep and Goldie Hawn play two women who stop at nothing to outdo each other and maintain their youth and beauty.

#13  The River Wild (1994)

The River Wild (1994)
(The River Wild (1994) Image Credits: Decider)

Breaking away from her roles, Streep surprises us with an action packed film called "The River Wild" (1994). This thrilling movie follows the story of a whitewater rafting trip gone horribly wrong and Streep's performance adds depth to prevent it from being just another action flick.

#14  The Bridges of Madison County (1995)

The Bridges of Madison County (1995)
(The Bridges of Madison County (1995) Image Credits: Movies Anywhere)

Let's not forget about "The Bridges of Madison County" (1995).When Clint Eastwood both acts in and directs a film one might anticipate something intense. However "The Bridges of Madison County" defies expectations, by presenting itself as a drama. Surprisingly it manages to captivate. In this setting Eastwood and Streep effortlessly convey a heartfelt romance with Eastwood unexpectedly shining as a convincing romantic protagonist.

#15  Adaptation (2002)

Adaptation (2002)
(Adaptation (2002) Image Credits: IMDb)

Adaptation (2002) is a film that Charlie Kaufman wrote while attempting to adapt Susan Orleans book The Orchid Thief. It revolves around Nicolas Cage portraying Charlie Kaufman as he struggles with the adaptation process.

#16  The Manchurian Candidate (2004)

The Manchurian Candidate (2004)
(The Manchurian Candidate (2004) Image Credits: The Manchurian Candidate (2004))

The Manchurian Candidate (2004) although not as well regarded as the original has its set of fans. The movie boasts a cast with Denzel Washington and Streep leading the way.

#17  The Devil Wears Prada (2006)

The Devil Wears Prada (2006)
(The Devil Wears Prada (2006) Image Credits: Glamour UK)

In The Devil Wears Prada (2006) Meryl Streep doesn't play a character like in some of her other roles. However she does manage to leave a lasting impact on hearts within the film.

#18  Mamma Mia! (2008) 

Mamma Mia! (2008)
(Mamma Mia! (2008) Image Credits: Planet Radio)

If you're a fan of jukebox musicals featuring ABBAs music, Mamma Mia!" (2008) might be up your alley. It promises an experience for those who appreciate this genre.

#19  Julie & Julia (2009)

Julie & Julia (2009)
(Julie & Julia (2009) Image Credits: IMDb)

Julie & Julia (2009) is a movie that has its ups and downs. While Amy Adams portrayal of a woman teaching herself to cook from a Julia Child cookbook may be average, at best there are aspects of the film that shine through.

#20  Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009)

Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009)
(Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009) Image Credits: Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009))

Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009) showcases Streep's ability to bring depth and seriousness to her animated performances. Wes Anderson's adaptation of the book into stop motion animation is remarkably intricate paying attention to every detail.