Alison Brie has been a prominent figure in the entertainment industry for over a decade, known for her versatility and dynamic acting skills. From her breakout role in “Mad Men” to her beloved character in “Community,” Brie has consistently delivered memorable performances that showcase her range as an actress.
In this article, we’ll explore some of Alison Brie’s most notable movies and TV shows, highlighting her unique contributions to each and what makes her one of the most respected actresses in Hollywood today.
Early Career: From Theater to Television
Alison Brie’s career began in the theater, where she honed her craft and developed her love for acting. Her background in stage performance has been evident in her television roles, where she brings a level of depth and commitment to her characters that few can match.
Mad Men (2007-2015)
Brie’s big break came with her role as Trudy Campbell on the critically acclaimed TV series “Mad Men.” Playing the wife of Pete Campbell (Vincent Kartheiser), Brie brought a nuanced portrayal of a woman navigating the complexities of 1960s society. Trudy’s character evolved from a naive newlywed to a strong, independent woman who stands up for herself, and Brie’s performance was praised for its subtlety and emotional depth.
“Mad Men” not only showcased Brie’s ability to thrive in a dramatic setting but also solidified her place in television history as part of a show that is considered one of the greatest of all time. Her work on “Mad Men” earned her widespread recognition and opened the doors for more significant opportunities in both film and television.
Community (2009-2015)
While still starring in “Mad Men,” Alison Brie took on the role of Annie Edison in the cult-favorite comedy series “Community.” Her portrayal of Annie, a type-A overachiever with a quirky sense of humor, quickly became one of the most beloved characters on the show. Brie’s comedic timing and ability to balance humor with heartfelt moments made Annie a standout character in a series filled with eccentric personalities.
“Community” was a turning point in Brie’s career, showcasing her versatility as an actress who could effortlessly switch between drama and comedy. The show’s unique blend of meta-humor, pop culture references, and character-driven storylines provided Brie with numerous opportunities to display her range and contribute to the show’s success.
Transition to Film: Expanding Her Horizons
After establishing herself on television, Alison Brie began to explore more film roles, expanding her range and proving her talent on the big screen.
The Five-Year Engagement (2012)
In “The Five-Year Engagement,” Brie starred alongside Emily Blunt and Jason Segel in this romantic comedy that explores the ups and downs of a prolonged engagement. Brie played Suzie Barnes, the sister of Emily Blunt’s character, Violet. Her British accent and comedic chops added a layer of charm to her character, making Suzie a memorable part of the film.
Brie’s performance was well-received, and she managed to stand out in a cast filled with comedic talent. This role further demonstrated her ability to shine in a supporting role, adding depth and humor to a film centered around relationships and personal growth.
Sleeping with Other People (2015)
In the indie romantic comedy “Sleeping with Other People,” Brie starred opposite Jason Sudeikis, playing Lainey Dalton, a woman struggling with commitment issues. The film, which received positive reviews for its fresh take on the romantic comedy genre, allowed Brie to explore a more complex character. Her performance was praised for being both funny and vulnerable, capturing the essence of a woman trying to navigate love and intimacy in a modern world.
“Sleeping with Other People” was a significant step in Brie’s film career, showcasing her ability to carry a film as a leading actress. Her chemistry with Sudeikis and her natural charm made the film a standout in the romantic comedy genre, earning her acclaim from both critics and audiences alike.
The Disaster Artist (2017)
Alison Brie appeared in “The Disaster Artist,” a biographical comedy-drama about the making of the cult film “The Room.” Directed by James Franco, the film starred Franco as the eccentric filmmaker Tommy Wiseau, with Brie playing Amber, the girlfriend of Wiseau’s best friend, Greg Sestero (Dave Franco).
While Brie’s role was relatively small, her performance was notable for its warmth and authenticity. She provided a grounded presence in a film filled with larger-than-life characters, contributing to the film’s success and adding another unique role to her diverse portfolio.
GLOW (2017-2019): A Career-Defining Role
Arguably one of the most significant roles of Alison Brie’s career came with the Netflix series “GLOW,” where she played Ruth Wilder, an out-of-work actress who becomes a wrestler in the 1980s-themed women’s wrestling show “Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling.” The series, created by Liz Flahive and Carly Mensch, was praised for its blend of comedy, drama, and social commentary.
Brie’s performance as Ruth was widely acclaimed, earning her nominations for several awards, including the Critics’ Choice Television Award for Best Actress in a Comedy Series. Her portrayal of a struggling actress who finds empowerment through wrestling was both inspiring and relatable, resonating with audiences and critics alike.
“GLOW” was a game-changer for Brie, allowing her to showcase her range as an actress while tackling physical comedy and drama. Her commitment to the role, which included extensive wrestling training, demonstrated her dedication to her craft and solidified her status as a leading lady in Hollywood.
Recent Projects: Continuing to Evolve
Alison Brie has continued to take on diverse roles in both film and television, further establishing herself as a versatile actress who is not afraid to take risks.
Horse Girl (2020)
In “Horse Girl,” a psychological drama co-written by Brie and Jeff Baena, she plays Sarah, a socially awkward woman who begins to experience surreal, unexplainable occurrences. The film, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival, is a departure from Brie’s previous work, exploring themes of mental illness and reality.
Brie’s performance in “Horse Girl” was widely praised for its rawness and vulnerability. Her portrayal of a woman struggling with her sense of self and reality was both haunting and empathetic, showcasing her ability to tackle complex and challenging roles. The film marked a significant step in Brie’s career as a writer and producer, highlighting her talents behind the camera as well.
Promising Young Woman (2020)
In “Promising Young Woman,” a critically acclaimed film that tackles themes of revenge and trauma, Brie played Madison McPhee, a former friend of the protagonist Cassie (Carey Mulligan). Her role, though small, was impactful, contributing to the film’s exploration of complicity and accountability in the context of sexual assault.
Brie’s performance in “Promising Young Woman” was noted for its depth and complexity, adding to the film’s powerful narrative. Her ability to play a multifaceted character who embodies the themes of the movie demonstrated her continued growth as an actress and her willingness to take on challenging roles that push her boundaries.
Happiest Season (2020)
In the holiday romantic comedy “Happiest Season,” Brie played Sloane Caldwell, the competitive and judgmental sister of Harper (Mackenzie Davis), who is trying to navigate her first Christmas with her girlfriend Abby (Kristen Stewart). The film was praised for its heartfelt portrayal of a queer couple and their challenges during the holidays.
Brie’s performance as Sloane was both comedic and dramatic, adding tension to the family dynamic while also providing moments of levity. Her portrayal of a woman dealing with her insecurities and strained family relationships was relatable, contributing to the film’s overall message of love and acceptance.
Alison Brie’s Legacy in Film and Television
Alison Brie’s career has been marked by her versatility, dedication, and ability to take on a wide range of roles across different genres. From her early days on “Mad Men” and “Community” to her more recent work in films like “Horse Girl” and “Promising Young Woman,” Brie has consistently proven herself to be a talented and dynamic actress.
Her willingness to take on challenging roles and explore complex characters has made her one of the most respected and admired actresses in Hollywood today. Whether she’s making us laugh, cry, or think, Alison Brie continues to captivate audiences with her performances, leaving a lasting impact on the film and television industry.
As she continues to evolve and take on new projects, there’s no doubt that Alison Brie’s star will only continue to rise, solidifying her legacy as one of the most talented actresses of her generation. If you’re looking to explore some of her best work, the movies and TV shows mentioned in this article are a great place to start.
James Miller is a passionate cinephile and the voice behind Just Movies. With a deep love for cinema, James provides honest, detailed critiques of both new releases and classic films. Their reviews dive into plot, character development, cinematography, and sound design, offering readers a comprehensive understanding of each movie.