Jodie Foster's five-decade movie career is a dazzling tapestry of diverse and profound performances, cementing her as one of Hollywood's most formidable talents. Beginning her journey in front of the camera at the tender age of 3, Foster quickly became a familiar face on television, appearing in popular shows such as "Bonanza" and "Gunsmoke." Her transition from child star to a respected actress is a narrative of rare success, marked by a blend of resilience, versatility and innate skill.
Foster's early foray into film — with roles in "Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore" and the Oscar-nominated turn in Martin Scorsese's "Taxi Driver" — revealed a performer of exceptional depth and courage, willing to tackle complex and often-challenging roles. Her portrayal of a teenage prostitute in "Taxi Driver" not only earned her critical acclaim but also established her as an industry "It" girl, adept at balancing both precocious and dark characters.
The journey continued through the '80s and '90s with landmark performances. Her powerful depiction of a rape survivor in "The Accused" won her an Academy Award, affirming her transition into adult roles. Her magnetic performance in "The Silence of the Lambs" further showcased her ability to convey strength and vulnerability simultaneously, earning her another Oscar. Later roles in films such as "Nell," "Contact" and "The Mauritanian," along with her directorial ventures, reflect Foster's enduring appeal and her knack for storytelling that delves into the human psyche.
As we anticipate one of her rare returns to acting with the new "True Detective: Night Country," let's explore Foster's most impactful movie roles.
Bonnie Stoll in 'Nyad' (2023)
Netflix
In the Oscar-worthy biopic "Nyad," Bonnie Stoll, played by Jodie Foster, portrays the close friend and reluctant swim coach of Diana Nyad, depicted by Annette Bening. The film delves into the challenging dynamics of their friendship, highlighting Stoll's role in understanding and navigating Nyad's tough personality. The film offers a nuanced exploration of friendship between two accomplished actresses.
Jeanie in 'Foxes' (1980)
United Artists
"Foxes," a pivotal film in Foster's career, features her as Jeanie, a teenager grappling with the realities of adolescence. Directed by Adrian Lyne, the film is a tender exploration of youth, marking a significant shift in Foster's acting trajectory. As Jeanie, Foster embodies the disaffection and vulnerability of a young woman dealing with the sudden loss of a close friend.
Nancy Hollander in 'The Mauritanian' (2021)
STXfilms
In "The Mauritanian," Foster portrays a formidable criminal defense lawyer known for her commitment to social justice. The role earned Foster her third Golden Globe win, this time for Best Supporting Actress. The film centers on Hollander's defense of Mohamedou Ould Slahi, a detainee at Guantanamo Bay. Foster's portrayal is captivating and robust, bringing to life Hollander's passion for her cause.
Annabel Andrews in 'Freaky Friday' (1976)
Disney
"Freaky Friday," the original body-swap comedy, remains a classic in Foster's filmography. At just 13 years old, Foster delivered a performance that not only earned her a Golden Globe nomination but also cemented her status as a movie star. The film, which has seen several remakes, stands out for Foster's charming and humorous portrayal of a teenage girl caught in a bizarre situation.
Penelope Longstreet in 'Carnage' (2011)
Constantin Film
In "Carnage," Foster plays Penelope Longstreet, earning her another Golden Globe nomination alongside co-star Kate Winslet. This film adaptation of a Tony Award-winning play revolves around a chaotic meeting between two sets of parents following a fight between their sons. Foster's character, a determined mother, alongside her husband (John C. Reilly), confronts the parents (Winslet and Christoph Waltz) of their son's classmate.
Dede Tate in 'Little Man Tate' (1991)
Orion Pictures
"Little Man Tate" marked a significant milestone in Foster's career, showcasing her talents both in front of and behind the camera. Playing Dede Tate, a mother of a 7-year-old prodigy, Foster navigates the complexities of protecting her son's intellectual gifts while also allowing him to experience a normal childhood.
Audrey in 'Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore' (1974)
Warner Bros
In Martin Scorsese's "Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore," Foster, at the age of 11, delivered a standout performance as Audrey, a young, street-smart musician. Her portrayal showcased an incredible poise and maturity, making Audrey one of the film's most memorable characters. This role was Foster's first collaboration with Scorsese and laid the groundwork for her later iconic role in "Taxi Driver." Looking back, Foster's role in this film can be seen as a precursor to her becoming an LGBTQ+ icon, as the film touches on themes that were considered taboo at the time.
Tallulah in 'Bugsy Malone' (1976)
Paramount Pictures
Alan Parker's "Bugsy Malone" is a unique and somewhat controversial film featuring a cast of children in a G-rated gangster musical. Foster's portrayal of the moll in this unconventional movie stands out, showcasing her exceptional acting skills even at a young age. Despite the mixed reactions to the movie as a whole, Foster's talent in "Bugsy Malone" is undeniable, and her role is a testament to her versatility as an actress.
Dr. Ellie Ann Arroway in 'Contact' (1997)
Warner Bros.
In "Contact," based on Carl Sagan's science fiction novel, Foster embodies the role of Dr. Ellie Ann Arroway, an intrepid scientist on a quest to make first contact with an alien species. Directed by Robert Zemeckis, the film explores themes of space exploration, existentialism and the human experience. Foster's portrayal of Dr. Arroway is a journey through excitement, fear and discovery as she navigates intergalactic travel, confronts personal demons, and explores a potential romance with Palmer Joss (Matthew McConaughey).
Meg Altman in 'Panic Room' (2002)
Sony Pictures
In David Fincher's "Panic Room," Foster returns to the thriller genre as Meg Altman. This intense role requires Foster to use her wits and cunning to protect herself and her daughter from home invaders."Panic Room" is a testament to Foster's ability to deliver powerful performances in high-stakes narratives.
Madeleine White in 'Inside Man' (2006)
Universal Pictures
In Spike Lee's "Inside Man," Foster delivers a standout performance as Madeleine White, a shrewd and calculating fixer. Her character enters the narrative as a formidable force, disrupting the expected dynamic between Denzel Washington's detective and Clive Owen's criminal. Foster's portrayal of Madeleine is both commanding and menacing, showcasing a different side of her acting repertoire.
Nell Kellty in 'Nell' (1994)
Twentieth Century Fox
In "Nell," Foster delivers a remarkable performance as Nell Kellty, a young woman isolated in a woodland cabin and without extensive human contact. Her portrayal of Nell, who speaks a language of her own, earned Foster an Academy Award nomination. The film, also starring Liam Neeson and Natasha Richardson, revolves around the unraveling mystery of Nell's life and her impact on those who try to help her integrate into society.
Sarah Tobias in 'The Accused' (1988)
Paramount Pictures
"The Accused" features one of Foster's most powerful and emotionally charged performances as Sarah Tobias, a young waitress who survives a brutal sexual assault. Her portrayal of Tobias, fighting for justice alongside lawyer Kathryn Murphy (Kelly McGillis), earned Foster her first Academy Award.
Iris in 'Taxi Driver' (1976)
Columbia Pictures
Foster delivered a groundbreaking performance as a young child sex worker named Iris. Her character, pairing with Robert De Niro's Travis Bickle, brought a unique balance to the film. Iris' savvy and composure amid the chaotic and controlling men around her stood out prominently. Foster's portrayal was so compelling that she nearly became the youngest actress to win the Best Supporting Actress Oscar at that time.
Clarice Starling in 'The Silence of the Lambs' (1991)
Twentieth Century Fox
In her most career-defining role, Foster plays an inexperienced FBI agent on the hunt for the serial killer Buffalo Bill, seeking assistance from Dr. Hannibal Lecter. The film, with its horror and thriller elements, also carries a strong feminist message, paralleling Foster's other award-winning film, "The Accused." Foster's Clarice is a multi-dimensional character, grappling with her past and her need to prove herself, with her courage and intelligence defining her heroism. Her performance elevates the emotional and psychological depth of the film, making it more than just a typical thriller or horror movie.
