Dakota Johnson: Her Best Movies & Performances Ranked

Hey guys! Ever since her breakout role in the Fifty Shades franchise, Dakota Johnson has become a household name. But there's so much more to her than just that! She's proven her acting chops in a variety of roles, from comedies to dramas, and has worked with some seriously impressive directors. So, let's dive into some of her best movies and performances, and see what makes Dakota Johnson such a compelling actress.

1. A Glimpse into Dakota Johnson's Career

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of her filmography, let's take a quick look at Dakota's journey. Born into a family of actors – her parents are Melanie Griffith and Don Johnson – it seems like acting was always in her blood. She started with minor roles before landing her big break, and since then, she's been consistently working on interesting and diverse projects. One thing that stands out about Dakota is her willingness to take risks and not be pigeonholed into one type of role. She's got a natural charm and vulnerability that shines through, making her performances all the more captivating. Whether she's playing a troubled young woman, a quirky love interest, or a confident businesswoman, Dakota brings a unique energy to every character she embodies. Keep reading to find out which films made our list!

2. Cha Cha Real Smooth (2022)

In Cha Cha Real Smooth, Dakota not only stars but also produces, showcasing her dedication to the project. She plays Domino, a young mother navigating life with her autistic son, and her chemistry with Cooper Raiff, who wrote, directed, and stars in the film, is absolutely palpable. The film beautifully portrays the complexities of relationships, family, and finding your place in the world. Dakota's performance is nuanced and heartfelt; she brings a quiet strength to Domino that resonates deeply. The movie itself is a sweet and sincere story about growing up and finding connections in unexpected places. If you're looking for a feel-good movie with some emotional depth, Cha Cha Real Smooth is definitely worth checking out. It's available on Apple TV+, so you can easily stream it from the comfort of your couch. This role really cemented Dakota's status as a versatile actress who can handle both comedic and dramatic material with equal skill. Her involvement as a producer also demonstrates her commitment to telling meaningful stories. This is without a doubt one of the best films in her catalog.

3. The Lost Daughter (2021)

The Lost Daughter is a psychological drama where Dakota plays Nina, a young woman vacationing in Greece who catches the attention of Leda, played by Olivia Colman. The film, directed by Maggie Gyllenhaal, explores themes of motherhood, trauma, and identity. Dakota's portrayal of Nina is both alluring and vulnerable, and she perfectly captures the character's inner turmoil. The movie is a slow burn, gradually revealing the complexities of its characters and their relationships. It's a thought-provoking and unsettling film that will stay with you long after the credits roll. Dakota more than holds her own alongside the formidable Olivia Colman. Her performance is subtle but powerful, hinting at the secrets and pain that lie beneath Nina's surface. This is a film that demands your attention and rewards careful viewing. It's available on Netflix, making it easily accessible. Be sure to watch out for the scene where Dakota shows off her range in a subtle, yet effective display.

4. Suspiria (2018)

Prepare for something completely different! Suspiria is a remake of the classic horror film, and it's not for the faint of heart. Dakota plays Susie Bannion, an American dancer who joins a prestigious dance academy in Berlin, only to discover that it's run by a coven of witches. The film is visually stunning and incredibly disturbing, with graphic violence and unsettling imagery. Dakota's performance is intense and committed, and she fully embraces the physicality of the role. This is a movie that will leave you on the edge of your seat, and it's a testament to Dakota's range as an actress. She proves she's not afraid to take on challenging and unconventional roles. It's a visually arresting and disturbing film that will stay with you long after you've seen it. If you're a fan of horror movies that are both smart and scary, Suspiria is a must-watch. Just be warned, it's not for the squeamish! Dakota really embodies the character's transformation throughout the film, and her dedication to the role is evident in every scene. You can usually find this one available for rent on various streaming platforms.

5. Bad Times at the El Royale (2018)

In Bad Times at the El Royale, Dakota joins an ensemble cast in this neo-noir thriller set in a mysterious hotel on the border of California and Nevada. She plays Emily Summerspring, a mysterious woman with a dark secret. The film is stylish and suspenseful, with plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing. Dakota's performance is captivating, and she brings a sense of danger and intrigue to her character. The movie is a fun and engaging ride, with great performances from the entire cast. Dakota shines as a complicated and morally ambiguous character, proving she can hold her own in a star-studded ensemble. If you're a fan of Quentin Tarantino or Coen Brothers films, you'll probably enjoy Bad Times at the El Royale. It's a stylish and suspenseful thriller with plenty of surprises. You can typically find this one available on streaming platforms like Hulu or for rent on demand.

6. How to Be Single (2016)

Looking for a lighthearted romantic comedy? How to Be Single is the perfect choice. Dakota plays Alice, a young woman who decides to take a break from her relationship and explore the single life in New York City. The film is funny and relatable, with a great ensemble cast. Dakota's performance is charming and endearing, and she perfectly captures the awkwardness and excitement of being single. If you need a feel-good movie to watch with your friends, How to Be Single is a great option. It's a fun and lighthearted look at the ups and downs of dating in the modern world. Dakota brings a lot of heart to the role, and she's surrounded by a talented cast of supporting actors. This is a movie that will make you laugh and maybe even shed a tear or two. It's usually available on various streaming platforms or for rent on demand. So, grab some popcorn and settle in for a fun night!

7. Black Mass (2015)

In Black Mass, Dakota takes on a supporting role as Lindsey Cyr, the girlfriend of notorious gangster Whitey Bulger, played by Johnny Depp. The film is a crime drama based on a true story, and it's a gritty and intense portrayal of the Boston underworld. Dakota's performance is strong and believable, and she holds her own alongside a cast of seasoned actors. While her role isn't the biggest, she makes a lasting impression. She portrays Lindsey with a vulnerability that makes her character sympathetic, even in the midst of all the violence and crime. If you're a fan of gangster movies, Black Mass is definitely worth checking out. It's a well-made and compelling film with great performances all around. Dakota proves she can handle dramatic roles with ease, even in a supporting capacity. This one is often available for rent or purchase on various platforms.

8. Fifty Shades of Grey (2015)

Okay, we can't talk about Dakota Johnson without mentioning Fifty Shades of Grey. This is the movie that catapulted her to fame, and it's definitely a controversial one. She plays Anastasia Steele, a college student who enters into a complicated relationship with a wealthy businessman, Christian Grey. The film is based on the popular erotic romance novel, and it's known for its steamy scenes and controversial themes. While the movie received mixed reviews, Dakota's performance was generally praised. She brought a sense of vulnerability and naivete to the role, making Anastasia a relatable character. Love it or hate it, Fifty Shades of Grey is a significant part of Dakota's career, and it's worth watching to see how she handles the challenging material. It's a cultural phenomenon, and it's undeniable that Dakota's portrayal of Anastasia helped to make the film a success. It is without a doubt the film that brought her into the mainstream spotlight. You can find it on most major streaming services.

9. Dakota Johnson: Beyond the Screen

Dakota Johnson has consistently demonstrated her versatility and talent as an actress. From her breakout role in Fifty Shades of Grey to her critically acclaimed performances in films like Cha Cha Real Smooth and The Lost Daughter, she has proven that she is more than just a pretty face. She is a dedicated and committed actress who is not afraid to take risks and challenge herself. Her willingness to experiment with different genres and characters has made her one of the most exciting and sought-after actresses in Hollywood today. As she continues to evolve and take on new projects, it will be exciting to see what the future holds for Dakota Johnson. One thing is for sure: she is a force to be reckoned with, and she is just getting started. We anticipate her continued presence in Hollywood with much excitement.

10. Final Thoughts on Dakota's Performances

So, there you have it – a glimpse into the amazing filmography of Dakota Johnson! She's an actress who continues to surprise and impress us with her talent and versatility. Whether she's making us laugh, cry, or squirm in our seats, Dakota always delivers a memorable performance. What are your favorite Dakota Johnson movies? Let us know in the comments below! And be sure to keep an eye out for her future projects – we can't wait to see what she does next! She continues to evolve and take on new projects, it will be exciting to see what the future holds for Dakota Johnson. She is a force to be reckoned with, and she is just getting started, so we'll see what happens.