Anna Kendrick's 10 Best Roles After Twilight (and No, Pitch Perfect Not Included)
Out of all Twilight stars, Anna has had, arguably, the most successful career, roles-wise, working steadily and releasing a movie or even a couple of movies every year. Sorry, Robert Pattinson, it is what it is.
1. Up in the Air (2009)
We all remember George Clooney's stellar performance, but who could overlook Kendrick as Natalie Keener? Anna plays an ambitious young woman who proposes a system to revolutionize how employees are laid off, which threatens the livelihood of Clooney's character.
She joins him on a cross-country trip, and throughout, the pair clash, bond, and share poignant life lessons. That scene in the hotel room where Natalie breaks down about job expectations versus reality? Pure gold. It was evident Kendrick wasn't just another Hollywood youngster; she had layers to her acting.
2. 50/50 (2011)
It's a drama about cancer, but surprisingly light-hearted? Kendrick steps into the shoes of Katherine, a young therapist assigned to help Joseph Gordon-Levitt's character, Adam, cope with his diagnosis. While she's new to her job and often unsure of herself, Katherine's earnest attempts to help reveal a charming vulnerability. The beauty of this movie is how it balances raw emotions with humor, and Kendrick absolutely nails her role, especially during those therapy sessions. Remember the awkward car scene? Classic Anna.
3. End of Watch (2012)
Straying away from romantic comedies, Kendrick took a plunge into the gritty cop drama. Starring alongside Jake Gyllenhaal, Anna portrays Janet, the love interest of Gyllenhaal's character. While the film itself dives into the dangerous world of LA street gangs, the heartfelt moments between Janet and her partner offer viewers a comforting break from the intense police action. It's in these quieter scenes – the dance sequence or intimate conversations – that Kendrick shines brightly.
4. A Simple Favor (2018)
How about a twisty mystery? Blake Lively might have stolen the spotlight with her glamorous outfits and mysterious aura, but Anna as Stephanie held her own. Stephanie, a mommy vlogger, becomes involved in a complex mystery when her best friend (played by Lively) disappears. As Stephanie uncovers secrets and lies, we witness a transformation from an innocent, chirpy character to someone more complex and driven. A cocktail recipe shared on a blog turning into a thriller plot-point? Yup, only in this movie.
5. The Accountant (2016)
Talk about action-packed! This film introduces us to Kendrick's character, Dana, an in-house accountant who discovers financial discrepancies in her company. The film mainly revolves around Ben Affleck's character, an accountant with high-functioning autism who doubles as an assassin. But Dana plays a pivotal role in unravelling the conspiracy. There's action, intrigue, and a sprinkle of romance. Their interaction at her apartment, with her quirky humor and his straightforwardness, is simply delightful.
6. Trolls (2016)
Switching gears to animation, Anna lends her voice to Poppy, the ever-optimistic leader of the Trolls. Now, you might think, "It's just voice acting, how pivotal can it be?" But Anna brings a distinct vivacity to Poppy. When the Trolls get captured by the Bergens, it's up to Poppy and her polar-opposite, Branch, to save the day. Between catchy songs and vibrant visuals, Anna's energy shines, especially in the scene where she's trying to pep-talk Branch with her scrapbook.
7. Into the Woods (2014)
Musical time! Based on the Tony Award-winning musical, this fantasy genre brings together various Grimm fairy tales. Anna takes on Cinderella's role, but it's not your traditional take. She's indecisive, questioning her love for the Prince. That scene at the steps, when she's singing "On the Steps of the Palace", you can sense her confusion and fascination, balancing between the world she knows and the allure of the unknown.
8. The Hollars (2016)
A family drama that's packed with emotion. Kendrick plays Rebecca, the pregnant girlfriend of John Hollar (played by John Krasinski). As John's family grapples with his mother's illness, Rebecca is left to navigate the challenging world of impending motherhood and dealing with her boyfriend's chaotic family. You remember that scene in the hospital? It was heartbreakingly funny, a testament to Kendrick's versatile acting chops.
9. Mr. Right (2015)
Romantic action-comedy – a unique blend, right? Anna's character, Martha, falls for Francis (played by Sam Rockwell), only to realize he's a professional hitman. Instead of running away, she finds herself weirdly attracted to his unconventional lifestyle. There's a lot to love here, but the sequence where they are dancing in the middle of bullets flying? Kind of sums up their quirky relationship.
10. Table 19 (2017)
A wedding comedy from the perspective of the misfits at the "random" table. Anna's character, Eloise, was initially the maid of honor but gets demoted due to a breakup with the best man. She ends up at Table 19, the table for guests who were invited out of sheer obligation. Through awkward interactions and wedding shenanigans, Eloise and her tablemates form unlikely friendships. That scene where they all decide to ditch the wedding and explore the resort? Best. Adventure. Ever.