Mia Wasikowska: Her Best Movies & TV Shows Ranked

Mia Wasikowska, guys, is one of those actresses who just draws you in, you know? With her captivating performances and a knack for picking seriously interesting projects, she's carved out a unique spot in the acting world. So, let's dive into some of her best work, highlighting what makes her so special.

Alice in Wonderland (2010): A Fantastical Beginning

When we talk about Mia Wasikowska, we absolutely have to start with Alice in Wonderland. This wasn't just any role; it was the role that catapulted her into the mainstream. As Alice, Mia perfectly embodies the character's blend of curiosity, courage, and a touch of bewilderment. Seriously, stepping into Tim Burton’s wildly imaginative world is no small feat, but Mia navigates it with such grace and conviction that you can't help but be completely mesmerized. The film itself is a visual feast, right? But Mia’s performance gives it heart. She brings a grounded, relatable quality to Alice, making her journey through Wonderland feel both fantastical and deeply personal. Think about it: Alice isn't just wandering around; she's questioning everything, challenging the absurd, and ultimately finding her own strength. Mia captures all of that, making Alice a character you root for every step of the way. And let's be real, working with Johnny Depp, Helena Bonham Carter, and Anne Hathaway in such an early role? That's intense! But Mia holds her own, proving she's more than capable of sharing the screen with acting heavyweights. Alice in Wonderland isn't just a highlight in Mia's filmography; it's a cultural touchstone. It cemented her status as a leading lady and showcased her ability to bring depth and nuance to iconic characters. Plus, it introduced her to a whole new audience, setting the stage for the incredible work she's done since. This film is a testament to Mia's talent and her eye for choosing roles that are both challenging and rewarding. So, yeah, Alice in Wonderland is definitely where the magic began for Mia, and it remains one of her most unforgettable performances.

Jane Eyre (2011): A Gothic Romance

Next up, let's chat about Jane Eyre. Guys, this is peak Mia Wasikowska. In this adaptation of Charlotte Brontë's classic novel, Mia becomes Jane. She captures Jane's fierce independence, her quiet strength, and her unwavering moral compass with such authenticity that it's breathtaking. The story itself is a gothic romance masterpiece, full of dark secrets, hidden passions, and societal constraints. Mia navigates all of this with such poise and emotional depth that you're completely drawn into Jane's world. And the chemistry between Mia and Michael Fassbender, who plays Mr. Rochester? Seriously electric! They bring such intensity and complexity to their roles, making their complicated relationship all the more compelling. What's so impressive about Mia's performance is her ability to convey so much with so little. Jane is a character who often keeps her emotions close to the vest, but Mia manages to communicate her inner turmoil through subtle gestures, glances, and expressions. You can feel her longing, her pain, and her unwavering determination, even when she's not saying a word. Plus, the film's atmosphere is just stunning. The bleak Yorkshire landscapes, the imposing Thornfield Hall, and the period costumes all contribute to the gothic mood, creating a backdrop that perfectly complements Mia's performance. Jane Eyre isn't just a romance; it's a story about a woman fighting for her independence and her right to choose her own destiny. Mia embodies that struggle with such passion and conviction that you can't help but be inspired. It's a role that showcases her incredible range and her ability to bring depth and nuance to complex characters. So, if you're looking for a film that will sweep you away with its romance, its atmosphere, and its powerful performances, Jane Eyre is an absolute must-see. Mia Wasikowska truly shines in this role, solidifying her status as one of the most talented actresses of her generation.

Stoker (2013): A Dark and Twisted Thriller

Okay, guys, get ready for something completely different. Stoker is a dark and twisted thriller that showcases Mia's versatility as an actress. In this film, she plays India Stoker, a young woman who develops a mysterious connection with her enigmatic uncle, played by Matthew Goode, after the death of her father. The film is directed by Park Chan-wook, the mastermind behind Oldboy, so you know it's going to be visually stunning and psychologically complex. Mia's performance is absolutely captivating. She embodies India's quiet intensity, her hidden desires, and her growing awareness of the darkness within herself. It's a role that requires her to be both vulnerable and menacing, and she pulls it off flawlessly. The film's atmosphere is incredibly unsettling. The lush, gothic setting, the haunting music, and the slow-burn suspense all contribute to a sense of unease that permeates every scene. And the relationship between India and her uncle is just…weird. There's a palpable tension between them, a sense of unspoken desires and hidden agendas that keeps you on the edge of your seat. Stoker is not an easy film to watch. It's disturbing, it's unsettling, and it challenges your expectations at every turn. But it's also a masterpiece of suspense, a film that will stay with you long after the credits roll. Mia Wasikowska is at her absolute best in this role, proving that she's not afraid to take risks and explore the darker side of human nature. If you're a fan of thrillers that are both intelligent and disturbing, Stoker is an absolute must-see. Just be prepared to be unnerved.

Tracks (2013): An Epic Journey

Alright, let's switch gears to something totally different: Tracks. This film is based on the true story of Robyn Davidson, a young woman who treks across the Australian desert with only her dog and four camels for company. Mia plays Robyn, and she nails it. She captures Robyn's fierce independence, her adventurous spirit, and her determination to escape the confines of society. Seriously, the Australian outback is no joke. The landscapes are vast, unforgiving, and absolutely breathtaking. Mia embodies Robyn's physical and emotional journey with such authenticity that you feel like you're right there with her, battling the elements, forging a connection with nature, and confronting her own inner demons. What's so compelling about Tracks is its simplicity. It's a story about a woman finding herself through solitude and self-reliance. There's no grand plot, no dramatic twists and turns, just a woman and her camels against the backdrop of the vast Australian desert. Mia's performance is understated but incredibly powerful. She conveys Robyn's inner thoughts and emotions through subtle gestures, glances, and expressions. You can feel her exhaustion, her frustration, and her growing sense of peace and contentment. The film is also visually stunning. The cinematography captures the beauty and the harshness of the Australian outback, creating a sense of awe and wonder. Tracks is a film that will stay with you long after you've seen it. It's a reminder of the power of nature, the importance of self-reliance, and the human capacity for resilience. Mia Wasikowska delivers a career-defining performance in this role, proving that she's one of the most talented and versatile actresses working today.

Crimson Peak (2015): Gothic Horror

Crimson Peak is where Mia takes on the gothic horror genre with such finesse! Directed by Guillermo del Toro, this film is a visual masterpiece, dripping with atmosphere and dread. Mia plays Edith Cushing, an aspiring writer who marries a mysterious baronet and moves into his ancestral mansion, Crimson Peak. Of course, the mansion is haunted, and Edith soon discovers that her new husband and his sister are hiding some dark secrets. Mia embodies Edith's innocence, her intelligence, and her growing sense of unease with such conviction that you're completely invested in her fate. The film is a feast for the eyes, with stunning costumes, elaborate sets, and breathtaking cinematography. But it's also a genuinely scary film, with plenty of jump scares, creepy ghosts, and psychological suspense. Mia's performance is the heart of the film. She brings a vulnerability and a strength to Edith that makes her a compelling and sympathetic protagonist. You root for her to uncover the truth and escape the clutches of her sinister husband and his sister. Crimson Peak is a must-see for fans of gothic horror. It's a visually stunning, emotionally resonant, and genuinely scary film that will stay with you long after the credits roll. And Mia Wasikowska is simply brilliant in the lead role, proving that she's equally adept at handling both drama and horror.

Other Notable Roles

Beyond these highlights, Mia has consistently delivered compelling performances in a variety of other films and TV shows. Her role in The Kids Are All Right showcased her ability to portray complex family dynamics, while her performance in Maps to the Stars demonstrated her willingness to explore darker, more unconventional characters. She also appeared in the TV series In Treatment, further proving her range as an actress.

Mia Wasikowska's career is a testament to her talent, her versatility, and her eye for choosing interesting and challenging roles. She's an actress who consistently surprises and delights, and I can't wait to see what she does next!