Blake Lively has become a household name over the past decade, thanks to her impressive career in both film and television. Known for her stunning beauty, sharp wit, and exceptional acting skills, she has captivated audiences in a variety of roles. From her iconic portrayal of Serena van der Woodsen in Gossip Girl to her thrilling performances in movies like The Shallows, Blake Lively’s versatility is unmatched. In this blog post, we will explore the best movies and TV shows featuring Blake Lively, taking a closer look at the roles that defined her career.
Early Beginnings: Blake Lively’s Introduction to Hollywood
Blake Lively’s career in Hollywood began when she was just a teenager, starring in The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants (2005). Her performance as Bridget Vreeland, the outgoing and adventurous member of the sisterhood, helped establish her as a rising star. The movie’s success led to a sequel in 2008, where Blake Lively’s character grew even more complex, showcasing her growth as an actress.
While The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants was Blake Lively’s breakout role, it wasn’t the last time she would work alongside an ensemble cast. She continued to hone her craft and gradually moved from teen roles to more mature characters. As her career progressed, she would go on to star in various successful movies and TV shows, cementing her place as a top actress in Hollywood.
The Iconic Gossip Girl: Blake Lively’s Breakthrough TV Show
Blake Lively’s portrayal of Serena van der Woodsen in Gossip Girl (2007-2012) became a defining moment in her career. This television series, based on Cecily von Ziegesar’s book series, was a cultural phenomenon, and Lively’s character quickly became a fan favorite. Serena was a wealthy, fashionable socialite with a complicated love life, and Blake Lively brought the character to life with both charm and vulnerability.
Her role in Gossip Girl marked a turning point, as it introduced Blake Lively to an even broader audience. The show not only made her a household name but also showcased her ability to balance drama, romance, and comedy seamlessly. Her performances in Gossip Girl earned her several award nominations, further solidifying her reputation as a talented actress in both movies and TV shows.
The Town and Blake Lively’s Transition to Film
After Gossip Girl concluded, Blake Lively made a successful transition to film, starring in the crime drama The Town (2010), directed by Ben Affleck. Her portrayal of Krista Coughlin, a woman caught in a troubled romance with a bank robber, demonstrated her ability to tackle darker and more complex roles. In The Town, Blake Lively stepped outside her glamorous TV persona, showcasing her range and proving that she could excel in a variety of genres.
Blake Lively’s role in The Town was a pivotal moment in her career, as it allowed her to break away from the glamorous roles often associated with her and embrace more nuanced, challenging parts. Her performance earned praise from critics, and the film itself was nominated for several awards, including an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor (for Jeremy Renner). This marked a significant moment in Blake Lively’s career as a serious actress in the movie industry.
The Age of Adaline: A Timeless Performance in a Romantic Drama
In 2015, Blake Lively starred in the romantic drama The Age of Adaline, where she played the titular character, Adaline Bowman. Adaline is a woman who, after a near-fatal accident, becomes immortal and remains the same age for over eight decades. The film explores her emotional journey as she navigates love and loss while grappling with the consequences of eternal life.
Blake Lively’s performance in The Age of Adaline was mesmerizing, capturing the complexity of a character who, despite her beauty and eternal youth, struggles with isolation. The film showcased Blake Lively’s ability to carry a movie with both grace and emotional depth, and it became another success in her ever-expanding filmography. The film also featured an all-star cast, including Michiel Huisman and Harrison Ford, adding to its appeal.
The Shallows: Blake Lively’s Survival Thriller Success
One of Blake Lively’s most thrilling roles came in the 2016 survival horror film The Shallows. In this movie, she plays Nancy, a young woman who finds herself stranded on a rock in the ocean, with a great white shark circling nearby. The film was a gripping, edge-of-your-seat experience, and Blake Lively’s performance was integral to its success.
The movie was a critical and commercial hit, with many praising Blake Lively’s ability to carry the film virtually solo. In this intense thriller, Lively demonstrated her physical and emotional range as an actress, holding the audience’s attention through every harrowing moment. The Shallows solidified her position as an actress who could excel in both dramatic and action-packed roles, further proving her versatility across genres.
Blake Lively’s Growing Family and Career in Recent Years
In recent years, Blake Lively has balanced her acting career with raising her growing family. She has continued to appear in high-profile movies, such as A Simple Favor (2018), a stylish mystery thriller where she starred opposite Anna Kendrick. Her portrayal of the enigmatic Emily Nelson earned her widespread praise, with many noting her impressive range and the fun dynamic she shared with Kendrick.
Blake Lively has also expanded her horizons behind the camera. In 2021, she made her directorial debut with the film Portfolio, further showcasing her ambition and desire to grow within the industry. While her focus may have shifted to family life and behind-the-scenes roles, Blake Lively’s impact on Hollywood is undeniable, and her career is far from over.
Future Projects: What’s Next for Blake Lively?
Blake Lively’s career continues to evolve, and fans eagerly anticipate her next project. She has established herself as one of Hollywood’s most beloved actresses, with her versatility allowing her to tackle a variety of genres. While she may not be as active in front of the camera as she once was, her recent ventures indicate that Blake Lively will continue to thrive in both acting and behind-the-scenes roles.
Upcoming projects for Blake Lively include The Husband’s Secret, an adaptation of Liane Moriarty’s novel, and Lady Killer, an action-comedy film in which she stars opposite Ryan Reynolds, her husband. Fans are excited to see how she will bring her charm and skill to these new roles, and they are sure to follow her career with anticipation in the years to come.
Conclusion
Blake Lively’s career has spanned various genres, from romantic dramas and crime thrillers to survival horror and stylish mysteries. Her ability to embody diverse characters has made her one of the most respected and versatile actresses in Hollywood today. Whether it’s her unforgettable role as Serena van der Woodsen in Gossip Girl, her intense performance in The Shallows, or her mesmerizing portrayal in The Age of Adaline, Blake Lively’s impact on both movies and TV shows is undeniable.
As Blake Lively continues to expand her career, both as an actress and as a director, her fans can look forward to many more years of captivating performances and exciting projects. From her early beginnings in The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants to her evolving career, Blake Lively has shown that she is a force to be reckoned with in the entertainment industry.
FAQs
1. What is Blake Lively’s most famous TV role? Blake Lively’s most famous TV role is Serena van der Woodsen in Gossip Girl, a show that helped her become a global star.
2. What movie did Blake Lively star in with a shark? Blake Lively starred in the 2016 survival thriller The Shallows, where she faces off against a great white shark.
3. Has Blake Lively directed any movies? Yes, Blake Lively made her directorial debut with Portfolio in 2021, showcasing her versatility in the industry.
4. What role did Blake Lively play in The Town? In The Town (2010), Blake Lively played Krista Coughlin, a woman involved with a bank robber, showing her ability to play complex roles.
5. Is Blake Lively working on any new projects? Yes, Blake Lively has upcoming projects, including The Husband’s Secret and Lady Killer, an action-comedy film alongside her husband, Ryan Reynolds.
