Maggie Smith’s 15 Best Movies, Ranked

Lady Maggie Smith Has a long and prolific career in the film industry, spanning over six decades, leaving a long-lasting impact. With a diverse body of work that included everything from tragic Shakespeare plays to the wizarding world of Harry PotterSmith’s acting was characterized by depth and subtlety, establishing her as one of the most respected actors of her era. Throughout her career, she received six Academy Award nominations, winning two for The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie (1969) and California suite (1978). Smith’s talent transcended genres, resonating with audiences across generations, and even now, her influence will continue to shape future performances.

Her memorable characters, known for their sharp wit, intelligence and underlying strength, are unforgettable in the history of film. Even as she grew older, Smith remained in the spotlight with flawlessly portrayed roles, such as in the Downton Abbey series, consistently reinventing herself and continuing to receive critical acclaim for her timeless performances. From stage to screen, her remarkable versatility and natural on-camera presence earned her every accolade the acting world has to offer. Her legacy endures, inspiring future generations of actors and ensuring that her work will remain a testament to artistic brilliance and grace for many years to come.

15

Sister Act (1992)

Dame Maggie Smith plays Mother Superior

In the cult classic 1990s movie sister act, Smith delivers one of her most memorable performances. In this fun and lighthearted hit, she plays the role of a first strict convent leader. Her character is tasked with protecting Deloris Wilson, a lively lounge singer portrayed by Whoopi Goldberg, who comes into witness protection at the convent after witnessing a mob hit. Smith The image of Mother Superior’s prim and proper ways provides a stark and humorous contrast To Goldberg’s life and some Delaris.

sister act is a heartwarming and entertaining movie, and Smith’s exceptional acting contributes significantly to its enduring popularity. The film even led to a sequel, Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit, and received well-deserved recognition, including NAACP Image and People’s Choice Awards. This is a film where Smith shows her ability to excel in diverse roles, but it is far from her most dramatic performance. As such, it is not among the best of the best.

14

Quartet (2012)

Dame Maggie Smith plays Jean Horton

Set up in a retirement home for former opera singers, Quartet is a heartfelt drama that follows the story of old friends who are preparing for an annual concert. Maggie Smith portrays Jean Horton, a celebrated diva whose arrival in the home stirs emotionsEspecially with her ex-husband, played by Tom Courtenay. The film is filled with humor, tenderness and reflection on old age, and it beautifully captures the trials and joys of life in later years.

Smith’s depiction of Jean is multifaceted. She shows vulnerability but also strength and delivers a performance that brings both heart and humor to the fore.. Her ability to balance arrogance with moments of reflection makes her character so compelling. While Quartet Offering a light and uplifting tone, Smith’s performance adds an emotional element to the film, reaffirming her ability to elevate any role.

13

The Secret Garden (1993)

Dame Maggie Smith plays Mrs. Medlock

In the adaptation of The Secret Garden, That Maggie Smith displays her ability to elevate the overall quality of a movie with her role as head hostess, Mrs. Medlock. The film is undoubtedly one of her outstanding performances, and revolves around a young orphan, Mary Lennox, and her cousin, both of whom display incompetent and stubborn behavior.

Smith’s portrayal of Mrs. Medlock presents a striking contrast to the wild and untamed nature of the children throughout the story. Her performance not only harmonizes with the young actors, but also brings a spicy depth to the film. Smith’s portrayal of Mrs. Medlock was so impressive that it earned her a nomination for Best Supporting Actress.

12

Othello (1965)

Lady Maggie Smith portrays Desdemona

In this adaptation of Shakespeare’s tragedy, Dame Maggie Smith takes on the role of Desdemona, the innocent and tragic wife of Laurence Olivier. Othello. The film remains faithful to the original play, telling the destructive path of jealousy and betrayalL. Desdemona’s love for Othello becomes a central point of the plot as the manipulative Iago drives a wedge between the pair, leading to the famous, tragic conclusion.

Smith’s portrayal of Desdemona is delicate but firm, capturing the character’s purity and loyalty in the chaos around her. Her interpretation complements Olivier’s intense performance, offering a softer counterbalance to the more aggressive male characters. Smith’s work in Othello showcased her talent for embodying Shakespearean heroines, further cementing her reputation as one of the great classical actors of her generation.

11

The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (2011)

Dame Maggie Smith plays Muriel Donnelly

Based in India, the film depicts a group of British retirees who travel to a newly opened hotel with expectations of luxury, only to discover adventure and self-discovery. in The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, That Maggie Smith portrays Muriel Donnelly, a former housewife known for her sharp opinions and pessimistic outlook on life. Throughout the story, Muriel experiences significant changes that begin to soften her attitude and help her find a new purpose in her environment.

Smith’s portrayal of Muriel is both amusing and deeply moving. Initially showing her character’s sharpness and preconceptions, She gradually exposes Muriel’s vulnerability, making her one of the most captivating characters in the movie. Smith’s talent in combining humor with emotional authenticity made The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel One of the best films in recent memory. Moreover, it strengthened her reputation as one of the best actors of cinema.

10

Death on the Nile (1978)

Dame Maggie Smith plays travel companion Miss Bowers

In this Agatha Christie adaptation of Death on the NileDame Maggie Smith plays Miss Bowers, a sharp-witted and pious travel companion. Set on a luxurious riverboat, the film follows detective Hercule Poirot as he investigates a murder among the passengers. The ensemble of the movie, filled with colorful characters, provides a lot of intrigue and suspense throughout.

Smith’s depiction of Miss Bowers is dry and acerbic, bringing a sense of humor and biting wit to the character, a trait for which she would become famous. Even in a star-studded cast packed with major stars like Bette Davis and Angela Lansbury, Smith stands out with her quick delivery and perfectly timed expressions, making her a highlight of the film. Her presence adds an extra layer of humor to the suspense-filled mystery, helping Death on the Nile Become a celebrated and critically acclaimed work.

9

Richard III (1995)

Dame Maggie Smith plays the Duchess of York

This adaptation of Richard IIISet in a fascist 1930s England, it stars Ian McKellen as the ruthless and power-hungry king. That Maggie Smith portrays the Duchess of York, Richard’s mother, who witnesses the brutal unraveling of her family when her son seizes the throne. The film is visually striking, and its modernized take on Shakespeare’s classic work gives the political intrigue a fresh look.

Although more in the background, Smith’s role as the Duchess is pivotal in providing a moral counterpoint to Richard’s cruelty. Her dignified presence and emotional honesty add a deep sense of tragedy to the film. Smith’s ability to convey pain and loss subtly and precisely brings an intensity to the role, reminding the audience of her continued mastery of Shakespearean adaptations. Her performance in Richard III is another testament to her extraordinary ability to navigate complex characters.

8

The Harry Potter Series (2001-2011)

Dame Maggie Smith appears as Minerva McGonagall in seven Harry Potter movies

Smith may be best known for portraying Minerva McGonagall in The Harry Potter movies, showcasing some of her finest work. Playing the strict but endearing head of Gryffindor house and Transfiguration professorSmith delivers a performance that leaves a lasting impression and continues her legacy to this day.

Her contribution to the series is especially evident in the first film, where her character’s multifaceted nature is established. Over the seven subsequent movies, Smith skillfully allows the softer side of the character to emerge as the series grows in darkness and violence. However, she never quite gets enough screen time for Harry Potter To rank higher among her best movies of all time.

7

The Whips (1963)

Dame Maggie Smith Plays Miss Mead

An ensemble movie set in an airport VIP lounge, The VIPs Finds Smith playing Miss Mead, a dedicated secretary secretly in love with her boss, Les Mangrum. Smith masterfully brings depth and emotion to her character, so much Her portrayal earned her a Golden Globe nomination.

In a star-studded film with Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, Orson Welles, Margaret Rutherford and David Frost, Smith’s presence stands out even among the greats. This is a testament to her acting skills, although the movies where Smith can take on more of a lead role provide more opportunities to see her incredible talent.

6

The Lady in the Van (2015)

Dame Maggie Smith plays Miss Shepherd

The lady in the van is the true story of Miss Mary Shepherd, a homeless woman who parks her van in playwright Alan Bennett’s driveway for 15 years. Smith brilliantly captures Miss Shepherd’s eccentricity, portraying her as guarded, enigmatic, And he got married here. Her performance earned Smith her ninth Golden Globe nomination.

Despite Shepherd’s challenging and demanding attitude, Smith infuses the character with depth and likability. Smith’s performance is kind enough to land The lady in the van Among her top 15 movies, but it is a testament to all the other memorable performances in her career that it does not break into the top five.

5

Travels with My Aunt (1972)

Dame Maggie Smith plays Aunt Augusta

travel with my aunt A film based on Graham Greene’s work, directed by George Cukor, marked a pivotal moment in Smith’s career. She embodies the eccentric character of Aunt Augusta Bertram, who takes her young nephew, Henry, on a globe-trotting adventure. With a unique and exciting story that keeps the audience hooked.

Smith’s picture is a tour de force, Showcasing her comedic talents and ability to breathe life into a flamboyant character Despite being known for playing more stoic roles. Her role earned her a well-deserved third Academy Award and a second Golden Globe nomination. It is undeniably among her top five best performances. However, some of her later movies are even more memorable.

4

California Suite (1978)

Lady Maggie Smith plays Diana Barry

Lady Maggie Smith’s portrayal of Diana Barrie in California suite is arguably one of her most brilliant and self-aware performances. Adapted from Neil Simon’s Broadway play, the film weaves together four separate stories of guests at a luxury California resort, Each in a remarkable and humorous tale that plays to all the actors’ strengths.

As Diana, a British actress dealing with a failed awards ceremony and her marriage to a closeted gay man, portrayed by Michael Caine, Smith delivers a performance that earned her both an Academy Award and a Golden Globe. Her comedic timing shines again, and her chemistry with Caine, Jane Fonda, Walter Matthau and Elaine May adds depth to the film.

3

Room with a View (1985)

Lady Maggie Smith plays Charlotte Bartlett

A room with a view Follows the prim and disapproving Charlotte, who chaperones her cousin as they travel through Italy. Smith’s depiction of Charlotte perfectly captures the character’s inability to see the possibilities before her In Italy’s live-and-let-live spirit. Smith plays the role with incredible authenticity, and it pairs perfectly with Helena Bonham Carter’s performance of Lucy.

Smith’s performance in this coming-of-age story received critical acclaim, winning her a second Golden Globe Award and a fifth Oscar nomination. A room with a view Authentically adapted EM Forster’s book, with Smith’s role as Charlotte adds depth to his exploration of burgeoning sexuality and high society. It’s undoubtedly one of her best movies, but it falls just short of being The Best.

2

Gosford Park (2001)

Dame Maggie Smith plays Countess Constance Trentham

Smith’s picture in Gosford Park is a masterclass in delivering cutting put-downs and witty aristocratic remarks, Earning her a sixth Oscar nomination and a seventh Golden Globe Film nomination. This intelligent country house murder mystery, with a stellar ensemble cast including Alan Bates, Eileen Atkins and Helen Mirren, allowed Smith to shine as the Countess.

The film was a turning point in her career, Foreshadowing the iconic Dowager Countess she would later become Downton Abbey. It’s still a pleasure to watch years later, and the iconic nature of Smith’s performance as Countess Constance Trentham makes Gosford Park One of her best movies of all time.

1

The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie (1969)

Lady Maggie Smith plays Jean Brodie

Smith delivers her most iconic and influential performance in The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie. Based on Jay Presson Allen’s adaptation of Muriel Spark’s novel, The film showcases Smith in the classic role, where she embodies the fierce and captivating school teaching.R. Smith’s portrayal is known for its unique blend of vulnerability, romance, intelligence and an undeniable hold over the people in her life.

The image of the charismatic but unorthodox teacher who conveys her unconventional beliefs to her young students showcases Maggie Smith’s exceptional talent and ability to portray an energetic and lively role. Confirming her performance, Dame Maggie Smith won the Academy Award for Best Actress at the 42nd Academy Awards ceremony. She Made The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie The crown jewel in her extensive movie career.