10 Best Blake Lively Roles Ahead of “It Ends With Us”
Blake Lively has established herself as one of Hollywood’s most versatile and dynamic actresses, captivating audiences with her range and charisma across various genres. From her breakout role as Serena van der Woodsen in the iconic television series “Gossip Girl” to her compelling performances in critically acclaimed films like “The Shallows” and “A Simple Favor,” Lively has consistently showcased her impressive acting chops. As anticipation builds for the release of “It Ends With Us” on August 9, it’s the perfect moment to reflect on her top ten roles that have defined her remarkable career and solidified her status as a leading talent in the entertainment industry.
1. “The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants” (2005)
“The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants” is a 2005 film based on the bestselling novel by Ann Brashares. It follows four close friends who stay connected through a pair of magical jeans that fit each of them perfectly despite their different body types. Blake Lively plays Bridget Vreeland, a spirited and ambitious soccer player who struggles with her own emotional challenges as she navigates a summer away from her friends. Her role is central to the film’s exploration of friendship and self-discovery.
2. “Gossip Girl” (2007-2012)
“Gossip Girl,” which aired from 2007 to 2012, is a popular teen drama set in the Upper East Side of New York City, revolving around the lives of wealthy high school students and their complex relationships. Blake Lively stars as Serena van der Woodsen, a glamorous and troubled socialite whose return to Manhattan disrupts the lives of her friends and family. The show has continued to captivate new audiences through streaming platforms, where its blend of drama, fashion, and intrigue remains a compelling draw for both long-time fans and new viewers discovering its allure.
3. “The Town” (2010)
“The Town,” released in 2010 and directed by Ben Affleck, is a crime drama about a group of bank robbers in Boston and their complex relationships. Blake Lively plays Krista Coughlin, a troubled single mother and former girlfriend of one of the robbers. Her character adds depth to the film’s exploration of crime and personal redemption, highlighting the impact of the criminal lifestyle on those around them.
4. “Green Lantern” (2011)
“Green Lantern,” released in 2011, is a superhero film based on the DC Comics character. Blake Lively stars as Carol Ferris, a skilled test pilot and the love interest of the titular hero, Hal Jordan. In the film, she plays a key role in supporting and challenging Jordan as he takes on the mantle of the Green Lantern. Lively met her now-husband, Ryan Reynolds, on the set of “Green Lantern,” where they developed a close bond that eventually led to their marriage in 2012.
5. “Savages” (2012)
“Savages,” directed by Oliver Stone and released in 2012, is a crime thriller about two cannabis growers who find themselves entangled in a dangerous situation when a Mexican drug cartel kidnaps their shared girlfriend. Blake Lively plays Ophelia, the kidnapped girlfriend who becomes a pawn in the cartel’s power struggle. Her performance adds emotional depth to the film’s tense narrative and underscores the personal stakes involved.
6. “The Age of Adaline” (2015)
“The Age of Adaline,” released in 2015, is a romantic fantasy film about a woman who stops aging after a car accident and lives through several decades while maintaining her youthful appearance. Blake Lively stars as Adaline Bowman, delivering a nuanced performance as a woman grappling with the emotional burdens and complexities of immortality. Her portrayal captures Adaline’s internal struggle and the impact of eternal youth on her relationships and sense of self.
7. “The Shallows” (2016)
“The Shallows,” released in 2016, is a survival thriller about a surfer stranded on a rock 200 yards from shore, facing a relentless great white shark. Blake Lively stars as Nancy Adams, the protagonist who must use her wits and resilience to survive the perilous situation. Her gripping performance is central to the film’s tense atmosphere, highlighting her character’s bravery and resourcefulness in the face of danger.
8. “Café Society” (2016)
“Café Society,” directed by Woody Allen and released in 2016, is a romantic comedy set in the 1930s Hollywood and New York City. Blake Lively plays Veronica, a sophisticated and glamorous woman who becomes the love interest of the film’s protagonist, Bobby Dorfman, played by Jesse Eisenberg. Her role adds a layer of allure and complexity to the film’s exploration of love and ambition in the glamorous world of old Hollywood.
9. “A Simple Favor” (2018)
“A Simple Favor,” released in 2018, is a dark comedy thriller about a mommy blogger who investigates the sudden disappearance of her enigmatic friend. Blake Lively plays Emily Nelson, the mysterious and charismatic friend whose disappearance sets off a series of unexpected and dramatic events. Lively’s performance adds intrigue and depth to the film’s suspenseful and twisting narrative. A sequel is currently in development with Blake Lively reprising her role. The film gained a second life on Netflix and did well on the streaming charts.
10. “It Ends With Us” (2024)
“It Ends With Us,” scheduled for release on August 9, 2024, is a romantic drama based on Colleen Hoover’s bestselling novel. Blake Lively stars as Lily Bloom, a young woman navigating a complex romantic relationship while dealing with personal and emotional challenges. Lively’s portrayal brings depth and nuance to Lily’s journey, capturing the novel’s themes of love, resilience, and self-discovery. The movie has been highly anticipated and some had problems with Blake Lively’s casting in February of 2023. However, I have seen the movie and thought she was great. The movie is expected to challenge “Deadpool & Wolverine” at the box office. This makes for fun dinner table conversation with her husband! “It Ends With Us” is in theaters this weekend.
Blake Lively’s career reflects a remarkable range of talent, from her iconic role as Serena van der Woodsen in “Gossip Girl” to her gripping performances in films like “The Town” and “A Simple Favor.” Each role has showcased her ability to bring depth and charisma to diverse characters, solidifying her status as a versatile actress. As she prepares for the release of “It Ends With Us” this weekend, Lively continues to captivate audiences with her dynamic performances, further establishing her place as a leading talent in Hollywood.