Top 10 Movies and TV Shows Featuring Drew Barrymore

Drew Barrymore boasts a remarkable career spanning several decades, marked by numerous iconic films and television shows. Coming from a lineage of accomplished actors, including John Barrymore and Lionel Barrymore, Drew captured the public’s attention at a tender age with her unforgettable role in Steven Spielberg’s E. T.the Extra-Terrestrial. At just six years old, her captivating performance propelled her into the spotlight, paving the way for a successful child acting career.

Despite confronting the tumultuous challenges many child actors face, Drew experienced a noteworthy career revival in the 1990s. She transitioned into adult roles and showcased her comedic prowess across various projects while also establishing herself as a successful producer. Today, she is widely recognized for her engaging daytime talk show, yet her legacy as a talented actress continues to resonate with fans, with a diverse array of memorable works that invite rewatching.

10 Santa Clarita Diet (2017-2019)

As Sheila Hammond

In a salient return to scripted television, Drew Barrymore headlined Santa Clarita Diet, an underrated and hilarious Netflix series that left fans craving more. Alongside Timothy Olyphant, Barrymore plays Sheila, a real estate agent whose life spirals out of control after she mysteriously dies and comes back with an insatiable appetite for human flesh.

The series blends unexpected gore with a whimsical sense of humor, showcasing the stellar chemistry between Barrymore and Olyphant as they navigate the bizarre chaos characteristic of their new lives.Barrymore brilliantly embodies her free-spirit persona while tackling the role of an over-the-top, yet relatable killer. Although it concluded on a cliffhanger, the series remains a timeless comedic treasure.

9 Never Been Kissed (1999)

As Josie Geller

As the tougher aspects of Barrymore’s youth faded from public scrutiny, her comedic talents began to shine in numerous memorable films. Among them, Never Been Kissed stands out, featuring Barrymore as Josie Geller, a reporter who goes undercover as a high school student. Reliving her past as a bullied outsider turns into a comedic nightmare for Josie.

While some elements of the storyline may not age well, the film remains a staple for showcasing Barrymore’s comedic genius. She delivers a heartfelt and side-splitting performance, embracing her character’s imperfections. Josie’s quirky charm defies the typical romantic lead archetype and is expertly brought to life by Barrymore.

8 Whip It! (2009)

As Smashley Simpson

Building on her savvy production experience, Drew Barrymore made her directorial debut with Whip It!, a vibrant comedy that dives into the world of roller derby. The film follows Bliss (Elliot Page), a teenager yearning to escape her mundane small-town life through the thrilling sport.

Barrymore not only directs but also shines in a lively supporting role as Smashley Simpson, an integral member of Bliss’s roller derby team. Featuring an ensemble of talented actresses, including Zoë Bell and Kristen Wiig, the film celebrates friendship and empowerment, framing a heartfelt and comical story within a unique sports context.

7 Donnie Darko (2001)

As Karen Pomeroy

Despite her status as a long-time star, Drew Barrymore ventured into a smaller, yet pivotal role in the cult classic Donnie Darko, all while serving as a producer. The film centers on Donnie (Jake Gyllenhaal), a troubled teen who experiences surreal visions and an existential crisis amidst societal chaos.

Barrymore plays the role of Karen Pomeroy, Donnie’s compassionate and unconventional teacher, delivering a performance that deepens the film’s emotional resonance. As an enigmatic narrative unfolds, Barrymore’s involvement adds depth to a thought-provoking exploration of adolescence and reality that lingers well beyond the credits.

6 50 First Dates (2004)

As Lucy Whitmore

Teaming up again with Adam Sandler, Drew Barrymore brought charm and humor to the romantic comedy 50 First Dates. Sandler portrays a bachelor in Hawaii who falls for Lucy, played by Barrymore—a woman with short-term memory loss that forces him to woo her anew each day.

This unconventional love story is loosely based on real events and offers a refreshing premise for the duo to explore their comedic chemistry.Barrymore shines as Lucy, balancing vulnerability and humor while navigating a complex romance. The film’s premise invites heartfelt laughter while captivating audiences with their chase for love.

5 Charlie’s Angels (2000)

As Dylan Sanders

Demonstrating her versatility, Drew Barrymore embraced an action-oriented role in the reboot of Charlie’s Angels. This film captures the escapades of three talented female detectives working under their elusive boss, Charlie, as they race against time to save a kidnapped tech mogul.

Co-starring Cameron Diaz and Lucy Liu, Barrymore’s performance as Dylan showcases her action-hero chops paired with her signature humor. The movie delivers exhilarating action sequences wrapped in a lighthearted package, ultimately celebrating the friendships and teamwork of the titular Angels.

4 The Wedding Singer (1998)

As Julia Sullivan

Drew Barrymore and Adam Sandler’s first film together, The Wedding Singer, remains a beloved classic. Set in the vibrant 1980s, the story revolves around Robbie (Sandler), a wedding singer who deals with heartbreak as he falls for Julia (Barrymore)—who, ironically, is about to marry the wrong man.

Full of nostalgia and humor, This film beautifully blends romance and comedy, bolstered by the undeniable chemistry between Barrymore and Sandler. Their journey is enriched with memorable moments and iconic musical sequences, solidifying this film as the pinnacle of their collaborations.

3 Grey Gardens (2009)

As Edith Bouvier Beale

Drew Barrymore received critical acclaim for her role in the poignant biopic Grey Gardens. Based on true events, it chronicles the lives of Edith Bouvier Beale (Jessica Lange) and her daughter Edith (Barrymore), relatives of Jackie Onassis, as they navigate the highs of 1930s high society and the subsequent fall into obscurity.

Barrymore’s performance is a tour-de-force that showcases her range as an actress, depicting her character’s evolution from youthful promise to disillusionment and regret. Her portrayal won her a SAG Award, highlighting her ability to capture the complexities of a multifaceted character with depth and nuance.

2 Scream (1996)

As Casey Becker

Drew Barrymore’s role in Scream is a defining moment in horror film history, despite its brevity. Directed by Wes Craven, this meta-commentary on slasher films follows a group of teens as they are hunted by a masked killer. Barrymore opens the film as Casey Becker, whose chilling encounter with Ghostface drastically sets the stage for the entire series.

Her haunting performance in the opening scene remains one of the best in horror film history, masterfully conveying terror and suspense.Scream not only revitalized the genre but has also left an indelible impact on how horror stories are told, showcasing Barrymore’s versatility as an actress.

1 E. T.The Extra-Terrestrial (1982)

As Gertie Taylor

Drew Barrymore’s remarkable career took flight with her early performance in E. T.the Extra-Terrestrial, an enduring classic directed by Steven Spielberg. The film narrates the touching story of a young boy, Elliott, who befriends an alien stranded on Earth. Together with his siblings, they strive to reunite E. T.with his extraterrestrial home while evading government capture.

Barrymore’s portrayal as Elliott’s little sister, Gertie, was a scene-stealer and earned her a BAFTA nomination—a testament to her immense talent, even at a young age. The film’s enchanting narrative and unforgettable moments continue to resonate, showcasing Spielberg’s unique storytelling magic paired with Barrymore’s early brilliance.

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