Elisabeth Moss has carved a career out of inhabiting unsettlingly complex female characters. While “The Handmaid’s Tale” undoubtedly cemented her current status as a powerhouse actress, diving into her filmography reveals an equally impressive trajectory through diverse and fascinating roles.
Several of Moss’ standout performances can be discovered currently on Netflix. Here are five not-to-be-missed explorations into the talents of this brilliant star:
**1. “Maggie” (2015): Unbearably Raw Performance **: In this heartbreaking postapocalyptic romantic drama, Moss tackles a difficult subject – navigating love amidst a zombie virus breakout and the inevitable separation it brings with it. What makes her performance impactful isn’t just Maggie’s fierce emotional arc, but the quiet fragility she possesses that resonates long after the credits roll. This is Moss letting viewers see beneath stoic heroines, revealing raw vulnerability few others could portray with such authenticity.
2. “Listen Up Philip”— a Sharp Satiric Ensemble: Moss demonstrates her comedic timing chops playing Ashley in one of Netflix’s sleeper gems – – “Listen Up Philip”
Ashley endures the self-absorbed eccentricities of filmmaker Philip (Jason Schwartzmann.) In amidst, he and his screenwriter friend, played with hilarious intensity by Jonathan B. Rivers. Moss avoids falling into a caricature while expertly conveying Ashleigh’s evolving frustration – becoming an emblem for all who must navigate pretentious egos in order to succeed (and maybe find love along the way.)
3. “The Campaign”– More Than A Sweetheart: This raucous political comedy sees Moss in fine form as Jamie, campaign manager for a hotshot Congressman facing off. It could be easy to write her character off as simply supportive, but Moss imbues Jamie with an intriguing edge – a woman deeply familiar with the machinations of campaigns and unafraid to exploit their moral gray areas. Though she may initially appear sympathetically “nice,” viewers will likely uncover an undercurrent of cunning that aligns her closer with the film’s cynical humor.
4″Godless”: A Quiet Strength Resides: Her recent western, “Godless”, provides a unique platform to exhibit Moss’ range. Playing the fierce and steely Frank Griffin, Moss navigates a landscape where vengeance often trumps morality. However “Frank” isn’t just about brutal action; there’s undeniable tragedy to moss’ nuanced portrayal – a man haunted by loss who lashes out at those he deems have wronged him. Witnessing her build such an unconventional lead is something truly compelling.
** 5. “Her Smell“: Beyond the Mess:** Don’t let the raucous title mislead – “her Smeill,” is layered masterpiece exploring addiction with nuance and painful honesty
Moss as Becca Bloomwood, a talented artist self-consuming through drugs and alcoholism isn’t pretty but it’s raw performance. She doesn’t shy away from portraying Becca’s darkest instincts – anger, self-absorption – yet there are always moments of vulnerability woven throughout. Becca isn’t meant to be conventionally palatable her portrayal demands empathy which is why “Her Smell” lingers with viewers the way bad memories do
By engaging with these films across varying genres it’s clear what defines Elizabeth Moss – a willingness to fully commit no matter how challenging the role. That depth and fearless talent undoubtedly solidify her as one to watch not only in pop culture’s present but also its future narratives..