Bruno Pugh
Ever flipped through an old movie or TV show and suddenly spotted a familiar face you didn’t expect? It happens more often than you think with A-list actors. They’ve all got to start somewhere, right? In this gallery article, we’re diving into those early roles of some big stars that might have slipped your mind. Get ready for some surprising blasts from the past!
Chris Evans: Not Another Teen Movie
In one of his early movie roles, Chris Evans starred in the 2001 parody “Not Another Teen Movie.” He portrayed Jake Wyler, a stereotypical “popular jock.” After Jake’s cheerleader girlfriend breaks up with him, he plots to transform an unconventional student, Janey (Chyler Leigh), into prom queen as revenge. Despite its negative reviews, the film marked one of Evans’ early comedic performances.
Julia Roberts: Satisfaction
Julia Roberts’ first credited role on the big screen came in 1988 with the comedy-drama “Satisfaction.” She portrayed Daryle, the teenage bassist of an all-girl rock band called The Mystery in Baltimore. The film also features Liam Neeson and Justine Bateman. “Satisfaction” was Roberts’ final role before her breakthrough in “Mystic Pizza,” which launched her illustrious career.
John Boyega: Attack the Block
John Boyega burst onto screens in “Attack the Block” back in 2011, and man, did he make an entrance. He played Moses, a tough London teen leading a gang battling savage aliens invading their block. It was like street smarts meet sci-fi mayhem, and Boyega nailed it. The movie was all gritty action, unexpected humor, and John’s performance? Let’s just say he owned every scene he was in.
Sigourney Weaver: Annie Hall
In her movie debut in the 1977 romcom “Annie Hall,” Sigourney Weaver appears in the closing scene as the date of protagonist Alvy (Woody Allen), whom he takes to the cinema after splitting with Annie. Although a minor role, Weaver’s next part in Ridley Scott’s 1979 space-horror classic “Alien” firmly established her in the sci-fi genre.
Scarlett Johansson: North
In 1994, Scarlett Johansson got her first movie at the age of nine in Rob Reiner’s comedy-adventure “North.” Despite featuring an all-star cast including Bruce Willis, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, and a teenaged Elijah Wood, the film was a box office bomb and is often regarded as one of the worst movies ever.
Robert Pattinson: Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
Pattinson took on the role of Cedric Diggory in this movie. His portrayal of the character was notable for its charm and earnestness despite the character’s tragic fate in the story. Though overshadowed by later roles, such as Edward Cullen in the Twilight series, his role in the film remains a significant part of his early acting career.
Kristen Stewart: Panic Room
Kristen Stewart had one of her early roles in the thriller “Panic Room,” directed by David Fincher and released in 2002 when she was 12 years old. In the film, Stewart portrays Sarah, the diabetic daughter of Meg (Jodie Foster). Initially, Hayden Panettiere was slated for the role but withdrew before filming began.
Felicity Jones: Doctor Who
In “Doctor Who,” Felicity Jones appeared in the 2008 episode “The Unicorn and the Wasp.” She played Robina Redmond, a glamorous aristocrat embroiled in a murder mystery alongside Agatha Christie. Jones’s performance added flair to the episode, showcasing her talent in this memorable guest role within the iconic sci-fi series.
Leonardo DiCaprio: What’s Eating Gilbert Grape
Leonardo DiCaprio’s early movie roles included playing Arnie Grape in the 1993 film “What’s Eating Gilbert Grape.” His portrayal earned him his first Oscar and Golden Globe nominations. DiCaprio starred alongside Johnny Depp, who played his older brother Gilbert, as well as Juliette Lewis and John C. Reilly.
Carrie Fisher: Shampoo
In the 1970s, Carrie Fisher had a cool little role in “Shampoo.” She played Lorna, the daughter of a wealthy woman who gets caught up in Warren Beatty’s character’s tangled love life. It was one of those quirky roles that showed off her wit and charm, even before she became royalty in a galaxy far, far away.
Ryan Reynolds: Hillside
Back in the day, Ryan Reynolds got his start on “Hillside,” a Canadian teen soap that aired in the ’90s. He played the charming Billy Simpson, navigating the drama and friendships of high school life. Even then, you could see the spark that would later ignite his career—quick wit, charisma, and that signature Ryan Reynolds charm. It was his first taste of the spotlight, paving the way for the big-screen heroics and comedic genius we know him for today.
Hugh Grant: Maurice
Hugh Grant made a mark in the 1987 film “Maurice,” where he played Clive Durham, a pivotal role in the period drama based on E.M. Forster’s novel. Grant’s portrayal showcased his early talent for capturing the complexities of relationships and societal constraints in early 20th-century England. It was a role that hinted at his future success in romantic comedies, blending charm with a depth that resonated on screen.
Meryl Streep: Julia
In the 1977 drama “Julia,” Meryl Streep delivered a powerful performance as Anne Marie. It was a role that highlighted Streep’s early ability to bring depth to complex characters, setting the stage for her illustrious career as one of Hollywood’s most acclaimed actresses.
Nicole Kidman: Bush Christmas
In “Bush Christmas,” a 1983 Australian adventure film, Nicole Kidman played the spirited and adventurous Helen, one of the key characters in a tale of children trying to foil horse thieves during the holiday season. It was a charming start for Kidman.
Angelina Jolie: Hackers
“Hackers” is a 1995 movie directed by Iain Softley that features Angelina Jolie in one of her earliest prominent roles. The movie revolves around a group of young high-tech hackers in New York City who stumble upon a conspiracy. For Angelina Jolie, “Hackers” marked a significant early role in her acting career. Jolie’s performance helped solidify her as a rising star in Hollywood.
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