Unearthing Aubrey Plaza’s Hidden Cinematic Treasures

Aubrey Plaza has carved a unique niche for herself in Hollywood, going beyond the deadpan delivery that made her famous on “Parks and Recreation.” While many recognize her for her more prominent roles, a wealth of underrated and often overlooked movies showcase Plaza’s remarkable versatility. Dive into a curated collection of her cinematic gems, exploring performances that demonstrate her impressive range and solidify her status as a true cinematic force.

A Deeper Dive into Aubrey Plaza’s Underrated Films

Aubrey Plaza isn’t just a comedic actress; she’s a chameleon, effortlessly transitioning between genres and embodying complex characters with nuance and depth. Her ability to convey emotion with subtle gestures and a piercing gaze elevates her performances beyond the typical. These less-heralded films demonstrate Plaza’s dedication to her craft and her willingness to take risks, pushing the boundaries of her on-screen persona.

Exploring the Darkness and Humor in “Black Bear”

“Black Bear” is a complex and unsettling film that blurs the lines between reality and fiction, and Plaza’s performance is nothing short of captivating. She plays Allison, a filmmaker seeking inspiration at a remote lake house. The film unfolds in two distinct parts, each exploring different facets of Allison’s personality and her relationships with the couple hosting her. The ambiguity and psychological depth of the film, coupled with Plaza’s unsettling performance, make “Black Bear” a unique and rewarding cinematic experience.

The Power of Ambiguity and Performance : aubrey plaza top underrated movies 2025 ranked

The brilliance of “Black Bear” lies in its refusal to offer easy answers. Is Allison manipulative, or is she a victim of circumstance? Is she consciously playing a role, or is she genuinely struggling with her own demons? Plaza’s performance perfectly captures this ambiguity, leaving the audience to grapple with these questions long after the credits roll. Her eyes hold secrets, her smiles are laced with melancholy, and her every move hints at hidden depths.

“Ingrid Goes West”: A Commentary on Social Media Obsession

In “Ingrid Goes West,” Plaza portrays Ingrid Thorburn, a young woman with a history of mental illness and a dangerous obsession with social media influencers. After becoming infatuated with Taylor Sloane (Elizabeth Olsen), a seemingly perfect Instagram personality, Ingrid moves to Los Angeles to insert herself into Taylor’s life. The film is a dark and satirical commentary on the superficiality of online culture and the damaging effects of seeking validation through social media.

The Dangers of Seeking Validation Online : aubrey plaza top underrated movies 2025 ranked

“Ingrid Goes West” taps into the anxieties and insecurities that fuel our obsession with social media. It explores the curated perfection that dominates online platforms and the unrealistic expectations it creates. Ingrid’s desperate attempts to emulate Taylor’s lifestyle highlight the emptiness and hollowness that can result from chasing an idealized version of reality. The film serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of genuine connection and self-acceptance.

Finding Humanity in “Safety Not Guaranteed”

While “Safety Not Guaranteed” might be slightly more well-known than other entries on this list, it still deserves recognition as a standout performance from Aubrey Plaza. She plays Darius, a cynical intern who joins a magazine writer on an assignment to investigate a man who placed an ad seeking a companion for time travel. The film is a quirky and heartwarming exploration of hope, connection, and the power of believing in the impossible.

Beyond Cynicism : aubrey plaza top underrated movies 2025 ranked

Initially, Darius is portrayed as a detached and sarcastic character, using her wit as a shield against vulnerability. However, as she delves deeper into Kenneth’s world and begins to connect with him on a genuine level, she starts to shed her cynicism and embrace the possibility of something more. Plaza’s nuanced performance beautifully captures Darius’s emotional journey, showing her gradual transformation from a detached observer to an empathetic participant.

“An Evening with Beverly Luff Linn”: Absurdity and Heart

“An Evening with Beverly Luff Linn” is a surreal and eccentric comedy that showcases Plaza’s ability to embrace unconventional roles. She plays Lulu Danger, a dissatisfied wife who runs away from her verbally abusive husband with a mysterious man named Colin (Craig Robinson) to attend “An Evening With Beverly Luff Linn For One Magical Night.” The film is a bizarre and hilarious exploration of love, longing, and the search for meaning in the absurd.

Embracing the Bizarre : aubrey plaza top underrated movies 2025 ranked

What makes Plaza’s performance so compelling in “An Evening with Beverly Luff Linn” is her unwavering commitment to the character’s inherent weirdness. She fully embodies Lulu’s deadpan demeanor and her quiet desperation, creating a character that is both funny and strangely sympathetic. Her ability to ground the absurdity of the film in genuine emotion is a testament to her talent and her willingness to take on challenging roles.

“Life After Beth”: A Zombie Comedy with Heart

In “Life After Beth,” Plaza takes on the role of Beth Slocum, a young woman who mysteriously comes back to life after dying unexpectedly. Initially, her boyfriend, Zach (Dane DeHaan), is overjoyed, but he soon discovers that Beth’s resurrection comes with some…unforeseen complications. The film is a dark and humorous take on the zombie genre, exploring themes of grief, loss, and the complexities of relationships.

Finding the Humor in the Macabre : aubrey plaza top underrated movies 2025 ranked

“Life After Beth” balances the macabre with moments of genuine humor, and Plaza’s performance is key to striking that balance. She embraces the physical comedy of playing a zombie while also conveying the emotional turmoil of a character grappling with her own undead existence. The film is a surprisingly poignant exploration of grief and the challenges of letting go, wrapped in a fun and engaging zombie comedy package.

Why These Films Matter: Plaza’s Unique Contributions to Cinema

Aubrey Plaza’s choice of roles and her willingness to take risks have solidified her status as a true independent spirit in Hollywood. She consistently seeks out projects that challenge her as an actress and that offer audiences something different. These underrated films are a testament to her talent, her versatility, and her commitment to pushing the boundaries of cinematic storytelling. By exploring these hidden gems, viewers gain a deeper appreciation for the depth and range of Aubrey Plaza’s impressive body of work. Her ability to imbue even the most unconventional characters with relatable humanity is what sets her apart.

FAQ

What makes Aubrey Plaza's performances in these films so compelling? : aubrey plaza top underrated movies 2025 ranked

Aubrey Plaza excels at portraying characters with a unique blend of deadpan humor and underlying vulnerability. She brings a level of authenticity and emotional depth to her roles, making her characters relatable and engaging, even in the most bizarre or unconventional settings. Her ability to subtly convey complex emotions with minimal dialogue or expression is a hallmark of her performances.

Where can I find these underrated Aubrey Plaza movies? : aubrey plaza top underrated movies 2025 ranked

Many of these films are available to rent or purchase on various streaming platforms such as Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Vudu. Some may also be available on DVD or Blu-ray. It’s always a good idea to check your local library’s collection as well, as they often carry a wide variety of films.

Does Aubrey Plaza prefer indie films over mainstream blockbusters? : aubrey plaza top underrated movies 2025 ranked

While Aubrey Plaza has appeared in some mainstream films, she has a clear affinity for independent cinema. She often gravitates towards projects that offer her more creative freedom and allow her to explore complex and unconventional characters. Her commitment to independent film has solidified her reputation as a risk-taker and a true artist.