Drew Barrymore has been a beloved figure in Hollywood for decades, captivating audiences with her versatile acting skills and charismatic presence. From her early days as a child star to her successful career as an adult, Barrymore has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. This article delves into the most notable Drew Barrymore movies and TV shows, showcasing her impressive range and enduring appeal.
Key Takeaways
- Drew Barrymore began her acting career at a young age, starring in iconic films like “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial”.
- She has successfully transitioned from child star to adult actress, with roles in romantic comedies, dramas, and horror films.
- Barrymore has also made a significant impact on television, both as an actress and a talk show host.
- Her production company, Flower Films, has produced several successful films and TV shows.
Early Career and Breakthrough Roles
Child Star: “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” (1982)
Drew Barrymore’s career took off when she was just seven years old, thanks to her role as Gertie in Steven Spielberg’s “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial”. This heartwarming sci-fi film became a cultural phenomenon and showcased Barrymore’s natural talent, making her a household name.
Teen Roles: “Firestarter” (1984) and “Irreconcilable Differences” (1984)
As she transitioned into her teenage years, Barrymore continued to take on challenging roles. In “Firestarter”, she played a young girl with pyrokinetic abilities, demonstrating her ability to handle complex characters. “Irreconcilable Differences” earned her a Golden Globe nomination, further solidifying her place in Hollywood.
Transition to Adult Roles
Romantic Comedies: “The Wedding Singer” (1998) and “50 First Dates” (2004)
Barrymore successfully transitioned to adult roles with a series of popular romantic comedies. In “The Wedding Singer”, she starred opposite Adam Sandler, and their on-screen chemistry was undeniable. The duo reunited for “50 First Dates”, a charming film about love and memory loss, which became another box office hit.
Dramatic Roles: “Riding in Cars with Boys” (2001) and “Grey Gardens” (2009)
Barrymore has also proven her ability to tackle more serious roles. In “Riding in Cars with Boys”, she portrayed a young mother struggling to balance her dreams with her responsibilities. Her performance in “Grey Gardens”, where she played Edith Bouvier Beale, earned her a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Miniseries or Motion Picture Made for Television.
Exploring Different Genres
Horror: “Scream” (1996) and “Santa Clarita Diet” (2017-2019)
Barrymore has not shied away from the horror genre. Her iconic opening scene in “Scream” remains one of the most memorable moments in horror film history. More recently, she starred in the horror-comedy TV series “Santa Clarita Diet”, where she played a suburban mom turned zombie, blending humor and horror seamlessly.
Action and Adventure: “Charlie’s Angels” (2000) and “Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle” (2003)
Barrymore showcased her action chops in the “Charlie’s Angels” films, playing one of the three daring private investigators. These films were not only commercial successes but also highlighted Barrymore’s versatility as an actress capable of performing in high-octane action sequences.
Television Success
The Drew Barrymore Show (2020-Present)
In recent years, Barrymore has taken on the role of talk show host with “The Drew Barrymore Show”. The show features interviews with celebrities, lifestyle segments, and heartfelt stories, all delivered with Barrymore’s signature warmth and authenticity. It has been well received by audiences and critics alike, further cementing her status as a beloved entertainment figure.
Guest Appearances and Voice Work
Barrymore has made numerous guest appearances on popular TV shows, including “Family Guy” and “The Simpsons”. Her distinctive voice and charismatic personality have made her a sought-after guest star, adding to her diverse body of work.
Behind the Scenes: Flower Films
In addition to her acting career, Barrymore co-founded the production company Flower Films in 1995. The company has produced several successful films and TV shows, including “Never Been Kissed”, “Donnie Darko”, and “Whip It”. This venture has allowed Barrymore to take on a more active role in the creative process, showcasing her talents as a producer and director.
Drew Barrymore’s career is a testament to her incredible talent and enduring appeal. From her early days as a child star in “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” to her diverse roles in romantic comedies, dramas, and horror films, Barrymore has consistently captivated audiences with her performances. Her success on television, both as an actress and a talk show host, further highlights her versatility and charisma. With her production company, Flower Films, she has also made significant contributions behind the scenes. Drew Barrymore’s impressive body of work in movies and TV shows ensures that she will remain a beloved figure in the entertainment industry for years to come.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to her work, exploring Drew Barrymore’s filmography is a journey through some of the most memorable and entertaining moments in Hollywood history.