by Anna Kendrick, widely known for her charming and comedic roles, has also demonstrated her versatility by venturing into the R-rated film territory. These roles have allowed her to explore her dramatic range, tackle complex characters, and delve into mature themes that push the boundaries of her career. In this exploration, we’ll delve into five noteworthy R-rated films in Anna Kendrick’s filmography that have redefined her career and showcased her ability to take on diverse roles. From dark comedies to gritty dramas, these films have allowed Kendrick to demonstrate her acting prowess in a variety of genres.
- A Simple Favor (2018)
Rating: R for strong language, violence, and mature themes
In “A Simple Favor,” Anna Kendrick takes on the role of Stephanie Smothers, a seemingly innocent mommy blogger who becomes embroiled in a dark and complex mystery. The film, directed by Paul Feig and co-starring Blake Lively, is a dark comedy thriller that challenges Kendrick to navigate a twisted web of secrets and lies.
Kendrick’s character, Stephanie, is drawn into the enigmatic world of her friend Emily (Lively), who mysteriously disappears. As she unravels the truth behind Emily’s disappearance, Stephanie undergoes a transformation from a seemingly naïve and submissive character to a woman who can hold her own in a world of deception and danger.
“A Simple Favor” marked a departure from Kendrick’s usual comedic roles, allowing her to embrace the darker and more complex aspects of her character. Her performance in this R-rated film was a testament to her versatility and willingness to take on roles that pushed her creative boundaries.
- End of Watch (2012)
Rating: R for strong language, graphic violence, and drug use
“End of Watch” is a gritty and intense cop drama directed by David Ayer, featuring Anna Kendrick in a supporting role as Janet, the girlfriend of Jake Gyllenhaal’s character, Brian Taylor. The film follows the lives of two police officers as they patrol the dangerous streets of South Los Angeles.
Kendrick’s character, Janet, provides a glimpse into the personal lives of the officers and the challenges they face on and off duty. Her role in this R-rated film added depth and emotional complexity to the story, highlighting the human side of law enforcement.
“End of Watch” allowed Kendrick to step into a dramatic and intense narrative, showcasing her ability to handle mature themes and contribute to the overall authenticity of the film.
- The Accountant (2016)
Rating: R for strong language and violence
In “The Accountant,” Anna Kendrick plays Dana Cummings, an office worker who becomes entangled in a dangerous conspiracy involving an autistic math genius accountant, portrayed by Ben Affleck. The film is a thriller that explores themes of corruption, crime, and redemption.
Kendrick’s character, Dana, provides a grounded and relatable perspective within the complex narrative. Her performance adds depth to the film’s exploration of trust and betrayal.
While “The Accountant” primarily falls into the action and thriller genres, Kendrick’s presence in this R-rated film showcased her ability to seamlessly transition between different genres and contribute to the intensity of the story.
- Mike and Dave Need Wedding Dates (2016)
Rating: R for strong language, crude humor, and sexual content
“Mike and Dave Need Wedding Dates” is an outrageous R-rated comedy featuring Anna Kendrick and Zac Efron as siblings hired to be dates for two brothers’ wedding. The film is a raucous and irreverent comedy that allows Kendrick to embrace her comedic talents in a more adult-oriented setting.
Kendrick’s character, Alice, is far from the typical romantic lead, as she and her friend (played by Aubrey Plaza) take on the role of wild and unpredictable wedding dates. The film’s R rating is attributed to its strong language, crude humor, and sexual content, which provide ample opportunities for Kendrick to showcase her comedic chops.
While “Mike and Dave Need Wedding Dates” is a departure from Kendrick’s more dramatic roles, it highlights her versatility as an actress who can excel in both comedic and R-rated settings.
- Drinking Buddies (2013)
Rating: R for strong language and mature themes
“Drinking Buddies” is a nuanced dramedy directed by Joe Swanberg that explores the complexities of friendships and relationships. Anna Kendrick stars alongside Olivia Wilde as two coworkers navigating workplace dynamics, romantic tension, and the blurred lines between friendship and romance.
Kendrick’s character, Jill, provides a relatable portrayal of a woman navigating the intricacies of human connection. The film delves into the subtleties of human behavior, offering a refreshing take on the romantic comedy genre.
While “Drinking Buddies” maintains a more subdued and mature tone compared to other R-rated films, it allows Kendrick to embrace the complexities of adult relationships and contribute to a thought-provoking narrative.
Bonus Pick: Gone Girl (2014)
Rating: R for strong language, violence, and disturbing content
While Anna Kendrick has a smaller role in “Gone Girl,” the film itself is R-rated for its strong language, violence, and disturbing content. Directed by David Fincher and based on Gillian Flynn’s best-selling novel, “Gone Girl” is a psychological thriller that explores the dark and twisted dynamics of a marriage.
Kendrick’s appearance in “Gone Girl” adds an extra layer of intrigue to the film’s ensemble cast. Her role demonstrates her ability to contribute to a complex and suspenseful narrative, even in a supporting capacity.
Conclusion
Anna Kendrick’s foray into R-rated films has allowed her to explore a diverse range of characters and genres, showcasing her versatility and ability to tackle mature and complex themes. From dark comedies to gritty dramas, Kendrick has demonstrated her acting prowess and willingness to take on roles that push her creative boundaries.
These five R-rated films, along with the bonus pick, have redefined Kendrick’s career by allowing her to embrace her wild side and step into more adult-oriented narratives. While she is often celebrated for her comedic charm, these films highlight her ability to excel in a variety of settings and contribute to the depth and authenticity of each story.
As Anna Kendrick continues to evolve as an actress, her willingness to take risks and explore new horizons promises an exciting and dynamic future in the world of film. Her versatile talent and ability to adapt to different genres make her a captivating presence on screen, whether in R-rated movies or other cinematic endeavors.
Is there a specific R-rated film or aspect of Anna Kendrick’s career that resonates with you? Whether it’s her dramatic depth, comedic charm, or ability to embrace mature themes, Kendrick’s career offers a rich tapestry of performances to explore and admire.
