by Emilia Clarke captured the hearts of millions with her iconic portrayal of Daenerys Targaryen in the epic HBO series Game of Thrones. However, beyond the realm of Westeros, Clarke has showcased her immense talent in a variety of films, some of which may have flown under the radar for many viewers. In this article, we’ll explore Emilia Clarke’s top film performances that deserve more recognition, offering a glimpse into her versatility as an actress and the range of characters she has brought to life on the big screen.
Me Before You (2016): In “Me Before You,” Emilia Clarke takes on the role of Louisa Clark, a spirited young woman who becomes a caregiver for Will Traynor (played by Sam Claflin), a wealthy man paralyzed from the neck down. Clarke delivers a poignant and heartfelt performance as Louisa, capturing the character’s warmth, humor, and resilience in the face of adversity. Her chemistry with Claflin is undeniable, elevating the emotional impact of the story. “Me Before You” is a touching tale of love and self-discovery that showcases Clarke’s ability to portray complex characters with depth and nuance.
Murder on the Orient Express (2017): In this star-studded adaptation of Agatha Christie’s classic mystery novel, Emilia Clarke shines as Jade Hathaway, a glamorous socialite who finds herself embroiled in a murder investigation aboard the luxurious Orient Express. Clarke brings charm and sophistication to the role, effortlessly blending into an ensemble cast that includes the likes of Kenneth Branagh, Johnny Depp, and Judi Dench. While the film may be dominated by its ensemble, Clarke’s performance as Jade adds an intriguing layer to the suspenseful whodunit.
Solo: A Star Wars Story (2018): In “Solo: A Star Wars Story,” Emilia Clarke ventures into the beloved galaxy far, far away as Qi’ra, a childhood friend of the iconic Han Solo. Clarke’s portrayal of Qi’ra is captivating, as she navigates the dangerous underworld of smugglers and criminals with poise and cunning. Despite the challenges she faces, Clarke imbues Qi’ra with a sense of resilience and ambiguity, keeping audiences guessing about her true motivations until the very end. While “Solo” may not have received the same level of acclaim as other entries in the Star Wars franchise, Clarke’s performance stands out as a highlight of the film.
Last Christmas (2019): In this charming holiday rom-com, Emilia Clarke takes on the role of Kate, a young woman working as an elf in a Christmas store in London. Clarke brings warmth and humor to the character of Kate, whose cynical outlook on life is gradually softened by the arrival of Tom, played by Henry Golding. Clarke’s performance is both endearing and relatable, as she navigates themes of love, family, and redemption against the backdrop of the festive season. “Last Christmas” showcases Clarke’s versatility as an actress, proving her ability to excel in both dramatic and comedic roles.
Conclusion: Emilia Clarke’s filmography extends far beyond her iconic portrayal of Daenerys Targaryen, encompassing a diverse range of roles that highlight her talent and versatility as an actress. From heartfelt dramas to thrilling mysteries to beloved franchises, Clarke has consistently delivered standout performances that deserve more recognition. Whether she’s playing a caregiver, a socialite, a smuggler, or a romantic lead, Clarke brings depth, charisma, and emotional resonance to every character she portrays. As audiences continue to discover and rediscover her work, one thing is clear – Emilia Clarke is a force to be reckoned with on the silver screen, and her best performances are yet to come.
