Since the 1980s, Demi Moore has inspired audiences with her emotional and powerful performances, but within her impressive filmography, there are some movies that stand out as her absolute best. Moore’s career began on television when she earned a recurring role in the soap opera, General Hospital. From there, Moore gained enough attention that she was able to transition into movies. In the 1980s, she was part of the iconic group of young actors, the Brat Pack, boosting her to international fame. Since then, Moore has explored various genres and acted alongside some of Hollywood’s best.
Like most established 1980s actors, Moore has an extensive and exciting resume. However, her best movies are those that stick out among the pack. These are films that were the most critically and financially successful. More than that, they are the projects that have defined Moore’s career and have remained in the public consciousness for years after their release. Though Moore has been a part of several iconic and important movies, the following 10 can be considered some of her very best.
10 Now And Then (1995)
Four Childhood Friends Reflect On A 1970s Summer
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Now and Then (1995) PG-13ComedyDramaRomance
Now and Then is a coming-of-age film directed by Lesli Linka Glatter. Set in both the 1970s and the 1990s, it follows four women who reunite and reminisce about their childhood adventures and formative experiences. The film stars Christina Ricci, Thora Birch, Gaby Hoffmann, and Ashleigh Aston Moore as the younger versions of the characters, with Demi Moore, Rosie O’Donnell, Melanie Griffith, and Rita Wilson playing their adult counterparts.
Director Lesli Linka Glatter Release Date October 20, 1995 Writers I. Marlene King Cast Christina Ricci , Rosie O’Donnell , Thora Birch , Melanie Griffith , Gaby Hoffmann Runtime 100 Minutes Studio(s) New Line Cinema Main Genre Comedy Expand
A Demi Moore film that could be considered a classic comfort film is Now and Then. Released in 1995, the movie follows four women who reflect on a particular summer they spent together during the 1970s. Portrayed through dual timelines, the film sees the girls face adolescent highs and lows, while also comparing how they were that summer to how they are as grown-ups. Though the film’s critical and financial performances were less-than-stellar, Now and Then is fueled by pure nostalgia.
Now and Then certainly isn’t Moore’s best performing movie, but it still deserves a spot on this list for its themes and ambiance. The coming-of-age movie is emotional and evocative, especially for female audiences. Furthermore, it has amazing performances from the big ensemble cast, which includes Moore, Rosie O’Donnell, Thora Birch, Melanie Griffith, Christina Ricci, and Rita Wilson. Those who want to see more of Moore should definitely try out this funny and heartwarming tale.
9 St. Elmo’s Fire (1985)
Post-Grads Adjust To Their New Adult Lives
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9/10 St. Elmo’s Fire RDramaRomance
A group of close-knit college graduates navigates the challenges of adulthood, balancing careers, relationships, and personal growth. Amidst the backdrop of their favorite bar, they confront their fears, ambitions, and the complexities of growing up, discovering the true meaning of friendship and resilience.
Director Joel Schumacher Release Date June 28, 1985 Writers Joel Schumacher , Carl Kurlander Cast Rob Lowe , Demi Moore , Emilio Estevez , Ally Sheedy , Judd Nelson , Mare Winningham , Andrew McCarthy , Martin Balsam , Andie MacDowell Runtime 110 Minutes Main Genre Drama Expand
Another Moore movie with coming-of-age themes is St. Elmo’s Fire. Made during her Brat Pack era, St. Elmo’s Fire follows a group of friends who have just graduated from Georgetown University and are trying to figure out their adult lives. Along the way, the young adults get into various problems in their romantic relationships, with their families, and at their jobs. Despite St. Elmo’s Fire’s average ratings, it was a box office success that is still an enjoyable watch to this day.
Related 10 Harsh Realties Of Rewatching St. Elmo’s Fire, 39 Years Later
Despite being a 1980s Brat Pack classic, revisiting St. Elmo’s Fire almost four decades later brought up hordes of harsh issues that must be faced.
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St. Elmo’s Fire is another great nostalgic watch. Deeply rooted in the 1980s, the movie offers a glimpse into a world that has long since passed us by. Plus, audiences get to see some amazing actors like Rob Lowe, Emilio Estevez, and Moore in their early years of fame. Yet, the main reason to watch St. Elmo’s Fire is for the drama. While many critiqued the movie for its gossipy tones, that is part of what makes the film so entertaining. It is sappy, soapy, and therefore, pretty fun.
8 Deconstructing Harry (1997)
A Writer Is Confronted By His Characters
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Deconstructing Harry RComedyDrama
Deconstructing Harry is a 1997 comedy-drama directed by and starring Woody Allen. The film explores the fractured life of a novelist named Harry Block, as he grapples with writer’s block and personal turmoil. Through a series of vignettes, Harry confronts characters from his past and his own fictional creations, highlighting the blurring lines between reality and fiction. The ensemble cast includes Judy Davis, Kirstie Alley, and Robin Williams.
Director Woody Allen Release Date December 12, 1997 Writers Woody Allen Cast Caroline Aaron , Woody Allen , Kirstie Alley , Bob Balaban , Richard Benjamin Runtime 96 Minutes Main Genre Comedy Expand
One of the more unique movies Moore appeared in during her career was Deconstructing Harry. Directed and led by Woody Allen, the movie follows a successful writer who, after returning to his old university, is confronted by all the people who he used as fodder for his novels. With a massive ensemble cast of incredible stars, Deconstructing Harry is a critical hit that is another product of its time.
Though Moore only plays a small role in this film, it is still a project that is worth watching. Arguably, Deconstructing Harry is the most star-studded cast Moore was ever a part of, and this kind of scale makes the film quite exciting. It helps that the movie is incredibly funny and energetic, tossing audiences from place to place with zeal. Yet, this is also a thoughtful movie that is among some of Allen’s best work.
7 If These Walls Could Talk (1996)
Three Women Handle Pregnancy Throughout History
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If These Walls Could Talk R
If These Walls Could Talk is an anthology drama film that explores the lives of three women in different decades dealing with the issue of abortion. Directed by Cher and Nancy Savoca, and starring Demi Moore, Sissy Spacek, and Anne Heche, the film examines the societal and personal implications of the highly charged topic across the 1950s, 1970s, and 1990s.
Director Cher , Nancy Savoca Release Date September 11, 1996 Writers Susan Nanus , Nancy Savoca , I. Marlene King Cast Demi Moore , Shirley Knight , Catherine Keener , Jason London , CCH Pounder Runtime 97 Minutes Studio(s) HBO Films , Moving Pictures Main Genre TV Movie Expand
One of Moore’s most critically-acclaimed projects, though it is often forgotten, is If These Walls Could Talk. In this anthology television film, three women from different time periods handle surprise pregnancies and their decisions to terminate them. Released in the late 1990s, If These Walls Could Talk was highly controversial, yet Moore and her co-stars bring an admirable sense of honesty and emotionality to the subject matter. Therefore, it is no surprise that the project earned an 88% on Rotten Tomatoes.
If These Walls Could Talk
also starred Cher and Sissy Spacek.
What makes If These Walls Could Talk so important is that it is still relevant today. Although the film was made almost 20 years ago, it can still teach audiences and have an effect on them. Furthermore, Moore brings her A-game to this project, putting her all into the character of Claire Donnelly. It is also important to note that Moore was an executive producer on this project, and fought long and hard to bring it to the screen. Thus, it remains one of Moore’s most significant works.
6 Margin Call (2011)
An Investment Firm Covers Up A Disaster
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Margin Call RDramaDocumentaryThriller
In Margin Call (2011), an investment bank grapples with an impending financial crisis. When an analyst uncovers alarming data, the firm’s executives must make difficult decisions to save themselves and their company. As tensions rise and morality is tested, employees navigate the high-stakes world of finance where profit comes at a profound cost. This gripping drama sheds light on the complexities of Wall Street and the human toll of economic collapse.
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*Availability in US Director J.C. Chandor Release Date February 11, 2011 Writers J.C. Chandor Cast Kevin Spacey , Paul Bettany , Jeremy Irons , Zachary Quinto , Penn Badgley , Simon Baker Runtime 109 minutes Main Genre Drama Expand
A more recent Moore picture that is definitely worth viewers’ time is Margin Call. This 2011 movie takes place at an investment firm during the initial stages of the 2007-2008 financial crisis. After discovering a discrepancy that could put everyone’s job on the line, the firm’s workers must band together to handle the impending damage. This is yet another one of Moore’s most critically acclaimed films, at 87% on Rotten Tomatoes.
Where other Wall Street movies fail to create compelling dialogue out of financial jargon,
Margin Call
succeeds.
Margin Call is a quick and stunning portrayal of a real-life financial disaster. Where other Wall Street movies fail to create compelling dialogue out of financial jargon, Margin Call succeeds. A major part of this movie’s success is its cast. Moore shares the screen with actors like Zachary Quinto, Paul Bettany, Jeremy Irons, Penn Badgley, Simon Baker, and Stanley Tucci. Ultimately, Moore balances out this incredible cast and offers up a gripping performance.
5 The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996)
A Disfigured Young Man Escapes His Sheltered Life
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8/10 The Hunchback of Notre Dame gMusicalFamily
Disney’s take on the original novel written in 1831, The Huntchback of Notre Dame is an animated musical drama that sees a kind-hearted, deformed young man named Quasimodo who yearns to see the outside world is forced to live alone in the Notre Dame Cathedral as a bell ringer. When a group of traveling performers arrives in town, Quasimodo takes his chance to head out to see them, and his life is changed forever by a chance encounter with the equally kind-hearted Esmerelda. However, his caretaker, the cruel and iron-fisted Frollo, intends to hunt the Romani people down, jeopardizing the travelers’ lives.
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*Availability in US Director Gary Trousdale Release Date June 21, 1996 Writers Tab Murphy Cast Tony Jay , Tom Hulce , Jason Alexander Runtime 91minutes
Many may not realize it, but Moore appeared in one of Disney’s most underrated animated films. Released in 1996, The Hunchback of Notre Dame is an animated musical adaptation of the Victor Hugo novel of the same name. The story follows Quasimodo, a disfigured young man who is tethered to Notre Dame cathedral by his cruel master. However, when Quasimodo sees an opportunity to help a young woman, he escapes the sheltered life he has always known.
Although Demi Moore voices Esmeralda, she is not the singing voice in the movie. Esmerald’s singing voice is done by Heidi Mollenhauer.
Demi Moore plays Esmeralda in The Hunchback of Notre Dame. While many likely watched this movie in their youth, it is definitely worth returning to as an adult. The Hunchback of Notre Dame is much darker than many other Disney films, and has a story that is incredibly powerful. Plus, the soundtrack is fantastic. Moore brings light and passion to this movie, and Esmeralda may be one of her most lasting characters.
4 Disclosure (1994)
A Businessman Loses Everything Due To False Accusations
Over her career, Moore starred in many erotic thrillers. Disclosure is likely her best and most significant. The 1994 movie follows a businessman who is moments away from a promotion and a massive merger when his ex-girlfriend suddenly swoops in and gets everything he wants. Worse, after rejecting her advances, she sues him for sexual harassment. The movie was a box office success and continues to divide viewers to this day.
Disclosure
may lose the plot at times, opting for more thriller elements than serious analysis, it is still unique and thought-provoking.
Disclosure is a great opportunity to see Moore in a more villainous and diabolical role. Where she often plays the girl-next-door or the beautiful bombshell, Disclos ure puts her in a femme fatale part that is intoxicating. Her chemistry with Michael Douglas and the sleek atmosphere surrounding them make for an entertaining and visually appealing watch. Disclosure may lose the plot at times, opting for more thriller elements than serious analysis, it is still unique and thought-provoking.
3 A Few Good Men (1992)
A Military Lawyer Takes A Huge Legal Risk
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10/10 A Few Good Men RCrimeDocumentaryDramaMysteryThriller
Tom Cruise, Jack Nicholson, Demi Moore, Kevin Bacon, and Kiefer Sutherland star in A Few Good Men, a legal drama that follows military lawyer Daniel Kaffee, who defends two Marines on trial for murder, uncovering a high-level conspiracy in the process. The 1992 movie is based on the eponymous stage play written by Aaron Sorkin.
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*Availability in US Director Rob Reiner Release Date December 11, 1992 Writers Aaron Sorkin Cast Tom Cruise , Jack Nicholson , Demi Moore , Kevin Bacon , Kiefer Sutherland , Kevin Pollak Runtime 138 minutes Studio(s) Columbia Pictures Distributor(s) Columbia Pictures , New Line Cinema Expand
One of Moore’s movies that was both a critical and financial hit was A Few Good Men. Released in 1992, this legal drama follows a military lawyer who is set to defend two Marines accused of killing a fellow soldier. Although the lawyer intends to take the easy way out with plea bargains, another lawyer suggests that he take a more risky but potentially more fruitful avenue instead. The movie grossed $243 million and earned an 84% on Rotten Tomatoes.
Jack Nicholson’s iconic line from
A Few Good Men
is “You can’t handle the truth!”
A Few Good Men’s amazing performances are the main reason why audiences should check out this movie. Moore gives a fiery performance alongside Tom Cruise and Jack Nicholson. Critics praised the film for its incredible energy and strong storytelling. Although some found the plot predictable, A Few Good Men is still dramatic, engaging, and will keep audiences at the end of their seat. There is a reason why it is one of the most quoted legal dramas of all time.
2 The Substance (2024)
A Celebrity Turns To A New Procedure To Stay Young
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10/10 The Substance RHorrorDrama
The Substance is a science fiction horror film that follows a group of individuals as they uncover the dark secrets surrounding a mysterious substance with otherworldly properties. As they delve deeper into the truth, they must confront the sinister forces driving its production and the catastrophic consequences that follow.
Director Coralie Fargeat Release Date September 20, 2024 Writers Coralie Fargeat Cast Demi Moore , Margaret Qualley , Dennis Quaid , Gore Abrams , Hugo Diego Garcia , Olivier Raynal , Tiffany Hofstetter , Tom Morton , Jiselle Burkhalter , Axel Baille , Oscar Lesage , Matthew Géczy , Philip Schurer Character(s) Elisabeth Sparkle , Sue , Harvey , Oliver , Diego , Alan , The Stylist , The Doctor , Girl , The Photographer , Troy , Bob Haswell , Mr. Scream Runtime 140 Minutes Main Genre Horror Expand
What is likely the most astonishing and unexpected entry in this list is The Substance. Moore’s most recent horror film tells the story of Elisabeth Sparkle, an aging celebrity who is unexpectedly fired from her TV show. Fearing for her future, Elisabeth seeks out a new procedure that promises to give users a younger version of themselves. However, when Sparkle’s starts misusing the drug, she finds herself changing in horrifying ways.
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Related Why The Substance’s Reviews are So Good
The body horror film The Substance, starring Demi Moore, has gotten rave reviews since its release.
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The Substance is a gory and intense movie that is bursting with feminist themes. Moore gives an outstanding performance as Elisabeth that will leave audiences impressed with her incredible acting range. This movie is certainly not for the faint of heart, but that is part of what makes it so great. Director Coralie Fargeat does not hold back, and it leads to an effective and haunting film. The Substance is Moore’s highest-rated movie on Rotten Tomatoes to date.
1 Ghost (1990)
A Man Must Protect His Lover From Beyond The Grave
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Ghost PG-13DramaFantasyMysteryRomanceThriller
Ghost is a romantic thriller directed by Jerry Zucker, featuring Patrick Swayze as Sam Wheat, a man who has been murdered and becomes a ghost in order to protect his girlfriend Molly Jensen, played by Demi Moore. With the assistance of a reluctant psychic named Oda Mae Brown, portrayed by Whoopi Goldberg, Sam attempts to uncover the truth behind his death and bring closure to his unfinished business.
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*Availability in US Director Jerry Zucker Release Date July 13, 1990 Writers Bruce Joel Rubin Cast Patrick swayze , Demi Moore , Tony Goldwyn , Stanley Lawrence , Christopher J. Keene , Susan Breslau Runtime 127 minutes Main Genre Drama Expand
Demi Moore’s best and most iconic movie has to be Ghost. This 1990 romantic thriller follows Sam and Molly, a couple who are madly in love with each other. However, when Sam is murdered by his colleague, he must reach out from beyond the grave to make sure that his lover is not put into danger. Ghost is Moore’s highest-grossing movie to date, and earned $505 million at the box office.
Ghost has remained popular because of its impressive and successful blending of genres. This movie is paranormal, romantic, and mysterious all rolled into one. Where other movies might have failed in balancing all these elements, Ghost did it well. Furthermore, the movie has been cemented in pop culture due to its iconic shots of Patrick Swayze guiding Demi Moore’s hands as she crafts a ceramic. All in all, Ghost was an unforgettable moment in Demi Moore’s career.