Jamie Lee Curtis' best films and underscore her capacity to embody multifaceted characters. Her extensive film career encomes numerous undervalued films that exemplify her ability well beyond the confines of horror.

These less-celebrated films, ranging from intense psychological thrillers to poignant dramas, unveil Curtis' adeptness at combining vulnerability with determination. Whether assuming the role of a committed law enforcement officer, a comionate mother, or a lead in a comedic production, Curtis consistently exudes a commanding presence and often layers the material with added depth, leaving a lasting impact.

10 Forever Young (1992)

Jamie Lee Curtis And Mel Gibson Star

In the movie Forever Young, Jamie Lee Curtis stars alongside Mel Gibson as Claire Cooper, a single mother whose life changes when she discovers a cryogenically frozen test pilot from 1939. The film explores themes of love, loss, and second chances as Claire’s family becomes involved in the pilot’s journey to adjust to modern life while grappling with the consequences of time. Curtis delivers a warm and nuanced performance as a mother trying to protect her family while navigating a blossoming romance.

Despite its heartwarming premise and solid performances, Forever Young received mixed reviews and didn't gain much traction in popular culture. However, Curtis’ performance, particularly her emotional vulnerability, stands out in this light romantic drama. Her chemistry with Gibson is genuine, and she anchors the film with a grounded presence. Over time, Forever Young has continued to garner a small, appreciative audience, and Curtis’ role remains a key highlight.

9 My Girl (1991)

Jamie Lee Curtis In A Motherly Role

In the 1991 film My Girl, Jamie Lee Curtis plays Shelly DeVoto, the vibrant and caring partner of Harry Sultenfuss, a funeral director and the father of Vada, an 11-year-old girl coping with loss and the realities of growing up. The story is set in the early 1970s and explores friendship, family, and the trials of adolescence. Shelly, played by Curtis, is pivotal in assisting Vada in navigating her emotional world and brings warmth and empathy into Harry's life.

The title of the film is inspired by the timeless 1964 song "My Girl" by The Temptations, which is not only featured in the movie but also played over the end credits.

Curtis gives a heartfelt and relatable performance as Shelly, skillfully combining humor and comion to connect with Harry and Vada. Her portrayal provides comfort and resilience to the film's more solemn moments. While My Girl is often recognized for its coming-of-age narrative, Curtis' ive character contributes an essential element to the film's examination of family dynamics and the transformative influence love can bring.

8 Drowning Mona (2000)

A Precursor To A Film Like Knives Out

Drowning Mona is a dark comedy featuring Jamie Lee Curtis as Rona Mace, a waitress in a small town. The town matriarch Mona Dearly's death triggers a strange murder mystery. Curtis contributes to the unusual atmosphere, delivering a sharp and biting performance as the mistress of a central suspect. The film's absurd tone and eccentric characters make it an entertaining, albeit unconventional, murder mystery.

Although critics initially overlooked Drowning Mona, Curtis' deadpan comedic style and sharp-tongued character make her stand out in the film's peculiar setting. The movie's offbeat tone may not appeal to everyone, but Curtis' portrayal of Rona showcases her ability to infuse wit and depth into even the most unusual characters. Despite receiving little attention, Drowning Mona remains a hidden gem for fans of dark humor and Curtis' comedic talents.

7 Fierce Creatures (1997)

The Lesser Known Follow-Up To A Fish Called Wanda

In Fierce Creatures, Curtis portrays Willa Weston, a businessperson who s a zookeeper’s staff in their efforts to prevent the zoo from closing. The film, a sequel to A Fish Called Wanda, combines slapstick humor with corporate satire. In her role as the practical executive, Curtis infuses the chaotic storyline with a refreshing energy, skillfully balancing her character's professionalism with moments of comedy.

Although Fierce Creatures struggled to match the success of its predecessor, Curtis' performance stands out as one of its redeeming qualities. Her adeptness in handling fast-paced comedic scenes and more tender moments adds charm to the film. Despite not being one of Jamie Lee Curtis' highest box office movies, Curtis shines in this underrated comedy, once again showcasing her comedic ability.

6 Blue Steel (1990)

An all-action Jamie Lee Curtis Film

Blue Steel is a psychological thriller in which Jamie Lee Curtis plays Megan Turner, a rookie cop embroiled in a deadly cat-and-mouse game with a violent stockbroker after a chance encounter during a robbery. Megan’s struggle against external danger and her internal doubts add layers to the film, which explores the toll of trauma and the blurred lines between justice and madness. The film weaves between high-octane action and psychological tension, driven by Curtis’ raw and gritty performance.

During the filming of the gunfight scene, Jamie Lee Curtis was initially supposed to be fully nude, but she opposed the original script's idea.

Despite its intense storyline and strong lead, Blue Steel has often been overshadowed by other era-action thrillers. Curtis’ portrayal of Turner is both honest and unyielding, giving the character depth beyond the traditional cop archetype. The film’s atmospheric direction by Kathryn Bigelow adds to its claustrophobic and tense feel, making Curtis’ work more powerful. While it didn't achieve major success at the box office, Blue Steel offers Curtis a captivating and often overlooked performance, showcasing her versatility.

5 Love Letters (1983)

Director Amy Holden Jones' Follow-Up To The Slumber Party Massacre

Love Letters stars Curtis as Anna Winter, a radio host who discovers a series of love letters from her deceased mother to another man. This leads Anna to reflect on her own romantic life. The film is an intimate drama about love, secrets, and the complexities of relationships. Curtis delivers a thoughtful and profound performance, portraying a woman navigating the emotional impact of her mother’s infidelity while grappling with her own desires.

Curtis’ sensitive portrayal of Anna adds emotional weight to the story, compellingly exploring family and personal conflict.

Despite being a well-acted and thoughtful film, Love Letters didn’t impact the box office much and remained under the radar. Curtis’ sensitive portrayal of Anna adds emotional weight to the story, compellingly exploring family and personal conflict and the effects that discovering an old family member's secret can have on your own personal life. The film’s reflective tone and Curtis’ strong performance make it a worthy, if often overlooked, entry in her film career.

4 The Fog (1980)

A Remake Was Released in 2005

In The Fog, Curtis portrays Elizabeth Solley, a hitchhiker who discovers a small coastal town plagued by an evil fog concealing vengeful spirits. The movie follows Elizabeth and other townspeople, directed by John Carpenter, uncovering a mystery tied to the town’s dark past. While not the main character, Curtis excels in her role, bringing a sense of unease and tension as the horror unfolds. The film combines supernatural horror with suspense, creating a chilling atmosphere.

The Fog performed well at the box office, grossing $2.3 million worldwide on a small production budget of $1.1 million.

Although The Fog has achieved cult classic status, Carpenter's other work often overshadows it, particularly Halloween. In contrast to her strong-willed scream queen persona in other films, Curtis’ role here showcases her ability to portray more vulnerable characters. Her performance, combined with Carpenter’s eerie direction, elevates The Fog beyond typical horror. Despite its gradual pacing, the film’s chilling atmosphere and Curtis’ subtle performance make it essential viewing for horror enthusiasts looking for a lesser-known gem.

3 Dominick and Eugene (1988)

Jamie Lee Curtis Shines In A Trio With Ray Liotta And Tom Hulce

In the movie Dominick and Eugene, Jamie Lee Curtis portrays Jennifer Reston, a medical student involved in the lives of two brothers—Dominick, who has a cognitive disability, and Eugene, his caretaker. The film delves into their relationship and challenges as Eugene considers leaving to pursue his own life. Curtis’ character plays a ive and significant role as she encourages Eugene to find a balance between his ambitions and his responsibility to his brother.

This heartfelt drama is often overlooked, despite its touching portrayal of sibling bonds and Curtis’ sincere performance. Her secondary role brings warmth and guidance to the narrative, showcasing her ability to shine in ensemble casts. The movie’s emotional core and Curtis’ comionate character make it a profoundly affecting film that deserves more recognition, especially among fans of emotionally rich, character-driven narratives.

2 The Tailor of Panama (2001)

A Spy Thriller Alongside Pierce Brosnan

In The Tailor of Panama, Curtis plays Louisa Pendel, a tailor's wife embroiled in espionage after a British agent recruits her husband to spy in Panama. The film is a dark political thriller that delves into deception and moral ambiguity, with Curtis playing the straight-laced, unsuspecting spouse of the tailor. While not the lead, her role adds an emotional core to the film, grounding the narrative in a relatable way.

In the original version of the film, the ending involved Osnard being shot by Pendel. However, this was later altered to let Osnard escape instead.

Though Pierce Brosnan and Geoffrey Rush dominate the film, Curtis’ role is pivotal, bringing humanity to the high-stakes political intrigue. The movie’s twisty plot and satirical tone have earned it a cult following, but Curtis’ nuanced performance has often been overlooked. Her portrayal of Louisa counterbalances the film’s darker elements, adding an additonal layer to a story that could otherwise feel emotionally distant. The Tailor of Panama is an excellent example of Curtis excelling in a more understated but still impactful role.

1 Knives Out (2019)

A Stand-Out Role In An Extraordinary Film

In the 2019 film Knives Out, Jamie Lee Curtis takes on the role of Linda Drysdale, the determined and accomplished daughter of mystery writer Harlan Thrombey. Linda is a self-made businessperson who manages her real estate empire and stands out among her quirky family with her confidence. Following Harlan's suspicious death, Linda becomes a central figure in the investigation led by private detective Benoit Blanc. Curtis brings a strong and controlled presence to Linda's character, displaying a blend of poise and underlying tension as family secrets continue to be revealed.

Curtis delivers a compelling and restrained performance that distinguishes her from the film's impressive ensemble cast. Despite receiving critical acclaim, Knives Out's portrayal occasionally takes a backseat to the movie's intricate mystery and other more vibrant performances. Nevertheless, Curtis infuses Linda's character with subtle emotional depth, particularly during moments of honesty, as family connections and deceptions unravel. Her depiction adds a crucial element to the film's examination of legacy, ambition, and betrayal, contributing to Knives Out's overall success.