Happy Birthday To Natalie Portman:Let's Take A Look At Some Of Her Iconic Characters

The Israeli-born American actress, Natalie Portman, has had an extensive career in film since her teenage years. Undoubtedly, she’s the definition of versatility. Throughout her career, she’s chosen some challenging roles and left the film industry in awe of her brilliant performance. Not to mention, she has received multiple awards and honors, including an Academy Award, a British Academy Film Award, and two Golden Globe Awards.

Since today is her birthday, let’s take a trip down memory lane and look at some of her most iconic roles:

Black Swan (2011)

Portman masterfully displayed what a wounded artist would undergo to achieve near flawlessness in a performance as Nina Sayers. Nina is a self-conscious ballet dancer who has been cast as the Swan Queen in Black Swan. Nina gradually transforms into the black swan herself in what becomes a massive acrobatic meta-remake of the title ballet. Portman deservedly won her first Oscar for her role in this movie.

2. Leon: The Professional (1994)

Portman’s debut film Leon depicts the story of Leon, a juvenile hitman with peculiarities and blunders, and Mathilda, who finds refuge in Leon’s apartment complex. With some turn of events, Leon begins to care for her, he teaches her the realities of society and the techniques of his profession and slowly falls in love with her. As her first piece of work, it is a must-watch for any Portman fan.

3. V for Vendetta (2005)

In this sci-fi action film, Portman provides one of her most formidable and physically demanding performances. Portman is seen to be gentle and sensitive, when necessary, yet robust and impenetrable when the stakes are raised. Her role in the movie is part of what makes this movie even more interesting to watch.

4. Jackie (2016)

Portman served us with yet another jaw-dropping performance in this biopic of Jackie Kennedy. It follows her during her initial days as the First Lady in the White House and her life after JFK was murdered. Portman gives the performance of a lifetime as well as captivating the audience with her screen presence.

5. Closer (2004)

Portman received her first Academy Award nomination for her role as Alice in Mike Nichols’ Closer. The drama of adultery between two couples allowed Portman to show off her seductive side as a waitress turned stripper. This film was inspired by the Patrick Marber play, and not to mention, Portman’s performance was top-notch as always.