Laura Dern has always stood out in Hollywood, carving a path that’s as bold and unconventional as the roles she chooses. From the dreamlike, unsettling worlds of David Lynch to the thrilling prehistoric landscapes brought to life by Steven Spielberg, Laura Dern’s career is nothing short of remarkable. She’s the kind of actress who dives deep into complex characters—women on emotional journeys, often grappling with identity, truth, and transformation. Films like Blue Velvet (1986) and Rambling Rose (1991) showcased her fearless approach, earning her critical praise even if they played more in art house circles than multiplexes. And let’s be honest, not every actor would stay committed to such nuanced storytelling when blockbuster fame beckons, but Laura Dern did.
Over time, audiences began seeking more sophisticated narratives, especially through premium cable networks, and Laura Dern was perfectly positioned to shine. Her performances in made-for-TV films like Afterburn (HBO, 1992), Down Came a Blackbird (Showtime, 1995), and Recount (HBO, 2008) proved she could master character-driven drama and dark comedy with equal skill—earning her multiple Emmy nominations along the way. Sure, she became a household name thanks to Jurassic Park (1993) and Jurassic Park III (2001), but it’s her work in quieter, deeply felt films like I Am Sam (2001), We Don’t Live Here Anymore (2004), and Year of the Dog (2007) that truly define her legacy.
Born into Hollywood royalty—her parents being acclaimed actors Diane Ladd and Bruce Dern—Laura Dern had pedigree, but she never leaned on it. Instead, she embraced the offbeat, the introspective, the slightly rebellious spirit that runs in her family. Standing tall, both literally and figuratively, she chose substance over spectacle, authenticity over easy stardom. Whether it was her powerful turn in Paul Thomas Anderson’s The Master (2012) or her layered performance in Kelly Reichardt’s Certain Women (2016), Laura Dern kept delivering unforgettable moments on screen.
She even headlined her own series, Enlightened, which aired on HBO from 2011 to 2013. The show, much like Laura Dern herself, was intelligent, raw, and ahead of its time—further solidifying her reputation as one of the industry’s most distinctive voices. Then came her triumphant return to David Lynch territory with Twin Peaks: The Return (Showtime, 2017), a performance that reminded everyone why they’ve always loved watching Laura Dern disappear into a role. And just when you thought she’d done it all, she stepped into a galaxy far, far away—making her Star Wars debut in The Last Jedi (2017) with quiet strength and undeniable presence. Through every phase, Laura Dern remained exactly who she’s always been: fearless, authentic, and utterly compelling.
Well, when it comes to Laura Dern’s filmography, there’s definitely a standout in terms of critical acclaim. Laura Dern’s highest rated movie is If Anything Happens I Love You from 2020, which really resonated with audiences and critics alike. It’s a powerful, emotional piece that showcases the depth of her talent, even if her role was part of an ensemble voice cast. On the other end of the spectrum, Laura Dern’s lowest rated movie appears to be Grizzly II: Revenge, also released in 2020—though it was filmed decades earlier. The film received quite a bit of negative feedback, making it a notable contrast in Laura Dern’s otherwise impressive career. So, while Laura Dern has been involved in many acclaimed projects over the years, these two titles mark the high and low points in terms of ratings.