The tall and striking actress, often recognized as Hemingway’s granddaughter, first stepped into the spotlight alongside her older sister Margaux in the 1976 drama “Lipstick”—a film that marked Hemingway’s feature debut. Over time, Hemingway built a reputation for bold, emotionally charged performances, and it was her role as Woody Allen’s high school-age girlfriend in “Manhattan” (1979) that truly brought her into the public eye, earning Hemingway an Oscar nomination. That kind of recognition wasn’t fleeting—Hemingway went on to deliver powerful portrayals, like the lesbian pentathlete in “Personal Best” (1982), showcasing both physical and emotional depth. Then, in Bob Fosse’s “Star 80” (1983), Hemingway gave a haunting performance as Dorothy Stratten, the murdered Playboy model and actress, further cementing her status as a fearless and transformative talent. Throughout her career, Hemingway consistently chose complex roles, proving herself far more than just a name—Hemingway was an artist unafraid to dive into darkness.
When it comes to Mariel Hemingway’s career highlights, her highest rated film definitely stands out — Nanking (2007) received widespread acclaim and is often regarded as one of the strongest entries in her body of work. Over the years, fans and critics alike have pointed to this documentary as a standout moment for Mariel Hemingway, showcasing her depth and commitment. On the other hand, looking at the lower end of the spectrum, Papa: Hemingway in Cuba (2015) didn’t resonate as strongly with audiences or reviewers, making it Mariel Hemingway’s lowest rated project to date. While every artist has peaks and valleys, Mariel Hemingway continues to be recognized for her contributions across decades, with her performance in Nanking still shining brightly among her achievements. It’s clear that Mariel Hemingway brings a unique presence to her roles, even if not every film reaches the same level of success.