Winona Ryder is undoubtedly one of America’s most beloved actresses. With an impressive portfolio of iconic films and TV shows spanning several decades, there’s no doubt that Ryder has plenty of interesting projects to offer classic and modern audiences alike. So if you’re looking for something to watch this weekend and don’t know where to start, here is a list of Winona Ryder movies and TV shows that you simply can’t miss.
Heathers (1988)
Heathers is a cult classic American black comedy that follows the story of Veronica Sawyer, a high school misfit played by Ryder, who attempts to survive in a world filled with eccentric cliques. The movie delivers an explosive blend of dark humor, teenage angst, and plenty of memorable one-liners. Ryder’s iconic portrayal of Veronica Sawyer has earned her praise from both critics and fans, making this one of her most popular films to date.
Beetlejuice (1988)
Beetlejuice is another classic American comedy directed by Tim Burton, this time starring Ryder as Lydia Deetz – a moody teen who moves into a haunted house with her family. The film stars other notable actors such as Michael Keaton, Alec Baldwin and Winona Ryder’s real-life mother, and follows Lydia’s adventures with the titular character – a mischievous ghost with a mission to haunt the new residents of the house.
Little Women (1994)
Based on the classic Louisa May Alcott novel of the same name, Little Women follows the story of “the March sisters” – Meg (Trini Alvarado), Jo (Winona Ryder), Beth (Claire Danes) and Amy (Kirsten Dunst) – as they grow up in the 19th-century and learn about the hardships of adulthood. Winona Ryder stars as Jo, the ambitious and tomboyish protagonist who strives to make her way in the world and fulfill her dreams. The movie also features strong performances from other cast members, making this a heartfelt and tear-jerking adaptation of the source material.
Stranger Things (2016 – Present)
Stranger Things is a sci-fi horror series created by the Duffer Brothers set in the fictional town of Hawkins, Indiana. It follows the story of a group of youngsters dealing with supernatural forces surrounding them. Winona Ryder stars as Joyce Byers – the mother of the central character, Will Byers – who goes missing in the midst of a mysterious monster terrorizing the town. Her performance as an emotional and doting mother has been widely acclaimed by critics.
Introducing… Nancy (2020)
Introducing…Nancy is a mystery thriller released in 2020, directed by Christina Choe. It tells the story of Nancy, an introvert played by Ryder, trying to find her place in the world. When a baffling question about her identity arises, Nancy embarks on a quest to find answers that could change her life forever. Through her emotionally charged performance, Ryder delivers a powerful portrayal of a woman confronting her own identity and struggles, and therefore, invites viewers to connect and sympathize with her.
National Lampoon’s Beetlejuice Vacation (1995)
Beetlejuice Vacation is an American comedy film directed by Peter Hewitt and starring Chevy Chase, Beverly D’Angelo and Winona Ryder. It’s a sequel to the 1988 classic mentioned earlier, released more than a decade later. In this movie, the Griswolds and Beetlejuice end up in the same vacation resort and must battle the ghostly apparition to get the vacation of their dreams. Despite the mixed reviews it received, it has become a fan favorite worthy of being part of the Winona Ryder movie and TV show list.
Winona Ryder has been in numerous movies and TV shows throughout her extensive acting career. Most notably, her iconic performances as Veronica Sawyer in Heathers, Lydia Deetz in Beetlejuice and Joyce Byers in Stranger Things have become some of her most notable roles. But, there are plenty more film and TV choices for all kinds of viewers, so if you’re looking for something worthwhile to watch and haven’t tried it yet, make sure to check out any of the Winona Ryder movies and TV shows from the list above.
