Alexis Bledel has been gracing our screens for over two decades, captivating audiences with her endearing performances and versatile acting skills. From her breakout role as the bookish Rory Gilmore in the beloved series “Gilmore Girls” to her Emmy-winning turn in the harrowing dystopian drama “The Handmaid’s Tale,” Bledel has proven herself to be a formidable talent in the entertainment industry.
In this comprehensive blog post, we’ll be ranking Alexis Bledel’s 15 best movies and TV shows, delving into her most memorable roles and the impact they’ve had on her career and the world of entertainment. So, grab a cup of coffee (or a Pop-Tart, if you’re channeling your inner Lorelai) and join us as we celebrate the incredible work of this talented actress.
15. Post Grad (2009)
Kicking off our list is the 2009 romantic comedy “Post Grad,” in which Bledel stars as Ryden Malby, a recent college graduate struggling to find her footing in the real world. While the film received mixed reviews, Bledel’s performance as the determined and relatable Ryden was praised by critics and audiences alike.
“Post Grad” showcases Bledel’s comedic timing and ability to bring depth to a character navigating the uncertainties of young adulthood. The film also features a strong supporting cast, including Jane Lynch, Carol Burnett, and Zach Gilford.
14. The Good Guy (2009)
In the same year as “Post Grad,” Bledel starred opposite Scott Porter and Bryan Greenberg in the romantic drama “The Good Guy.” Bledel plays Beth, the girlfriend of successful Wall Street broker Tommy (Porter), whose life is turned upside down when he takes a new colleague, Daniel (Greenberg), under his wing.
“The Good Guy” explores themes of love, loyalty, and the cutthroat world of finance. Bledel’s portrayal of Beth is nuanced and emotionally resonant, as she navigates the complexities of her relationship with Tommy and the growing attraction between her and Daniel.
13. Bride & Prejudice (2004)
In this Bollywood-inspired adaptation of Jane Austen’s classic novel “Pride and Prejudice,” Bledel takes on the supporting role of Georgie Darcy, the younger sister of the wealthy and arrogant Will Darcy (Martin Henderson). The film transplants Austen’s story to modern-day India, infusing it with vibrant colors, lively musical numbers, and a clash of cultures.
Although Bledel’s role is relatively small compared to her other projects, “Bride & Prejudice” showcases her ability to adapt to different genres and storytelling styles. The film was a critical and commercial success, praised for its fresh take on a beloved literary classic.
12. Tuck Everlasting (2002)
Based on Natalie Babbitt’s 1975 children’s novel, “Tuck Everlasting” is a fantasy romance that follows young Winnie Foster (Bledel) as she discovers the magical secret of the Tuck family: they’ve been granted eternal life after drinking from a hidden spring. Winnie falls in love with Jesse Tuck (Jonathan Jackson) and must grapple with the implications of immortality.
Bledel’s performance in “Tuck Everlasting” is a testament to her ability to convey innocence, wonder, and the bittersweet nature of first love. The film’s lush visuals and heartfelt storytelling make it a timeless classic, with Bledel’s portrayal of Winnie serving as its emotional core.
11. I’m Reed Fish (2006)
In this quirky romantic comedy, Bledel stars opposite Jay Baruchel as Kate Peterson, the childhood sweetheart of the titular character, Reed Fish (Baruchel). As Reed prepares to take over his father’s radio show and marry Kate, he begins to question his life choices and dreams.
“I’m Reed Fish” is a charming and offbeat film that explores themes of self-discovery, love, and the pursuit of one’s passions. Bledel’s chemistry with Baruchel is palpable, and her portrayal of Kate is both endearing and relatable, as she supports Reed through his existential crisis.
10. The Conspirator (2010)
Directed by Robert Redford, “The Conspirator” is a historical drama that tells the story of Mary Surratt (Robin Wright), the lone female conspirator charged in the Abraham Lincoln assassination, and the young Union war hero Frederick Aiken (James McAvoy) who reluctantly agrees to defend her.
Bledel plays Sarah Weston, Aiken’s wife, in a supporting role that showcases her ability to bring depth and emotion to even the smallest of parts. “The Conspirator” is a gripping and thought-provoking film that explores themes of justice, loyalty, and the complexities of post-Civil War America.
9. Violet & Daisy (2011)
In this darkly comedic crime thriller, Bledel stars alongside Saoirse Ronan as Violet, one half of a pair of teenage assassins who accept what they believe to be a simple job, only to find themselves in over their heads when their target (James Gandolfini) turns out to be more than they bargained for.
“Violet & Daisy” is a stylish and unconventional film that blends humor, violence, and unexpected emotional depth. Bledel’s performance as the world-weary and cynical Violet is a departure from her more wholesome roles, showcasing her range and ability to tackle edgier material.
8. The Brass Teapot (2012)
This offbeat fantasy comedy stars Bledel and Juno Temple as a young couple who discover a magical brass teapot that dispenses money whenever someone nearby experiences pain. As they become increasingly dependent on the teapot’s powers, they must grapple with the moral implications of their actions.
“The Brass Teapot” is a quirky and thought-provoking film that explores themes of greed, morality, and the lengths people will go to for financial security. Bledel’s performance as Payton, the more level-headed half of the couple, is both comedic and grounded, serving as a perfect foil to Temple’s more impulsive character.
7. Sin City (2005)
Based on Frank Miller’s graphic novel series, “Sin City” is a neo-noir anthology film that weaves together multiple storylines set in the corrupt and violent Basin City. Bledel appears in the segment “The Big Fat Kill” as Becky, a prostitute who becomes embroiled in a dangerous plot involving a corrupt police officer and a brutal vigilante.
Although her role is relatively small, Bledel makes a lasting impression in “Sin City,” holding her own alongside an all-star cast that includes Bruce Willis, Mickey Rourke, and Jessica Alba. The film’s striking visual style and gritty storytelling make it a standout in Bledel’s filmography.
6. Jenny’s Wedding (2015)
In this heartfelt drama, Bledel plays Kitty, the supportive sister of Jenny (Katherine Heigl), a woman who shocks her conservative family when she announces her intention to marry her longtime girlfriend, Kitty (Alexis Bledel). As the family struggles to come to terms with Jenny’s sexuality, Kitty serves as a bridge between Jenny and their parents.
“Jenny’s Wedding” is a poignant and timely film that explores themes of love, acceptance, and the evolving definition of family. Bledel’s performance as Kitty is warm and empathetic, showcasing her ability to bring emotional depth to supporting roles.
5. Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life (2016)
Nearly a decade after the original series ended, Bledel reprised her role as Rory Gilmore in the Netflix revival “Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life.” The four-part miniseries catches up with Rory, now a struggling journalist, as she navigates career challenges, romantic entanglements, and the ever-changing dynamics of her relationship with her mother, Lorelai (Lauren Graham).
“A Year in the Life” is a nostalgic and emotionally satisfying return to the world of Stars Hollow, with Bledel effortlessly slipping back into the role that made her a household name. The miniseries offers a more mature and complex portrayal of Rory, as she grapples with the realities of adulthood and the weight of her own expectations.
4. The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants (2005)
Based on the beloved young adult novel by Ann Brashares, “The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants” follows four best friends – Lena (Bledel), Bridget (Blake Lively), Carmen (America Ferrera), and Tibby (Amber Tamblyn) – as they spend their first summer apart, keeping in touch by sharing a pair of secondhand jeans that magically fits each of them perfectly.
Bledel’s portrayal of Lena, a shy and artistic teenager who falls in love while visiting her grandparents in Greece, is a standout in the film. Her performance captures the innocence, vulnerability, and growth of a young woman coming into her own. “The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants” was a critical and commercial success, spawning a sequel in 2008.
3. Mad Men (2012)
In a memorable guest arc on the acclaimed AMC drama “Mad Men,” Bledel played Beth Dawes, a troubled housewife who begins an affair with ad man Pete Campbell (Vincent Kartheiser). Over the course of three episodes, Beth and Pete’s relationship evolves from a fleeting infatuation to a deeper, more complex connection.
Bledel’s performance in “Mad Men” is a revelation, showcasing her ability to convey the inner turmoil and desperation of a woman trapped in a loveless marriage. Her scenes with Kartheiser are electric, and her portrayal of Beth’s mental health struggles is both heartbreaking and authentic.
2. The Handmaid’s Tale (2017-2021)
In the harrowing dystopian drama “The Handmaid’s Tale,” based on Margaret Atwood’s 1985 novel, Bledel plays Emily (later known as Ofglen and Ofsteven), a Handmaid in the totalitarian regime of Gilead. Over the course of four seasons, Emily’s story unfolds as she navigates the oppressive society, forms forbidden alliances, and ultimately escapes to Canada.
Bledel’s performance in “The Handmaid’s Tale” is nothing short of extraordinary. She brings a quiet intensity and resilience to the role of Emily, conveying the character’s trauma, anger, and hope with stunning depth and nuance. Her work on the series earned her widespread critical acclaim and an Emmy Award for Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series in 2017.
1. Gilmore Girls (2000-2007)
Topping our list is the role that started it all: Rory Gilmore in the beloved series “Gilmore Girls.” Over the course of seven seasons, Bledel brought to life the bookish, driven, and occasionally neurotic Rory, as she navigated the challenges of high school, college, and young adulthood in the quirky town of Stars Hollow.
Bledel’s chemistry with co-star Lauren Graham, who played her mother Lorelai, was the heart and soul of the series. Their rapid-fire banter, pop culture references, and emotional depth made “Gilmore Girls” a cultural touchstone and cemented Bledel’s status as a rising star.
Through Rory’s journey, Bledel showcased her incredible range as an actress, effortlessly transitioning from comedy to drama, and from the wide-eyed innocence of a teenager to the more complex struggles of a young woman finding her place in the world. Her portrayal of Rory Gilmore remains one of the most iconic and beloved television performances of the early 21st century.
Conclusion
Alexis Bledel’s career is a testament to her versatility, talent, and enduring appeal as an actress. From her breakout role in “Gilmore Girls” to her Emmy-winning turn in “The Handmaid’s Tale,” Bledel has consistently delivered performances that are both emotionally resonant and deeply affecting.
As we’ve seen through this ranking of her 15 best movies and TV shows, Bledel’s range as an actress is truly impressive. Whether she’s playing a bookish teenager, a troubled housewife, or a resilient Handmaid, Bledel brings a unique combination of vulnerability, strength, and authenticity to each role.
