A Tribute: The 25 Best Anne Heche Movies List Ranked

Anne Heche, an actress of remarkable versatility and depth, has left an indelible mark on the film industry. Known for her captivating performances that range from dramatic to comedic roles, Heche’s filmography is a testament to her expansive talent. Her untimely death on August 12, 2022, left a void in the acting world, but her legacy lives on through her diverse and impactful body of work. This tribute celebrates her cinematic journey by ranking the 25 best Anne Heche movies.

From her early days in Hollywood to her rise as a prominent figure in cinema, each film on this list showcases her exceptional acting skills and highlights the diverse characters she brought to life. Join us as we explore and honor the illustrious career of Anne Heche through her most memorable movies.

The 25 Best Anne Heche Movies List

Here’s a list of the 25 best Anne Heche movies showcasing her versatility and talent as an actress. This list is a mix of her most critically acclaimed roles, popular films, and performances that have been particularly influential or memorable in her career:

Donnie Brasco (1997)

“Donnie Brasco” is a 1997 crime drama directed by Mike Newell, featuring Johnny Depp as Joe Pistone, an undercover FBI agent who infiltrates the Mafia. The film is adapted from Pistone’s real-life events and autobiography. Al Pacino stars as Benjamin “Lefty” Ruggiero, a mobster befriending the undercover Pistone. Anne Heche plays Maggie Pistone, Joe’s wife, shedding light on the emotional strain of living a double life in the dangerous world of undercover operations. Her portrayal underscores the personal sacrifices and emotional turmoil faced by those connected to agents in the field, reminding viewers of the human elements often overshadowed in crime dramas.

Six Days Seven Nights (1998)

“Six Days, Seven Nights” is a 1998 action-adventure romantic comedy directed by Ivan Reitman, starring Harrison Ford as Quinn Harris, a cargo pilot, and Anne Heche as Robin Monroe, a magazine editor. The plot unfolds when Robin and her fiancé Frank, played by David Schwimmer, vacation on a tropical island. Due to work, Robin hires Quinn for a flight, but they crash and get stranded on a deserted island. The ensuing adventures highlight the growing tension and chemistry between Quinn and Robin. Heche’s portrayal of Robin transforms from an uptight city dweller to a resilient, capable survivor. The film, notable for its scenic views and actor chemistry, offers a blend of comedy, drama, and romance.

Volcano (1997)

“Volcano” is a 1997 American disaster film directed by Mick Jackson, featuring Tommy Lee Jones as Mike Roark, an emergency management official, and Anne Heche as Dr. Amy Barnes, a geologist. The movie delves into the chaos of a sudden volcanic eruption in Los Angeles. Dr. Barnes, portrayed by Heche, is instrumental in recognizing early signs of the explosion and serves as a scientific and emotional pillar in the crisis. Her character collaborates with Jones’s Roark to tackle the disaster, orchestrating evacuations and managing the volcanic threat. Despite its cinematic liberties, “Volcano” stands out in the late ’90s disaster film wave, known for riveting action and the compelling performances of its lead actors.

Wag the Dog (1997)

“Wag the Dog” is a 1997 black comedy-drama directed by Barry Levinson, with a screenplay adapted from Larry Beinhart’s novel “American Hero.” Starring Robert De Niro as political spin doctor Conrad Brean and Dustin Hoffman as Hollywood producer Stanley Motss, the film delves into political manipulation when they fabricate a war to divert attention from a looming scandal before a U.S. election. Anne Heche portrays Winifred Ames, Brean’s assistant, who represents the audience’s perspective on the unfolding ethical dilemmas. The movie was lauded for its satirical commentary on American politics and media, earning two Academy Award nominations. It stands as a poignant critique of media influence and the blurred lines between reality and fiction in politics.

John Q (2002)

“John Q” is a 2002 crime drama thriller directed by Nick Cassavetes, starring Denzel Washington as John Quincy Archibald, a father who takes an emergency room hostage to secure a heart transplant for his critically ill son. Anne Heche portrays Rebecca Payne, the hospital administrator, embodying the bureaucratic challenges and ethical dilemmas of the American healthcare system. Her role highlights the tension between policy and urgent human needs, shedding light on the system’s flaws. Though the film’s portrayal of healthcare issues was contentious, drawing both praise and criticism, it became a commercial success. “John Q” is recognized for its exploration of healthcare ethics and the challenges faced by everyday individuals within the system.

I Know What You Did Last Summer (1997)

“I Know What You Did Last Summer” is a 1997 horror mystery thriller directed by Jim Gillespie and adapted from Lois Duncan’s 1973 novel. The plot revolves around friends stalked by a vengeful entity after a hit-and-run accident. Starring Jennifer Love Hewitt, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Ryan Phillippe, and Freddie Prinze Jr., the film features Anne Heche as Missy Egan, the enigmatic sister of the believed accident victim. Heche’s portrayal adds depth, with her grieving and unstable character fueling the mystery. While the movie received mixed reviews, its success during the late-’90s teen horror revival led to sequels, establishing its footprint in the genre. Heche’s role, essential to the narrative, heightens the film’s suspense and intrigue.

Cedar Rapids (2011)

“Cedar Rapids” is a 2011 comedy directed by Miguel Arteta, centered on Tim Lippe (Ed Helms), a naive insurance agent experiencing life outside his hometown for the first time at a convention in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Anne Heche portrays Joan Ostrowski-Fox, a seasoned agent who contrasts Tim’s innocence with her worldly savvy. She becomes instrumental in Tim’s journey, introducing him to the complexities of adulthood. The convention mirrors real-life dilemmas, friendships, and oddities, all delivered with humor. Heche’s performance adds depth, providing a strong yet layered female perspective. Praised for its witty script and dynamic cast interactions, “Cedar Rapids” blends comedy with poignant character growth, underscored by Heche’s pivotal role.

The Juror (1996)

“The Juror” is a 1996 drama thriller directed by Brian Gibson, adapted from George Dawes Green’s novel. Starring Demi Moore as Annie Laird, a juror in a Mafia trial, and Alec Baldwin as “The Teacher,” a mob enforcer, the film dives into the psychological tensions of being threatened to manipulate a trial’s outcome. Anne Heche portrays Juliet, Annie’s friend, serving as an emotional anchor and emphasizing the personal stakes Annie faces against the Mafia’s pressure. The movie probes themes of justice, ethical dilemmas, and systemic vulnerabilities. While it garnered mixed reviews, the cast’s performances, including Heche’s supportive role, resonated with audiences, spotlighting the human elements and frailties within the justice system.

Return to Paradise (1998)

“Return to Paradise” is a 1998 drama thriller directed by Joseph Ruben, starring Vince Vaughn, Anne Heche, and Joaquin Phoenix. A remake of the French film “Force Majeure,” it centers on three friends—Sheriff, Lewis, and Tony—who face severe repercussions for their illegal activities in Malaysia. Two years post their trip, Lewis risks the death penalty unless his friends return for a shared trial. Anne Heche plays Beth Eastern, a lawyer urging the friends to return and alleviate Lewis’s sentence. Her character, acting as the film’s moral anchor, faces intense ethical dilemmas. Celebrated for its profound themes and performances, the film offers a gripping exploration of friendship, sacrifice, and international legal intricacies.

Psycho (1998)

The 1998 “Psycho,” directed by Gus Van Sant, is a shot-for-shot remake of Alfred Hitchcock’s iconic 1960 classic. Starring Vince Vaughn as Norman Bates and Anne Heche as Marion Crane, it retells the horror-mystery tale of Marion’s ill-fated stay at Bates Motel. Heche’s portrayal aims to offer a fresh take on Marion’s desperation, fear, and vulnerability, as her character’s actions are central to the plot’s unfolding. While the remake garnered mixed reviews, often compared unfavorably to the original, it ignited discussions about the value and purpose of cinematic remakes. Despite critiques, Heche’s role as Marion Crane highlighted her ability to reimagine a legendary cinematic character for a new generation.

Walking and Talking (1996)

“Walking and Talking” is a 1996 comedy-drama-romance film by Nicole Holofcener, starring Catherine Keener as Amelia and Anne Heche as Laura. The narrative delves into their friendship as Laura’s impending wedding triggers Amelia’s insecurities about being single. Heche’s portrayal of Laura brings depth, representing a seemingly settled friend who also grapples with her own vulnerabilities. The film probes the impact of life events on friendships, underpinned by the authentic chemistry between Keener and Heche. Critics praised its sincere portrayal of female bonds and relational challenges in young adulthood. Heche’s performance underscores the emotional intricacies and evolving dynamics of friendships amidst life’s transitions, making the film a poignant exploration of love and connection.

Pie in the Sky (1995)

“Pie in the Sky” is a 1996 comedy-drama-romance film directed by Bryan Gordon, starring Josh Charles as dreamy air traffic controller Charlie Dunlap and Anne Heche as Amy, his enthusiastic love interest. Contrasting Charlie’s reserved nature, Amy’s free spirit propels the narrative, challenging Charlie to transform his fantasies into realities. The movie delves into the dynamics of young love, ambition, and the interplay between dreams and reality. While not a blockbuster, the film resonated for its character depth and the chemistry between its leads. Heche’s portrayal was recognized for its layered representation of a young woman torn between dreaming and living, adding heart and complexity to this exploration of love and life decisions.

The Third Miracle (1999)

“The Third Miracle” is a 1999 drama directed by Agnieszka Holland, based on Richard Vetere’s novel. The film, starring Ed Harris as Father Frank Shore and Anne Heche as Roxanne, delves into the Catholic Church’s intricate canonization process. Father Shore, a postulator grappling with his faith, is tasked with investigating potential miracles linked to Roxanne’s deceased mother, Helen. Roxanne, a skeptic, challenges the Church and Shore’s beliefs, offering a personal lens to the supposed miracles surrounding her mother. The film probes themes of faith, doubt, and the Church’s inner workings. Receiving mixed to positive reviews, the performances, especially Heche’s portrayal of Roxanne, add depth to the movie’s exploration of religious complexities.

Birth (2004)

“Birth” is a 2004 drama-mystery-romance directed by Jonathan Glazer, starring Nicole Kidman as Anna, a widow confronting the claim by a ten-year-old boy, Sean (Cameron Bright), that he is the reincarnation of her late husband. Anne Heche, portraying Clara, plays a vital role in the movie’s intricate emotional tapestry, deeply influencing the narrative’s progression. With a haunting ambiance, the film delves into themes of love, grief, reincarnation, and ethical ambiguity. Garnering mixed reviews, “Birth” was praised for its bold thematic exploration and strong performances, especially Kidman’s. Heche’s supporting role enhances the film’s complexity, adding nuance to the poignant examination of loss and the challenges of moving on from it.

Spread (2009)

“Spread” is a 2009 comedy-drama-romance directed by David Mackenzie, starring Ashton Kutcher as Nikki, a young man seducing wealthy older women for a lavish lifestyle, and Anne Heche as Samantha, a successful attorney who becomes one of his main benefactors. Instead of a simple “sugar mama” narrative, Heche’s portrayal offers depth to Samantha, revealing the genuine emotions and vulnerabilities beneath surface-level transactional relationships. The film delves into themes of materialism, emotional detachment, and the complexities of modern relationships. While “Spread” garnered mixed reviews, Heche’s performance was lauded for adding an emotional richness to the story, highlighting the intricate dynamics even in seemingly straightforward relationships. The movie provides a candid look at love and materialism in contemporary society.

Gracie’s Choice (2004 TV Movie)

“Gracie’s Choice” is a 2004 television drama aired on Lifetime, based on a true story, with Kristen Bell playing Gracie, a young woman forced to raise her siblings due to their mother’s drug addiction. Anne Heche portrays the addicted mother, Rowena, delivering a raw and compelling performance that showcases the devastating impact of substance abuse on families. Heche’s nuanced portrayal adds depth, emphasizing the complexities of addiction. The film delves into heavy themes like family, responsibility, and the effects of parental neglect. Both Bell and Heche received praise for their roles, with the movie shining a light on the challenges faced by families in the grip of addiction. It stands out for its emotional depth and powerful narrative.

Prozac Nation (2001)

“Prozac Nation” is a 2001 biographical drama adapted from Elizabeth Wurtzel’s 1994 memoir, spotlighting a young woman’s battle with depression, portrayed by Christina Ricci. Anne Heche plays Dr. Sterling, Elizabeth’s psychiatrist, offering a medical viewpoint on treating depression amidst the tumult of Elizabeth’s life. Heche’s role provides critical insights into the complexities of mental health treatment, juxtaposing the emotional turmoil of the protagonist with the clinical approach to healing. Although the film garnered mixed reviews, it was recognized for addressing vital mental health discussions, particularly concerning medication. While Ricci’s portrayal stands at the narrative’s forefront, Heche’s character adds depth, emphasizing the challenging intersection of personal suffering and medical intervention.

Wild Side (1995)

“Wild Side” is a 1995 action, crime, and drama film helmed by Donald Cammell and featuring Christopher Walken, Anne Heche, and Joan Chen. Anne Heche shines as Alex Lee, a banking executive moonlighting as a high-end escort named Virginia. This double life plunges her into the dangerous world of criminal Bruno, portrayed menacingly by Walken. The film tackles themes of identity, morality, and the extremes of human desires, juxtaposing action-packed sequences with intense drama. Heche’s multi-layered performance is central, reflecting the character’s moral dilemmas and the blurring of lines between her two worlds. Though not a blockbuster upon release, “Wild Side” has since achieved cult status for its genre-blending narrative and powerful character portrayals.

Arthur Newman (2012)

“Arthur Newman” is a 2012 comedy-drama directed by Dante Ariola, featuring Colin Firth as the titular character and Emily Blunt as Mike. Both characters, discontent with their lives, embark on a transformative road trip to assume new identities. Anne Heche, in a supporting role, portrays Mina Crawley, a link to Arthur’s past, underscoring the film’s themes of identity and the challenge of escaping one’s history. The narrative grapples with existential questions, and while Firth and Blunt are central, Heche’s contribution lends depth and complexity. The movie received mixed reviews, with performances being a highlight. Overall, “Arthur Newman” is a thoughtful examination of reinvention, the allure of escape, and the inescapability of one’s past.

Fatal Desire (2006 TV Movie)

“Fatal Desire” is a 2006 Lifetime TV movie directed by Ralph Hemecker, starring Anne Heche and Eric Roberts. Based on a true story, it delves into the perils of online romance, leading to deceit, manipulation, and murder. Anne Heche portrays Tanya Sullivan, a seductive and manipulative woman who lures Joe, played by Roberts, into a dangerous affair with grave consequences. Heche’s portrayal captures a digital-era femme fatale, emphasizing the hazards of online relationships. The film navigates themes like online dating risks and the extent of manipulation in relationships. While it garnered mixed reviews, Heche’s performance was recognized for its depth, making “Fatal Desire” a notable crime drama in Lifetime’s repertoire.

The Dead Will Tell (TV Movie 2004)

“The Dead Will Tell” is a 2004 CBS TV movie blending mystery and thriller genres. Anne Heche stars as Emily Parker, who, after receiving an antique engagement ring from her fiancé (Jonathan LaPaglia), begins experiencing supernatural events. Believing a spirit connected to the ring is reaching out, she embarks on a quest to unravel a long-forgotten mystery. The film weaves themes of supernatural encounters, love, and the haunting grip of the past. Heche’s portrayal showcases her versatility, navigating a gamut of emotions, from joy to sheer terror. Though TV movies often fly under the critical radar, Heche’s gripping performance stands out, elevating the narrative and highlighting the eerie intersection of past and present.

Girls in Prison (1994 TV Movie)

“Girls in Prison” is a 1994 made-for-TV drama directed by John McNaughton for Showtime’s “Rebel Highway” series, mirroring the essence of 1950s B-movies. Anne Heche shines as Jennifer, a woman wrongfully imprisoned and forced to confront the harsh realities of a women’s prison. Navigating through challenges and adversities, her journey from innocence to survival forms the crux of the story. The film grapples with themes of injustice, friendship, and the moral dilemmas of the penal system. Though receiving mixed reactions, Heche’s performance stood out, adding depth and authenticity to the narrative. Capturing both nostalgia and modern-day prison complexities, “Girls in Prison” offers a dramatic insight into the trials of incarcerated women.

Sexual Life (2004)

“Sexual Life” is a 2005 drama directed by Ken Kwapis, delving into the intricate dynamics of human relationships and sexuality. The film paints a mosaic of characters’ emotional and sexual interactions, highlighting issues like infidelity and vulnerability. Anne Heche stars as Gwen, a character navigating desire and intimacy amidst the backdrop of broader societal contexts. Her portrayal injects depth into the movie, emphasizing both the vulnerability and complexity inherent in human connections. While the film garnered mixed reviews, its audacious exploration of intricate themes and the standout performance from its ensemble cast, especially Heche’s, were praised. In essence, “Sexual Life” is a compelling drama dissecting the multifaceted nature of human sexuality and relationships.

Nothing Left to Fear (2013)

“Nothing Left to Fear” is a 2013 horror movie directed by Anthony Leonardi III and produced by former Guns N’ Roses guitarist Slash. The film revolves around the dark mysteries of Stull, Kansas, rumored to be one of the “Seven Gateways to Hell.” Anne Heche stars as Wendy, a mother who, along with her family, relocates to Stull for a peaceful life. But they soon uncover the town’s sinister supernatural secrets. Heche’s portrayal of a mother’s escalating fear and desperation is noteworthy, bringing emotional depth to the storyline. Despite mixed reviews, the film stands out for its atmospheric tension and Heche’s compelling performance, offering a fresh take on the classic horror trope of haunted towns.

Catfight (2016)

“Catfight” is a 2016 dark comedy directed by Onur Tukel, starring Anne Heche and Sandra Oh. These former college friends, now living disparate lives, encounter each other at a party. Tensions escalated, leading to several brutal brawls over the years. Heche plays Veronica, a wealthy housewife whose life drastically changes post these violent confrontations. Her portrayal, filled with vulnerability and bitterness, captivates the audience. The film delves into themes of revenge, societal norms, and the toxicity of enmity, utilizing a blend of dark humor and intense drama. Although reviews were mixed, Heche and Oh’s performances were widely acclaimed. “Catfight” is an audacious exploration of deep-seated emotional battles, making it a distinctive cinematic experience.