Anna Faris’s filmography is a delightful blend of slapstick comedies and unexpected dramatic performances. She began her acting journey in school drama clubs, taking various roles in theatrical productions. Faris first gained notable recognition with her appearance in the film Eden, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in 1996. This was shortly followed by her role in the direct-to-video slasher film Lover’s Lane, leading to her breakthrough performance in the 2000 horror-comedy Scary Movie.
Although she later took on a smaller role in the indie horror movie May, it was the comedic genre that ultimately defined her career. Over the years, Faris accumulated a variety of comedic roles, ranging from the critically maligned The Hot Chick to the somewhat underrated The House Bunny. Her portrayal of Christy Plunkett in the sitcom Mom, however, brought her significant acclaim and showcased her capacity for both humor and heartfelt moments.
10 The Dictator (2012)
Zoey
In The Dictator, released in 2012, Sacha Baron Cohen returned with a unique fictional comedy where he plays Admiral General Aladeen. The plot humorously revolves around Aladeen’s efforts to maintain his dictatorship during a trip to the United States, which leads to a series of comedic mishaps. Anna Faris shines as Zoey, a passionate human rights activist who eventually falls in love with Aladeen and inspires him to embrace democracy. Despite a mixed critical reception—holding a 57% score on Rotten Tomatoes—the film was a box office hit, grossing over $190 million and earning praise for Cohen’s comedic brilliance.
9 Scary Movie (2000)
Cindy Campbell
Faris’s breakout role came in Scary Movie, a comedic spoof on popular horror films like Scream. Portraying Cindy Campbell—an amusing take on Neve Campbell’s character—Faris’s performance helped the film achieve astonishing success, grossing $278 million against a $19 million budget. With a surprisingly favorable score of 51% on Rotten Tomatoes, the film spawned a successful franchise with multiple sequels, even as Faris departed after the fourth installment.
8 Waiting… (2005)
Serena
Waiting…, released in 2005, attempts to capture the life of restaurant workers through the eyes of its characters. Set in the fictional chain restaurant Shenaniganz, it showcases the pranks and challenges faced by the staff, featuring actors such as Justin Long and Ryan Reynolds. In this ensemble, Faris portrays Serena, Monty’s ex-girlfriend, contributing to the film’s relatable humor, especially for those with a background in the food service industry. Although the film received criticism for its reliance on gross-out comedy, it has since garnered a cult following.
7 Friends (2004)
Erica
Faris’s memorable guest appearance on Friends spanned four episodes in its final season, where she played Erica, a pregnant woman from Ohio. Her character’s decision to allow Chandler and Monica to adopt her baby added warmth and humor to the storyline. Faris’s performance earned her a nomination for a Gold Derby Award for Best Guest Actress in a Comedy Series, marking her as the final recurring guest star before the show’s conclusion.
6 The House Bunny (2008)
Shelley Darlington
In The House Bunny, Faris plays Shelley Darlington, a Playboy Bunny who finds herself without a home and takes refuge in a college sorority of misfits. Despite the film’s mixed reviews, Faris’s comedic timing received significant praise, leading many to consider this one of her standout performances. Although it did not solidify her status as a leading lady in comedy, the film showcased her charm and ability to connect with audiences.
5 Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatballs (2009)
Sam Sparks (Voice)
Faris lent her voice to Sam Sparks in the animated film Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs, a whimsical tale directed by Phil Lord and Christopher Miller. The plot follows Flint Lockwood, an inventor, and his love interest, Sam, as they navigate the challenges posed by a food-manipulating weather phenomenon. Released to critical acclaim, the film earned several Annie Award nominations and proved to be a successful franchise, with a sequel following four years later.
4 May (2002)
Faris’s role in the indie horror film May presented her in a different light, showcasing her dramatic range. Playing Polly, a romantic interest of the main character Angela Bettis, Faris contributed to a story that blends horror with deeper emotional themes. Critics appreciated its unique approach, labeling it as an above-average slasher film with philosophical undertones, earning accolades on the film festival circuit.
3 Brokeback Mountain (2005)
Lawshawn Malone
In Brokeback Mountain, directed by Ang Lee, Faris plays Lawshawn Malone, a supporting role in a film recognized for its exploration of forbidden love. The story follows two ranchers, portrayed by Heath Ledger and Jake Gyllenhaal, navigating their complex relationship against societal constraints. Faris’s presence in this critically acclaimed film highlights her versatility, contributing to a narrative that garnered multiple Academy Award nominations.
2 Lost In Translation (2003)
Kelly
In Sofia Coppola’s Lost in Translation, Faris appears as Kelly, a Hollywood actress whose character serves as a stark contrast to Scarlett Johansson’s introspective Charlotte. While Charlotte grapples with feelings of disconnection in Tokyo, Kelly embodies a shallow celebrity culture. The movie received critical acclaim, including four Oscar nominations, reflecting both its narrative depth and strong performances.
1 Mom (2013-2020)
Christy Plunkett
Faris’s most significant career achievement came with the television series Mom, where she portrayed Christy Plunkett, a single mother striving to overcome past struggles with addiction. Balancing humor with poignant moments, the series showcased both Faris’s acting chops and the challenges faced in recovery. Although she departed before the final season, her performance earned her several nominations and highlighted the show’s impact with audiences throughout its eight-season run.