The film career of Andie MacDowell is rich with memorable performances that span various genres, including dramas, romantic comedies, and a remarkable array of television shows. MacDowell transitioned from modeling in the 1970s to acting in the mid-1980s, making her debut in Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan, Lord of the Apes. Her career gained traction with a captivating role in the young adult classic St. Elmo's Fire, but her true breakout came in 1989 with Steven Soderbergh’s acclaimed film Sex, Lies, and Videotape, which showcased her talent on a grand scale.
Following her initial success, MacDowell established herself as a formidable presence in Hollywood, garnering multiple Golden Globe nominations for films such as Green Card, Short Cuts, and Four Weddings and a Funeral. She also charmed audiences in beloved flicks like Groundhog Day and Hudson Hawk. As the 2000s unfolded, MacDowell began concentrating more on television, with a significant success in the 2013 series Cedar Cove. While she continues to take on film roles, her recent accolades can largely be attributed to her television work.
10 Green Card (1990)
Brontë Parrish
Hot on the heels of her Golden Globe nomination for Sex, Lies, and Videotape, Andie MacDowell secured her second nomination with a standout performance in Green Card. In this film, she portrays Brontë Parrish, an environmentalist who enters into a Green Card marriage with Georges Fauré, a French undocumented immigrant played by Gérard Depardieu. This arrangement allows Brontë to obtain her dream apartment while managing the complexities of her husband’s frequent absences.
The film, notable for its charming narrative, earned Peter Weir an Oscar nomination for Best Screenplay, and Depardieu won a Golden Globe for his portrayal, while MacDowell received critical recognition with her nomination.
9 St. Elmo’s Fire (1985)
Dale Biberman
One of MacDowell’s earliest roles was in the 1985 coming-of-age film St. Elmo's Fire, the quintessential Brat Pack movie directed by Joel Schumacher. The narrative centers around a group of friends navigating life post-college, featuring a star-studded cast that includes Emilio Estevez, Rob Lowe, Demi Moore, and more. MacDowell plays Dale Biberman, a hospital intern entangled in a romantic relationship with Kirby Keager, played by Estevez.
Despite mixed reviews, the film has achieved cult classic status, especially for its nostalgic connection to the 1980s Brat Pack era and its iconic soundtrack, which includes the chart-topping hit “St. Elmo’s Fire (Man in Motion).”
8 Cedar Cove (2013-2015)
Olivia Lockhart
MacDowell’s first major television role emerged in 2013 with the Hallmark Channel series Cedar Cove, based on Debbie Macomber’s bestselling novels. The show portrays the close-knit community of Cedar Cove, where neighborly bonds thrive, and privacy is welcomed. In this heartfelt drama, MacDowell plays Olivia Lockhart, the municipal court judge who grapples with personal turmoil following her divorce and the tragic loss of her teenage son.
Airing for three seasons, Cedar Cove received positive ratings and reviews, with critics appreciating its comforting storytelling style akin to traditional Hallmark movies.
7 Maid (2021)
Paula Langley
In the impactful Netflix miniseries Maid, released in 2021, MacDowell portrays Paula Langley, the mother of the protagonist Alex, played by Margaret Qualley. The series highlights the struggles Alex faces after escaping an abusive relationship and trying to rise above poverty while navigating the complexities of institutional assistance.
MacDowell’s performance received accolades, complementing Qualley’s, as both actresses garnered nominations at the Golden Globes. Boasting a remarkable 94% Rotten Tomatoes score, the series resonated well with audiences, confirming MacDowell’s continued relevance in contemporary television.
6 Ready Or Not (2019)
Becky Le Domas
Ready or Not, released in 2019, is a horror-comedy that captures the unsettling yet darkly humorous journey of a young bride, Grace, portrayed by Samara Weaving. Upon marrying into a wealthy family, she quickly learns about the sinister tradition that awaits her on her wedding night: a deadly game where she becomes the hunted. MacDowell steps into the role of Becky Le Domas, the mother of the family who is intent on ensuring the ritual is completed to protect her own.
The film has been praised for its sharp humor and engaging narrative, achieving an 89% Rotten Tomatoes score as it captivated audiences with its unique blend of comedy and horror.
5 The Way Home (2023–Present)
Delilah “Del”Landry
In 2023, MacDowell joined the cast of The Way Home, a Hallmark series exploring intergenerational family dynamics through a fantastical lens. This time-traveling drama focuses on three women from the same family who reconnect across different times via a magical pond on their property. The characters include Del (MacDowell), Kat (Chyler Leigh), and Alice (Sadie Laflamme-Snow).
The series premiered to critical acclaim, boasting a 100% Fresh score on Rotten Tomatoes for its initial season. Subsequent seasons maintained high ratings, reflecting positive audience responses and deep appreciation for its storytelling and character depth.
4 Short Cuts (1993)
Ann Finnigan
In 1993, MacDowell showcased her talents in Short Cuts, an ensemble comedy-drama directed by Robert Altman. The film features a diverse cast, including Julianne Moore, Robert Downey Jr., and Tim Robbins. MacDowell plays Ann Finnigan, whose family’s tragedy intertwines with the lives of others, illustrating the complex tapestry of human connections.
This critically acclaimed film earned a 95% Fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes and secured a Special Award for Ensemble at the Golden Globes, further solidifying its place in cinematic history.
3 Four Weddings And A Funeral (1994)
Carrie
One of MacDowell’s most celebrated works, Four Weddings and a Funeral (1994), is a quintessential British romantic comedy that became a defining film of its era. She stars alongside Hugh Grant, who plays Charles, as they navigate love, chance encounters at weddings, and life decisions. The movie’s success at the box office, grossing over $245 million against a modest budget, is well-supported by its 92% Fresh Rotten Tomatoes score.
Written by Richard Curtis, the film’s heartfelt writing and performances garnered multiple Oscar nominations, further establishing MacDowell’s reputation in Hollywood.
2 Groundhog Day (1993)
Rita Hanson
Among MacDowell’s most iconic roles is her portrayal of Rita Hanson in Groundhog Day (1993). The film follows Phil Connors (Bill Murray), a weatherman condemned to relive the same day repeatedly. MacDowell shines as the love interest, Rita, who remains oblivious to Phil’s predicament.
Though originally a modest success, the film’s lasting appeal has made it a beloved classic, earning inclusion in the National Film Registry in 2006. With a box office return of $105 million, it remains a hallmark of comedic cinema.
1 Sex, Lies, And Videotape (1989)
Ann Bishop Mullany
Andie MacDowell’s journey to stardom is anchored by her role in Sex, Lies, and Videotape, a landmark film by Steven Soderbergh. MacDowell plays Ann Bishop Mullany, a woman trapped in a stagnant marriage to a lawyer, John (Peter Gallagher). The story dives deep into themes of desire, betrayal, and self-discovery.
The film received an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Screenplay and garnered MacDowell an Independent Spirit Award for Best Actress, marking a significant milestone in her career.