Mamma Mia! and its sequel, Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again, stand out as delightful cinematic experiences, celebrated for their celebration of ABBA’s iconic music. While the narrative may be simplistic, these films have united an impressive array of talent from various generations, showcasing their abilities in a vibrant, joyful setting. As fans anticipate the potential of a third installment, the recent triumph of Wicked: For Good offers a glimmer of hope that Mamma Mia 3 may soon emerge from the shadows of development.
The ensemble cast of the Mamma Mia! films, from Oscar winners to unforgettable villains and even James Bond himself, have undeniably shaped film history. Observing these renowned actors, typically associated with intense roles, let loose amidst the picturesque backdrops of Donna’s Greek isle, singing and dancing, adds a fascinating layer to their artistic versatility. Here’s a look at some of the most outstanding films featuring the Mamma Mia! cast when they’re not belting out ABBA tunes.
10 Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (2007)
Julie Walters as Molly Weasley
The Harry Potter series emerged as a cultural phenomenon, capturing the imaginations of audiences as the beloved books transitioned to the big screen—right at the cusp of a burgeoning internet film discourse. These movies served as a collective coming-of-age experience, with viewers growing in tandem with the characters. Julie Walters, renowned for her portrayal of Molly Weasley, displayed remarkable versatility as she embodied Rosie Mulligan in Mamma Mia! This marked a stark departure from her serious maternal role as a mother of seven amid escalating political turmoil.
Order of the Phoenix was a pivotal entry in the Harry Potter saga, marking the directorial debut of David Yates, whose vision shaped the latter installments. He introduced a more mature narrative focus, excising subplots like Hermione’s S.P.E.W. campaign to tighten the storyline. This film also granted Molly Weasley some of her most poignant moments, including her husband’s assault and her emotional struggle over Harry’s wellbeing.
9 Cruel Intentions (1999)
Christine Baranski as Bunny Caldwell
Cruel Intentions captivated audiences with its provocative narrative, perfectly encapsulating the late ’90s ethos. It launched several young actors into stardom, including Reese Witherspoon and Ryan Phillippe, while Christine Baranski portrayed Bunny Caldwell, a sharp matriarch obsessed with her family’s social image.
Though markedly darker than her role as Tanya in Mamma Mia!, the connection between Bunny’s controlling nature and Tanya’s humorous social antics is evident. Both characters are masters of wit and social manipulation, yet Tanya’s humorous context allows Baranski’s comedic prowess to flourish, transforming Bunny’s darker motivations into light-hearted mischief.
8 Bridget Jones’s Diary (2004)
Colin Firth as Mark Darcy
Bridget Jones’s Diary heralded a new era of romantic comedies, expertly balancing themes of self-empowerment and love while redefining the archetype of a rom-com heroine. Renée Zellweger’s portrayal brought relatability and charm, establishing a benchmark for female leads that endures even with the upcoming Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy sequel in 2025.
Colin Firth’s character, Mark Darcy, reimagined the classic romantic hero inspired by the legendary Mr. Darcy of Pride and Prejudice. His portrayal of an awkward yet sincere man challenged conventional ideals of masculinity, a trait reflected in his role as the endearingly clumsy Harry Bright in Mamma Mia!.
7 Mean Girls (2004)
Amanda Seyfried as Karen Smith
Mean Girls remains a cultural touchstone, defining the teen comedy genre for a generation. Its influence persists, as evidenced by the 2024 remake of the musical adaptation, which has struggled to recreate the original’s unique charm.
Amanda Seyfried’s initial audition for Regina George ultimately resulted in her perfect casting as the lovable and quirky Karen Smith. Her comedic talent translated seamlessly to the role of Sophie Sheridan in Mamma Mia!, where she expertly juggled humor, heart, and musical flair.
6 Baby Driver (2017)
Lily James as Debora
Baby Driver, directed by visionary Edgar Wright, stands out as an innovative mix of high-energy action and a carefully curated soundtrack, earning praise and three Academy Award nominations. The film’s unique storytelling and ensemble cast solidified Wright’s reputation in contemporary cinema.
Lily James embodies Debora, a waitress who grounds the impulsive character Baby, played by Ansel Elgort. Her performance exudes warmth and strength akin to her portrayal of a young Donna in Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again. Each character offers a sense of longing and liberation, reflecting themes of freedom and emotional depth, making James a captivating presence in both films.
5 Moonstruck (1987)
Cher as Loretta Castorini
Moonstruck received widespread acclaim for its intricate characters and heartfelt exploration of love’s complexities, earning three Oscars, including Best Actress for Cher as Loretta Castorini, a pragmatic woman enmeshed in an unforeseen romance. Cher’s status as a pop culture icon was solidified through her performance, showcasing her as a serious actress.
Despite later focusing more on her music career, Cher graced the screen again in Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again, where she delivered a show-stopping performance during the musical number “Fernando,” reminding viewers of her extraordinary charisma and immense talent.
4 The Devil Wears Prada (2006)
Meryl Streep as Miranda Priestly
The Devil Wears Prada revolutionized perceptions of the chick flick genre, blending sharp humor with emotional intricacies, and received adoration from both critics and audiences alike. At its center, Meryl Streep’s portrayal of Miranda Priestly stands as one of her defining performances, capturing a character marked by both icy ruthlessness and fleeting vulnerability.
Despite her vast filmography that spans numerous genres, Streep’s return to Miranda in the upcoming sequel of The Devil Wears Prada underscores the character’s enduring legacy. This influence is humorously echoed in Mamma Mia! when Donna dons the same sunglasses as Miranda, merging these iconic roles in a delightful nod to Streep’s impressive career.
3 GoldenEye (1995)
Pierce Brosnan as James Bond
GoldenEye revitalized the James Bond franchise by introducing Pierce Brosnan as the iconic spy, blending classic characteristics with a newfound emotional depth. This film marked a comeback for Bond after a six-year hiatus, establishing itself as a cornerstone for late ’90s action cinema.
Brosnan’s involvement in Mamma Mia! was an unexpected twist, as viewers didn’t foresee a former Bond actor stepping into the realm of an ABBA-themed musical. His off-key singing didn’t overshadow his genuine enthusiasm for the role, enhancing the film’s heart and playful humor.
2 The Godfather Part III (1990)
Andy García as Vincent Mancini
The Godfather Part III presents a somber reflection on Michael Corleone’s tumultuous journey, encapsulating the consequences of his past actions. Set several decades after its predecessors, the film extends Michael’s narrative of regret and redemption. Here, Andy Garcia steps in as Vincent Mancini, a complex character with loyalty and ambition wrestling against his temperament, marking him as a fitting, if troubled, successor to the Corleone dynasty.
Garcia’s compelling performance garnered him an Oscar nomination, further solidifying his status as a prominent actor following his breakout role in The Untouchables. In a delightful twist, his brief appearance in Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again as Cher’s character’s long-lost love interest adds an extra layer of charm and nostalgia for fans.
1 Good Will Hunting (1997)
Stellan Skarsgård as Professor Gerald Lambeau
Good Will Hunting marked a revolutionary moment in film, catapulting Ben Affleck and Matt Damon to prominence while earning them an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay. While the accolades often center on Damon’s powerful performance and Robin Williams’s unforgettable portrayal of Will’s therapist, Stellan Skarsgård’s role as Professor Lambeau is equally vital; he first identifies Will’s extraordinary talent.
Well-known for his nuanced portrayals of complex roles, Skarsgård’s performance in this film brought depth and insight, making it intriguing to see him indulge in lighter characterizations as Bill Anderson in Mamma Mia!. This role allowed him to explore a more carefree persona, showcasing versatility seldom tapped in his more dramatic roles.