The Nanny Diaries features Scarlett Johansson as Annie Braddock, a young woman who unexpectedly takes on a nanny role for a wealthy, dysfunctional New York family. This film is a charming and often humorous peek into the lives of the super-rich, seen through the eyes of an outsider. Johansson brings her natural warmth and relatable charm to the character of Annie, navigating the eccentricities of her employers and forming a special bond with the child in her care. It's a lighthearted, feel-good movie that highlights Johansson's ability to ground even the most fantastical scenarios with genuine emotion. Her performance makes Annie a truly endearing protagonist.

Captain America: The Winter Soldier elevates Scarlett Johansson's Black Widow to new heights, giving her a more prominent and pivotal role alongside Captain America. This film is a sleek, espionage-thriller disguised as a superhero movie, and Natasha Romanoff is absolutely essential to its success. Johansson delivers a nuanced performance, exploring Natasha's complex past and her evolving moral compass. Her dynamic with Chris Evans' Captain America is a highlight, built on trust and mutual respect. The action sequences are incredibly well-choreographed, and Johansson is at the top of her game, making Black Widow a truly formidable and compelling character in the MCU.

Iron Man 2 marked Scarlett Johansson's debut as Natasha Romanoff, a.k.a. Black Widow, and she immediately made an impact. Initially introduced as Tony Stark's new assistant, she quickly reveals her true identity as a highly skilled S.H.I.E.L.D. agent, delivering some of the film's most exciting action sequences. Johansson's portrayal of Natasha established the character's mysterious allure, intelligence, and deadly combat skills. Even in a film packed with superheroes, she stands out, hinting at the powerful presence Black Widow would become in the MCU. Her fight scene in the hallway is particularly noteworthy, showcasing her agility and precision.

The Avengers is where Scarlett Johansson truly solidified her status as a global action star, bringing the fan-favorite character Black Widow (Natasha Romanoff) to the forefront. In this groundbreaking superhero ensemble, she's not just a formidable fighter but also a character with depth and a compelling backstory, holding her own alongside super-soldiers and gods. Her fight choreography is exceptional, and she brings a quiet intensity to Natasha, making her an essential part of the team. This film redefined the superhero genre and showcased Johansson's ability to blend seamlessly into a larger-than-life narrative while still making her character feel grounded and real.

Ghost in the Shell brings the iconic anime to live-action, with Scarlett Johansson stepping into the role of Major Motoko Kusanagi. The film is a visually stunning cyberpunk spectacle, immersing viewers in a futuristic world filled with advanced technology and philosophical questions about identity. Johansson embodies the stoic and powerful Major, a cyborg with a human brain, navigating a complex world of corporate espionage and self-discovery. While the casting generated discussion, Johansson delivers a committed performance, bringing a sense of gravitas and physical prowess to the role. It's a visually ambitious film that offers a captivating glimpse into a technologically advanced future.

Lucy is an electrifying action-thriller that sees Scarlett Johansson unleash her full potential as the titular character, who gains extraordinary abilities after a synthetic drug overdose. Directed by Luc Besson, the film is a high-octane ride that blends sci-fi concepts with thrilling action sequences. Johansson commits fully to the role, convincingly portraying Lucy's rapid evolution from a vulnerable victim to an almost god-like entity. While the scientific concepts are certainly stretched for dramatic effect, the film is undeniably entertaining and showcases Johansson's prowess as an action star. It's a wild ride that pushes the boundaries of human potential, visually striking and undeniably engaging.

The Prestige is a mind-bending and intricately plotted thriller from Christopher Nolan, where Scarlett Johansson plays Olivia Wenscombe, a magician's assistant caught in a dangerous rivalry. While not the central focus, her character is integral to the escalating conflict between the two illusionists, adding a layer of emotional complexity to their obsession. The film is a dazzling puzzle box, full of twists and turns that will keep you guessing until the very end. Johansson's presence adds a touch of glamour and intrigue to this dark tale of ambition, sacrifice, and the lengths one will go for their art. It's a film that demands multiple viewings to fully appreciate its clever construction.

Her is a truly unique and deeply moving film that features Scarlett Johansson's incredible vocal performance as Samantha, an advanced AI operating system. Though never seen on screen, her voice alone conveys an astonishing depth of emotion, intelligence, and even vulnerability. She brings Samantha to life with such nuance that you completely believe in the evolving relationship between her and Joaquin Phoenix's character, Theodore. The film is a poignant meditation on loneliness, connection, and the nature of love in a rapidly advancing technological world. It's a testament to Johansson's talent that she can create such a fully realized character using only her voice, making Samantha one of the most compelling presences in modern cinema.

Vicky Cristina Barcelona is a delightful and sun-drenched romantic dramedy from Woody Allen, where Scarlett Johansson shines as Cristina, an American tourist exploring love and life in Spain. Her character is open, curious, and eager for new experiences, making her a perfect fit for the spontaneous and passionate world she encounters. The film is a charming exploration of different approaches to love and relationships, set against the beautiful backdrop of Barcelona. Johansson's chemistry with Javier Bardem and Penélope Cruz is undeniable, contributing to the film's playful and often humorous tone. It's a film that celebrates spontaneity and the unpredictable nature of human connection.

The Other Boleyn Girl offers a lush and dramatic look into the tumultuous court of King Henry VIII, with Scarlett Johansson delivering a compelling performance as Mary Boleyn. While the film often focuses on the rivalry between Mary and her sister Anne (played by Natalie Portman), Johansson brings a quiet strength and vulnerability to her character, portraying Mary's initial naiveté and her gradual disillusionment with court life. It's a sumptuously filmed historical drama, full of intrigue, passion, and betrayal, and Johansson holds her own amidst a strong ensemble cast, capturing the complexities of a woman caught between her family's ambition and her own heart.

Match Point is a gripping and morally complex thriller from Woody Allen, showcasing Scarlett Johansson in a role that perfectly highlights her seductive power and dramatic range. As Nola Rice, she's the alluring force that throws Chris Wilton's life into disarray, embodying temptation and ambition. The film is a fascinating study of fate, luck, and the consequences of unchecked desire, set against the backdrop of London's elite society. Allen masterfully builds tension, keeping you on the edge of your seat as the characters navigate a web of deceit. Johansson's performance here is electrifying, proving she's far more than just a pretty face, capable of portraying deep, conflicting emotions.

Lost in Translation is an absolute gem, a tender and melancholic exploration of connection and isolation. Scarlett Johansson, in a career-defining role, is simply captivating as Charlotte, a recent college graduate adrift in Tokyo. Her subtle performance perfectly captures the quiet yearning and existential ennui of a young woman finding her way. The film's magic lies in its understated beauty and the profound, unspoken bond that forms between Charlotte and Bill Murray's Bob Harris. Sofia Coppola's direction is exquisite, creating an atmosphere that is both intimate and expansive. Fun fact: many of the scenes were improvised, lending an incredible authenticity to the interactions. It's a film that resonates deeply with anyone who has ever felt out of place or sought a deeper connection in an unfamiliar world.

Don Jon is a surprisingly sharp and genuinely funny romantic comedy that also serves as Joseph Gordon-Levitt's directorial debut. Scarlett Johansson shines as Barbara Sugarman, a woman who embodies a specific kind of idealized femininity that challenges Jon's preconceived notions of relationships. Her performance is full of nuanced humor and unexpected depth, proving her versatility. The film cleverly explores themes of addiction, modern relationships, and the impact of media on our perceptions of love and intimacy. It's a bold and honest look at contemporary dating, and Johansson's chemistry with Gordon-Levitt is simply fantastic, making their interactions both hilarious and genuinely heartfelt.

Prepare to be absolutely mesmerized by Under the Skin, a film that transcends typical sci-fi to deliver a truly unsettling and thought-provoking experience. Scarlett Johansson delivers an incredibly brave and compelling performance as an alien entity preying on men in Scotland. This film is a masterclass in atmospheric tension and visual storytelling, relying heavily on its haunting score and stunning cinematography rather than dialogue. It's an art house triumph that challenges viewers to look beyond the surface, much like its protagonist. The film's unique production involved many real, unsuspecting people interacting with Johansson, adding an almost documentary-like layer of authenticity to its unsettling premise. It's a film that stays with you long after the credits roll, prompting deep contemplation about humanity, empathy, and perception.