10 Best Rosamund Pike Movies, Ranked According to Rotten Tomatoes

Oscar nominee and Golden Globe Award-winning sensation Rosamund Pike is one of Hollywood’s most sought-after actresses. Over the course of her career, Pike has gracefully exhibited her talent as a wide-ranging artist. Pike’s first on-screen credits involved a myriad of British period dramas — A Rather English Marriage (1998), BBC’s Wives and Daughters (1999), and BBC’s serial drama Love in a Cold Climate (2001).

Her big break into Hollywood arrived when she played the double-crossing MI6 agent Miranda Frost alongside Pierce Brosnan in the twentieth James Bond film, 2002’s Die Another Day. From there, the English actress nabbed feature roles in several pictures, slowly climbing the ladder to success. Her resumé includes many acclaimed films, many of which have received high ratings in the review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes.

10 ‘Barney’s Version’ (2010)

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 77%

Barney’s Version is a comedy-drama that follows the ending chapters from the life of Barney Panofsy (Paul Giamatti), a Canadian soap opera producer reflecting on his life. Directed by Richard J. Lewis, the Canadian film is based on the novel of the same name by Mordecai Richler and was written as a fictional autobiography. With Hollywood stars from Minnie Driver to Dustin Hoffman, the picture explores the complexities of modern romance.

Pike plays Miriam Grant, Barney’s third wife and main romantic interest. The actress blends right into the light-hearted attitude of her character’s spirit as Miriam ages throughout the story from her late 20s to her 30s. Barney’s Version is among Paul Giamatti’s best movies, chronicling the trials and victories of life, especially with love and family, keeping audiences fascinated, concerned, and emotionally invested.

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9 ‘I Care a Lot’ (2020)

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 78%

Marla Grayson, court-appointed guardian and con woman, makes a living selling the assets of helpless elderly people. Things take an unexpected turn when she tries to swindle the mother of a dangerous mafia boss. Netflix’s I Care a Lot is a black comedy thriller featuring Pike in the leading role and with an impressive supporting cast, including Peter Dinklage and Dianne Wiest.

I Care a Lot is among the best satirical movies in recent memory. Written and directed by J Blakeson, fans worldwide were hooked by Pike’s alarmingly wicked role, portraying a ruthless woman who reminds audiences that evil people take advantage of others to gain the upper hand in life. I Care a Lot features one of Pike’s best performances, earning her a Golden Globe and rave reviews from critics and audiences.

8 ‘Made in Dagenham’ (2010)

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 83%

A British comedy from 2010, Made in Dagenham has a firm foundation in true history with its inspiring tale of oppression and resistance in late 60s England. Despite being professionals in the specialized and demanding field of sewing upholstery for car seats, the women workers of Ford Motor Co. in Dagenham face rampant misogyny in the workplace, especially in regard to pay. However, things begin to change after Rita O’Grady (Sally Hawkins) meets with a sympathetic union worker and begins organizing protests.

The film boasts an impressive cast and, smartly, employs razor-sharp wit and social satire as a source of its laughs more so than reverting to stereotypes or easy gags. Pike is predictably brilliant as Lisa Hopkins, a strikingly intelligent woman who graduated from Cambridge University and becomes a pivotal member of O’Grady’s movement.

7 ‘Beirut’ (2018)

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 82%

Also known as ‘The Negotiator’, Beirut hit screens in 2018 as an entrancing political thriller that saw Jon Hamm and Rosamund Pike co-star. Written by Tony Gilroy (who also wrote The Bourne Identity films), it follows a retired diplomat whose family was murdered in an attack ten years prior. Now an alcoholic, he returns to the fold as a negotiator to help secure a peaceful exchange of an old friend, a deal made complicated by the fact that he is engaging with the group that killed his family.

While general audiences were lukewarm on the film, as evinced by its middling 57% audience approval score, critics were more approving, praising its technically solid story, its exciting action, and the performances of its impressive cast. Pike particularly stands out as the CIA field officer Sarah Crowder, a driven and determined operative who fast becomes Skiles’ (Hamm) greatest ally.

6 ‘A United Kingdom’ (2016)

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 83%

A United Kingdom is based on the true story of the lives of Seretse Khama (David Oyelowo), prince to the throne of the Bangwato Tribe, and his wife, Ruth Williams. The film explores the romantic yet controversial couple’s marriage, which triggers turmoil between the National Party in South Africa and the British government. Amma Asante directs, with the film featuring the beautiful landscapes of Botswana and London.

Brimming with themes of racial discrimination, imperialism, and the struggle for independence, A United Kingdom is a period piece made for the modern age. Pike elegantly plays Ruth Williams, and her heart-warming portrayal is more than a genuine nod to her character’s real-life personality. The picture will always remain timely for representing the small and large struggles of interracial relationships that millions of couples face today.

Rent on Amazon

5 ‘Pride & Prejudice’ (2005)

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 87%

Director Joe Wright‘s feature debut, Pride & Prejudice, is a romantic film adaptation of Jane Austen’s beloved classic. Starring an ensemble cast led by Keira Knightley as Elizabeth Bennet, the film chronicles the romance between Lizzie and the proud Mr. Darcy, played by Matthew Macfadyen. Rosamund Pike plays Elizabeth’s older sister, Jane Bennet, one of the best Jane Austen heroines in cinema.

Pike’s gentle and introverted portrayal of Jane is unforgettable and earnest. As the eldest daughter, the pressure of marriage is always stressful; however, her worries wash away when she falls for the wealthy Charles Bingley (Simon Woods), and their sweet, natural chemistry blooms with grace, sincerity, and elegance. Pride & Prejudice has become a modern classic, and Pike’s performance as the gentle Jane remains among her most celebrated portrayals.

4 ‘Gone Girl’ (2014)

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 87%

Rosamund Pike spooked the world with her Oscar-nominated performance in David Fincher’s psychological thriller Gone Girl. Based on Gillian Flynn‘s eponymous 2012 novel, the film tells the story of former New York columnist Nick Dunne (Ben Affleck), whose wife Amy has gone missing. The sudden disappearance causes a media frenzy, and the police start to question the husband’s lack of empathy. When Nick becomes the prime suspect, he begins uncovering dangerous truths behind the mysterious disappearance.

The postmodern mystery drama is chilling to its core. The narrative is gripping from its initial mind-bending exposition paired with an unforgettable, shivery score that underlines Amy’s disturbingly aloof mood. Pike studied Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy‘s body language and lifestyle for inspiration in her character’s manipulative hold on her marriage, the media, and the audience. Scattered with abrupt bursts of violence, Gone Girl was positively praised for its stylish direction and dark visual style.

3 ‘A Private War’ (2018)

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 88%

Fearless American journalist Marie Colvin, working for The Sunday Times, sets off on one of her most dangerous assignments yet — giving voice to the voiceless in the embattled Syrian city of Homs. Based on Colvin’s real life, A Private War received massive critical acclaim for its immersive storytelling and Pike’s career-best performance. The actress stars alongside Jamie Dornan, Tom Hollander, and Stanley Tucci.

Marie Colvin was one of the most celebrated war correspondents of her time and has since been globally recognized for her passionate drive and extensive coverage on the frontlines. Under Matthew Heineman‘s direction, Pike seamlessly takes over the challenging role and commands the screen in every thrilling circumstance. A Private War is among the best war movies in recent memory, showcasing how ambitious an actress Pike truly is.

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2 ‘The World’s End’ (2013)

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 89%

Somewhat disregarded among the hilarious ‘Cornetto Trilogy’ of Edgar Wright, Simon Pegg, and Nick Frost, The World’s End is an underrated comedy that utilizes the director’s trademark stylistic intensity and a dazzling ensemble cast. It follows five old high school friends as they embark on a reluctant pub crawl at the behest of one of their own. However, the night of partying takes a drastic turn when they learn everyone in their childhood town has been overtaken by an alien race.

A brilliant and exhilarating meshing of sci-fi, comedy, action, and even horror, The World’s End won over critics with its impressive juggling act, its raucous gags, and its occasional beats of poignant emotional depth. While only a supporting part, Pike plays an integral role and is given plenty of leeway to showcase her comedic prowess in a comedy film that was widely celebrated.

1 ‘An Education’ (2009)

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 93%

An Education is a coming-of-age story set in 1960s London. It follows Jenny Mellor, a high school student who finds herself falling madly in love with a rich playboy twice her age. Starring Carey Mulligan and Peter Sarsgaard, the romantic drama is based on the memoir by British journalist Lynn Barber. Rosamund Pike appears as Helen, a somewhat ditzy but kind woman who becomes Jenny’s friend.

Under the guidance of Danish director Lone Scherig, Pike plays the dimwitted Helen with enough honesty to save the character from ridicule. The small but pivotal role allows Pike the opportunity to showcase her humorous side, with the actress nearly stealing every scene she’s in. An Education may not relate to every teen girl, but Mulligan’s stunning performance gives the story an original spark worth watching twice over.

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