Julia Louis-Dreyfus is not just a renowned comedic talent but also a passionate cinephile whose taste in films runs deep and emotional. In a revealing conversation, she shared some of the movies that resonate with her, showcasing her appreciation for storytelling that stirs the heart and soul.
Her journey in the entertainment industry began at the iconic Second City, where she made a name for herself at just 21 years old. This remarkable performance led her to join the cast of “Saturday Night Live,” where she shone between 1982 and 1985. It was during this period that she formed a lasting friendship with writer Larry David. A few years later, David, alongside Jerry Seinfeld, brought “Seinfeld” to life, and Louis-Dreyfus landed the role of Elaine—one that would etch her into comedy history. The show, which ran for nine seasons and produced 180 episodes, earned her a slew of accolades, including seven Emmy nominations and one win. Additionally, she won another Emmy for her role in “The New Adventures of Old Christine” and a remarkable total of nine Emmys for her work on “Veep.”
In 2020, the acclaimed platform Rotten Tomatoes reached out to her to discuss her top five films—all of which are emotionally charged classics. These selections include a heart-wrenching World War II narrative, a poignant love story, a well-regarded sports film, a tragic tale set in a psychiatric facility, and the universally beloved “The Wizard of Oz.”
Let’s start with “The Wizard of Oz,” a film that holds a special place in Louis-Dreyfus’s heart. She mentioned that she revisits this classic every few years, though the exact moment of her first viewing eludes her memory. Louis-Dreyfus describes the film as “part of my brain” and talks fondly about Bert Lahr’s portrayal of the Cowardly Lion, particularly the scene where he bravely attempts to confront the Wicked Witch, only to seek reassurance from his companions. This blend of courage and comedic timing makes it a timeless favorite. The film earned several Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture.
Next, we have “Life is Beautiful,” directed by Roberto Benigni. Louis-Dreyfus highlights the film’s unique mix of drama and comedy, stating it is skillfully crafted and incredibly moving. The story follows a father who, after being captured by Nazis and placed in a concentration camp with his son, turns the horrific reality into a game to preserve his child’s innocence. The film also received multiple Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture.
Another title in her cherished collection is the Merchant-Ivory adaptation “A Room with a View.” This romantic tale set in 1907 England features a young woman who embarks on a journey of love and self-discovery. Louis-Dreyfus calls it the most romantic film of all time, confessing that it brings her to tears every time she watches it. Notably, she even drew inspiration from Helena Bonham Carter’s hairstyle for her own character on “Seinfeld.” Like the others, this film also received several Academy Award nominations, showcasing its significant impact.
Unexpectedly, Louis-Dreyfus cites “Hoosiers,” a sports drama directed by David Anspaugh, as one of her favorites. She explains that while it centers around an underdog basketball team, the film transcends sports and focuses on themes of resilience and teamwork. As a basketball fan, she was captivated by the narrative even before her love for the sport blossomed. The performances of Gene Hackman and Dennis Hopper are particularly commendable in bringing authenticity to the film, despite it not receiving any Academy Award nominations.
Lastly, there’s “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest,” a poignant drama directed by Miloš Forman, based on Ken Kesey’s novel. Louis-Dreyfus describes it as an exploration of social injustice, focusing on the experiences of those marginalized by society. With Jack Nicholson in the lead role, the film is a powerful commentary on oppression within a mental health facility. It garnered acclaim, winning five Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Actor, and Best Actress, solidifying its legacy as one of the defining films of the 1970s.
This curated list not only reflects Julia Louis-Dreyfus’s diverse taste in cinema but also her ability to connect with the emotional weight these films carry. Each offering showcases her understanding and appreciation of impactful storytelling that resonates with audiences across generations.
