Ella Purnell, a name that may not have been as widely recognized a decade ago, has gradually become synonymous with various captivating roles in both television and film. Whether it’s her portrayals in fantasy epics or gritty dramas, Purnell’s performances have consistently showcased her range and talent. This article will explore some of the best Ella Purnell movies, examining how she has shaped her career and why she is considered one of the most promising actresses of her generation.
Who is Ella Purnell?
Before diving into the specifics of her movie career, let’s take a moment to understand who Ella Purnell is and what makes her so captivating on screen. Born 17 September 1996 in London, England, Ella started her acting career very young. She quickly garnered attention with her striking beauty, innate acting talent, and ability to portray deep, multifaceted characters.
She made her film debut at just 14 years old in the 2010 film Never Let Me Go, but it wasn’t long before she started landing roles that would elevate her career. Ella’s ability to seamlessly blend into different genres—whether it be a historical drama, a coming-of-age story, or a fantasy adventure—has made her a sought-after talent in Hollywood and beyond.
This article will examine Ella Purnell’s movies that have shaped her career and solidified her status as a versatile and highly skilled actress.
The Early Years: Ella Purnell’s Breakthrough Roles
Ella Purnell’s movie career began with a significant role in Never Let Me Go (2010), a film based on Kazuo Ishiguro’s novel of the same name. While she was still a teenager, Purnell’s portrayal of young Kathy H. was emotionally charged and nuanced, providing a glimpse into her promising future in the film industry.
In addition to her role in Never Let Me Go, she starred in Kick-Ass 2 (2013), a sequel to the popular action film Kick-Ass. In this movie, she played the character of “Terry,” a member of the criminal gang known as “The Toxic Mega-Cunts.” Though her role was smaller than that of some other characters, it served as another stepping stone in her rise within Hollywood.
Exploring Ella Purnell Movies: Her Diverse Roles
As she grew in stature and experience, Ella began to take on more complex and varied roles. From playing a young girl in a dystopian future to a fierce and independent protagonist, her versatility has become a hallmark of her career.
Maleficent: Mistress of Evil (2019)
One of the most high-profile films Ella Purnell has starred in is Maleficent: Mistress of Evil (2019). In this Disney sequel to Maleficent (2014), she played the role of “Young Aurora,” the daughter of King Stefan, portrayed by Sharlto Copley in the first film. While her role in the movie is relatively small, Purnell’s performance stands out for its grace and charm.
The movie, directed by Joachim Rønning, follows the continuing saga of the powerful fairy Maleficent and her complex relationship with Princess Aurora. Ella’s portrayal of the younger Aurora fits seamlessly into the story, helping build emotional connections between the audience and the characters. Her performance proved she could hold her own alongside A-list stars like Angelina Jolie and Elle Fanning.
Army of the Dead (2021)
Ella Purnell’s role in Army of the Dead (2021), directed by Zack Snyder, marked a sharp departure from the fantasy world of Maleficent. In this action-packed zombie heist film, Ella plays Kate Ward, the daughter of the main character, Scott Ward (played by Dave Bautista).
Set in a zombie-infested Las Vegas, Army of the Dead is a thrilling mix of horror, action, and dark humor. Purnell’s character, Kate, is driven by a deep sense of responsibility to save people from the horrors of the apocalypse. Despite the chaotic setting, Ella brings depth to her character, portraying a young woman caught amid a world gone mad. Army of the Dead was another successful project for Purnell, showcasing her ability to navigate action-packed, intense roles.
Sweetbitter (2018)
Before her major roles in big-budget films, Ella Purnell starred in the critically acclaimed TV series Sweetbitter (2018), based on Stephanie Danler’s novel. In this drama, Purnell plays Tess, a young woman who moves to New York City and starts working at an upscale restaurant. As she learns the ropes of the fast-paced industry, she discovers a world of complicated relationships, power struggles, and personal growth.
Sweetbitter allowed Purnell to show her acting range in a more intimate and grounded setting, far removed from the fantastical or action-heavy movies she would later become known for. The series was well-received by critics for its portrayal of life in the restaurant industry, and Ella’s performance was especially praised for its authenticity and emotional depth.
The Evolution of Ella Purnell: A Look at Her More Recent Movies
Ella Purnell’s filmography is not limited to action-packed thrillers or period dramas. She has continued to explore various genres, from science fiction to historical films, while consistently delivering standout performances. Here’s a look at some of her more recent works.
The Last Thing He Wanted (2020)
In the political thriller The Last Thing He Wanted (2020), directed by Dee Rees, Ella Purnell plays a supporting role in a star-studded cast that includes Anne Hathaway, Willem Dafoe, and Ben Affleck. Based on Joan Didion’s novel of the same name, the film tells the story of a journalist who became entangled in a covert arms deal during the 1980s.
Purnell plays Terry, a young woman caught in the unraveling events. Although the film did not garner widespread praise, Ella’s performance was noted for its subtlety and ability to shine in a relatively small but pivotal role.
Yellowjackets (2021–Present)
One of the most exciting projects in Ella Purnell’s career is her role in the hit Showtime series Yellowjackets (2021–present). In this psychological drama, Ella plays Jackie Taylor, a popular high school athlete who becomes part of a girls’ soccer team stranded in the wilderness after a plane crash. As the show delves deeper into the psychological effects of their isolation, Ella’s portrayal of Jackie has captivated audiences.
Jackie’s character is complex and multi-dimensional. As the series evolves, Ella’s portrayal of the character grows more intricate, exploring themes of survival, friendship, and loss. Yellowjackets has earned praise for its talented cast and intense narrative, with Ella Purnell’s performance as one of the highlights.
What Makes Ella Purnell Stand Out?
Ella Purnell has proven herself to be a versatile and highly skilled actress over the years. While many of her contemporaries have succeeded in just one genre, Purnell’s ability to excel in various roles sets her apart. She has a rare combination of youth, talent, and dedication, which has allowed her to create a diverse body of work.
Some of the standout qualities that make Ella Purnell movies so memorable include:
- Emotional Range: Whether in a fast-paced thriller or a slow-burning drama, Purnell can easily switch between different emotional tones.
- Adaptability: From playing strong-willed young women in action films to portraying vulnerable characters in dramas, she proves her ability to take on any role.
- Screen Presence: Even in ensemble casts, Purnell’s performances draw the audience’s attention. Her natural charisma makes her stand out in almost every scene.
Conclusion: The Future of Ella Purnell Movies
Ella Purnell’s career is only beginning, and she has already achieved so much quickly. Whether starring in major blockbusters like Maleficent: Mistress of Evil or taking on more nuanced and intimate roles in projects like Sweetbitter or Yellowjackets, she continues to captivate audiences with her compelling performances.
As she continues to expand her repertoire, it’s clear that Ella Purnell’s movies will remain a staple in the film industry. With a promising future ahead of her, there’s no telling what kind of roles she’ll take on next, but one thing is for sure: we can expect Ella Purnell to keep impressing us with her remarkable talent for years to come.
Table: Ella Purnell Movies at a Glance
YearMovie TitleRoleGenre
2010 Never Let Me Go Young Kathy H. Drama, Sci-Fi
2013 Kick-Ass 2 Terry Action, Comedy
2019 Maleficent: Mistress of Evil Young Aurora Fantasy, Adventure
2021 Army of the Dead Kate Ward Action, Horror
2020 The Last Thing He Wanted Terry Thriller, Drama
2021+ Yellowjackets (TV series) Jackie Taylor Drama, Thriller
Ella Purnell continues to shine in every role she takes on, and her films will surely remain a source of inspiration and entertainment for audiences worldwide.
