Jane Fonda is a legendary actress, talented and hardworking woman, who has become famous all over the world. During her acting career that spans over three decades, she has not only garnered an Academy Award and an Emmy but also become a voice of change. Fonda has been a loyal silver screen gem during her early career, and extended her acting to TV, with changing roles showcasing her versatility. Here are some of the best films and television series that Jane Fonda appeared in and, more specifically, the roles that would help turn her into one of the Hollywood legends.
Jane Fonda’s Some Legendary Movies
Jane Fonda’s early years on film illuminated her ascent from an exciting up-and-coming actress to a superstar of the cinema.
Barbarella (1968)
Among the first significant films of Fonda was her role as the leading character of the science fiction movie Barbarella, released in 1968. Fonda’s portrayal of the assertive but sensual protagonist indubitably labeled her as the embodiment of the 1960s free-spirited sexuality and carved her place in pop-culture.
They Shoot Horses, Don’t They? (1969)
Here, in this dark drama based in the period of depression, Fonda was a more raw deal as Gloria Beatty, a lady who continues with a dreadful dance competition to live. She delivered a powerful, passionate performance that led to her nomination for a Best Actress Academy Award for a series of dramatic roles.
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Klute (1971)
It was in this neo-noir thriller that Fonda played a former prostitute turned call-girl – Bree Daniels for which she received her first Academy Award for the Best Actress. Klute was a turning point in her career, because Fonda proved that she was able to play profound and complex parts that revealed her acting talent and intelligence. Consequently, it is considered one of her best performances to this date.
Coming Home (1978)
Her second Oscar award was in the movie Coming Home which she featured as Sally Hyde, a woman whose husband is in the military but becomes involved with a paralyzed veteran of the Vietnam War. The film had highlighted the psychological impact and consequences of war and Fonda’s passion on behalf of veterans due to her advocacy against the Vietnam War in real life.
Julia (1977)
Julia Fonda portrayed Lillian Hellman, a friend of an anti-fascist guerilla in Europe in the pre-World War II period. It focused on themes of friendship, political compromise, and personal integrity aspects; while Fonda’s gentle and intense performance deserved another Oscar nod. This role was consistent with Fonda’s increasing commitment to making films that were socially relevant.
9 to 5 (1980)
Ironically, in this popular TV series Fonda acted alongside Dolly Parton and Lily Tomlin who tried to get revenge on their misogynistic and oppressive employer. Audiences took to the movie’s feminist theme, and Bernly put up Fonda’s comedic prowess in portraying the character Judy Bernly who, despite her timid nature, stands up to her company’s male-dominated structure.
Achievements And Professional Accomplishments
Even though Jane Fonda has acted in many movies, television careers have also helped her restart her career later in her life.
The Newsroom (2012-2014)
Fonda portrayed Leona Lansing, the head of a large media company, in The Newsroom – one of the most successful television dramas written by Aaron Sorkin. Even though her character was minor, Fonda stood out with her authoritative demeanor and proved her capacity to be memorable even if she appears for a brief period only.
Grace and Frankie (2015-Present)
In this Netflix original series, Fonda works alongside Lily Tomlin as they discuss friendship, aging, and second chances. For her portrayal as Grace Hanson, a businesswoman who is strict and unhappy in her personal life after her husband has abandoned her, Fonda received critical acclaim and many award nominations. Grace and Frankie brought Fonda back to television and also introduced her to a new generation of viewers.
Our Souls at Night (2017)
Returning to Netflix again, Fonda was back with Robert Redford for this tale of two elderly widowers who struggle with loneliness until they decide to live together as friends. However, this relatively calm and contemplative picture still provided Fonda with opportunities to once again explore rich emotional experiences in her performance.
Jane Fonda in Five Acts (2018)
This HBO documentary provided viewers with a behind the scenes look at Fonda’s acting, activism, and exercising careers. This documentary helped the viewer understand many changes in Fonda’s life that occurred throughout the years, showing how she evolved as a person and as an actress.
Conclusion
In a long and brilliant career in both movies and television, Jane Fonda demonstrated determination, audacity and dedication to both art and activism. Off the screen, Fonda is a role model for change and has been a force of change not only in the film industry, but in the world. Jane Fonda is one of those rare examples of an actress who not only achieved success by never giving up on her passion and dreams, but also engaged in the activities and projects that are significant in the context of social issues. Follow Flixtor Movies for more!