Russian Dollstar Natasha Lyonnemade headlines recently with her new role as Charlie Cale in Peacok’sPoker Face. Created byGlass Oniondirector Rian Johnson, New York-born Lyonne brings her talent for comedy and authenticity to the small screen once again. She is easily one of the most talented actresses in modern cinema. She’s been in the business since the ‘80s with a resume that spans everything from starring roles to bit parts and romantic comedies to dramatic independent films. Lyonne’s talents Her greatest hits includeAmerican Pie,Orange is the New Black, andRussian Doll.
It’s easy to point out an actor’s most popular films. Everybody remembers heavily marketed blockbusters. However, an actor’s best roles are often overlooked or buried behind smash hits. In a time when superheroes grace the big and small screen three or more times a year, it’s easy to miss a standout role or two. Lyonne has more than a few hidden gems that warrant a re-watch.
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The Intervention
Lyonne took on the role of Sarah, opposite writer and director Clea Duvall, inThe Intervention. This would be their second outing as a couple since 1999’sBut I’m A Cheerleader. The two play one of three couples on a weekend getaway looking to stage an intervention for their bickering friends. It’s an endearing andromantic story that deconstructseach relationship as the planned intervention is repeatedly thwarted.The Interventionmarks Duvall’s debut behind the camera as a director.
Duvall casting Lyonne as her onscreen girlfriend worked out beautifully as their friendship enhanced the authenticity between the two as a couple. Natasha’s versatility as an actor shined through in this role with her relatable demeanor that emphasized the emotional range she’s capable of achieving.
But I’m A Cheerleader
1999 put Natasha Lyonne and Clea Duvall in the romantic comedyBut I’m a Cheerleaderwhere Lyonne gave a stellar performance as a naive teenager who learns to be true to herself. When friends and family suspect Megan (Lyonne) of being a lesbian, they ship her to a conversion therapy camp where she befriends a kindred spirit (Duvall).But I’m a Cheerleaderwas director Jamie Babbit’s first film, who Lyonne eventuallyteamed up with again onRussian Doll.
Lyonne’s portrayal of Megan Bloomfield was nothing short of spectacular. She captured the character’s confusion, frustration, and ultimately the awakening and acceptance of her true self masterfully. Furthermore, Natasha added an element of levity with her delivery of the film’s witty and often absurd dialogue. If nothing else, this showed how far her acting chops could reach and helped Lyonne solidify her place in the industry.
Sleeping With Other People
Sometimes a versatile actor like Natasha Lyonne takes on smaller roles the results are just as good as a lead role. Lyonne stars alongside fan favorites Alison Brie fromCommunityandJason Sudeikis ofTed Lassoin this romantic comedy about two former lovers trying to keep their relationship platonic after a happenstance encounter over a decade later. Lyonne plays Kara, Lainey’s (Brie) friend, and convinces theCommunityalum to sleep with other people. All the while, Sudeikis’ Jake falls head over heels for his co-star.
ThePoker Facestar is no stranger to small bit parts or best friend roles with sage advice and a witty tongue. Most audiencesrecognize Lyonne fromAmerican Pieand know her for such roles. Her comedic delivery inSleeping With Other Peoplestands out, making audiences beg for more screen time. It might be a smaller role for somebody of her caliber, but it’s a good one.
Slums Of Beverly Hills
Working alongsideexperienced actors such as Marisa Tomeiand Alan Arkin can be intimidating. Natasha Lyonne didn’t let that phase her in the 1998 cult classicSlums of Beverly Hills, a film about family, adolescence, and poverty. The movie follows the Abramowitz family as they struggle financially and live like nomads in America’s poshest city. Lyonne stole the show as Vivian Abramowitz, a teenage girl stuck navigating the ups and downs of adolescence in a motherless family during the ‘70s. That is until her cousin Rita (Tomei) arrives.
Lyonne showed audiences her talent for drama and comedy by going toe-to-toe with everyone she shared a scene. Her future in the business was cemented with comedic timing that rivaled seasoned comedians. Furthermore, her ability to portray the full spectrum of emotions would eventually go on to earn multiple award nominations and land roles that continue to live on in the hearts and minds of fans.
Big Mouth
Lyonne’s versatility knows no bounds as she easily transitions between big Hollywood movies and small screen hits. InNick Kroll’s animated sitcom about growing upin suburban New York, Lyonne plays Suzette, a personified pillow that comforts the character Jay Bilzerian in their times of need–so to speak. Actors aren’t confined to one role in animated shows. That’s the beauty. This allowed Lyonne to cameo as the animated version of herRussian Dollcharacter Nadia Vulvokov in season 4, episode 9, “Horrority House.”
The nature ofBig Mouthallows Natasha to be as crass and vulgar as herAmerican Piecharacter. Her distinctive voice lends to the animation style while simultaneously bringing her character to life. She only appears in a couple episodes each season, but each appearance brings unique energy to the episode and is truly one of her unsung roles.
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