Olivia Cooke’s career in film and television exemplifies a remarkable ascent in the entertainment industry, marked by numerous critically acclaimed projects. Born in 1993 in the UK, Cooke gained prominence for her stellar performance as Alicent Hightower in HBO’s House of the Dragon. Her impressive repertoire also includes notable appearances in Bates Motel, Sound of Metal, and Me and Earl and the Dying Girl.
Cooke’s journey in on-screen storytelling began in earnest in 2012 with a role in BBC miniseries such as Blackout and The Secret of Crickley Hall. However, it was her role in the 2014 horror film The Quiet Ones that laid the groundwork for her career. Shortly after, she achieved breakout success as Emma Decody in the critically acclaimed series Bates Motel, which propelled her career forward and introduced her talents to a wider audience.
10 Ouija (2014)
Olivia Cooke as Laine
One of the standout films from Cooke’s early career is Ouija, where she portrays Laine Morris. While not her highest-rated work, this film allowed her to shine early on. Even though the film received mixed reviews, its commercial success was notable, grossing over $100 million against a mere $5 million budget.
9 Fireheart (2022)
Olivia Cooke as Georgia Nolan
A hidden gem in Cooke’s filmography is the animated feature Fireheart. This 2022 film tells the inspiring story of a young girl, voiced by Cooke, aspiring to be the first female firefighter. Despite a lack of widespread recognition, the film’s positive reception highlights Cooke’s ability to convey emotion through voice acting.
8 Vanity Fair (2018)
Olivia Cooke as Becky Sharp
In the 2018 miniseries Vanity Fair, adapted from William Makepeace Thackeray’s 1848 novel, Cooke portrays the cunning Becky Sharp. Her skillful depiction of a young woman navigating 19th-century London society proved her range as an actress, complementing her future work in House of the Dragon. The show maintains a respectable 89% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
7 Ready Player One (2018)
Olivia Cooke as Samantha Cook/Art3mis
Ready Player One, directed by Steven Spielberg, marked Cooke’s first major foray into blockbuster cinema. The film, set in a dystopian future dominated by a virtual reality universe, features Cooke as Art3mis, a skilled online gamer fighting against corporate control. Although not groundbreaking for Spielberg, her performance garnered critical acclaim and further elevated her profile.
6 Little Fish (2021)
Olivia Cooke as Emma Ryerson
In the emotional sci-fi drama Little Fish, Cooke takes on the role of Emma, a woman facing a memory-erasing virus. The film has been well-received, boasting a 91% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Cooke’s chemistry with co-star Jack O’Connell drives the narrative and makes for a profound exploration of love amidst tragedy.
5 Bates Motel (2013-2017)
Olivia Cooke as Emma Decody
Cementing her status in television, Cooke’s role as Emma Decody in Bates Motel paved the way for her future successes. This prequel to the classic film Psych explores the complex relationship between Norman Bates and his mother, showcasing Cooke’s compelling performance over five seasons.
4 Me and Earl and the Dying Girl (2015)
Olivia Cooke as Rachel Kushner
Regarded as a high point in her career, Me and Earl and the Dying Girl highlights Cooke’s emotional range as Rachel, a girl battling leukemia. Garnering several accolades, the film received an impressive 81% on Rotten Tomatoes. Her heartfelt portrayal left audiences profoundly moved.
3 Thoroughbreds (2018)
Olivia Cooke as Amanda
In the dark comedy Thoroughbreds, Cooke stars alongside Anya Taylor-Joy, showcasing their compelling performances as two friends plotting a crime. The film’s unique blend of comedy and tension garnered critical praise, with a high rating of 87% on Rotten Tomatoes. Cooke’s portrayal of the emotionally distant Amanda stands out as a career highlight.
2 Sound of Metal (2019)
Olivia Cooke as Lou Berger
Sound of Metal is widely regarded as Cooke’s most critically acclaimed film, boasting a remarkable 97% on Rotten Tomatoes and numerous award nominations. Focusing on the struggles of a drummer dealing with hearing loss, Cooke’s character, Lou, adds emotional depth to a powerful narrative, marked by her authenticity in portraying both her character’s pain and her relationship with Ruben.
1 House of the Dragon (2022-Present)
Olivia Cooke as Alicent Hightower
Currently, House of the Dragon represents the pinnacle of Cooke’s career. Her portrayal of Queen Alicent Hightower in this Game of Thrones prequel is rapidly establishing her as a household name. Set against the backdrop of the destructive Targaryen civil war, Cooke’s performance highlights her talent, ensuring Alicent remains a memorable character within the dynamic narrative of the series.
This ongoing role could define Cooke’s legacy, contributing significantly to her stature in Hollywood upon the show’s conclusion.
Leave a Reply