Jenny Slate is an actress, comedian, and writer known for her distinctive voice, sharp comedic timing, and ability to seamlessly transition between comedy and drama. From her early days as a stand-up comedian and “Saturday Night Live” cast member to her starring roles in animated films and critically acclaimed indie movies, Slate has established herself as a versatile performer. This article explores Jenny Slate’s notable movies, showcasing her range and talent in the film industry.
Early Career and Breakthrough Roles
Jenny Slate began her career performing stand-up comedy and improvisation. After gaining some recognition, she joined “Saturday Night Live” (SNL) in 2009, though her tenure lasted only one season. However, this setback didn’t slow her down. She quickly found success in independent films and voice acting, which became pivotal in defining her career.
Her breakthrough came with the 2014 indie film “Obvious Child”, where she played Donna Stern, a struggling comedian navigating an unexpected pregnancy. The film, directed by Gillian Robespierre, was praised for its honest and humorous take on sensitive issues, and Slate’s performance earned widespread critical acclaim. She won the Critics’ Choice Award for Best Actress in a Comedy, cementing her status as a leading actress in independent cinema.
Animated Films: Bringing Characters to Life
Jenny Slate’s unique voice has made her a sought-after talent in animated films. Her most notable contributions include:
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“Zootopia” (2016) – Slate voiced Bellwether, the seemingly meek assistant mayor of Zootopia who turns out to be the mastermind behind a sinister conspiracy. The film was a massive success, grossing over $1 billion worldwide and winning the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature.
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“The Secret Life of Pets” (2016) and its sequel (2019) – She voiced Gidget, a fluffy Pomeranian with a fearless personality. Her comedic performance was a standout in both films, which explored the secret adventures of pets when their owners were away.
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“The Lego Batman Movie” (2017) – Slate took on the role of Harley Quinn, bringing a fun and energetic flair to the character. While she had a small part, her voice work was praised for adding charm to the film’s ensemble cast.
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“Marcel the Shell with Shoes On” (2022) – This stop-motion animated mockumentary featured Slate as the voice of Marcel, a tiny shell with a big personality. Not only did she provide the voice, but she also co-wrote the film with director Dean Fleischer Camp. The heartwarming story was nominated for Best Animated Feature at the Academy Awards.
Comedic and Dramatic Roles in Live-Action Films
Beyond animation, Slate has continued to impress in live-action films, demonstrating her comedic and dramatic depth. Some of her most notable works include:
“Landline” (2017)
Reuniting with director Gillian Robespierre, Slate starred in “Landline,” a coming-of-age dramedy set in 1990s New York. She played Dana, a woman dealing with family secrets and personal insecurities. The film explored themes of infidelity and sisterhood, with Slate delivering a nuanced and heartfelt performance.
“Gifted” (2017)
In this drama, Slate played Bonnie, a kind-hearted teacher who takes an interest in a young math prodigy, Mary, played by Mckenna Grace. The film, starring Chris Evans, focused on the custody battle over the child and showcased Slate’s ability to shine in dramatic roles. Her chemistry with Evans, whom she briefly dated in real life, added another layer of depth to her performance.
“Venom” (2018)
Venturing into the superhero genre, Slate appeared in Sony’s “Venom” alongside Tom Hardy. She played Dr. Dora Skirth, a scientist working for the nefarious Life Foundation. Though her role was relatively small, her presence in a major blockbuster was a significant moment in her career.
“I Want You Back” (2022)
This romantic comedy, co-starring Charlie Day, featured Slate as Emma, a recently dumped woman who teams up with Peter (Day) to sabotage their exes’ new relationships. The film received positive reviews for its fresh take on the rom-com formula, and Slate’s performance was widely praised for her natural comedic timing.
Indie Darling and Acclaimed Performances
Jenny Slate has become known for her work in independent films, where she has consistently delivered critically acclaimed performances. Aside from “Obvious Child,” her standout indie projects include:
“My Blind Brother” (2016)
This dark comedy, co-starring Adam Scott and Nick Kroll, saw Slate playing a woman caught in a love triangle between two brothers—one of whom is blind. The film balanced humor and emotional depth, and Slate’s performance was one of its highlights.
“The Sunlit Night” (2019)
In this romantic drama, Slate played Frances, an aspiring painter who travels to Norway to work with an eccentric artist. The film explored themes of self-discovery and artistic passion, allowing Slate to showcase a more introspective side of her acting.
Future Projects and Continued Success
Jenny Slate continues to take on a variety of roles, balancing mainstream success with indie credibility. She has been attached to upcoming projects in both comedy and drama, and her voice acting career remains strong with potential sequels and new animated features in the works.
Her work in television, including projects like “Big Mouth”, where she voiced Missy until 2020, and her appearances in “Parks and Recreation” as Mona-Lisa Saperstein, further highlight her versatility.
Conclusion
Jenny Slate’s filmography is a testament to her talent and versatility as an actress. From indie darlings to animated hits and major Hollywood productions, she has carved out a unique career path that reflects her diverse skills. Whether she’s voicing a lovable animated character, leading an independent film, or starring in a blockbuster, Slate consistently delivers compelling performances that resonate with audiences.
With her ability to seamlessly blend humor and heart, it’s clear that Jenny Slate’s career will continue to flourish in the years to come.