Top 10 Coolest Things About Angelina Jolie

Angelina Jolie’s career stretches from intense dramas to blockbuster franchises, and she has also built a substantial body of work behind the camera and in global humanitarian efforts. Below are ten standout highlights—starting with projects on screen, then moving into accomplishments that shaped her impact beyond film. Each item focuses on concrete details fans and newcomers alike will find genuinely useful.

‘Girl, Interrupted’ (1999) – Oscar-winning breakout performance

Columbia Pictures

Jolie won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her portrayal of Lisa Rowe in this psychological drama. Her performance was widely cited by critics for its ferocity and precision, bringing layered depth to a character balancing charisma with volatility. The role cemented her status as a major dramatic talent in Hollywood.

‘Gia’ (1998) – Awards-laden HBO biopic role

HBO Films

This HBO biographical film cast Jolie as supermodel Gia Carangi, a performance that earned major television honors including a Golden Globe and a Screen Actors Guild Award. The role showcased her ability to anchor a full-length character study with emotional range. It remains a reference point for her early breakthrough on screen.

‘Lara Croft: Tomb Raider’ (2001) – Action-star transformation through intensive training

Paramount Pictures

Taking on the video-game icon, Jolie trained extensively in weapons handling, martial arts, and accent work to embody Lara Croft. The film’s global success turned her into an international action star and expanded her audience far beyond drama fans. It also established a template for her later action roles with strong, physical leads.

‘Mr. & Mrs. Smith’ (2005) – High-concept action-comedy box-office hit

Regency Enterprises

In this action-comedy, Jolie teamed with Brad Pitt to play rival assassins in a marriage-meets-mayhem premise. The film was a major commercial hit, mixing large-scale set pieces with sharp banter. Its success reinforced her bankability in high-concept studio projects.

‘Changeling’ (2008) – Critically praised collaboration with Clint Eastwood

Universal Pictures

Directed by Clint Eastwood, this period drama featured Jolie as a mother seeking justice after her son’s disappearance. The film drew widespread praise for its meticulous production values and earned her nominations from major awards bodies. It highlighted her strength in grounded, character-driven storytelling.

‘Maleficent’ (2014) – Reimagining Disney’s iconic villain as a sympathetic lead

Walt Disney Pictures

Jolie led Disney’s live-action reimagining of its famous villain, reframing the character with a sympathetic origin and a protective relationship at the story’s core. The film’s strong box-office performance led to a sequel and renewed interest in fairy-tale retellings centered on complex antagonists. Her performance became a signature role for a new generation of viewers.

‘Kung Fu Panda’ (2008–2016) – Defining voice role as Master Tigress in a global franchise

DreamWorks Animation

As the voice of Master Tigress, Jolie joined an ensemble that helped turn this animated franchise into a worldwide favorite. Voice work required precise vocal control to convey discipline, humor, and team dynamics across multiple films and specials. The series broadened her portfolio into family entertainment that travels well across languages and cultures.

Acclaimed Director and Producer

THR

Beyond acting, Jolie has directed and produced features spanning war drama, survival biography, and intimate relationship stories. Her directing credits include ‘In the Land of Blood and Honey’, ‘Unbroken’, ‘By the Sea’, and ‘First They Killed My Father’. These projects reflect a focus on human rights, resilience, and nuanced personal conflicts, often shot on location with international casts and crews.

Humanitarian Leadership with UNHCR

UNHCR

Jolie has worked for years with the UN Refugee Agency, initially as a Goodwill Ambassador and later as a Special Envoy. She has conducted field missions, briefed policymakers, and advocated for protection frameworks for displaced people. Her efforts include support for refugee education, legal assistance, and community-based programs in regions affected by conflict.

Global Influence Beyond Film

Michael Gross (DOS)

Jolie holds a pilot’s license and has flown small aircraft, an example of her long-standing interest in aviation and hands-on training. She was granted Cambodian citizenship in recognition of conservation and community work connected to her foundation. She has also written widely read op-eds on health and co-authored a book on children’s rights, helping to translate complex issues into accessible guidance for families.

What other on-screen moments or achievements would you add—drop your picks in the comments!