
Ariana Grande, a name synonymous with powerhouse vocals, catchy pop anthems, and a larger-than-life persona, has not only dominated the music industry but has also made significant strides in the world of cinema. While her primary claim to fame remains her music career, Grande’s foray into acting has been equally noteworthy, albeit less discussed. This article delves into the movies Ariana Grande has been a part of, her acting career, and the broader implications of her multi-faceted talent.
Ariana Grande’s Early Acting Career
Before she became a global pop sensation, Ariana Grande was already making waves in the entertainment industry as an actress. Her first major role was in the Broadway musical 13, where she played the character Charlotte. This role not only showcased her acting chops but also her singing abilities, setting the stage for her future endeavors.
However, it was her role as Cat Valentine in the Nickelodeon series Victorious that truly catapulted her into the limelight. Although Victorious was a television show, it laid the groundwork for Grande’s transition into film. The show’s success led to a spin-off, Sam & Cat, further solidifying her status as a teen idol.
Transition to Film: Swindle and Underdogs
Ariana Grande’s first significant film role came in 2013 with the Nickelodeon TV movie Swindle. In this family-friendly heist film, Grande played the character Amanda Benson, a tech-savvy teenager who helps her friends recover a valuable baseball card. While Swindle was not a blockbuster, it was a stepping stone for Grande, allowing her to explore the nuances of film acting.
Following Swindle, Grande lent her voice to the animated film Underdogs (released in the U.S. in 2015). In this Spanish-Argentine production, Grande voiced the character Laura, a young woman who becomes the love interest of the protagonist. Although the film received mixed reviews, Grande’s involvement added a layer of star power to the project.
Zoolander 2: A Cameo That Made Waves
In 2016, Ariana Grande made a memorable cameo in Zoolander 2, the sequel to the cult classic Zoolander. In the film, Grande played a fictionalized version of herself, attending a fashion event where she is humorously mistaken for a man by Derek Zoolander (played by Ben Stiller). This brief appearance, though not a substantial role, showcased Grande’s comedic timing and her ability to poke fun at herself, endearing her to a broader audience.
The Lego Batman Movie: A Voice Acting Triumph
One of Grande’s most notable film roles came in 2017 with The Lego Batman Movie. In this animated feature, Grande voiced the character of Barbara Gordon, also known as Batgirl. The film was a critical and commercial success, praised for its humor, animation, and voice acting. Grande’s performance as Batgirl was well-received, further cementing her reputation as a versatile artist capable of excelling in both music and acting.
Don’t Look Up: A Star-Studded Affair
In 2021, Ariana Grande took on a more substantial role in the Netflix film Don’t Look Up. Directed by Adam McKay, the film is a satirical take on the global response to climate change, featuring an ensemble cast that includes Leonardo DiCaprio, Jennifer Lawrence, Meryl Streep, and Jonah Hill. Grande played the character Riley Bina, a pop star who becomes involved in the film’s central plot.
Don’t Look Up was a significant departure from Grande’s previous film roles, as it allowed her to showcase her acting skills in a more serious and politically charged context. Her performance was praised for its authenticity and depth, proving that Grande is more than just a pop star—she is a formidable actress capable of holding her own alongside Hollywood’s elite.
The Intersection of Music and Film
Ariana Grande’s film career is intrinsically linked to her music. Many of her film roles have allowed her to incorporate her musical talents, blurring the lines between acting and singing. For instance, in Don’t Look Up, Grande performed the original song “Just Look Up,” which became a viral hit and further highlighted her ability to seamlessly integrate her music into her acting projects.
This intersection of music and film is not unique to Grande, but it is a testament to her versatility as an artist. By leveraging her musical prowess in her film roles, Grande has created a unique niche for herself, one that transcends traditional boundaries and appeals to a diverse audience.
The Future of Ariana Grande’s Film Career
As Ariana Grande continues to evolve as an artist, her film career is likely to follow suit. With each new role, she demonstrates a willingness to take risks and explore different genres, from animated features to satirical comedies. Given her track record, it is not far-fetched to imagine Grande taking on more challenging roles in the future, perhaps even venturing into dramatic or action-oriented films.
Moreover, Grande’s involvement in film projects often generates significant buzz, drawing attention not only from her fan base but also from the broader entertainment industry. This dual appeal makes her a valuable asset to any film project, ensuring that her cinematic journey is far from over.
Conclusion
Ariana Grande’s film career, though not as extensive as her music career, is a testament to her versatility and talent as an artist. From her early days on Broadway to her recent role in Don’t Look Up, Grande has consistently proven that she is more than just a pop star—she is a multi-faceted entertainer capable of excelling in various mediums. As she continues to explore new opportunities in the world of cinema, there is no doubt that Ariana Grande will leave an indelible mark on the film industry, just as she has on the music world.
Related Q&A
Q: What was Ariana Grande’s first major film role? A: Ariana Grande’s first major film role was in the 2013 Nickelodeon TV movie Swindle, where she played the character Amanda Benson.
Q: In which animated film did Ariana Grande voice Batgirl? A: Ariana Grande voiced Batgirl in the 2017 animated film The Lego Batman Movie.
Q: What role did Ariana Grande play in Don’t Look Up? A: In Don’t Look Up, Ariana Grande played the character Riley Bina, a pop star who becomes involved in the film’s central plot.
Q: Has Ariana Grande won any awards for her acting? A: While Ariana Grande has primarily been recognized for her music, her role in Don’t Look Up received critical acclaim, though she has not yet won any major acting awards.
Q: Will Ariana Grande continue to act in films? A: Given her success and versatility, it is highly likely that Ariana Grande will continue to take on film roles, potentially exploring more diverse genres in the future.