Scarlett Johansson’s 2010s: From Indie Gems to Blockbuster Glory

Scarlett Johansson’s career in the 2010s was nothing short of a whirlwind, with the actor taking on a mix of big-budget franchises and smaller, critically lauded projects. After making waves with her breakout in Lost in Translation, Johansson’s choices throughout the decade cemented her as one of the most versatile and bankable stars in the business.

Superheroes, Sci-Fi, and the MCU

Johansson’s first foray into the Marvel universe came with Iron Man 2 (2010), where she debuted as Natasha Romanoff, better known as Black Widow. While her role was relatively minor at first, it set the stage for her to become a key player in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The film itself followed Tony Stark as he juggled government pressure and his own health issues, with Johansson’s undercover agent adding a new dynamic to the mix.

Her presence grew in The Avengers (2012), where she joined a team of superheroes to take on Loki and his plans for world domination. The film was a massive hit, joining the billion-dollar club and giving Johansson’s career another boost. She continued to appear as Black Widow in Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014) and Avengers: Infinity War (2018), each time bringing more depth and grit to the character. In Winter Soldier, she teamed up with Steve Rogers to uncover a conspiracy within S.H.I.E.L.D., while in Infinity War, she fought alongside the Avengers to stop Thanos.

Indie Standouts and Voice Work

Johansson didn’t just stick to action-packed blockbusters. In 2013, she starred in Don Jon, playing Barbara, a confident woman who challenges her boyfriend’s views on relationships. The film, directed by Joseph Gordon-Levitt, offered a satirical look at modern romance and expectations.

That same year, she took on a unique role in Under the Skin, portraying an alien in human form who preys on men in Scotland. With minimal dialogue, Johansson delivered a haunting performance that left a lasting impression. She also lent her voice to the AI Samantha in Her, a film that explored love and technology in a near-future world. Despite never appearing on screen, her nuanced voice work was widely praised.

In Isle of Dogs (2018), Johansson voiced Nutmeg, a show dog helping a young boy navigate a dystopian Japan. The stop-motion animation, directed by Wes Anderson, was another chance for her to show off her range.

Drama, Comedy, and Critical Acclaim

Johansson’s versatility shone in We Bought a Zoo (2011), where she played Kelly Foster, a zookeeper helping a widower and his family start anew. The film was a warm, family-friendly drama that resonated with audiences.

She also appeared in Chef (2014) as Molly, a charismatic hostess who supports the main character’s journey to rediscover his passion for cooking. Though her role was brief, she added a touch of warmth and humour to the film.

In Lucy (2014), Johansson took on the title role, playing a woman who gains extraordinary abilities after being exposed to an experimental drug. The film blended action and philosophical themes, with Johansson’s performance at its core.

Oscar Nods and Unforgettable Performances

The end of the decade saw Johansson deliver two of her most acclaimed performances. In Marriage Story (2019), she starred opposite Adam Driver as a woman navigating a difficult divorce. The raw, emotional drama earned her an Oscar nomination for Best Actress.

That same year, she played Rosie in Jojo Rabbit, a single mother hiding a Jewish girl in Nazi Germany. The film, a blend of comedy and drama, was praised for its originality and heart, with Johansson’s compassionate portrayal earning her another Academy Award nomination.

Throughout the 2010s, Johansson’s film choices highlighted her willingness to take risks and her ability to shine in any genre. Whether she was saving the world or exploring the complexities of human relationships, she left a mark on every project she touched.