Scarlett Johansson's 2010s Movies That Made Her Hollywood's Top Star

Scarlett Johansson achieved a remarkable milestone in 2025, becoming the highest-grossing performer in cinema history. This incredible achievement stems from her strategic choices throughout the 2010s, when she balanced major franchise work with critically acclaimed independent films. Following her breakthrough in Lost in Translation, the decade that followed truly established her as one of Hollywood's most versatile and bankable stars.

Marvel Universe Dominance

Johansson's introduction to the Marvel Cinematic Universe began with Iron Man 2 in 2010, where she first portrayed Natasha Romanoff, also known as Black Widow. Though her screen time was limited in this initial appearance, it marked the beginning of what would become an iconic character arc. The film focused on Tony Stark's struggles with government pressure and health issues from his arc reactor, while Johansson's character worked undercover as his assistant.

The Avengers in 2012 elevated her role significantly, as Earth's mightiest heroes united against Loki's invasion. The film became a billion-dollar success and showcased Johansson's ability to hold her own alongside established male superheroes. Captain America: The Winter Soldier in 2014 further developed her character, revealing her as a trusted ally who helps uncover a conspiracy within S.H.I.E.L.D. Her chemistry with Chris Evans and impressive action sequences made this one of her strongest Marvel performances.

Dramatic Range and Critical Acclaim

Beyond superhero films, Johansson demonstrated remarkable range in dramatic roles. Her voice-only performance in Her (2013) opposite Joaquin Phoenix proved her ability to convey complex emotions without physical presence. Playing an advanced AI system that develops a relationship with a lonely writer, she brought nuance and depth to what could have been a one-dimensional role.

Marriage Story (2019) earned Johansson an Oscar nomination for Best Actress, showcasing her dramatic abilities in Noah Baumbach's intimate portrayal of divorce. Her performance opposite Adam Driver captured the raw emotions and complexities of a relationship falling apart. That same year, she received another Oscar nomination for Jojo Rabbit, Taika Waititi's unique World War II comedy-drama where she played a mother secretly hiding a Jewish teenager.

Genre Versatility and Box Office Success

Johansson's willingness to tackle diverse genres set her apart from many of her contemporaries. In Lucy (2014), she carried an entire action-thriller as a woman who gains superhuman abilities after experimental drugs enhance her cognitive capacity. The film became a significant box office success despite mixed critical reception.

Under the Skin (2013) represented perhaps her most challenging role, playing an unnamed alien entity who preys on isolated men in Scotland. With minimal dialogue, she conveyed both predatory detachment and evolving consciousness in this unsettling science fiction thriller. Don Jon (2013) saw her tackle romantic comedy with a satirical edge, playing opposite Joseph Gordon-Levitt in his directorial debut about modern relationships and unrealistic expectations.

Supporting Roles and Voice Work

Even in smaller roles, Johansson made memorable impressions. We Bought a Zoo (2011) featured her as a zookeeper helping Matt Damon's character rebuild his life after tragedy. Chef (2014) showcased her in a brief but warm supporting role as a restaurant hostess. Her voice work in Wes Anderson's stop-motion animated film Isle of Dogs (2018) demonstrated her ability to bring personality to animated characters.

The decade concluded with Avengers: Infinity War (2018), where her seasoned Black Widow joined the ultimate battle against Thanos. This film represented the culmination of her Marvel journey during the 2010s, showing how far both the character and Johansson's portrayal had evolved since Iron Man 2.