Okay, gather ‘round, movie buffs and TV bingers! Today, we’re talking about a gem of an actress who’s been quietly stealing scenes and hearts left and right. I’m talking about the utterly charming and incredibly talented Ella Purnell. Seriously, if you haven't been paying attention, prepare to have your world rocked (in the best, most entertaining way possible, of course!).
Ella has this magical ability to just become her characters. Whether she's a plucky survivor in a dystopian future or a complicated young woman navigating the ups and downs of life, she brings a spark that makes you want to root for her, cry with her, and maybe even share your popcorn with her. And honestly, who doesn’t love a good popcorn-sharing movie? It’s practically a cinematic law.
So, if you’re looking for your next binge-watching obsession or just want to discover some seriously good performances, you’ve come to the right place. We’re diving deep into five of Ella Purnell's absolute best movies and TV shows. Get ready to fill up that watchlist, because these are the ones you absolutely cannot miss!
Alright, let’s start with a biggie. If you’ve heard of Ella Purnell, chances are it’s because of Yellowjackets. This show is WILD. Imagine a girls' soccer team whose plane crashes in the wilderness. Sounds dramatic, right? Well, it is. But it's also got a totally gripping mystery, some seriously dark humor, and a whole lot of “what is happening?!” moments that will keep you glued to your screen.
Ella plays the younger version of the character Jackie, the captain of the soccer team. And let me tell you, she is PHENOMENAL. She embodies that confident, popular girl persona with such ease, but then she slowly lets you see the cracks, the anxieties, the sheer terror of being stranded. It’s like watching a perfectly sculpted ice sculpture slowly melt, revealing something incredibly complex underneath. You’ll be yelling at your TV, “Jackie, no!” more times than you can count, and you’ll absolutely love every second of it.
Seriously, her performance in Yellowjackets is the kind of thing that makes you sit up and say, “Who is this amazing actress?!” It’s a masterclass in showing, not just telling.
10 Best Ella Purnell Movies and TV Shows You Should Watch | Beebom
And the show itself? It’s got a dual timeline, so you’re also seeing the adult survivors dealing with the trauma, which adds another layer of intrigue. It’s the perfect blend of survival thriller and psychological drama, with a dash of the supernatural thrown in for good measure. Think Lord of the Flies meets Desperate Housewives, but way, way more intense. You’ll be recommending it to everyone you know, promising them it’s the best show they’ll ever watch (and it just might be!).
2. Arcane
Now, let’s switch gears completely and talk about animation. If you’re thinking, “Uh, I don’t really watch cartoons,” just hold on a second. Arcane is not your average cartoon. This is animated storytelling at its absolute finest, and Ella Purnell is a huge part of why it’s so incredibly special. She voices the iconic character Jinx.
Jinx is… complicated. She’s a brilliant inventor with a deeply troubled past, and her journey is one of the most compelling and heartbreaking you’ll ever witness. Ella brings so much depth and raw emotion to Jinx, making her both terrifying and incredibly sympathetic. You’ll find yourself rooting for her even when she’s doing truly questionable things, and that’s all down to Ella’s nuanced performance. It’s like she’s injecting pure soul into this animated character.
Ella Purnell Top 10 Movies and TV Shows (Must Watch) | Celebrities
The world of Arcane is so rich and detailed, and the animation itself is breathtaking. It’s the kind of show that makes you pause just to stare at the visuals. But it’s the characters, and especially Jinx, that really grab you. Ella’s voice acting is so expressive that you can practically see her facial expressions, even though it’s all through sound. She manages to capture Jinx’s wild energy, her vulnerability, and her underlying pain in a way that is simply unforgettable. If you love a good story with incredible characters and mind-blowing animation, you have to give Arcane a watch.
3. Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children
Moving on to the big screen! Back in 2016, Ella Purnell was part of a Tim Burton extravaganza, Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children. And let me tell you, if you’re a fan of quirky, fantastical stories with a touch of darkness and a whole lot of visual wonder, this is for you. Tim Burton is the king of making the strange and unusual utterly captivating, and Ella fits right into that world.
She plays Emma Bloom, a young woman with the very peculiar ability to control air – basically, she can float! How cool is that? Imagine being able to just drift away when you’re having a bad day. Ella brings a wonderful blend of sweetness and strength to Emma. She’s got this ethereal quality, but she’s also incredibly brave and loyal. She’s the kind of character you instantly want to be friends with, and Ella makes that so easy.
The whole premise of the movie is about a boy who discovers a hidden orphanage for children with extraordinary abilities. It’s a delightful adventure, filled with strange creatures, time loops (yes, time loops!), and a general sense of magical mystery. Ella’s performance as Emma is a key ingredient in the film’s charm. She’s got that perfect look for a Tim Burton film – a little bit gothic, a little bit dreamy. It’s a fantastic showcase of her range, showing she can handle fantastical roles with grace and conviction.
10 Best Ella Purnell Movies and TV Shows, Ranked
4. Churchill
Let’s get a little more serious now, but no less brilliant. In the 2017 historical drama Churchill, Ella Purnell plays Helen Garrett, a private secretary. Now, you might be thinking, “Historical drama? Is that going to be a bit dry?” Absolutely not! This film focuses on a very specific, tense period leading up to D-Day, and it’s all about the immense pressure and personal struggles of Winston Churchill himself, portrayed by the legendary Brian Cox. And Ella’s role is crucial.
While the film is largely focused on Churchill’s internal battles, Ella’s character, Helen, is a steady presence. She’s intelligent, efficient, and has to navigate the complex and often volatile personality of the Prime Minister. Ella portrays her with such quiet determination and professionalism. She’s not a flashy character, but her performance is incredibly impactful. It’s the kind of role where you notice the subtle glances, the composed demeanor, and you realize how much is going on beneath the surface. It’s a masterclass in subtle acting, proving that you don’t need to be screaming to be powerful.
Her presence in the film adds a vital human element to the high-stakes historical events. She’s a reminder that even in the grand sweep of history, individual lives and relationships matter. It’s a testament to Ella’s talent that she can hold her own alongside seasoned actors like Brian Cox and deliver a performance that is both understated and memorable. It’s a film that shows her maturity as an actress and her ability to tackle more grounded, realistic roles with the same conviction she brings to the fantastical.
8 Best Ella Purnell Movies & TV Shows, Ranked
5. StarGirl
Finally, let’s end on a high note with a film that’s all about finding yourself and embracing what makes you unique. StarGirl, based on the popular book series, is a Disney+ movie that’s as charming and uplifting as its title suggests. Ella Purnell plays the titular character, Stargirl Caraway.
Stargirl is… well, she’s unlike anyone you’ve ever met. She’s this free-spirited, uninhibited teenager who’s moved to a new town and isn't afraid to be completely herself. She wears eccentric outfits, sings spontaneously, and generally brings a burst of sunshine into the lives of everyone around her, especially a more reserved boy named Leo. Ella perfectly captures Stargirl’s infectious optimism and her unwavering belief in individuality. She’s got this incredible energy that’s both whimsical and inspiring.
This movie is like a warm hug. It’s about the power of kindness, the courage it takes to stand out, and the beauty of embracing your own quirks. Ella’s portrayal of Stargirl is so genuine and heartfelt. You can’t help but fall in love with her free spirit. She makes you want to be a little more daring, a little more open, and a lot more yourself. It’s a delightful performance that’s perfect for anyone who needs a reminder that being different is actually pretty amazing.
So there you have it! Five fantastic reasons to fall head over heels for Ella Purnell. From wild wilderness survival to animated rebellions, from peculiar magic to historical gravitas and pure, unadulterated sunshine, she’s done it all, and she’s done it with style and talent. Get ready to be impressed – you won’t regret it!