The Five Best Kiernan Shipka Movies Of Her Career

Okay, so we need to talk about Kiernan Shipka. This is a woman who has been gracing our screens for what feels like ages, and yet, she still feels incredibly fresh and exciting. Think of her as that cool younger sibling who somehow always has the best music taste.

She’s one of those actors who can go from channeling dark, brooding magic to sparkling with youthful energy, and make it look effortless. Seriously, it’s like she has a secret superpower. And trust me, picking just five of her movies is tougher than it looks.

This isn't a definitive, Oscar-bait list. This is more of a "what makes me smile and want to rewatch it immediately" kind of list. Think of it as my personal, slightly biased, but totally enthusiastic ranking of Kiernan’s cinematic triumphs. Prepare for some potentially spicy opinions!

1. The Blackcoat's Daughter

Now, this one might surprise you. It’s a horror film, and not exactly a mainstream blockbuster. But oh boy, Kiernan is absolutely phenomenal here.

She plays Joan, a troubled young woman with a whole lot going on beneath the surface. The way she conveys so much pain and confusion with just a look? It's next-level acting.

This movie is slow-burn creepy, the kind that gets under your skin. And Kiernan’s performance is the reason it works so brilliantly. She’s the dark heart of the whole thing.

"She's the dark heart of the whole thing."

It’s the kind of role that shows her range, proving she’s not just about the sparkle. She can do intense. She can do haunting. She can make you feel genuinely uneasy.

So yes, if you haven't seen it, buckle up. It’s a mood. And Kiernan Shipka is the queen of that mood. You’ll be thinking about her character long after the credits roll.

2. Annabelle: Creation

Okay, okay, another horror. What can I say? She’s really good at being scared! And this entry into the creepy doll universe is surprisingly effective.

Kiernan plays Linda, one of the orphaned girls who stumbles upon the titular possessed doll. She brings a real sense of vulnerability to the role. You’re rooting for her from the get-go.

This movie actually has some genuinely terrifying moments. It’s not just jump scares; there’s a real build-up of dread. And Linda, played by Kiernan, is our anchor in the storm of supernatural terror.

She navigates the fear with such conviction. You believe her terror. You feel her desperation. It’s a testament to her acting chops that she can make you so invested in a creepy doll movie.

Plus, let's be honest, she looks fantastic even when she's terrified. It’s a gift. This is a solid horror flick, and Kiernan is a huge part of why it's so enjoyable. She elevates it.

3. When We First Met

Now for a complete change of pace! This is a romantic comedy, and a pretty charming one at that. It’s the kind of movie you watch with a blanket and a cup of tea.

Kiernan plays Clara, the object of Noah's (Adam DeVine) affection. She's the girl he wishes he could be with, and he keeps trying to go back in time to make it happen. Sound complicated? It is.

She brings a warmth and likability to Clara. You understand why Noah is so smitten. She’s not just a prize; she’s a genuinely nice person.

"She brings a warmth and likability to Clara."

It's a fun concept, and Kiernan fits right into the lighthearted vibe. She plays off Adam DeVine really well. Their chemistry, even in Noah's altered timelines, feels natural.

This movie is pure popcorn fun. It’s not trying to reinvent the wheel, but it’s got heart. And Kiernan’s performance is a big part of its sweet charm. She’s sunshine in this movie.

4. Thelma the Unicorn

This one is a bit of a curveball, as it’s an animated musical! But hear me out, Kiernan is so good as Thelma. She’s a horse who dreams of being a unicorn.

Her voice work is just incredible. She perfectly captures Thelma’s wide-eyed optimism and her eventual struggles. It’s a performance full of heart and humor.

The songs are catchy, the animation is vibrant, and Kiernan’s vocal performance ties it all together. She makes you believe in Thelma’s fantastical journey.

It’s a story about following your dreams, even when things get tough. And Kiernan’s voice is the perfect vehicle for that message. She’s got that perfect blend of innocence and determination.

This movie is pure joy. It’s for kids, yes, but it’s also for anyone who loves a good story and a fantastic voice performance. Kiernan truly shines here. She makes a horse sound like a star.

5. Chilling Adventures of Sabrina

Okay, technically this is a TV show. But it’s so cinematic and such a defining role for Kiernan, I had to include it! She IS Sabrina Spellman.

This show is a masterpiece of tone. It's dark, it's quirky, it's got witches, demons, and teenagers dealing with it all. And Kiernan is the absolute center of it.

She balances the sweetness of Sabrina with the darkness she’s constantly facing. It’s a complex character, and Kiernan nails every single moment. Her journey is captivating.

"She IS Sabrina Spellman."

The visuals are stunning, the storylines are wild, and Kiernan’s performance is the anchor that keeps it all grounded. She has to go from fighting Satan to dealing with school drama. That’s range!

This is arguably the role that put her on the map for a lot of people, and for good reason. She’s iconic in it. She’s funny, she’s brave, she’s utterly compelling.

So there you have it. My totally subjective, undeniably biased, but very heartfelt list of Kiernan Shipka’s best movies. She’s a star, and these are just a few of the shining examples of her talent. Let the rewatching commence!