An Updated Ranking of the Best Cate Blanchett Performances So Far

Much like I said last year, it’s impossible not to recognize greatness when you see Cate Blanchett on the silver screen. Two Academy Awards on her mantle speak to this, but it goes beyond the accolades. Sure, she’s considered one of the best of her era, but just watching her in literally anything gives you a sense that you’re seeing a master at work. In that sense, the Oscars are just a bonus. With her 56th birthday having been yesterday, as well as earlier this year’s work in Black Bag having just come to home video, another ranking of her performances seemed well in order!

When I reviewed Black Bag here, I said the following about her work opposite Michael Fassbender:

Cate Blanchett and Michael Fassbender are movie stars and waltz through this picture in such a way. This is a pleasant experience, watching them just have fun with the witty dialogue and stylish settings. Neither is being asked to stretch too far, but they know the assignments and ace them with a fair amount of ease. They’re best in show

Below, you’ll be able to see my Blanchett list. There’s a lot of variables here, but for my money, Blue Jasmine remains her best work to date. Now, The Aviator, Carol, I’m Not There, and Tar are not far behind, which just speaks to how good she is. While I doubt anyone will have something like Borderlands cracking their list, a film like Black Bag sure can. Regardless, when Blanchett is in a movie, you sit up and take notice…

Here now is my updated ranking of the best Cate Blanchett performances so far. Behold:

Honorable Mention: Babel, Elizabeth: The Golden Age, Hanna, The Missing, Truth, and Veronica Guerin

10. Black Bag

9. Pushing Tin

8. Elizabeth

7. The Curious Case of Benjamin Button

6. Notes on a Scandal

5. The Aviator

4. Tar

3. I’m Not There

2. Carol

1. Blue Jasmine

What are your favorite Cate Blanchett performances? Let us know!