Demi Moore's 8 Most Iconic Movies, From Roles in 'Ghost' to 'The Substance'
Demi Moore's movies and TV roles have made quite the impact across her decades-long career in Hollywood. See the actor and Golden Globe award winner's most iconic roles.
Demi Moore’s career is definitive of resilience and talent.
With a career spanning over four decades, the movie star has been captivating audiences with her bold choices and magnetic screen presence in performances that have become ingrained in the fabric of cinema. Her recent win for The Substance (2024) at the 2025 Golden Globes marks a milestone—her first major award despite a legacy of iconic roles. The accolade serves as a long-overdue recognition of her remarkable contributions to film.
Moore first rose to prominence in the 1980s as a member of the “Brat Pack” with her breakout role in St. Elmo’s Fire (1985), where she embodied the rebellious yet vulnerable Jules. The 1990s saw her ascend to Hollywood’s A-list with a string of unforgettable performances. In Ghost (1990), her portrayal of Molly Jensen opposite Patrick Swayze delivered one of cinema’s most heart-wrenching love stories, cementing her as a household name. The same decade brought us Indecent Proposal (1993), where she navigated moral dilemmas with nuance, and Disclosure (1994), a bold exploration of power dynamics in the workplace.
The early 2000s saw Moore embrace her comedic and action chops in Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle (2003) as formidable villain Madison Lee. Two decades later, she delivered a standout performance in the 2024 Paramount+ series Landman as Cami Miller, the influential wife of oil magnate Monty Miller, played by Jon Hamm. Cami is the power behind the throne, skillfully managing their social and family life while subtly shaping Monty's ambitions. Moore's portrayal captured the resilience and influence of a woman navigating the complex dynamics of the oil industry, earning praise for highlighting the often-overlooked roles women play in high-stakes environments.
Despite the ebbs and flows of an industry that often sidelines its female stars, Moore’s ability to rise above being dismissed as a “popcorn actress.” Her recent achievement is not just a celebration of this singular performance but a nod to a career that has shaped the fabric of modern cinema.
Moore's movies offer a look at her skills and talent evolving over the decades. Keep scrolling to see the eight roles that have made her an enduring movie icon.
St. Elmo's Fire (1985)
As Jules in St. Elmo’s Fire, Moore was a free-spirited and emotionally complex member of a tight-knit group of recent college graduates. Her undeniable charisma brought vulnerability and flair to a character grappling with the pressures of adulthood. Moore’s performance anchored the film’s exploration of friendship and self-discovery, establishing her as a rising star in Hollywood’s “Brat Pack.”
Ghost (1990)
In the romantic fantasy Ghost, Moore delivered a poignant performance as Molly Jensen, a grieving artist torn between love and loss. Her emotional depth brought authenticity to the film’s supernatural premise, while her chemistry with co-star Patrick Swayze elevated the iconic pottery scene to cinematic history. Moore’s portrayal of heartbreak and resilience resonated deeply with audiences, solidifying her vigor as a leading lady.
A Few Good Men (1992)
Moore’s dramatic prowess was on full display in A Few Good Men as Lieutenant Commander JoAnne Galloway, a sharp and determined military lawyer. Her commanding presence and commitment to justice provided a stark counterpoint to Tom Cruise’s brash Lieutenant Daniel Kaffee, creating a dynamic partnership. Moore’s ability to balance strength and vulnerability enhanced the film’s high-stakes legal drama.
Indecent Proposal (1993)
In Indecent Proposal, Moore played Diana Murphy, a woman caught in a moral and emotional dilemma when a billionaire offers her and her husband $1 million for one night with her. Moore’s nuanced performance captured Diana’s inner conflict and the strain it placed on her marriage, making the provocative premise feel grounded and relatable.
Disclosure (1994)
Taking on the role of Meredith Johnson in Disclosure, Moore flipped the script on traditional power dynamics. As a high-powered executive accused of sexual harassment, she exuded both charm and menace, creating a character that was as alluring as she was manipulative. Moore’s fearless approach to the controversial role prompted conversations about gender and power in the workplace.
G.I. Jane (1997)
Moore became the first woman to undergo Navy SEAL training for her transformative performance in G.I. Jane, playing Lieutenant Jordan O’Neil. Her physical and emotional commitment to the role, including shaving her head on screen, showcased her dedication to method acting. Moore’s portrayal of perseverance in the face of systemic sexism made a powerful statement on gender equality in the military.
Charlie's Angels: Full Throttle (2003)
In Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle, Moore embraced her villainous side as Madison Lee, a former Angel turned rogue. Her sultry, confident performance evoked a magnetic energy to the film, making her a formidable foil to the titular trio including Cameron Diaz, Lucy Liu, and Drew Barrymore. Moore’s portrayal combined elegance and danger, proving she could still command attention in action-packed roles.
The Substance (2024)
Returning to the big screen in The Substance, Moore takes on the mysterious and layered role of Elisabeth Sparkle in this psychological thriller. As the central figure in a body horror narrative shrouded in intrigue, she captivates with a performance that blends sophistication with an undercurrent of tension. Moore’s ability to reinvent herself yet again underscores her enduring versatility and star power.
