Elizabeth Olsen’s 9 Favourite Movies of All Time: An Eclectic Mix of Childhood Classics and Cinematic Inspirations

Elizabeth Olsen’s rise in Hollywood is a story of carving her own path amid the shadow of her famous sisters, Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen. Starting with small roles in her sisters’ films, Olsen soon emerged as a formidable talent with standout performances in Martha Marcy May Marlene, Kill Your Darlings, and the Marvel blockbuster Avengers: Age of Ultron. Alongside her dynamic film career, Olsen has shared insights into the movies that have profoundly influenced her—and her list of favourites reveals a rich and varied cinematic taste.

In a 2017 interview with Rotten Tomatoes, Olsen highlighted five films that might surprise those familiar only with her contemporary roles. Her selections range widely—from nostalgic childhood favorites to groundbreaking classics, showcasing her appreciation for storytelling across genres and eras.

Childhood and Classic Films That Shaped Her

One of Olsen’s earliest favourites is Return to Oz (1985), which she describes as “one of the most disturbing films made for children.” This cult classic, with its dark take on the Oz universe, clearly left a lasting impression on the actress.

Similarly, Indiana Jones & The Temple of Doom (1984), though not a children’s film, holds a special place for Olsen. She finds the film “funny and entertaining,” with a particular fondness for the character Short Round—the spirited sidekick played by the kid from The Goonies. She even prefers him in Temple of Doom over his better-known Goonies role.

A Strong Connection to Woody Allen’s Films

Woody Allen’s work features prominently on Olsen’s list, especially his collaborations with Diane Keaton. Olsen cites Annie Hall (1977) as particularly important to her during adolescence. She relates deeply to Keaton’s neurotic, quirky, and intelligent character—a role that offered Olsen a new vision of womanhood at a formative age. “It felt comforting to know that was an example of a kind of woman I could be,” she explained.

Olsen has also expressed a fondness for Allen’s Manhattan (1979), calling it a personal comfort watch whenever she’s abroad. The film’s depiction of New York and the interplay between Allen and Keaton have a sentimental resonance, making it a “happy” reminder of home.

Other Cinematic Treasures on the List

Rounding out Olsen’s favourites are classics like:

• The First Wives Club (1996), a sharp and witty film about female friendship and empowerment.

• A Woman Under the Influence (1974) by John Cassavetes, a raw, emotional drama that delves deep into human vulnerability.

• Gone With The Wind (1939), the epic historical romance that remains a pillar of classic Hollywood cinema.

• Roman Holiday (1953), a charming romantic comedy starring Audrey Hepburn.

• Pal Joey (1957), a musical featuring Frank Sinatra that combines charm and wit.

A Taste Reflecting Depth and Diversity

Elizabeth Olsen’s film preferences reveal a broad appreciation for storytelling, ranging from the dark and complex to the light and whimsical. Her affection for strong female characters, groundbreaking cinema, and nostalgic classics echoes her own journey as an actress continually exploring diverse roles.

As Olsen’s career continues to evolve, these films remain a testament to the roots of her artistic inspiration and the eclectic cinematic influences that have shaped one of Hollywood’s brightest talents.