Five best Rachel McAdams films to watch on Netflix

As the calendar flips to November 17th, 2023, fans around the world can raise a virtual toast to the uber-talented Rachel McAdams as she turns 45 by revisiting some of her best films.

Over the past two decades, McAdams has established herself as one of the most versatile and beloved actors in an industry where actors’ careers often arrive with expiration dates. But McAdams has been going strong for more than two decades now. She made her TV debut with the MTV pilot Shotgun Love Dolls in 2001, and since then, she has gone from one memorable performance to another. 

A testament to her versatility is evident in her breakout year of 2004 when she played the iconic roles of Regina George in Mean Girls and Allie Hamilton in The Notebook. These characters were polar opposites to each other, only proving that McAdams didn’t just have an incredible range as an actor but also that ‘It’ factor needed to carry a hit film.

Whether you have watched all her films before, today is as good a day as any to (re)visit some of McAdams’ best films over the year. So, we have curated a few good ones available in the Netflix library.

Here are five of Rachel McAdams’ best films that you can binge-watch on Netflix.

Five best Rachel McAdams films to watch on Netflix:

State of Play (2009)

In this political thriller directed by Kevin Macdonald, McAdams plays Della Frye, a young and ambitious journalist working alongside seasoned reporter Cal McAffrey, portrayed by Russell Crowe. The film revolves around a complex conspiracy involving murder, political intrigue, and the media’s role in uncovering the truth.

McAdams brings her trademark charm and intelligence to the character, making State of Play a must-watch for those who appreciate gripping investigative dramas.

Spotlight (2015)

Directed by Tom McCarthy, Spotlight is a powerful drama that chronicles The Boston Globe’s investigation into the Catholic Church’s systemic cover-up of child molestation. McAdams takes on the role of Sacha Pfeiffer, one of the journalists on the Spotlight team.

The film, which won the Academy Award for Best Picture, showcases McAdams’ ability to convey both vulnerability and strength.

Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret (2023)

This film adaptation of Judy Blume’s iconic novel, Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret sees McAdams play the role of Barbara Simon, the titular Margaret’s mother who helps her navigate the tenuous roads of puberty as well as faith.

Directed by Kelly Fremon Craig, this movie, starring Abby Ryder Fortson as Margaret, along with Rachel McAdams, Elle Graham, Benny Safdie, and Kathy Bates, is a coming-of-age gem. It may only be available in a select few countries, but it is worth the wait.

The Notebook (2004)

Directed by Nick Cassavetes, The Notebook is a timeless, albeit cheesy, romantic drama based on one of Nicholas Sparks’ best-adapted novels.

McAdams stars opposite Ryan Gosling as Allie Hamilton, a young woman who falls in love with Noah Calhoun during the summer of 1940, only to go their separate ways till circumstances bring them together again.

Mean Girls (2004)

A cult classic directed by Mark Waters based on a screenplay by Tina Fey, Mean Girls catapulted McAdams into the spotlight with her portrayal of Regina George, the queen bee of the Plastics, the highest of the wrung among at North Shore High cliques.

Known for her biting wit, mean girl spirit, and impeccable comedic timing, McAdams delivered a performance that remains iconic to this day.