Ella Purnell is a British actress whose star has been steadily rising in the entertainment industry. Known for her striking looks, captivating performances, and versatility, Purnell has built an impressive resume that spans both film and television. From her early roles in critically acclaimed films to her more recent forays into television, Purnell has proven herself to be a talent to watch. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take a closer look at Ella Purnell’s movies and TV shows, exploring the roles that have defined her career and what makes her one of the most promising young actresses of her generation.
Early Career and Breakthrough Roles
Never Let Me Go (2010)
Ella Purnell made her film debut in 2010 with a role in the dystopian drama “Never Let Me Go,” directed by Mark Romanek. The film, based on Kazuo Ishiguro’s novel, is set in a world where children are raised to become organ donors. Purnell played the young version of Ruth, a character portrayed by Keira Knightley as an adult. Although her screen time was limited, Purnell’s performance captured the attention of critics and audiences alike, showcasing her potential as a young actress.
Intruders (2011)
In 2011, Purnell starred in the horror film “Intruders,” directed by Juan Carlos Fresnadillo. She played the dual role of Mia and Carah, two girls from different countries who are haunted by the same terrifying figure. Purnell’s ability to convey fear and vulnerability made her a standout in the film, further establishing her as a rising talent in the industry.
Kick-Ass 2 (2013)
Purnell continued to build her career with a role in the action-comedy sequel “Kick-Ass 2” (2013). She played the character Dolce, one of the “mean girls” at the school attended by Hit-Girl (Chloë Grace Moretz). While her role was smaller in scope, “Kick-Ass 2” allowed Purnell to explore a different genre and showcase her range as an actress.
Maleficent (2014)
One of Purnell’s most notable early roles came in 2014 when she was cast as the teenage version of Maleficent in Disney’s live-action film “Maleficent,” starring Angelina Jolie. Purnell’s striking resemblance to Jolie made her a perfect choice for the role, and her performance added depth to the character’s backstory. “Maleficent” was a commercial success, and Purnell’s involvement in the film helped raise her profile in Hollywood.
Transition to Leading Roles
Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children (2016)
In 2016, Ella Purnell landed her first major leading role in Tim Burton’s fantasy adventure “Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children.” Based on the novel by Ransom Riggs, the film follows a young boy who discovers a mysterious orphanage for children with special abilities. Purnell played the role of Emma Bloom, a girl with the power to control air and create breath underwater. Her performance was praised for its charm and grace, and the film’s success introduced Purnell to a wider audience.
Churchill (2017)
Purnell took on a more dramatic role in the historical biopic “Churchill” (2017), directed by Jonathan Teplitzky. The film focuses on the days leading up to the D-Day invasion during World War II, with Brian Cox starring as Winston Churchill. Purnell played the role of Helen Garrett, Churchill’s secretary. While the film received mixed reviews, Purnell’s performance was noted for its poise and subtlety, demonstrating her ability to handle more serious and historically significant material.
Access All Areas (2017)
In 2017, Purnell starred in the British comedy-drama “Access All Areas,” directed by Bryn Higgins. The film follows a group of young friends who escape their troubled lives by attending a music festival. Purnell played the role of Mia, a rebellious teenager seeking freedom and adventure. Her performance was energetic and engaging, capturing the spirit of youth and the desire to break free from constraints.
Expanding Horizons in Film
Army of the Dead (2021)
One of Purnell’s most high-profile roles came in 2021 when she starred in Zack Snyder’s zombie heist film “Army of the Dead.” The film, released on Netflix, follows a group of mercenaries who venture into a zombie-infested Las Vegas to pull off a heist. Purnell played the role of Kate Ward, the estranged daughter of the film’s protagonist, played by Dave Bautista. Her character’s determination and courage in the face of danger made her a key player in the film’s narrative. “Army of the Dead” was a commercial success, further boosting Purnell’s visibility and appeal in the action genre.
UFO (2018)
In 2018, Purnell starred in the science fiction thriller “UFO,” directed by Ryan Eslinger. The film centers around a college student who believes he has found evidence of extraterrestrial life. Purnell played the role of Natalie, the protagonist’s love interest who becomes embroiled in the mystery. While “UFO” received mixed reviews, Purnell’s performance was praised for its emotional depth and ability to convey a sense of intrigue and curiosity.
Sweetbitter (2018-2019)
Purnell made a successful transition to television with the lead role in the Starz series “Sweetbitter,” based on the novel by Stephanie Danler. The show follows Tess, a young woman who moves to New York City and becomes a waitress at an upscale restaurant. Purnell’s portrayal of Tess was both vulnerable and resilient, capturing the challenges and complexities of navigating life in a new city. The show ran for two seasons and earned Purnell critical acclaim for her nuanced and relatable performance.
Recent and Upcoming Projects
Star Trek: Prodigy (2021-Present)
In 2021, Purnell joined the cast of the animated series “Star Trek: Prodigy,” part of the iconic “Star Trek” franchise. Purnell voices the character of Gwyn, a young alien who escapes from her oppressive father and joins a group of misfit teenagers who find themselves aboard an abandoned Starfleet ship. “Star Trek: Prodigy” has been praised for its fresh take on the “Star Trek” universe and its appeal to a younger audience. Purnell’s voice work has been recognized for bringing depth and emotion to her character, making her an integral part of the show’s success.
Yellowjackets (2021-Present)
Purnell’s television success continued with her role in the Showtime series “Yellowjackets.” The show is a psychological horror drama that follows the survivors of a plane crash who are stranded in the wilderness and must confront both external and internal threats. Purnell plays the role of Teen Jackie, one of the key characters whose experiences shape the narrative of the show. “Yellowjackets” has received widespread critical acclaim for its intense storytelling and strong performances, with Purnell’s portrayal of Jackie being a standout.
Upcoming Projects
As of 2023, Ella Purnell continues to build on her success with several upcoming projects in the pipeline. Her growing reputation as a versatile and talented actress has made her a sought-after name in Hollywood, and fans are eager to see what roles she will take on next. Whether in film, television, or voice acting, Purnell’s future looks bright as she continues to expand her horizons and take on new challenges.
What Makes Ella Purnell a Standout Talent?
Versatility Across Genres
One of the key factors that make Ella Purnell a standout talent is her versatility. Throughout her career, Purnell has demonstrated her ability to take on a wide range of roles across various genres, from fantasy and horror to drama and action. Her performances are marked by a deep understanding of her characters, whether she is playing a rebellious teenager, a determined survivor, or a historical figure. This versatility has allowed her to navigate the industry with ease, taking on diverse roles that showcase her range and depth as an actress.
Strong Screen Presence
Purnell’s screen presence is another factor that sets her apart. From her early roles in films like “Never Let Me Go” and “Maleficent,” it was clear that Purnell had a natural charisma that drew audiences in. Her ability to command attention on screen, even in supporting roles, has been a consistent feature of her performances. As she has taken on more prominent roles in films like “Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children” and “Army of the Dead,” her screen presence has only grown stronger, making her a compelling and captivating actress to watch.
Commitment to Her Craft
Purnell’s commitment to her craft is evident in the dedication she brings to each role. Whether she is starring in a big-budget film or a smaller indie project, Purnell approaches her work with the same level of passion and professionalism. This commitment is reflected in the depth and authenticity of her performances, as she fully immerses herself in the characters she portrays. Her willingness to take on challenging roles and push herself as an actress has earned her the respect of both audiences and industry professionals.
FAQs
What was Ella Purnell’s first film role?
Ella Purnell made her film debut in “Never Let Me Go” (2010), where she played the young version of Ruth, a character portrayed by Keira Knightley.
What are some of Ella Purnell’s most notable roles?
Some of Ella Purnell’s most notable roles include Emma Bloom in “Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children,” Kate Ward in “Army of the Dead,” and Tess in the TV series “Sweetbitter.”
Has Ella Purnell appeared in any TV shows?
Yes, Ella Purnell has appeared in several TV shows, including “Sweetbitter,” “Yellowjackets,” and the animated series “Star Trek: Prodigy.”
What upcoming projects does Ella Purnell have?
As of 2023, Ella Purnell has several upcoming projects in the pipeline, though specific details about these projects may be under wraps.
What makes Ella Purnell a standout actress?
Ella Purnell is known for her versatility across genres, strong screen presence, and commitment to her craft, all of which have contributed to her rising success in Hollywood.
Ella Purnell’s journey from a young actress in supporting roles to a leading lady in film and television is a testament to her talent, versatility, and dedication. With a career that spans a wide range of genres and mediums, Purnell has proven herself to be one of the most promising young actresses in the industry. From her early performances in films like “Never Let Me Go” and “Maleficent” to her recent successes in “Army
of the Dead,” “Sweetbitter,” and “Yellowjackets,” Purnell continues to captivate audiences with her powerful performances and undeniable screen presence.
As she continues to take on new and exciting roles, there is no doubt that Ella Purnell’s star will continue to rise. Whether you are a longtime fan or just discovering her work, Purnell’s filmography offers a diverse and impressive body of work that showcases her as a true talent in the world of entertainment.