Aubrey Plaza Movies and TV Shows Life Aubrey Plaza is a talented actress known for her quirky comedic style, dry wit, and distinct voice. Over the years, she has made a mark in both film and television, often playing roles that highlight her deadpan humor and offbeat charm. Here’s a comprehensive guide to her impressive career, featuring her most notable movies and TV shows.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born on June 26, 1984, in Wilmington, Delaware, Aubrey Christina Plaza began her career in entertainment as an improv comedian before transitioning into acting. She studied at the Tisch School of the Arts in New York City, where she honed her comedic skills, performing at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre. Her breakthrough came in the early 2000s when she began gaining attention for her unconventional approach to comedy.
| Movies | TV Shows |
|---|---|
| Safety Not Guaranteed (2012) | Parks and Recreation (2009-2015) |
| The To Do List (2013) | Legion (2017-2019) |
| Scott Pilgrim vs. the World (2010) | The White Lotus (2022-present) |
| Ingrid Goes West (2017) | Robot Chicken (2012-present) |
| Dirty Grandpa (2016) | Welcome to the Jungle (2002) |
| Child’s Play (2019) | Crank Yankers (2019-present) |
| Happiest Season (2020) | The Mindy Project (2012-2014) |
| Black Bear (2020) | Parks and Recreation (2009-2015) (Voice in various episodes) |
| Life After Beth (2014) | Family Guy (Voice, 2018) |
| The Little Hours (2017) | Puss in Boots: The Last Wish (2022) (Voice) |
Parks and Recreation (2009-2015)
Arguably her most iconic role, Aubrey Plaza played April Ludgate, the deadpan, sarcastic intern-turned-public relations associate at the Parks and Recreation Department in Pawnee, Indiana. Her dry humor and often rebellious character were a fan favorite. The show ran for seven seasons and became a cultural touchstone for fans of quirky, heartwarming sitcoms.
Legion (2017-2019)
In this mind-bending Marvel series, Aubrey Plaza took on the role of Lenny Busker, a character that evolves throughout the show, oscillating between a friend and a villainous force. Her performance was lauded for its complexity and intensity, marking a departure from her usual comedic roles. Plaza’s work in Legion earned her widespread critical acclaim, especially for her portrayal of a multi-layered, unpredictable character.
The White Lotus (2022-Present)
Aubrey Plaza joined the ensemble cast of the second season of HBO’s critically acclaimed show The White Lotus. She plays Harper Spiller, a lawyer who, along with her husband, becomes entangled in the complex relationships and dramas that unfold at an upscale resort in Sicily. Plaza’s role adds an intriguing layer to the show, blending her sharp humor with subtle tension.
Parks and Recreation The Special (2020)
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the cast of Parks and Recreation reunited for a special episode to raise funds for Feeding America’s COVID-19 relief efforts. Plaza reprised her role as April Ludgate in this heartwarming special.
Safety Not Guaranteed (2012)
In her breakout film role, Plaza starred as Darius Britt, a cynical journalist who investigates a man (played by Mark Duplass) who believes he can time travel. The film’s blend of quirky humor, romance, and sci-fi elements allowed Plaza to show a different side of her talent, one that merged both comedy and emotional depth. Safety Not Guaranteed became a critical darling and solidified Plaza’s status as a rising star in indie film.
The To Do List (2013)
In this comedy, Plaza stars as Brandy Klark, a high school valedictorian who embarks on a mission to lose her virginity before heading to college. The film is a throwback to 90s teen comedies and allowed Plaza to bring her usual sharp wit to a more raunchy and carefree role. The To Do List is a cult favorite among fans of coming-of-age comedies.
Dirty Grandpa (2016)
Aubrey Plaza starred alongside Robert De Niro in this raunchy comedy about a grandfather who convinces his uptight grandson (Zac Efron) to accompany him on a wild road trip. Plaza plays Lily, a flirtatious and bold character who helps drive the film’s humor. While Dirty Grandpa received mixed reviews, Plaza’s performance was widely praised for her ability to embrace a completely over-the-top comedic role.
Ingrid Goes West (2017)
Plaza shines in the role of Ingrid Thorburn, a mentally unstable young woman who becomes obsessed with an Instagram influencer (played by Elizabeth Olsen). This dark comedy/drama is a biting satire of social media culture and showcases Plaza’s talent for portraying complex, sometimes unsettling characters. Her performance in Ingrid Goes West earned her significant critical praise and further cemented her as a versatile actress.
Aubrey Plaza Life After Beth (2014)
In this horror-comedy, Plaza stars as Beth, a young woman who mysteriously comes back to life after dying in a tragic accident. The film is a quirky take on zombie lore, and Plaza’s performance plays with the absurdity of the genre. The film allows Plaza to explore both her comedic chops and her darker, more dramatic side.
The Little Hours (2017)
This medieval comedy features Aubrey Plaza as Alessandra, a rebellious nun living in a convent who falls in love with a servant. The film’s absurd humor, combined with Plaza’s sharp wit and charm, makes it a memorable entry in her filmography. The Little Hours is a wild, satirical take on life in the Middle Ages that highlights Plaza’s comedic timing.
Spin Me Round (2022)
In this dark comedy, Plaza stars as Kat, a woman who gets swept up in a bizarre series of events at a luxury restaurant training program in Italy. The film is filled with absurd and unsettling moments, showcasing Plaza’s knack for dark comedy. The film also stars Alison Brie and Joe Swanberg, further adding to the eccentric and unpredictable nature of the storyline.
Black Bear (2020)
In Black Bear, Plaza plays Allison, a filmmaker who retreats to a remote cabin to find inspiration, only for things to take a surreal and disturbing turn. This psychological thriller allows Plaza to display her range, as she switches between calm and chaos. The film’s nonlinear narrative and psychological tension made it a standout indie film, and Plaza’s performance was widely lauded as one of her best.
Voice Acting
Aubrey Plaza has also lent her voice to several animated projects, such as “Grumpy Cat’s Worst Christmas Ever” (2014), where she voices the famously grumpy cat, and “The Lego Movie 2: The Second Part” (2019), where she voiced a character named “Unikitty”.
Producer and Director
In addition to acting, Plaza has also made strides behind the camera. She directed the short film “Aubrey Plaza: The Comedian’s Comic” and produced the film Black Bear.
Conclusion
Aubrey Plaza’s career continues to thrive thanks to her unique comedic sensibilities, her fearless approach to unconventional roles, and her ability to move between genres with ease. Whether starring in quirky indie films, leading ensemble sitcoms, or taking on complex dramatic roles, Plaza proves time and time again that she is one of the most versatile actresses of her generation. From her iconic role as April Ludgate to her gripping performances in films like Ingrid Goes West and Black Bear, Aubrey Plaza’s impressive range and captivating performances ensure that she will remain a favorite in the entertainment world for years to come.