Natalie Portman’s career is defined by her willingness to embrace roles that many actors would shy away from, often diving into emotionally fraught or socially controversial territory. At just 12, she starred as Mathilda in Léon: The Professional, a performance that remains both celebrated and debated for its portrayal of a young girl’s complex relationship with an adult hitman. The film’s sexualization of Mathilda sparked immediate controversy, and Portman herself has described aspects of the role as “cringey,” acknowledging the discomfort and long-term impact it had on her personal and professional life. Despite this, her fearless commitment to the part set a precedent for her future choices.

Portman’s appetite for risk didn’t wane as she matured. She repeatedly sought out characters that challenged her emotionally and psychologically, such as in The Other Woman, where she played a grieving stepmother navigating trauma and loss. While the film itself received mixed reviews, Portman’s raw, vulnerable performance stood out as a highlight, demonstrating her ability to bring depth and authenticity to difficult material. These choices reflect her stated philosophy of pursuing roles that feel “dangerous or scary,” a strategy she uses to push her craft and avoid complacency.

Her recent work in May December further exemplifies her dedication to complex storytelling. Co-producing and starring in the film, Portman tackled a narrative inspired by real-life scandal, exploring themes of morality, manipulation, and the blurred lines between truth and performance. The project faced financing hurdles due to its controversial subject and dual female leads, but Portman’s persistence ensured its realization. This willingness to champion challenging stories, even when they risk commercial failure, underscores her commitment to artistic integrity.

Even in projects like Jane Got a Gun and the Star Wars prequels, Portman brought nuance to roles that might otherwise be dismissed or overlooked. Her portrayal of Queen Amidala, for example, balanced youthful vulnerability with regal authority, earning praise despite the divisive reception of the films themselves. Portman’s career is a testament to the value of risk-taking in art—her boldest roles, though sometimes misunderstood, deserve more recognition for their courage and complexity.