Hilary Swank Filmography: Her Best Roles That Defined a Generation

When we talk about powerhouse performances, Hilary Swank filmography is always part of the conversation. From indie gems to Oscar-winning dramas, she has built a career on emotionally charged roles that stick with audiences long after the credits roll.

Here’s a look at some of her standout films:

1. Boys Don’t Cry (1999)

Swank stunned critics with her fearless portrayal of Brandon Teena, earning her first Academy Award for Best Actress. A role that put her firmly on the Hollywood map.

2. Million Dollar Baby (2004)

As aspiring boxer Maggie Fitzgerald, she delivered a knockout performance alongside Clint Eastwood. The role earned her a second Oscar, cementing her legacy.

3. P.S. I Love You (2007)

This romantic drama showcased her softer side as Holly, a widow finding her way after loss—proving she’s just as magnetic in romance as she is in drama.

4. Freedom Writers (2007)

Based on a true story, Swank played a dedicated teacher inspiring at-risk students, showing her ability to balance grit with hope.

5. Conviction (2010)

Swank embodied Betty Anne Waters, a woman who spent years fighting to free her wrongfully convicted brother, once again shining in a role built on resilience.

6. Amelia (2009)

Taking on the legendary aviator Amelia Earhart, Swank brought her characteristic depth and intensity to the biopic.

7. The Homesman (2014)

Starring alongside Tommy Lee Jones, she played a frontier woman in this western drama—gritty, haunting, and unforgettable.

8. Away (2020)

Her Netflix drama about an astronaut torn between space duty and family life showed that Swank still knows how to command the screen.

Hilary Swank’s career is proof that great acting isn’t about quantity—it’s about quality. With two Oscars, dozens of nominations, and roles that demand emotional strength, her filmography stands as a masterclass in versatility.