7 Extravagant Films Featuring Scarlett Johansson That Showcase Her Talent ...

1. Lost in Translation (2003)

As far as the most extravagant films featuring Scarlett Johansson go, "Lost in Translation" did an excellent job of showcasing her magnificent acting skills. At only eighteen, she is able to both star and hold her own opposite veteran Bill Murray in this movie about two people who feel lost and trapped in their respective relationships, as well as in their everyday lives in general. Taking place in Japan, the exploration of the differences between American and Japanese culture is intriguing. I'm pleased to hear that Scarlett's role received critical acclaim, landing her a BAFTA award.

2. Girl with a Pearl Earring (2003)

As a lover of art, I remember being fascinated when I first heard about the artistic premise of this next film. With its heavy focus on the work of painter Johannes Vermeer, played by Colin Firth, I knew that the creative direction of Peter Webber would not disappoint. Working as a maid, the movie centers around her character Griet and how she becomes the model for his famous painting, "Girl With a Pearl Earring".

3. Iron Man 2 (2010)

I prize myself on being a major fan of superheros and comic books in general. Therefore, this next film should not come as a suprise. While I know many are not as enthused by the creative choices of the production team in regard to how closely they stick to the original comics, I must say that I was impressed by the talent of every actor in this film. "Iron Man 2" sees Scarlett debuting her role as spy Natasha Romanoff in the midst of a battle between Iron Man and what appears to be his doppelgänger.

4. An American Rhapsody (2001)

"An American Rhapsody" centers on a girl and her attempts to reconcile herself with her parents who are forced to abandon her when they immigrate from Hungary to the U.S. in an effort to escape communist rule. Hearing that this movie is based on the real life story of Éva Gárdos, who wrote and directed the film, makes it all the more heartbreaking.

5. The Avengers (2012)

As one of the greatest action-packed superhero films of the year, it is only right that I mention "The Avengers". Ms. Johansson reprises her role as Black Widow in this movie that focuses on the efforts of S.H.I.E.L.D. (a crime fighting agency) and Earth's greatest defenders to fight a powerful foe and his legions who are bent on bringing forth the apocalypse. The astounding actors playing superheros are not the only backbone of this film; Tom Hiddleston manages to add depth to his role as Loki, making it easy to see why many fans are sympathetic towards his character.

6. The Black Dahlia (2006)

This next film loosely details the gruesome murder of aspiring actress Elizabeth Short. Nominated for an Academy Award, "The Black Dahlia" focuses more on the supposed dynamic between the two lead investigators on the case. Despite this, I still think that this film noir is worth seeing, for the amazing acting and set designs alone.

7. The Prestige

If a movie is directed by the brilliant Christopher Nolan, then you better believe that I will see it! "The Prestige" features Hugh Jackman and Christian Bale as two feuding magicians whose rivalry is heightened when Johansson's character Wenscombe comes into play, As is custom for Nolan, the twist at the end of the film makes it more than worthy of a mention.

With the excellent quality of the movies that she stars in, I can assure you that her career as an actress will only increase tenfold. What are some of you favorite films starring Scarlett Johansson? Did any of you catch "Ghost World" and "Match Point"?