Kirsten Dunst Movies: From Child Star to Award-Winning Actress – A Complete Look at Her Career and Life
Introduction
Kirsten Dunst is a name synonymous with transformation, talent, and timelessness in Hollywood. With a career that began when she was just a child and has spanned over three decades, Dunst has proven herself to be a versatile and deeply gifted actress. From her haunting performance in Interview with the Vampire to her comedic brilliance in Bring It On, and her critically acclaimed roles in Melancholia and The Power of the Dog, Kirsten Dunst’s filmography is as diverse as it is impressive.
In this comprehensive article, we explore Kirsten Dunst’s movies in order, her early life, background, education, notable TV roles, her relationship with Jesse Plemons, and more. This is your go-to resource for everything from Jumanji to Spider-Man, with insights into who she is behind the camera as well.
Who is Kirsten Dunst?
Kirsten Caroline Dunst was born on April 30, 1982, in Point Pleasant, New Jersey, to Inez and Klaus Dunst. Her father was a medical services executive from Germany, and her mother, of German and Swedish descent, was a flight attendant. She began her career as a child fashion model, appearing in over 100 commercials before transitioning to film and television.
Her multicultural background and early exposure to the entertainment world shaped her into a performer with exceptional range. She became a household name by the time she was just 12 years old, thanks to her breakthrough performance in Interview with the Vampire.
Kirsten Dunst Age and Background
As of 2025, Kirsten Dunst is 43 years old. Her upbringing in a multicultural household—along with a supportive family who recognized her early talents—was key to her fast rise. Though she started her career young, Dunst has managed to avoid the common downfalls of child stardom, evolving gracefully into adult roles while staying relevant in a constantly changing industry.
Kirsten Dunst Education
Dunst spent her early years in Brick Township, New Jersey, where she attended Ranney School, a private institution. When her career began to take off, the family moved to Los Angeles, where she continued her education and acting career simultaneously.
Like many child actors, she didn’t attend college, but her schooling was tailored around her acting schedule. Despite not pursuing a traditional academic route, Dunst has shown time and again that her education in life—and on set—has been extensive.
Kirsten Dunst Movies in Order: Career Timeline & Highlights
Here is a curated timeline of Kirsten Dunst’s most important movies, highlighting the evolution of her craft and her ability to adapt across genres:
1. Interview with the Vampire (1994)
At just 12 years old, Dunst stunned audiences and critics alike as Claudia, a child vampire trapped in immortality. Starring alongside Tom Cruise and Brad Pitt, her performance earned her a Golden Globe nomination.
2. Little Women (1994)
In the same year, she played a young Amy March in Gillian Armstrong’s adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s classic novel. Her portrayal showed maturity beyond her years.
3. Jumanji (1995)
Jumanji became a massive hit and a beloved family classic. Dunst played Judy Shepherd, one of two children who discover a magical board game that unleashes chaos. This movie cemented her as a bankable child star.
4. The Virgin Suicides (1999)
In Sofia Coppola’s directorial debut, Dunst played Lux Lisbon, the dreamy, tragic teenager whose life is full of mystery and longing. This role marked her transition into more serious and emotionally complex characters.
5. Bring It On (2000)
As Torrance Shipman, the cheerleading captain of the Rancho Carne Toros, Dunst delivered a performance that became iconic for a generation. The film was a commercial success and proved her comedic timing.
6. Spider-Man Trilogy (2002–2007)
In Sam Raimi’s Spider-Man series, Dunst portrayed Mary Jane Watson, the love interest of Peter Parker. The trilogy was a box office juggernaut, and Dunst’s performance helped shape the emotional center of the franchise.
7. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004)
Though a supporting role, Dunst’s part as Mary in this acclaimed Charlie Kaufman film added another layer to her diverse portfolio. She starred alongside Jim Carrey and Kate Winslet.
8. Marie Antoinette (2006)
Reuniting with Sofia Coppola, Dunst played the iconic French queen with a modern twist. The film was stylish, divisive, and showed Dunst’s comfort with historical roles.
9. Melancholia (2011)
Dunst gave what many consider to be the best performance of her career as Justine, a deeply depressed bride at the end of the world. The role earned her the Best Actress Award at Cannes and established her as a serious dramatic actress.
10. Bachelorette (2012)
In this dark comedy, she played Regan, a Type-A friend caught in a chaotic bridal party weekend. The movie was edgy and offbeat, showing her comfort with indie cinema.
11. The Two Faces of January (2014)
A neo-noir thriller where she starred alongside Viggo Mortensen and Oscar Isaac. Her performance was elegant and layered.
12. Hidden Figures (2016)
Playing a NASA supervisor, Dunst was part of an award-winning ensemble cast in this powerful story about African-American women mathematicians during the space race.
13. The Beguiled (2017)
Another collaboration with Coppola, this Civil War-era psychological drama showcased Dunst in a quiet but intense role that contrasted well with her younger work.
14. The Power of the Dog (2021)
Her portrayal of Rose Gordon in Jane Campion’s Western thriller was widely acclaimed and earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress.
15. Civil War (2024)
In this recent dystopian thriller, Dunst plays a photojournalist navigating a fractured America. The film was praised for its gripping visuals and Dunst’s commanding presence.
TV Shows with Kirsten Dunst
While mostly known for her movie roles, Dunst has delivered powerful performances on television as well:
ER (1996–1997)
She played Charlie, a homeless teen, in a recurring role. Even in her early TV work, she showcased emotional depth.
Fargo (Season 2, 2015)
In a career-redefining role, Dunst played Peggy Blumquist, a hairdresser with dreams of self-betterment caught in a web of crime. The role earned her a Golden Globe nomination.
On Becoming a God in Central Florida (2019)
She portrayed Krystal Stubbs, a water park employee who schemes her way through a pyramid scheme. The performance was praised for its originality and earned her another Golden Globe nomination.
Kirsten Dunst Husband: Jesse Plemons
Kirsten Dunst met Jesse Plemons on the set of Fargo in 2015. The couple began dating soon after, got engaged in 2017, and welcomed two sons together: Ennis (born 2018) and James (born 2021). They officially tied the knot in 2022 in a private ceremony in Jamaica.
Their relationship is widely admired in Hollywood for its low-profile, authentic nature. Plemons and Dunst even co-starred again in The Power of the Dog.
Kirsten Dunst Net Worth
As of 2025, Kirsten Dunst’s net worth is estimated to be between $25 million and $30 million, thanks to decades of consistent work in blockbuster films, indie hits, and critically acclaimed television.
She has also earned from endorsements and has invested in property in Los Angeles and New York, maintaining a relatively private but comfortable lifestyle.
Final Thoughts on Kirsten Dunst’s Legacy
From wide-eyed child star to Cannes-winning dramatic actress, Kirsten Dunst has navigated Hollywood with grace, grit, and incredible range. Her ability to move between mainstream franchises and deeply artistic projects makes her one of the most respected and enduring talents in the industry.
Whether she’s playing a cheerleader, a queen, or a grieving mother, Dunst brings an authenticity that resonates across genres and generations. She continues to take on roles that challenge her, and in doing so, she elevates the art of storytelling.
For more deep dives into your favorite stars, visit Thegoted.com—your source for authentic celebrity profiles, entertainment insights, and curated filmographies.
