5 Amazing Amy Poehler Movies to Watch if You Loved Her in Parks and Recreation

5 Amazing Amy Poehler Movies to Watch if You Loved Her in Parks and Recreation
Image credit: Paramount Pictures, USA Films, Lionsgate, Universal Pictures, Disney/Pixar

While Leslie Knope will forever be our favorite character, there's so much more to the actress, both in terms of her comedic and dramatic talents.

Amy Poehler's name has become a staple when it comes to comedy. One of the leading comedians of the century, she continues to gain recognition with each new project she takes part in, both as an actress and as a director.

While she is best known as a TV star, Poehler's film career also spans a wide range of roles, from comedies to lending her voice to Oscar-winning animated films.

Here are 5 of the most memorable roles she has played with her unique charm.

1. Mean Girls (2004)

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Few movies have had such a lasting cultural impact as Mean Girls, which still remains a defining teen comedy of our times. Written by Tina Fey, the film follows Cady, Lindsay Lohan ’s iconic character, as she navigates the social intricacies of high school, particularly the toxic group led by Regina George.

Well, Poehler shines as Regina's "cool mom," Mrs. George, delivering an unforgettable performance. Her scene-stealing banter, complete with a pink tracksuit and encouragement of underage drinking, makes her a standout in this classic comedy.

2. Wet Hot American Summer (2001)

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Although it was initially a box office flop, Wet Hot American Summer has since become a cult comedy classic. The film, set on the last day of a summer camp, is a spoof of '80s sex comedies, starring a bunch of future Hollywood stars, including Paul Rudd, Bradley Cooper, and Elizabeth Banks, alongside Poehler in one of her early roles of the charming Susie.

With its chaotic, over-the-top humor and eccentric characters, Poehler plays a key part in an ensemble cast that has become iconic in its own right.

3. Blades of Glory (2007)

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Blades of Glory is a hilarious sports satire that features Poehler in a supporting role, but a very memorable one. The film centers on two rival figure skaters, played by Will Ferrell and Jon Heder, who team up to compete in a men's duo event.

Poehler, along with her then-husband Will Arnett, play a hilariously dysfunctional sibling duo, the Van Waldenbergs, bringing a dose of absurdist humor to the film. Though known for its lowbrow comedy, Blades of Glory is a hidden gem that showcases Poehler's comedic talent.

4. They Came Together (2014)

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In this quirky romantic comedy, Poehler stars opposite Paul Rudd (again) in a self-aware, playful satire of the rom-com genre. Rudd plates the owner of a small candy shop and a corporate suit who is sent out to shut Poehler’s business down. The pair's enemies-to-lovers story is filled with absurdist humor and a series of delightful laughs at the genre's clichés.

Poehler and Rudd's chemistry is undeniable, and the actress's gift for balancing silliness and sincerity adds a unique charm to this lighthearted yet edgy film.

5. Sisters (2016)

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Sisters stars Amy Poehler and Tina Fey, and frankly their onscreen chemistry is at the heart of this comedy. The movie follows two sisters who, upon learning that their parents are selling their childhood home, decide to throw one last party to relive their youth. While Sisters leans heavily on humor, it also touches on deeper themes of aging and self-reflection. Poehler plays the straight-laced Maura, a perfect foil for Fey's wild, uninhibited character.

Special Mention: Inside Out ( 2015)

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One of the best roles she has ever played was that of Joy in the Oscar-winning animated film Inside Out. It's her voice, so soft and playful, that made us literally fall in love with the character that is so important to the well-being of an 11-year-old.

Poehler's vocal work as Joy is brilliant. While Joy is a complex character, walking a fine line between encouraging enthusiasm and toxic positivity, Poehler brings her to life with remarkable skill.

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