Last updated on: July 29, 2025
You know that feeling when you stumble on an actor who isn’t everywhere yet—but every time they’re on screen, something just clicks? That’s how I felt the first time I saw Grace Van Patten in Tramps. She didn’t shout for attention. She just… belonged. Natural. Magnetic. Real.
If you haven’t discovered her yet, buckle up—because she’s about to be your next cinematic obsession. From Netflix indie gems to surreal feminist thrillers, Grace brings a quiet fire to every role. She plays complex, messy, beautiful humans—and somehow makes you care deeply about all of them.
A Journey Through Her Best Films
So instead of just throwing a list at you, let’s take a little journey through her filmography together. I’ll share what each film meant to me (or could mean to you), where to stream it, and why this might be the perfect time to dive into her world.
1. The Violent Heart (2020)
Picture this: a teenage girl with big dreams meets a guy whose past is darker than he lets on. It sounds familiar, right? But The Violent Heart doesn’t do clichés. It leans into the pain and beauty of second chances, guilt, and young love.
Grace plays Cassie, a bright high school student whose charm is disarming—until life hits hard. You can feel her character’s inner conflict without her having to say a word. It’s in her silences. In her eyes.
If you’re in the mood for a romance with soul—and a few gut punches, this one’s for you.
2. Good Posture (2019)
Ever had a roommate situation that spiraled? Imagine moving in with a grumpy, famous novelist who barely speaks—and you’re a lazy 20-something trying to figure out your life. Welcome to Good Posture.
Grace plays Lilian, a messy but lovable protagonist. She’s not trying to be likable—and that’s exactly why you like her.
There’s a dry, almost British sense of humor to this film. If you’ve ever lived in Brooklyn (or dreamed of it), the vibe will feel strangely familiar.
3. The Meyerowitz Stories (2017)
You know a movie’s serious when the cast includes Dustin Hoffman, Emma Thompson, Ben Stiller, and Adam Sandler. But nestled among these giants is Grace Van Patten, making a surprising impact in just a few scenes.
She plays Eliza, a film student with, um… unconventional art. Her performance adds a jolt of youthful energy to a film wrapped in middle-aged existential crises.
A great intro to how effortlessly she slips into character.
4. Mayday (2021)
Imagine falling into a dreamlike world where women are at war—and men are the enemy. Mayday takes that concept and runs with it.
Grace plays Ana, who starts off fragile and scared, but grows into a warrior… or maybe something more complicated.
The visuals? Haunting. The message? Up for debate. But the transformation? Unforgettable.
5. Under the Silver Lake (2018)
In Under the Silver Lake, Andrew Garfield plays a conspiracy-obsessed loner unraveling a mystery across LA. It’s surreal, cryptic, and full of Easter eggs.
Grace doesn’t have a big role, but her presence fits the eerie, seductive vibe perfectly.
Think: Donnie Darko, but weirder. And yes, it demands your attention.
6. Tramps (2016)
This was the film that made me sit up and go, “Wait—who is this actress?”
Grace plays Ellie, a tough girl with a plan. Her chemistry with co-star Callum Turner is electric—but not in a steamy way.
It reminded me of Before Sunrise—falling into someone else’s life and wondering, what if?
7. The Wilde Wedding (2017)
This one’s a chaotic family comedy, and if you’ve ever been to a family wedding that spiraled into madness, you’ll relate.
Grace plays Mackenzie, surrounded by legends like Glenn Close, John Malkovich, and Patrick Stewart. She’s the level-headed granddaughter trying to make sense of the madness.
Sometimes it’s not about the plot—it’s about the vibe. And this one’s got plenty.
A Few More to Check Out…
While the above are her best film performances, Grace has also delivered strong work on the small screen:
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Nine Perfect Strangers (2021) – She plays Zoe, a grief-stricken teen at a mysterious wellness retreat. It’s haunting and emotional.
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The Basement (2017) – A low-budget horror where she flexes her darker side.
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Fun fact: She first appeared in The Sopranos as a kid. Yep. The legacy runs deep.
Where to Stream Grace Van Patten’s Films
PlatformTitlesNetflixTramps, The Meyerowitz StoriesAmazon PrimeThe Violent Heart, The Wilde WeddingHuluGood PostureApple TV / VODMayday, The BasementShowtimeUnder the Silver Lake
Movie night? Sorted.
Final Thoughts
Grace Van Patten doesn’t need to scream to be heard. She doesn’t need massive box office hits or Marvel cameos (yet). She just needs a story worth telling—and she’ll live inside it.
Her characters linger. They’re flawed, searching, raw. And if you’re the kind of person who craves stories that make you feel something—really feel it—then her movies are calling your name.
Start with Tramps. End with Mayday. Let the rest surprise you.
Because discovering an actor before the world catches up? That’s half the fun.
