Elliot Page: The 10 Most Essential Movies And TV Roles That Defined His Career (So Far)

As of December 2025, the filmography of Elliot Page—formerly known as Ellen Page—represents one of the most compelling and transformative journeys in modern Hollywood, moving from indie darling to blockbuster star and now, an influential producer and advocate. The actor’s career is defined by a consistent choice of complex, emotionally resonant roles that challenge conventions, making any list of his "best" work a deep dive into character-driven storytelling. His recent work, particularly the 2024 film *Close to You*, marks a pivotal new chapter, bringing his personal truth to the screen in a way that is both deeply personal and universally resonant. This definitive list explores the most essential movies and television series that have shaped Elliot Page's career, highlighting his versatility and the powerful impact of his performances, from his critically acclaimed breakout to his newest, most authentic roles. The transition from Ellen Page to Elliot Page in late 2020 has reframed the narrative around his past work, but the power of those initial performances remains undeniable, setting the stage for the powerful roles he is taking on today.

Elliot Page: Biography and Career Profile

Full Name: Elliot Philpotts-Page (Born Ellen Grace Philpotts-Page)

Date of Birth: February 21, 1987

Place of Birth: Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada

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Career Start: Began acting professionally at age 10 in 1997 with the Canadian television film *Pit Pony*.

Breakthrough Role: Juno MacGuff in the 2007 comedy-drama *Juno*.

Key Career Highlights:

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• Academy Award Nomination for Best Actress (*Juno*, 2007).
• Roles in major blockbusters including *Inception* (2010) and the *X-Men* franchise.
• Executive Producer and Star of the Netflix series *The Umbrella Academy* (2019–2024).
• Came out as a transgender man in December 2020.
• Author of the critically acclaimed memoir, *Pageboy* (2023).
• Star and Producer of the 2024 film *Close to You*, his first major post-transition role.

Elliot Page has established himself not only as a formidable actor but also as a powerful advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, using his platform to promote visibility and authentic representation in film and television. His commitment to emotionally honest storytelling is evident across his diverse filmography.

1. Juno (2007): The Oscar-Nominated Indie Sensation

The role of Juno MacGuff is arguably the most recognizable and career-defining performance for Elliot Page. This quirky, sharp-witted comedy-drama, directed by Jason Reitman and written by Diablo Cody, tells the story of an unconventional teenager navigating an unplanned pregnancy.

Page’s performance was universally praised for its naturalism and emotional depth, earning him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. The film itself became a cultural phenomenon, popularizing a new wave of indie cinema and establishing Page as a major talent capable of carrying a film. The character's signature blend of cynicism and vulnerability remains a benchmark in coming-of-age cinema.

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2. Inception (2010): The Architect of Dreams

Transitioning from indie success to global blockbuster, Page joined the all-star cast of Christopher Nolan’s mind-bending science fiction epic, *Inception*. He played Ariadne, the "Architect" of the dream worlds, who is tasked with designing the complex, multi-layered environments for the team’s missions.

The film's massive critical and commercial success cemented Page's status in Hollywood, proving he could hold his own alongside heavyweights like Leonardo DiCaprio and Joseph Gordon-Levitt. The role of Ariadne required a quiet intelligence and a grounding presence, acting as the audience's guide through the labyrinthine narrative. *Inception* remains a high-water mark in the sci-fi genre, and Page's contribution is integral to its success.

3. Hard Candy (2005): The Shocking Early Masterpiece

Long before *Juno*, Page delivered a chilling, breakout performance in the psychological thriller *Hard Candy*. He played Hayley Stark, a 14-year-old girl who meets an older photographer (Patrick Wilson) online and subjects him to a brutal interrogation, believing him to be a predator.

This early film showcased Page's incredible range and intensity. The performance is unsettling and powerful, establishing a reputation for taking on challenging, dark material. Critics at the time hailed it as a fearless and unforgettable debut into adult roles, setting the stage for the complex characters he would later portray.

4. The Umbrella Academy (2019–2024): The Netflix Global Hit

Elliot Page found massive international success with the Netflix series *The Umbrella Academy*, based on the comic book series by Gerard Way and Gabriel Bá. He stars as Viktor Hargreeves (originally Vanya Hargreeves), one of the super-powered siblings.

This series is a vital entry in his filmography because the character's journey was written to mirror the actor's own transition. In Season 3, the character of Vanya came out as Viktor, a storyline handled with sensitivity and a focus on authenticity, providing unprecedented visibility for a trans male character in a major television production. The show’s global reach and dedicated fanbase have made this one of the most important roles of his career, demonstrating the power of representation.

5. Close to You (2024): The Authentic New Chapter

The drama *Close to You* is a landmark film in Elliot Page’s career, representing his first major lead role in a feature film since his transition. The film, which premiered in 2024, stars Page as Sam, a young man who returns home for his father's birthday, four years after transitioning.

Co-written by Page and director Dominic Savage, the film is an intimate, largely improvised exploration of family, identity, and the complexity of returning to a place that holds old memories. Critics have lauded the raw, honest performance, noting that it is a powerful piece of trans cinema that moves beyond simple coming-out narratives to explore the deeper emotional landscape of self-discovery and familial acceptance. This role is a testament to Page's commitment to using his artistic voice for authentic storytelling and is a must-see for fans.

6. X-Men: Days of Future Past (2014) & The Last Stand (2006)

Page entered the superhero world as Kitty Pryde, a mutant with the power to "phase" through solid objects, in *X-Men: The Last Stand*. His role was significantly expanded in the critically acclaimed sequel, *X-Men: Days of Future Past*, where his character’s ability to send consciousness back in time was the central plot device.

As Kitty Pryde, Page brought a blend of youthful determination and quiet strength, making the character a fan-favorite within the sprawling *X-Men* universe. These films showcase his ability to navigate the demands of a large-scale ensemble blockbuster while maintaining a compelling, grounded performance.

7. Whip It (2009): The Roller Derby Anthem

*Whip It*, Drew Barrymore's directorial debut, is a feel-good sports comedy-drama where Page stars as Bliss Cavendar, an indie-rock-loving teenager who secretly joins a roller derby team.

The film is a celebration of non-conformity and finding your chosen family. Page's portrayal of Bliss, who adopts the derby name "Babe Ruthless," is full of infectious energy and emotional sincerity, resonating with audiences who appreciate stories about finding passion outside of conventional expectations. It remains one of his most beloved, uplifting films.

8. The East (2013): The Eco-Thriller

In the tense eco-thriller *The East*, Page plays Izzy, a member of a mysterious anarchist group that targets corrupt corporations. The film follows an FBI agent (Brit Marling) who goes undercover to infiltrate the group.

This role allowed Page to explore themes of environmental activism and corporate greed, showcasing his interest in politically and socially relevant projects. The performance is understated but intense, adding to the film’s atmosphere of paranoia and moral ambiguity. It is a key example of his commitment to independent, thought-provoking cinema.

9. Tallulah (2016): The Emotional Drama

*Tallulah* is a poignant drama that reunited Page with his *Juno* co-star Allison Janney, who plays an unhappy, wealthy housewife. Page stars as the titular character, a young woman living out of a van who impulsively "rescues" a baby from an irresponsible mother.

The film is a deep dive into the complexities of motherhood, poverty, and emotional connection. Page’s performance as Tallulah is raw and desperate, highlighting the character's profound loneliness and her search for a sense of belonging. It’s an essential watch for those who appreciate his more dramatic, character-focused work.

10. Into the Forest (2015): The Survival Story

In the post-apocalyptic independent film *Into the Forest*, Page and Evan Rachel Wood play two sisters struggling to survive in their remote forest home after a massive power outage causes a continental blackout.

The film is a masterclass in minimalist, character-driven survival. Page, who also served as a producer on the project, delivers a powerful performance focused on resilience, sisterhood, and the return to primal living. It underscores his growing interest in producing and starring in projects that offer deep emotional stakes and a strong sense of topical authority.