Since her breakout role in the stirring drama Never Let Me Go, where she starred alongside Andrew Garfield and Keira Knightley, Ella Purnell has been quietly building a formidable career in film and television.
Now, with her starring role in Amazon’s gripping adaptation of the Fallout video game series, Ella has rapidly ascended to new heights of fame.
While it might appear she’s a fresh face on the screen, Ella has been refining her craft for over a decade, choosing roles that span a spectrum of genres and showcase her dynamic capabilities as an actress.
This strategic choice of diverse roles has cemented her reputation as a versatile and dedicated performer in an ever-evolving industry.
Here are Ella Purnell’s 15 best movies and television shows—each a solid project, many widely acclaimed, showcasing her as an exceptionally talented actress poised for a bright future.
Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children (2016)
Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children plot overview
“Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children” is a fantasy film based on Ransom Riggs’ best-selling novel.
The story revolves around Jake, a young boy who discovers a mysterious orphanage on an island off the coast of Wales.
The home, run by Miss Alma Lefay Peregrine, houses children with extraordinary abilities known as “Peculiars.”
Miss Peregrine, an Ymbryne who can transform into a peregrine falcon, has created a time loop set on September 3, 1943.
This loop allows the children to live the same day repeatedly, avoiding ageing and persecution from the outside world.
Jake learns he is also a Peculiar, with the ability to see invisible monsters called “Hollowgasts” or “Hollows.”
Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children Ella Purnell’s role
Ella Purnell plays Emma Bloom, an aerokinetic teenager with the ability to manipulate air.
Emma can breathe underwater by creating liquid bubbles of air and is lighter than air, requiring lead shoes or a tether to keep her from floating away.
In the film adaptation, Emma’s power was changed from fire manipulation in the book to air manipulation.
Purnell’s portrayal of Emma Bloom showcases her versatility as an actress.
She spent considerable time in harnesses and wires to bring Emma’s flying abilities to life, even using wind machines to create the illusion of blowing back Samuel L. Jackson’s character.
Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children critical reception
The film received mixed reviews from critics. On Rotten Tomatoes, it has an approval rating of 64% based on 259 reviews, with an average rating of 5.9/10.
Critics praised the film’s visual style but noted some weaknesses in its narrative structure.
IGN critic Samantha Ladwig gave the film a 7.2/10, highlighting its striking visuals while noting some issues with the emotional depth and climax of the script.
Justin Chang of the Los Angeles Times praised it as Burton’s finest work since “Sweeney Todd” (2007), emphasising its gothic imagination.
Calvin Wilson of St. Louis Post-Despatch awarded the film 3.5 out of 4 stars, commending its ambitious storytelling and emotional payoff.
However, some critics found the pacing uneven, with the first half of the film taking too long to establish the story and characters.
Yellowjackets (2021-Present)
Yellowjackets plot overview
“Yellowjackets” is an American thriller drama television series that blends elements of psychological horror, survival, and coming-of-age storytelling.
The show follows a group of talented high school soccer players who become the survivors of a plane crash deep in the Ontario wilderness.
The narrative unfolds across two timelines: the immediate aftermath of the 1996 crash and the present day, 25 years later, exploring the long-lasting impact of the traumatic event on the survivors’ lives.
The series masterfully weaves together various genres, including horror, supernatural, realism, and psychological drama, creating a unique and compelling viewing experience.
It draws inspiration from classic tropes such as “Lord of the Flies” and “Blair Witch” while putting its own spin on these familiar elements.
Yellowjackets Ella Purnell’s role
Ella Purnell portrays Jackie Taylor, a pivotal character in the first season of “Yellowjackets.”
Jackie is introduced as the charismatic captain of the Yellowjackets soccer team, Shauna’s best friend, and Jeff’s girlfriend.
Prior to the plane crash, she had been accepted into Rutgers University, symbolising her bright future prospects.
In the wilderness, Jackie struggles to adapt to the harsh new reality, finding it challenging to function without the familiar high school social structure.
Her relationship with her teammates, particularly Shauna, deteriorates as she grapples with the drastic change in circumstances.
Purnell’s portrayal of Jackie is nuanced and complex. While Jackie initially appears as the ideal person—pretty, academically successful, and generally kind—her character reveals deeper layers as the story progresses.
Her leadership style often veers into commanding others, especially Shauna, highlighting her self-centred tendencies.
Yellowjackets critical acclaim
“Yellowjackets” has garnered significant critical acclaim, particularly for its intricate storytelling and the outstanding performances of its ensemble cast.
The show has received seven Primetime Emmy Award nominations, including nods for Outstanding Drama Series and acting nominations for Melanie Lynskey and Christina Ricci.
Critics have praised the show’s ability to maintain suspense and keep viewers engaged.
As one reviewer noted, “Yellowjackets is a psychological thriller, so it’s supposed to keep you thinking, which the writers never fail to do.”
The series has been compared favourably to other critically acclaimed shows, with one fan stating, “Besides Dexter and Homeland, I don’t think there has been a show where I’ve looked so forward to a new season.”
The series’ exploration of complex, decades-long trauma has been particularly well-received.
Critics have lauded how the intense experiences of the teenage characters are intricately woven into the psyche of their adult counterparts 25 years later.
This deep dive into the lasting effects of trauma sets “Yellowjackets” apart from other shows in the genre.
Arcane (2021-Present)
Arcane plot summary
“Arcane” is an animated series set in the world of League of Legends, focusing on the origins of two iconic champions, Jinx and Vi.
The story unfolds in the utopian steampunk city of Piltover and its underground counterpart, Zaun.
It explores the complex relationship between the sisters, who were orphaned during a failed uprising against Piltover.
Vander, the unspoken leader of the undercity, adopts them along with other children.
The narrative takes a tragic turn when a series of events forces the sisters apart.
A young Powder, later known as Jinx, accidentally causes an explosion that kills several people, including their adopted family members.
This incident leads to a rift between the sisters, with Vi abandoning Powder in a moment of anguish.
Arcane Ella Purnell as Jinx
Ella Purnell brings to life the complex character of Jinx, formerly known as Powder.
Jinx’s transformation from a clumsy, well-meaning child to a demented killer is at the heart of the series.
Purnell’s portrayal captures the character’s internal struggle and descent into madness with nuance and depth.
As a child, Powder was often criticised for her clumsiness but always defended by her sister Vi.
The traumatic events of her youth, including the accidental deaths she caused and Vi’s subsequent abandonment, fundamentally changed her.
Adopted by Silco, the series’ antagonist, Powder adopts the name “Jinx” and becomes increasingly unstable and violent.
Purnell’s performance brings out Jinx’s complex emotions, from her jealousy towards Vi’s relationship with Caitlyn to her desperate need for familial connection.
The character’s mental deterioration is portrayed with sensitivity, showcasing Purnell’s versatility as an actress.
Arcane awards and recognition
While specific awards for “Arcane” are not mentioned in the provided information, the series has garnered significant critical acclaim.
Ella Purnell’s performance as Jinx has been particularly praised, with her portrayal described as cementing her status as a true crossover talent.
The series has been recognised for its innovative storytelling, blending elements of psychological drama, action, and coming-of-age narratives.
Its exploration of complex themes and character development has resonated with both fans of the League of Legends universe and newcomers to the franchise.
Fallout (2024)
Fallout series premise
“Fallout” is an upcoming Amazon Prime Video series based on the popular video game franchise by Bethesda Softworks.
Set in a post-apocalyptic world in 2296, the show explores life after a nuclear explosion renders the Earth uninhabitable, forcing survivors to live in underground vaults.
The series follows the journey of Lucy MacLean, a Vault Dweller who ventures into the irradiated wasteland to search for her missing father.
Fallout Ella Purnell as Lucy McLean
Ella Purnell portrays Lucy MacLean, a bubbly and optimistic Vault Dweller from Vault 33.
Lucy’s character is described as kind, charming, and strong, with a relentless optimism that persists even in the face of the harsh realities of the wasteland.
Purnell’s performance brings depth to Lucy’s journey, showcasing her transformation from a sheltered Vault resident to a survivor grappling with the complexities of the outside world.
Fallout fan reception
The “Fallout” series has been receiving positive responses from critics and audiences alike, with many praising it as one of the best video game adaptations to date.
Purnell’s portrayal of Lucy has resonated with fans, leading to the creation of viral memes featuring her character.
The show’s success demonstrates its appeal to both long-time fans of the game franchise and newcomers to the “Fallout” universe.
Army of the Dead (2021)
Army of the Dead plot synopsis
“Army of the Dead” is a post-apocalyptic heist film directed by Zack Snyder.
The story unfolds in a world where Las Vegas has been quarantined following a zombie outbreak.
Six years after the initial incident, casino owner Bly Tanaka approaches Scott Ward, a former zombie war hero, with a daring proposition: to recover $200 million from a casino vault before the government nukes the city.
Scott assembles a team of specialists, including his estranged daughter Kate, who works at a quarantine camp.
Despite Scott’s objections, Kate joins the mission, driven by her desire to find her friend Geeta, who has gone missing in the city.
Army of the Dead Ella Purnell’s character
Ella Purnell portrays Kate Ward, Scott’s estranged daughter. Kate’s character stands out as a departure from typical female roles in action films.
Rather than being a damsel in distress, Kate is described as heroic and goes through a significant personal transformation.
Purnell’s preparation for the role included physical training, such as boxing lessons, and learning military tactics from ex-army personnel.
Despite her initial lack of coordination, Purnell embraced the challenges of the action-packed role.
Army of the Dead critical response
The film received mixed reviews from critics. On Rotten Tomatoes, it garnered a 67% approval rating based on 288 reviews, with an average rating of 6.1/10.
The critical consensus praised the film as an “ambitious, over-the-top zombie heist mashup” that marked Snyder’s return to his genre roots.
Metacritic assigned the film a score of 57 out of 100 based on 43 critics, indicating a “mixed or average” review.
While some critics appreciated the film’s ambition and gore, others found fault with its shallow storytelling and lack of creativity in certain aspects of its design.
Access All Areas (2017)
Access All Areas plot overview
“Access All Areas” is a coming-of-age film that follows a group of teenagers as they embark on a journey to a music festival.
The story centres around Mia and her childhood friend Heath, a budding guitarist, along with their mates, as they head to the festival without tickets.
Their mission is to watch a reclusive musician rumoured to be performing live for the first time in years.
The film captures the transformative and magical experience of attending a music festival, with scenes shot during the actual Bestival event in 2015.
Access All Areas Ella Purnell as Mia
Ella Purnell portrays Mia, described as a standard-issue troubled teenager, complete with telltale black eyeliner.
Purnell embraced the role, stating that “everybody has a party girl in them,” and found the experience of bringing out that side every day for four weeks to be fun and liberating.
The actress, who had previously attended Bestival herself, was drawn to the project due to her love for the festival and her desire to see a film that accurately depicted the transformative nature of the festival experience.
Access All Areas reception
The film received mixed reviews from critics. While some praised the energy of the festival scenes and the charm of the cast, others found fault with the dialogue and portrayal of festival life.
The Guardian’s review noted that the movie “picks up” when the characters head to the festival and highlighted a “spot-on moment” when Mia gatecrashes the VIP area, only to find a group of middle-aged music industry professionals drinking herbal tea.
However, the review also criticised the film for its “monumental lapses in festival reality,” such as characters constantly running into each other and smartphone batteries never running out.
Intruders (2011)
Intruders plot synopsis
“Intruders” is a supernatural horror film that intertwines two parallel stories of children haunted by a mysterious entity known as Hollow Face.
In England, 12-year-old Mia Farrow becomes the target of this faceless apparition, while in Spain, a young boy named Juan faces a similar ordeal.
The film explores the blurred lines between reality and imagination as Hollow Face infiltrates the lives of these families, seeking love but spreading fear and hatred.
The narrative unfolds as a psychological thriller, drawing comparisons to films like “666” and “Inception.”
Hollow Face’s singular goal is to tear the face off a child, hoping to find love after losing his own face during a decade of solitary confinement.
The story alternates between Mia and Juan’s experiences, building suspense and exploring the impact of this supernatural threat on family dynamics.
Intruders Ella Purnell as Mia
Ella Purnell portrays Mia, a young British girl whose encounter with Hollow Face sets the film’s events in motion.
In a pivotal scene, Mia reads aloud a story about Hollow Face to her terrified classmates, foreshadowing the horror to come.
Purnell’s performance captures Mia’s vulnerability and bravery as she faces the supernatural threat, particularly in a tense scene where Hollow Face grabs her, only to be saved by her father, played by Clive Owen.
Intruders critical response
“Intruders” received mixed reviews from critics, with praise for its atmospheric elements and performances but criticism for its plot execution.
The film holds a 32% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, based on 72 reviews, with an average rating of 4.86/10. Critics noted the film’s strong first act but felt it faltered in maintaining tension and delivering effective scares throughout.
The film’s approach to horror was commended for avoiding common genre pitfalls and relying on psychological terror rather than excessive gore or jump scares.
However, some reviewers found the plot convoluted and the resolution unsatisfying, particularly the explanation of Hollow Face’s identity.
Despite these criticisms, the performances, especially those of the child actors and Clive Owen, were generally well-received, contributing to the film’s atmospheric tension.
Never Let Me Go (2010)
Never Let Me Go plot overview
“Never Let Me Go” is a haunting dystopian novel set in an alternative 1990s Britain.
The story revolves around Kathy H, Tommy D, and Ruth C, who grow up in Hailsham, a secluded boarding school.
As children, they are encouraged by their guardians to focus on health and create artwork for a mysterious gallery.
The true nature of their existence is gradually revealed: they are clones created for organ donation, destined to “complete” early in adulthood.
The narrative unfolds in three parts, mirroring the stages of the characters’ lives: childhood at Hailsham, adolescence at the Cottages, and adulthood as organ donors and carers.
As they mature, Kathy, Tommy, and Ruth grapple with their predetermined fate, exploring themes of love, friendship, and the essence of humanity.
Never Let Me Go, Ella Purnell’s debut role
Ella Purnell made her acting debut in the 2010 film adaptation of “Never Let Me Go.”
While specific details about her role are not provided in the given information, her participation in this critically acclaimed film marked the beginning of her career in the entertainment industry.
Never Let Me Go critical reception
The novel and its film adaptation have received significant critical acclaim.
The book has been praised for its complex and haunting narrative, which raises profound questions about family, memory, exploitation, and the concept of ‘othering’.
Critics have commended Ishiguro’s ability to write clearly and unpretentiously about universal experiences, such as childhood cruelty and the evolving nature of relationships.
The story’s gradual unveiling of the characters’ reality has been noted for its effectiveness in creating a sense of unease and disquiet.
The novel’s exploration of cognitive bias and societal-level ethical dilemmas has been particularly appreciated, making it a valuable contribution to contemporary literature.
Sweetbitter (2018-2019)
Sweetbitter series premise
“Sweetbitter” is a drama series based on Stephanie Danler’s novel, following the journey of 22-year-old Tess as she moves to New York City in search of adventure.
The story revolves around Tess’s experiences after landing a job as a backwaiter at an exclusive restaurant.
Initially exhausted and frustrated by the work, Tess eventually falls in love with her job as it provides her with a sense of community and belonging.
The series explores Tess’s coming-of-age story, recounting her first year in the city.
It delves into the chaotic and demanding world of fine dining, showcasing the complexities of life, love, and the intricacies of the restaurant industry.
Tess encounters a colourful cast of characters and faces challenges that push her to grow both personally and professionally.
Sweetbitter Ella Purnell as Tess
Ella Purnell portrays the central character, Tess, in “Sweetbitter.”
Purnell’s performance brings to life Tess’s journey as she navigates her new life in New York City.
The actress found a deep connection with her character, stating, “I’ve never played a character who’s so similar to myself.
She is constantly messing up; she is super awkward and weird and just trying to figure out her life in a really honest and open way.”
Purnell’s portrayal of Tess resonated with her own experiences as a young adult.
She related strongly to the character’s existential crisis and the uncertainty of her twenties, making the role feel incredibly personal.
Sweetbitter impact on Purnell’s career
“Sweetbitter” proved to be a significant milestone in Ella Purnell’s career.
The series provided her with a platform to showcase her versatility as an actress and helped establish her presence in the television industry.
Following “Sweetbitter,” Purnell went on to secure prominent roles in other successful productions, including “Yellowjackets” and “Arcane.”
The show also influenced Purnell’s approach to selecting roles.
She expressed a newfound responsibility to represent young women and real relationships authentically, stating,
“I will no longer take anything that is damaging to society or a specific group of people.”
This experience shaped her career trajectory, leading her to seek out more meaningful and impactful projects.
Star Trek: Prodigy (2021–Present)
Star Trek: Prodigy plot summary
“Star Trek: Prodigy” is an animated series set five years after the USS Voyager’s return to Earth.
The story follows a group of young aliens who discover an abandoned Starfleet ship, the USS Protostar, in the Tars Lamora prison colony.
As they take control of the vessel, they embark on a journey from the Delta Quadrant to the Alpha Quadrant, learning to work together along the way.
Star Trek: Prodigy Ella Purnell as Gwyn
Ella Purnell lends her voice to Gwyndala, nicknamed “Gwyn,” a 17-year-old Vau N’Akat with a passion for exploring the stars.
Gwyn’s character is a talented linguist who has mastered numerous alien languages.
As the artificially created daughter of The Diviner, Gwyn spent her childhood on Tars Lamora, assisting with negotiations and interrogations.
Purnell’s portrayal brings depth to Gwyn’s character, showcasing her journey from a conflicted ally of her father to a crucial member of the Protostar crew.
Gwyn’s linguistic skills prove invaluable in deciphering the ship’s encrypted logs and communicating with alien species.
Her role evolves throughout the series, culminating in her being christened “The Unifier” by her crewmate Zero.
Star Trek: Prodigy fan response
“Star Trek: Prodigy” has garnered significant support from its fanbase.
When faced with cancellation, the series was saved thanks to a massive social media movement and overwhelming fan support.
This outpouring of love reminded the show’s creators of the dedication shown by fans of The Original Series in the 1960s.
The fans’ efforts went beyond typical support, with actions such as selling out merchandise and even flying a banner over Hollywood to save the series.
This remarkable response reflects the themes of perseverance and belief in the impossible that are central to the show itself.
Belgravia (2020)
Belgravia plot overview
“Belgravia” is a period drama set in 19th-century London, exploring the secrets and scandals amongst the upper echelons of society.
The series, created by Julian Fellowes, delves into the lives of two families from different social backgrounds, intertwining their fates through a web of historical events and personal relationships.
The story begins with the Duchess of Richmond’s Ball, a real historical event, setting the stage for the drama that unfolds over the following decades.
Belgravia Ella Purnell as Lady Maria Grey
Ella Purnell portrays Lady Maria Grey, the daughter of the Dowager Countess of Templemore, Lady Corinne Grey.
At 21 years old, Maria is described as an attractive, forthright young woman raised under a strict regime of nurses and governesses.
Intelligent and interested in the wider world beyond fashion, she finds herself caught between her mother’s expectations and her own desires.
Lady Maria’s character arc revolves around a potential arranged marriage to John Bellasis, the heir presumptive of the Brockenhurst earldom.
However, Maria dislikes John’s selfish and snobbish pride, instead finding a natural ally in Charles Pope.
Their connection, sparked by a conversation about India’s cotton trade, hints at a forbidden love story that challenges societal norms.
Purnell brings depth to Maria’s character, showcasing her struggle between familial duty and personal happiness.
Her portrayal aligns with the current trend of more progressive female characters in period dramas, reflecting a desire for truthful and relatable representations on screen.
Belgravia critical reception
“Belgravia” has received generally positive reviews, with critics praising its production values and performances.
The series has been described as “delightfully soapy” and “thrilling,” offering fans of period dramas a satisfying blend of romance, revenge, and societal intrigue.
Critics have particularly lauded the performances of Tamsin Greig and Harriet Walter, describing their scenes together as “superb” and “astonishing.”
While some viewers have appreciated the show’s adherence to historical accuracy and lack of anachronistic elements, others have noted that certain characters, including Ella Purnell’s Lady Maria Grey, occasionally feel predictable or less compelling.
Despite this, the series has been commended for its historical details, ensemble casting, and Julian Fellowes’ signature storytelling style.
Churchill (2017)
Churchill film synopsis
“Churchill” is a 2017 British historical war-drama film directed by Jonathan Teplitzky. Set in June 1944, the film portrays Winston Churchill in the hours leading up to D-Day.
The story follows an exhausted Churchill as he awaits the 1944 Normandy landings, which he believes will be a disaster.
The film explores Churchill’s internal conflict and doubts about Operation Overlord, the code name for the invasion of Normandy.
Churchill Ella Purnell as Helen Garrett
Ella Purnell portrays Helen Garrett, a fictional character who serves as Churchill’s secretary.
Her role is similar to that of Elizabeth Layton in “Darkest Hour,” providing a perspective on Churchill’s eccentric mannerisms and thought processes.
Through Helen’s eyes, the audience witnesses Churchill’s bombastic personality, his habits of working in bed, and his sometimes cruel sense of humour.
Purnell’s performance contributes to the film’s exploration of Churchill’s complex character, showcasing his eccentricities as a form of self-defence rather than mere whimsy.
Churchill critical response
The film received mixed reviews from critics. On Rotten Tomatoes, it garnered a 49% approval rating based on 116 reviews, with an average rating of 5.2/10.
While Brian Cox’s performance as Churchill was widely praised, the film’s approach to the historical story was criticised.
Some reviewers found the portrayal of Churchill more nuanced and conflicted compared to other depictions, highlighting his fiery temper, vanity, and unfettered ego.
Critics such as Robbie Collin of The Daily Telegraph rated the film 4/5 stars, praising Cox’s performance as “dazzling.”
Peter Bradshaw from The Guardian gave it 3/5 stars, noting Miranda Richardson’s shrewd portrayal of Clementine Churchill.
However, noted Churchill biographer Andrew Roberts gave the film a scathing review, criticising its historical inaccuracies.
Kick-Ass 2 (2013)
Kick-Ass 2 plot summary
“Kick-Ass 2” continues the story four years after the events of the first film. Dave Lizewski, having retired from his role as Kick-Ass, begins training with Hit-Girl (Mindy Macready) to become a more effective hero.
Meanwhile, Chris D’Amico, seeking revenge for his father’s death, accidentally kills his mother and transforms into the supervillain “The Motherfucker.”
He assembles a group of villains called the Toxic Mega Cunts, setting the stage for a confrontation with Kick-Ass and his allies.
The film explores Mindy’s attempts to lead a normal life, including trying out for the school dance team and going on a date.
However, these experiences lead to cruel pranks and bullying, resulting in Mindy’s suspension from school and subsequent grounding by her guardian, Marcus.
Kick-Ass 2 Ella Purnell’s role
Ella Purnell appears in “Kick-Ass 2” in a small role, which serves as an interesting glimpse into her early career.
Although her character is not prominently featured, Purnell’s presence in the film is now seen as a delightful addition, given her subsequent rise to stardom in television and film.
Her participation in this action-comedy showcases her versatility as an actress, as it stands out from her later, more dramatic roles.
Kick-Ass 2 box office performance
“Kick-Ass 2” had a moderate performance at the box office. The film grossed $28,795,985 domestically and $32,000,000 internationally, resulting in a worldwide total of $60,795,985.
It opened in 2,940 theatres, earning $13,332,955 in its opening weekend.
With a budget of $28,000,000, the film managed to turn a profit despite not matching the success of its predecessor.
The movie had a theatrical run of 138 days (19 weeks) and was released between August 16, 2013, and September 26, 2013.
Ordeal by Innocence (2018)
Ordeal by Innocence plot synopsis
“Ordeal by Innocence” is a BBC miniseries adaptation of Agatha Christie’s novel of the same name.
The story revolves around the Argyll family, whose adopted son Jack was convicted of murdering his mother, Rachel Argyll.
Years after Jack’s death in prison, Dr. Arthur Calgary arrives with an alibi that proves Jack’s innocence.
This revelation unsettles the family, as it means the real murderer is still among them.
The series explores the complex relationships within the family and the secrets that come to light as they grapple with this new information.
Ordeal by Innocence Ella Purnell as Hester Argyll
Ella Purnell portrays Hester Argyll, the youngest of the adopted children in the Argyll family.
Hester, aged 18 in the present day of the series, is treated as the baby of the family, despite her own feelings about this role.
Purnell brings depth to Hester’s character, showcasing her two personas: the perfect 1950s princess she presents to her family and her true self, which is more mature and complex.
Hester’s relationship with her adoptive mother, Rachel, is particularly complicated.
Rachel, unable to have biological children, adopted in hopes of finding happiness.
However, she struggles to show affection, focusing instead on Hester’s appearance and piano recitals.
This dynamic has led to Hester developing an obsession with her appearance, even after Rachel’s murder.
Ordeal by Innocence critical response
The BBC adaptation of “Ordeal by Innocence” received mixed reviews from critics and audiences.
While praised for its visual style and performances, the series faced criticism for its significant departures from Christie’s original novel.
One notable change was the ending, where the killer is revealed to be Leo Argyll instead of Kirsten Lindstrom, as in the book.
The series also introduced new plot elements, such as Jack being the biological son of Leo and Kirsten and Calgary being portrayed as a former mental patient.
These alterations added layers of complexity to the story but also sparked debate among Christie purists.
Despite these changes, the series was noted for its engaging exploration of family dynamics and the psychological impact of long-held secrets.
Ways to Live Forever (2010)
Ways to Live Forever plot overview
“Ways to Live Forever” is a poignant drama film based on Sally Nicholls’ award-winning 2008 novel.
The story follows Sam McQueen, a 12-year-old boy with terminal leukaemia, as he navigates his final days with curiosity and determination.
Sam and his best friend Felix, who also has cancer, are tutored privately by an inspiring teacher who encourages them to keep a journal.
Sam’s journal becomes a central element of the narrative, filled with his wishes, profound life-and-death questions, and even a survey for his parents to complete after his passing.
As Sam’s condition worsens, he continues to seek answers, cherish his family, and experience new things.
Ways to Live Forever Ella Purnell as Kayleigh
Ella Purnell portrays Kayleigh, Felix’s cousin, in the film. Her character plays a significant role in helping Sam and Felix fulfil items on their wish list.
Kayleigh assists the boys in sneaking into her uncle’s pub, enabling them to experience their first drink and kiss.
Ways to Live Forever reception
The film has received positive reviews for its sensitive handling of a difficult subject. Critics praised Spanish director Gustavo Ron for capturing the vulnerability of a sick tween beautifully.
The movie strikes a balance between addressing serious themes and maintaining a light-hearted, emotional tone.
Robbie Kay’s performance as Sam has been particularly lauded, with critics noting his ability to convey both childlike curiosity and adolescent anger and confusion.
The film’s approach to illness and death is considered child-friendly, with the treatment and passing of characters handled delicately.
Conclusion
To wrap up, Ella Purnell’s journey in the entertainment industry showcases her versatility as an actress and her ability to bring depth to complex characters.
From her early roles in films like “Wildlike” and “Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children” to her standout performances in series like “Yellowjackets” and “Arcane,” Purnell has demonstrated her range across various genres.
Her career trajectory highlights her growth as an artist and her knack for choosing roles that challenge her abilities.
Purnell’s impact on the acting world extends beyond her on-screen performances.
Her dedication to her craft and her ability to breathe life into diverse characters have cemented her status as a rising star in Hollywood.
As she continues to take on new and exciting projects, it’s clear that Ella Purnell’s career is one to watch, promising even more captivating performances in the future.
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FAQs
What films and TV series has Ella Purnell appeared in?
Ella Purnell has acted in a variety of films, including Tim Burton’s “Miss Peregrine’s Home For Peculiar Children,” “Never Let Me Go,” “Army of the Dead,” and “Churchill.” Her television work includes roles in “Sweetbitter,” “Yellow Jackets” on Showtime, and “Belgravia,” and she also provides the voice for ‘Jinx’ in the Netflix animated series “Arcane.”
How did Ella Purnell start her acting career?
Ella Purnell began her acting journey at the age of 12 after being enrolled at the Sylvia Young Theatre School in London.
Her early break came when she was cast in a West End production of the musical “Oliver!”
She was born in London, England, and has three younger half-siblings.
Which characters has Ella Purnell provided her voice for?
Ella Purnell is recognised for her voice work as the character Jinx, a gunslinger in the 2021 Netflix series “Arcane.”
Additionally, she voices Lucy MacLean, the main character in Amazon’s “Fallout” series, and Jane in Season 2.
How old was Ella Purnell when she starred in ‘Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children’?
Ella Purnell was 19 years old when she starred in Tim Burton’s fantasy film “Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children,” which was released on September 30. She has been acting from a very young age.