The Top Five Bette Midler Movie Roles Of Her Career

When you think of Bette Midler, you probably think of her booming voice, her infectious laugh, and her knack for making you feel like she's your best friend telling you a hilarious story. She’s a true original, a force of nature who can belt out a tune, crack you up with a zinger, and then somehow leave you with a tear in your eye. Over the years, Bette has graced the silver screen in a bunch of fantastic movies, bringing her unique brand of magic to each role. It’s tough to pick just a few, but here are five movie performances that really show off why we all love The Divine Miss M so much.

The Rose

This one is a classic for a reason. In The Rose, Bette plays a rock star who’s on top of the world but also struggling with a lot of personal demons. Think of it like a wild, sad, and totally captivating rollercoaster ride. Bette isn't just acting here; she is this character. She sings her heart out, and you feel every bit of the joy and the pain. It’s a performance that’s both powerful and heartbreaking, showing off her incredible talent for conveying raw emotion. It’s the kind of movie that stays with you long after the credits roll, making you want to crank up the music and maybe even belt out a tune yourself.

Beaches

Who hasn't cried watching Beaches? This movie is all about the enduring power of friendship, and Bette plays C.C. Bloom, a free-spirited, sometimes-ditzy singer who becomes best pals with the more reserved Hillary (Barbara Hershey). Their friendship is a whirlwind of fun times, silly arguments, and deep loyalty. Bette brings such warmth and humor to C.C., making her instantly lovable. You’ll laugh at her antics and then, yes, you’ll definitely reach for the tissues during the emotional moments. The song Wind Beneath My Wings, sung by Bette, became an anthem because of this movie, and it’s a perfect example of how she can connect with audiences on a really deep, heartfelt level.

Hocus Pocus

Alright, this is where things get seriously fun and a little bit spooky! In Hocus Pocus, Bette plays one of the Sanderson sisters, Winifred Sanderson, a cackling, evil witch who’s brought back from the dead by some unsuspecting kids. Honestly, Bette is having the time of her life as Winifred. She’s over-the-top, hilarious, and utterly unforgettable. Her singing the song I Put a Spell on You is iconic – a moment of pure, unadulterated Bette-ness. She chews up the scenery in the best possible way, and alongside her equally fabulous witch sisters (played by Sarah Jessica Parker and Kathy Najimy), they create a Halloween movie that’s become a beloved tradition for so many. It’s pure, campy delight.

First Wives Club

This movie is a brilliant comedy about revenge, sisterhood, and finally finding your power. Bette plays Brenda Morely, one of three former friends whose husbands have left them for younger women. Instead of moping around, these ladies decide to get even, and Bette is the perfect person to embody that sassy, no-nonsense attitude. She’s got some of the best one-liners in the film, delivering them with her signature wit and timing. The chemistry between Bette, Goldie Hawn, and Diane Keaton is electric. They’re a hilarious trio, and Bette really shines as the outspoken member of the group who’s not afraid to speak her mind. It’s a feel-good movie that empowers women and proves that sometimes, the best revenge is a good laugh with your friends.

The First Wives Club

Wait, we already did First Wives Club? My apologies! Let’s swap that out for another gem. How about The Addams Family Values? In this wonderfully quirky and darkly funny sequel, Bette plays Morticia Addams, the matriarch of the eccentric and spooky Addams family. While Anjelica Huston originated the role, Bette steps in here and brings her own distinct energy to the character. She's captivating as the elegant, eerie Morticia, and her moments with Raul Julia as Gomez are filled with a bizarre and endearing romance. The film itself is a masterclass in dark humor, and Bette fits right in, adding her unique flair to the macabre world of the Addams family. It’s a testament to her versatility that she can inhabit such different characters and make them all so memorable.

These five roles are just a taste of the incredible career Bette Midler has had. Each one shows a different side of her talent – whether it’s her raw emotional power, her comedic genius, her heartwarming delivery, or her sheer, unadulterated stage presence. She’s a national treasure, and these movies are a perfect reminder of why we’ll always be singing her praises.