It's ironic how easily the world forgets the origins of greatness. Before she was "Bird Box Lady," Sandra Bullock was better known as Gracie Lou Freebush in "Miss Congeniality" or as Siddalee Walker in "The Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood." Somehow, the current generation has forgotten some of Bullock's most iconic roles, subjecting her to a menial nickname that barely scratches the surface of her career as an actress. Here are 10 movies that defined Bullock's career long before the reign of Netflix.
"While You Were Sleeping"
One of Sandra Bullock's best romantic comedies, "While You Were Sleeping," comes in at number one. Bullock's character, Lucy Moderatz, is mistaken as the fiancée of a comatose man, a man whom she's been secretly in love with for quite some time - and she must decide whether it's true love or purely coincidental.
"Premonition"
One of Bullock's rare thrillers, "Premonition," centers around a woman named Linda who loses her husband in a car crash and who begins experiencing the days leading up to his death in non-chronological order. "Premonition" comes in at number two based on the movie's surprising plot twists and edge-of-your-seat quality.
"28 Days"
In "28 Days," Bullock plays an alcoholic who enters a month-long rehab program. This movie makes the list based on the movie's positive messages and Bullock's portrayal of an individual struggling with substance abuse.
"Practical Magic"
"Practical Magic" made Bullock more of a household name in the 90s, which is why it makes the list at number four. In "Practical Magic," Bullock plays Sally Owens, a mother who has magical powers that run in the family and who has to deal with a curse she must break before it's too late. This movie makes the list for its popularity and unique storyline.
"The Proposal"
Bullock's arguably best romantic comedy comes in at number five. "The Proposal" finds uptight Margaret Tate obligated to fake an engagement to her book editor to prevent him from being deported to Canada. A funny, light-hearted romance, this movie makes the list due to Bullock's perfect fit for her character.
"The Blind Side"
"The Blind Side" is based on the true story of NFL player Michael Oher and the family who fostered him as a teenager. Bullock plays Leigh Anne Tuohy, a mama bear-style character who takes Oher under her wing. This movie makes number six based on Bullock's award-winning performance and the true-to-life quality.
"Miss Congeniality"
"Miss Congeniality" tops the list at number seven, detailing the story of a tomboy cop who goes undercover at the Miss America beauty pageant. This is one of Bullock's most iconic roles, embracing her humor and great acting chops and cementing a few pop culture references from the 2000s. Who could forget quotes like "Hey, I'm gliding here!" or "You think I'm gorgeous, you wanna kiss me"? Thanks to Sandra Bullock, we'll always say "yes."