Ever since Keira Knightley broke into the industry, she was seen as one of the most promising young talents. The actress quickly became the muse of director Joe Wright, starred in a franchise and became the go-to period actress. This year, Knightley returns to theaters in three films including the new release "Begin Again." The film shows her in a new light as she not only stars in the film set in modern times, but also showcases her singing skills. Let's take a look at some of Knightly's best performances to date. 

"Atonement" - Joe Wright's film is one of the most devastating films produced in recent times. Knightley's performance as Cecilia Tallis is regarded as her finest screen acting to date; the actress imbues an aristocratic and assured attitude throughout the first portion of the movie. However, in the second act of the film she shows the vulnerability of a damaged woman who has been scarred by the events in the movie. Her chemistry with McAvoy is perfect as both actors convey a loving couple that audiences suffer with as they are separated. The movie also features impeccable cinematography by Seamus McGarvey and a masterful score by Dario Marianelli. It also features brilliant costumes by Jacqueline Durrant that remain iconic to this day.

"Pride and Prejudice" - This movie, also by Wright, is a beautifully crafted period piece. Headlined by Knightley's Oscar-nominated performance, the movie is subtle in every way. Knightley provides some levity as she not only exudes innocence but also brightness and humor. Her work is countered by an outstanding Judi Dench who brings authority to the piece and Matthew McFadyen's awkward Mr. Darcy. Marianelli's score, which is infused by Jean-Yves Thibaudet's piano playing, is very romantic and melodic but it never overpowers or distracts from the movie. The result is a period film that is very realistic and moves away from the melodramatic trappings of the genre.

"Anna Karenina" - The third collaboration between Knightley and Wright is regarded as the most divisive film by the duo. Wright decided against filming on sets as is typical for period films and instead set the film in a theater. The result was a stylish piece that for some was distracting. However, the idea behind the theater added to the story by Leo Tolstoy and emphasized the theatrical, fake lifestyle that Russian aristocrats were subjected to. Knightley's performance is complex as she tries to make her character sympathetic while Jude Law steals every scene he is in. Marianelli's score is inventive as it uses one theme throughout while Sarah Greenwood's sets create the allusion that the film is being developed on location as opposed to the theater. The costumes by Durran are also astonishingly beautiful as they mix two different time periods and add to each character. The result may be too much for some, but it is definitely a worthy adaptation of Tolstoy's masterpiece.

"A Dangerous Method" - This can also be called a questionable pick as it was the most divisive film at the Venice Film Festival when it premiered in 2011. The movie by David Cronenberg told the story of the relationship between Carl Jung and Sigmund Freud and the impact Sabina Spielrein had on them. The film plays more like a theater piece than a movie as each scene is heavily dialogue-driven. Nevertheless, it is the topic and the performances that keep the movie fascinating. Michael Fassbender and Viggo Morentensen are both at the top of their game as both Jung and Freud. However, it is Knightley who surprises in her most physical performance to date. At the beginning of the movie she is uncontrollable with her ticks and the result is an unsettling performance that can very well turn off audiences. However, if you stick with it, Knightley's turn ends up being one her most mature to date.

"Never Let Me Go" - When Fox Searchlight released the movie based on Kazuo Ishiguro's novel, audiences and critics worried about the themes of the book and if it would resonate with audiences. The result was a critically-acclaimed feature that was too dark for audiences. The movie featured a stunning performance by Andrew Garfield and a soulful turn by Carey Mulligan. Meanwhile, Knightley showcased a darker and somewhat villainous character. Knightley's character was a jealous and broken woman who would stop at anything to get what she wanted. Mark Romanek's direction is also impeccable with each set showcasing austere lifestyles, and Rachel Portman's score is elegant and at the same time extremely passionate.