Theron's first film role was a minor, uncredited appearance in the film "Children of the Corn III: Urban Harvest".

She had other small roles in 1996. As she was waiting in line to cash a check she got into an argument with a bank teller. A talent manager who saw her signed her and helped her get acting work.

Theron gained wider recognition for her role as Mary Ann Lomax in "The Devil's Advocate", starring alongside Keanu Reeves and Al Pacino. This role helped establish her as a rising actress.

She then started taking on leading roles in movies like "Mighty Joe Young", "Celebrity" and "The Astronaut's Wife".

She continues to get roles in movies like "The Cider House Rules" and "Reindeer Games".

Charlize continues to act in movies, including "The Yards".

Theron starred as serial killer Aileen Wuornos in "Monster". She gained weight and drastically altered her appearance for the role.

Theron won the Academy Award for Best Actress for her performance in "Monster". She also won a Golden Globe and Screen Actors Guild Award for the same role. She became the first South African to win the Academy Award for Best Actress.