This is a tough one, like the Top 5 Actors before it. Let me define the criteria and that might help anyone who will immediately tear apart my choices. I’m putting myself in the shoes of a director with the ability to cast whomever I want. I’d want someone with proven chops. I’d want someone who is at the top of their game. I’d want someone who can carry a film and/or can work seamlessly with an ensemble. I’d want these five ladies (in no order but alphabetical).
Honorable Mention: Emily Blunt, Helena Bonham Carter, Scarlet Johansson, Susan Sarandon, and Emma Thompson (only because she hasn’t done as much in the last decade)