Viola Davis has established a remarkable career characterized by powerful performances that leave a lasting impression on audiences. This Oscar-winning actress possesses a unique talent for enhancing complex narratives with her presence, transforming even supporting roles into memorable highlights of films. Davis’s portrayals are not just performances; they are demonstrations of emotional depth, making her characters the heart of their respective stories. From the shocking finale of Fences to the gripping action of The Woman King, it is evident that her finest work is enriched by her ability to elevate each scene.
Regardless of her position in the cast, Davis consistently captures the spotlight, ensuring the audience feels the weight of her performances. Her unwavering dedication to authenticity resonates deeply, solidifying her status as one of Hollywood’s premier talents.
10 The Help (2011)
Directed by Tate Taylor
Critics and audiences alike often cite The Help as one of Viola Davis’s standout films; however, the actress herself has mixed feelings about her role. Davis played Aibileen Clark, a maid in the racially charged South of the 1960s, and earned an Academy Award nomination for her poignant performance. Despite the film’s commercial success, grossing $216 million, Davis expressed regret for taking on a role that she felt was intrinsically flawed.
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Nonetheless, her heartfelt portrayal of Aibileen continues to spark conversations about race and representation in cinema, solidifying the film’s place in cultural discussions.
9 Doubt (2008)
Directed by John Patrick Shanley
In Doubt, Viola Davis takes on the role of Mrs. Miller, the mother of a boy entangled in a scandal at a Catholic school. Intriguingly, Davis features in only one scene, yet her performance is powerful enough to earn her a spot among her best films. Throughout her brief appearance, she conveys a compelling spectrum of emotions—from desperation to resilience—demonstrating her remarkable range and depth.
While Doubt has received mixed reviews, Davis’s impactful performance stands as a testament to her talent, showcasing how an actor can create a lasting impression through a single scene.
8 Get On Up (2014)
Directed by Tate Taylor
In the biopic Get On Up, featuring the late Chadwick Boseman as James Brown, Davis plays Susie Brown, the singer’s estranged mother. Despite not being present in every scene, her influence resonates throughout the film. This collaboration between Davis and Boseman showcases their palpable chemistry, making it one of her cherished performances.
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Davis’s character provides crucial context to Brown’s turbulent background, adding emotional depth to both their arcs.
7 Prisoners (2013)
Directed by Denis Villeneuve
In the gripping thriller Prisoners, Viola Davis portrays Nancy Birch, a distraught mother whose daughter has been kidnapped. Throughout the film, her performance is marked by subtlety and emotional gravitas, ensuring that her character’s struggles resonate deeply with the audience. In a narrative filled with tension, Davis makes Nancy’s pain palpable, enhancing the film’s emotional stakes.
Her ability to evoke empathy amid the film’s dark themes solidifies Prisoners as a pivotal part of Davis’s oeuvre, leaving a lasting impression on viewers.
6 State Of Play (2009)
Directed by Kevin Macdonald
In State of Play, Davis depicts Dr. Judith Franklin, a morgue doctor who plays a crucial supporting role in a complex narrative filled with twists. Although her screen time is minimal, Davis brings sophistication to her character, providing a compelling balance of calm and authority that propels the plot forward.
Despite being surrounded by an ensemble of Hollywood heavyweights, Davis’s measured performance underscores her skill in enhancing multifaceted storylines, proving she can shine even in smaller roles.
5 The Suicide Squad (2021)
Directed by James Gunn
In the sequel The Suicide Squad, Viola Davis reprises her role as Amanda Waller, offering a commanding presence that anchors the film’s chaotic energy. Davis’s portrayal adds depth to the narrative, positioning Waller as a moral compass amid the unfolding chaos. This film diverged from conventional superhero narratives, infusing irreverence and emotional depth, which enhances its viewing experience.
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Davis’s performance is essential to the film’s balance, highlighting her unique ability to blend intensity with levity in an unconventional film genre.
4 Widows (2018)
Directed by Steve McQueen
In Widows, Viola Davis stars as Veronica Rawlings, a widow who takes control of a heist following her husband’s death. This role showcases her multifaceted talent, revealing both the fierceness and vulnerability of a woman thrust into dangerous waters. Davis captures Veronica’s emotional journey with finesse, navigating themes of grief and empowerment.
The film’s star-studded cast, which includes Michelle Rodriguez and Cynthia Erivo, complements Davis’s strong performance, elevating the film that, although underrated, stands out as an exemplary piece of cinema.
3 Fences (2016)
Directed by Denzel Washington
In Davis’s acclaimed performance in Fences, she embodies the character Rose Maxon alongside Denzel Washington. This powerful adaptation of August Wilson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play resonates with audiences through its rich storytelling and emotional depth. As Rose, Davis delivers a heart-wrenching performance that illustrates her character’s transformation from a supportive partner to a woman reclaiming her voice.
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Her role earned her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, marking a pivotal highlight of her career that continues to resonate within the film industry.
2 The Woman King (2022)
Directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood
The Woman King represents a landmark moment in Viola Davis’s career as she takes on the titular role of General Nanisca, a fierce leader of an all-female warrior unit in 19th-century Dahomey. This film showcases her ability to portray a physically and emotionally demanding character that highlights her extraordinary range. Davis masterfully navigates the complexities of strength and vulnerability, allowing Nanisca to resonate as a powerful character.
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This role exemplifies Davis’s unmatched capacity to embody women of both historical significance and emotional depth, marking it as one of her most memorable performances.
1 Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom (2020)
Directed by George C. Wolfe
In Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, Davis delivers a spectacular performance as the iconic blues singer, capturing Ma’s vibrant persona while infusing her character with complexity and humanity. This role required a significant transformation, where she utilized makeup, prosthetics, and intense emotional introspection to bring the character to life.
| Viola Davis’ Best Movies | IMDb Rating |
|---|---|
| Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom | 6.9 / 10 |
| The Woman King | 6.9 / 10 |
| Fences | 7.2 / 10 |
| Widows | 6.8 / 10 |
| The Suicide Squad | 7.2 / 10 |
| State Of Play | 7.1 / 10 |
| Prisoners | 8.2 / 10 |
| Get On Up | 6.9 / 10 |
| Doubt | 7.5 / 10 |
| The Help | 8.1 / 10 |
Davis’s mesmerizing performance not only showcases her exceptional talent but also highlights the resilience and complexity of Ma Rainey. Widely regarded as one of the premier jazz and blues films of all time, this film is arguably the pinnacle of Viola Davis’s illustrious career.
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