7 Best Viola Davis Movies, Ranked

Viola Davis is a force in Hollywood, delivering performances that hit hard and linger long after the credits roll. Her ability to bring depth to every role, whether leading or supporting, has earned her an Oscar, an Emmy, and two Tonys, making her one of the few to claim the Triple Crown of Acting.

From intense dramas to action-packed epics, I’ve picked seven of her best movies, ranked for their emotional weight and her unforgettable presence. Each film shows why she’s a standout talent, commanding the screen with raw authenticity.

7. ‘Suicide Squad’ (2016)

Viola Davis plays Amanda Waller, a ruthless government official who assembles a team of supervillains for a dangerous mission. Her cold, calculating performance is a highlight in this chaotic action flick, bringing a grounded edge to the comic book world.

Waller’s unapologetic power shines through Davis’ sharp delivery and steely gaze. Despite the film’s mixed reviews, her portrayal makes every scene she’s in feel vital, proving she can dominate even in a crowded ensemble.

6. ‘Prisoners’ (2013)

In this dark thriller, Davis is Nancy Birch, a mother grappling with the disappearance of her daughter. Her role is smaller, but her quiet anguish cuts deep, adding heart to the film’s tense story of desperation and revenge.

Davis conveys Nancy’s pain with subtle gestures and haunted looks, making her grief feel real. She stands out among heavyweights like Hugh Jackman and Jake Gyllenhaal, showing her skill at turning limited screen time into something unforgettable.

5. ‘The Help’ (2011)

As Aibileen Clark, a maid in 1960s Mississippi, Davis brings quiet strength to a story about racial injustice. Her heartfelt performance anchors the film, earning her a Best Actress Oscar nomination.

Davis infuses Aibileen with dignity and suppressed pain, making her bond with Emma Stone’s character moving. Though she later expressed regret over the film’s approach, her work remains powerful, highlighting her ability to elevate any script.

4. ‘Widows’ (2018)

Davis leads as Veronica Rawlings, a woman who rallies three other widows to pull off a heist after their husbands die in a botched robbery. Her performance blends vulnerability with fierce determination, driving this gritty crime drama.

The film thrives on Davis’ ability to show Veronica’s transformation from mourning to commanding. Her chemistry with the ensemble, including Michelle Rodriguez and Elizabeth Debicki, makes ‘Widows’ a thrilling showcase of her range.

3. ‘Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom’ (2020)

Davis transforms into Ma Rainey, the bold ‘Mother of the Blues,’ in this intense drama set during a 1920s recording session. Her commanding presence and raw emotion earned her another Oscar nod.

She captures Ma’s defiance and vulnerability, especially in scenes with Chadwick Boseman. Davis’ portrayal of a Black artist navigating a white-controlled industry is both heartbreaking and inspiring, making this a standout in her career.

2. ‘The Woman King’ (2022)

Davis is General Nanisca, leader of an all-female warrior unit in the African kingdom of Dahomey. Her physical and emotional intensity makes this historical epic soar, showcasing her as a true action star.

Nanisca’s authority and inner struggles come alive through Davis’ commanding stride and nuanced expressions. The film’s mix of heart-pounding battles and deep drama highlights her ability to carry a blockbuster with gravitas.

1. ‘Fences’ (2016)

In ‘Fences,’ Davis delivers her Oscar-winning performance as Rose Maxson, a devoted wife facing betrayal in 1950s Pittsburgh. Her raw, devastating portrayal is the soul of this August Wilson adaptation.

Davis’ scenes, especially her wrenching monologue confronting Denzel Washington’s character, are masterclasses in acting. She makes Rose’s strength and heartbreak feel universal, cementing this as her finest work on screen.

Which Viola Davis movie resonates with you most, or did I miss a gem? Drop your thoughts in the comments!