Viola Davis has carved her name into the annals of cinematic history with her outstanding performances in movies and TV shows, earning her well-deserved acclaim and accolades. Her most recent Academy Award nomination was a testament to her extraordinary talent, recognized for her captivating portrayal in Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom. This achievement marked a significant milestone in her career, making her the first black actress to secure four Oscar nominations for her acting prowess. Her previous Oscar win in 2016 for Fences and nominations for Doubt (2008) and The Help (2011) only further underline her remarkable contribution to the world of film.
As we raise a glass to celebrate this remarkable lady, let’s also take a moment to look back on some of best Viola Davis movies and TV shows, which have not only entertained us but have also made a lasting impact on the world of entertainment.
Antwone Fisher
Antwone Fisher’s life story came to the silver screen in a powerful and moving film. This real-life tale revolves around Antwone Fisher, a dedicated U.S. Navy sailor whose life took a tumultuous turn, leading to a series of violent outbursts that prompted his superiors to send him to see a psychiatrist. Dr. Jerome Davenport, portrayed by the talented Denzel Washington, took on the challenging task of helping Fisher confront the demons of his traumatic childhood, marked by horrifying experiences of physical and sexual abuse.
What makes this film even more extraordinary is that Antwone Fisher himself co-wrote the screenplay. This collaboration with Denzel Washington marked Washington’s directorial debut, and it was a project close to his heart. He was drawn to the story because of its powerful message of hope and resilience, themes that resonate deeply with audiences.
Doubt
Doubt, a captivating movie, draws its inspiration from the Pulitzer Prize-winning play of the same name, crafted by the talented John Patrick Shanley. Set against the backdrop of a Catholic school in the Bronx during the 1960s, the film delves deep into the corridors of faith, doubt, and the complex nature of truth.
At the heart of this compelling narrative is the stellar cast. The incomparable Meryl Streep takes on the role of Sister Aloysius Beauvier, the formidable school principal, while the late Philip Seymour Hoffman brings to life Father Brendan Flynn, a charismatic priest whose character becomes embroiled in a grave accusation of sexual abuse, leveled by none other than Sister Aloysius herself.
Won’t Back Down
In 2012, director Daniel Barnz brought forth a poignant American drama film titled Won’t Back Down. The movie features a stellar cast including Maggie Gyllenhaal, Viola Davis, Holly Hunter, and Bill Nunn, each contributing to a compelling narrative that tugs at the heartstrings.
The storyline revolves around the lives of two mothers, Jamie Fitzpatrick (portrayed by Maggie Gyllenhaal) and Nona Alberts (played by Davis). Their paths cross as they embark on a remarkable journey to reclaim their children’s future by taking charge of their failing inner-city school in Pittsburgh.
Prisoners
Director Denis Villeneuve masterfully brought to life Prisoners, an American psychological thriller that left audiences on the edge of their seats. This intense film stars a talented ensemble cast, including Hugh Jackman, Jake Gyllenhaal, Davis, Terrence Howard, and Maria Bello, each delivering performances that haunt and captivate.
The heart of the story revolves around Keller Dover, portrayed by Hugh Jackman, a father whose world is shattered when his two beloved daughters, Anna (Erin Gerasimovich) and Joy (Kyla Drew Barry), are inexplicably abducted. The local authorities, represented by the relentless Detective Loki, played by Jake Gyllenhaal, struggle to unearth any substantial leads, leaving Keller and his wife, Grace (Maria Bello), in a state of devastating despair.
The Help
As the story unfolds, The Help immerses viewers in a turbulent period of American history, shedding light on the struggles of African American maids working for white families in the 1960s South. It also delves into the unlikely friendships that form across racial lines, sparking a quiet but impactful revolution of empathy and understanding.
What sets The Help apart is its evocative soundtrack, a melodic journey through classic soul and R&B songs from the 1960s. The music adds depth and emotion to the narrative, further immersing viewers in the era and its social dynamics.
The Help is more than a movie; it’s a moving portrayal of courage, friendship, and the power of ordinary individuals to effect change. It serves as a reminder that even in the darkest of times, the human spirit has the capacity to bridge divides and inspire hope.
How to Get Away With Murder
This melodramatic courtroom thriller, supported by Shonda Rhimes’ production, provided Viola Davis with the ideal stage to display her acting talent in a prominent part. She plays Annalise Keating, a professor of law renowned for her morally dubious behavior. Similar to a number of her fierce on-screen roles, Annalise puts on a strong façade that occasionally shows signs of empathy and compassion.
Notably, her character deviates from the standard motherly roles frequently associated with Davis by displaying an unusual and distinct sexuality. Davis won the Emmy for Best Actress in a Drama Series for her outstanding work in this role.
Widows
In the suspenseful heist film Widows, Viola Davis plays Veronica, the leader of a group of women attempting to pull off a risky $5 million robbery from a dishonest Chicago politician. After their spouses are killed during an attempted escape, their objective is to pay off a debt with a crime lord.
Veronica represents a hard façade that is necessary for her survival in the chaos but hides a deeper fragility and anguish. With this complex character, Davis is given the chance to take on a leading role—a rarity in her filmography—and she gives Veronica a strong, controlled presence.
Viola Davis’s upcoming projects
This amazing actress has a ton of great projects lined up for her, showing her versatility and commitment to the entertainment industry. Here’s what she’s up to!
- The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes (2023): Davis steps into the role of Dr. Volumnia Gaul, the mastermind behind the 10th Hunger Games, in this highly anticipated installment of the Hunger Games saga.
- Untitled Harriet Tubman Project: Davis is set to not only star but also produce a film dedicated to the remarkable life of Harriet Tubman, an enslaved woman who defied all odds to become a conductor on the Underground Railroad, leading countless others to freedom.
- I Almost Forgot About You: Davis takes the lead in this heartfelt film, where she portrays a woman reuniting with her childhood best friend, now a successful businessman, offering a poignant exploration of friendship and second chances.
- Air: Davis is set to shine in this film that delves into the captivating story of Nike Air Jordans. The narrative unfolds through the perspective of Sonny Vaccaro, the Nike executive who played a pivotal role in signing Michael Jordan.
- G20: Davis embraces an action-packed role in this thriller, portraying a female U.S. President tasked with defending her family, fellow leaders, and the world from terrorists who have seized control of the G20 Summit.
But that’s not all. Davis is set to make her mark on the television landscape as well:
- Waller: Reprising her role as Amanda Waller, Davis brings depth to her character in an HBO Max spin-off series set in the DC film universe.
- Creature Commandos: Davis lends her voice to Amanda Waller in an animated series for HBO Max, promising to captivate audiences in a whole new dimension.
Beyond her acting ventures, Viola Davis is a successful producer through her production company, JuVee Productions. Her commitment to bringing compelling stories to the screen has resulted in notable projects like The Woman King and How to Get Away with Murder.
Wrapping it up!
Throughout her remarkable career, Davis, a marvelously adaptable actor, has left an imprint on audiences’ hearts. She has moved between many roles with ease, confirming her standing as a priceless gem of Hollywood. We’ve chosen a few of some of the best Viola Davis movies and TV shows from among a vast range of her outstanding works that are a must-see. It’s time to move past your go-to favorites and embrace the numerous time periods she has enlightened.
