Top Movies Starring Marie Dressler, Janet Gaynor, Lupita Nyong’o, Octavia Spencer, and Melissa Leo

Discover the best films featuring Marie Dressler, Janet Gaynor, Lupita Nyong’o, Octavia Spencer, and Melissa Leo. Each of these remarkable actresses has delivered standout performances across various genres. Here’s a curated list of their finest works, categorized by genre to help you find your next great watch.

Classic Dramas and Comedies

Marie Dressler

1. Min and Bill (1930) – NR – IMDb: 7.8

• Dressler stars as a tough but lovable boarding house owner in this drama-comedy that showcases her remarkable ability to blend humor with heart.

1. Dinner at Eight (1933) – NR – IMDb: 7.5

• In this star-studded drama, Dressler delivers a memorable performance as a wealthy woman hosting a chaotic dinner party.

1. Tugboat Annie (1933) – NR – IMDb: 7.5

• Dressler shines as a spirited tugboat captain, bringing warmth and humor to this classic tale of maritime life.

1. The Matinee Idol (1928) – NR – IMDb: 7.1

• Dressler’s comedic talent is front and center in this silent film about a stage star who learns about real life through humorous situations.

1. Chasing Rainbows (1930) – NR – IMDb: 6.6

• Dressler’s performance in this musical comedy adds charm to a film about the struggles and triumphs of a theatrical troupe.

Janet Gaynor

1. Seventh Heaven (1927) – NR – IMDb: 7.9

• Gaynor won an Oscar for her role in this silent film about a young woman finding love during World War I, showcasing her emotional depth.

1. Sunrise: A Song of Two Humans (1927) – NR – IMDb: 8.1

• In this silent film masterpiece, Gaynor’s performance is central to the story of a farmer’s redemption and a woman’s love.

1. Street Angel (1928) – NR – IMDb: 7.8

• Gaynor stars as a poverty-stricken woman whose life changes when she finds love and redemption, delivering a touching and memorable performance.

1. Lucky Star (1929) – NR – IMDb: 7.5

• This silent film features Gaynor in a poignant story of love and sacrifice, demonstrating her ability to convey deep emotion without words.

1. The Farmer’s Daughter (1935) – NR – IMDb: 6.9

• Gaynor plays a rural girl who becomes a star in the city, offering a charming and heartfelt performance in this dramatic film.

Modern Dramas and Thrillers

Lupita Nyong’o

1. 12 Years a Slave (2013) – R – IMDb: 8.1

• Nyong’o’s powerful performance as Patsey in this historical drama about slavery earned her an Academy Award and highlights her exceptional acting skills.

1. Us (2019) – R – IMDb: 6.9

• Nyong’o stars in this psychological horror film, showcasing her versatility as she plays both the protagonist and her sinister doppelgänger.

1. Black Panther (2018) – PG-13 – IMDb: 7.3

• As Nakia, Nyong’o delivers a standout performance in this superhero film, contributing to its cultural and critical acclaim.

1. Queen of Katwe (2016) – PG – IMDb: 7.4

• Nyong’o plays the supportive mother of a young chess prodigy in this inspiring true story about overcoming adversity.

1. The Jungle Book (2016) – PG – IMDb: 7.4

• Nyong’o voices Raksha, the wolf mother, in this live-action adaptation of the classic tale, adding depth to the beloved character.

Octavia Spencer

1. The Help (2011) – PG-13 – IMDb: 8.0

• Spencer’s Oscar-winning role as Minny Jackson in this film about racial tensions in the 1960s South showcases her remarkable talent.

1. Hidden Figures (2016) – PG – IMDb: 7.8

• Spencer shines as Dorothy Vaughan in this inspiring drama about African-American women mathematicians who played a crucial role in NASA.

1. The Shape of Water (2017) – R – IMDb: 7.3

• As Zelda, Spencer provides a heartfelt performance in this fantasy romance that won Best Picture at the Oscars.

1. Ma (2019) – R – IMDb: 5.6

• Spencer plays a troubled woman who becomes the center of a group of teenagers’ lives, delivering a chilling and compelling performance.

1. On the Basis of Sex (2018) – PG-13 – IMDb: 7.1

• Spencer’s role as Dorothy Kenyon in this biographical film about Ruth Bader Ginsburg adds depth to the story of the pioneering lawyer.

Recent Dramatic and Character-Driven Films

Melissa Leo

1. The Fighter (2010) – R – IMDb: 7.8

• Leo’s performance as Alice Ward, the tough but loving mother of two boxers, earned her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress.

1. Frozen River (2008) – R – IMDb: 7.2

• In this gritty drama about two women involved in smuggling across the U.S.-Canada border, Leo delivers a powerful and emotional performance.

1. The Equalizer (2014) – R – IMDb: 7.2

• Leo plays a key role in this action thriller about a former black-ops operative who seeks justice for the helpless.

1. Flight (2012) – R – IMDb: 7.3

• Leo’s role as a flight attendant struggling with her own demons complements Denzel Washington’s performance in this intense drama.

1. Prisoners (2013) – R – IMDb: 8.1

• In this gripping thriller, Leo plays a woman who becomes entangled in a harrowing investigation involving the abduction of two young girls.

Conclusion

From Marie Dressler’s classic comedies to Janet Gaynor’s silent film masterpieces, Lupita Nyong’o’s modern dramas, Octavia Spencer’s inspiring performances, and Melissa Leo’s intense roles, these films highlight the diverse talents of these exceptional actresses. Dive into these top picks and experience the brilliance of these incredible performers.