Looking for some standout films featuring incredible talent? Dive into these top movies starring Taraji P. Henson, Amy Ryan, Ruby Dee, Jill Clayburgh, and Adriana Barraza. Each actress brings something unique to the screen, making these films worth watching.
Must-Watch Films Across Genres
Taraji P. Henson
- Hidden Figures (2016) – PG – IMDb: 7.8
- Henson stars as one of the brilliant African-American women who played crucial roles in NASA during the space race.
- The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (2008) – PG-13 – IMDb: 7.8
- Henson delivers a touching performance as Benjamin Button’s love interest in this unique tale of a man aging in reverse.
- Empire (2015-2020, TV Series) – TV-14 – IMDb: 7.4
- As Cookie Lyon, Henson shines in this high-stakes drama about a music empire and family dynamics.
- Proud Mary (2018) – R – IMDb: 5.9
- Henson plays a hitwoman trying to leave her life of crime behind in this action-packed thriller.
- Acrimony (2018) – Tyler Perry’s Film – IMDb: 5.9
- Henson portrays a woman scorned in this emotional and intense thriller about betrayal and revenge.
Amy Ryan
- Gone Baby Gone (2007) – R – IMDb: 7.7
- Ryan excels as a grieving mother in this gripping crime drama about a missing child and moral dilemmas.
- Birdman (2014) – R – IMDb: 7.7
- Ryan’s role as a supportive ex-wife in this darkly comedic film about a washed-up actor is both poignant and powerful.
- The Office (2005-2013, TV Series) – TV-PG – IMDb: 8.8
- Ryan shines as Holly Flax in this beloved workplace comedy series, adding depth and charm to the ensemble cast.
- Win Win (2011) – R – IMDb: 7.1
- Ryan’s performance as a wife and mother dealing with financial struggles in this heartfelt drama is both realistic and moving.
- Jackie (2016) – R – IMDb: 6.7
- Ryan plays a key role in this biographical drama about Jackie Kennedy, offering a nuanced performance in a historical context.
Ruby Dee
- Do the Right Thing (1989) – R – IMDb: 7.9
- Dee’s performance in this seminal Spike Lee film highlights racial tensions in a Brooklyn neighborhood with great depth.
- American Gangster (2007) – R – IMDb: 7.8
- Dee shines as the mother of the notorious drug lord Frank Lucas in this crime drama based on real events.
- A Raisin in the Sun (1961) – NR – IMDb: 8.1
- Dee’s role in this adaptation of Lorraine Hansberry’s play captures the struggles of a Black family seeking better opportunities.
- The Jackie Robinson Story (1950) – NR – IMDb: 6.6
- Dee plays Rachel Robinson in this biographical film about the legendary baseball player.
- The Standford Prison Experiment (2015) – R – IMDb: 6.9
- Dee has a powerful supporting role in this drama about a psychological study that goes horribly wrong.
Jill Clayburgh
- An Unmarried Woman (1978) – R – IMDb: 7.3
- Clayburgh shines as a woman navigating life after her husband’s departure in this insightful drama about personal growth and independence.
- Starting Over (1979) – PG – IMDb: 6.9
- In this comedy-drama, Clayburgh plays a woman adjusting to life after a divorce, showcasing her range and charm.
- Silver Streak (1976) – PG – IMDb: 6.9
- Clayburgh stars alongside Gene Wilder in this action-comedy about a hijacked train.
- The Last Wife (1976) – R – IMDb: 6.3
- Clayburgh’s role in this drama about a woman’s struggles with her family’s expectations is both compelling and complex.
- I’m Dancing as Fast as I Can (1982) – R – IMDb: 6.2
- Clayburgh portrays a woman coping with addiction in this dramatic portrayal of personal turmoil.
Adriana Barraza
- Babel (2006) – R – IMDb: 7.4
- Barraza delivers a powerful performance as a Mexican nanny caught in a global incident in this multi-layered drama.
- Children of Men (2006) – R – IMDb: 7.9
- Barraza plays a key role in this dystopian thriller about a future without children, offering a touching performance in a bleak world.
- Casa de Mi Padre (2012) – R – IMDb: 5.5
- Barraza brings humor and heart to this satirical Western about a family’s ranching troubles.
- The 33 (2015) – PG-13 – IMDb: 6.9
- Barraza portrays a mother in this gripping film about the real-life Chilean miners trapped underground.
- Frida (2002) – R – IMDb: 7.4
- In this biographical film about artist Frida Kahlo, Barraza’s performance adds depth to the portrayal of Kahlo’s complex world.
Conclusion
From Taraji P. Henson’s powerful performances to Amy Ryan’s engaging roles and Ruby Dee’s iconic parts, these films offer a range of genres and stories showcasing incredible talent. Whether you’re in the mood for a thought-provoking drama or an emotional thriller, these movies are sure to provide memorable viewing experiences. Enjoy exploring the best of these remarkable actresses!