The world of cinematography is ever-buzzing with new releases, featuring talented actors showcasing their craft in diverse and intriguing ways. With the unceasing churn of demand, top actresses have not been left behind in giving their audiences thrilling performances in recent films. On this list are globally recognized actresses who have graced the silver screen lately and the movies in which they have done so.
Firstly, celebrated Hollywood actress Scarlett Johansson, who is not new to the world of blockbusters, starred in the eagerly anticipated Marvel film, “Black Widow,” released in July 2021. Here, Johansson reprised her role as Natasha Romanoff and led audiences through the story of the Russian spy turned Avenger’s mysterious past. The movie gave her the overdue space to shine as the lead, exploring Natasha’s story line away from her Avengers family. The film not only marks Johansson’s powerful performance but also exemplifies female empowerment and strong sisterhood themes in the Marvel Universe.
Another lauded actress who has appeared on our screens in recent times is Margot Robbie, in the action-packed film “The Suicide Squad,” directed by James Gunn and released in August 2021. Robbie reprised her role as Harley Quinn, one of DC comics’ most enigmatic characters. The film, regarded as a soft reboot of the 2016 Suicide Squad, shows off Robbie’s versatility as she explores the complexity of her character, balancing humor, insanity, and an uncanny vulnerability.
Angelina Jolie set the screens on fire in May 2021, appearing in the thriller, “Those Who Wish Me Dead.” Directed by Taylor Sheridan, the film showcases Jolie as a smoke jumping firefighter, Hannah, confronting her past and fighting for survival against assassins and a raging forest fire. Known for her multifaceted acting skills, Jolie gives her audience another intense and heartfelt performance in this film.
Amy Adams, renowned for her emotional portrayal and versatility, was seen recently in the Netflix adaptation of the thriller novel, “The Woman In The Window,” released in May 2021. Adams plays an agoraphobic child psychologist who believes she witnessed a crime in her neighbor’s house. The movie is a testament to Adams’ capability to manifest intense psychological complexity on the screen.
Then we have Jodie Foster, who made a comeback in the political and legal drama thriller, “The Mauritanian,” released in February 2021. The film, which tells a true story of Mohamedou Ould Salahi’s fight for freedom after being held without charge in Guantanamo Bay, features Jodie Foster as Nancy Hollander, a defense attorney. The film proves Foster’s ability to stage a seasoned and compelling performance in complex roles.
No list of recent films can be complete without noting Viola Davis’s captivating portrayal of Ma Rainey, the “Mother of the Blues,” in the August Wilson adaptation of “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom,” released in December 2020. She delivers a magnetic performance that honors the iconic blues singer’s memory in this drama series. Her performance elucidates why Davis continues to be a powerhouse in the film industry.
Following closely, Frances McDormand led the critically acclaimed Oscar winning film “Nomadland,” which released in February 2021. McDormand plays Fern, a woman who leaves her town after her husband’s death and the Great Recession to travel around the United States living in her van. The film is a testament to McDormand’s minimalist acting approach’s brilliance and her ability to embody roles with profound empathy.
In conclusion, 2021 has seen a multitude of remarkable performances from some of the top actresses in Hollywood in a wide range of thrilling new films. From action to drama, psychological thrillers to biographical films, these actresses have continued to deliver top-notch performances even in the midst of a global pandemic.