Thandiwe Newton's 10 Best Movies, Ranked

April 15, 2024, 7:20 p.m.

Movies

Thandiwe Newton's 10 Best Movies, Ranked

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Summary Thandiwe Newton showcases her versatility through captivating performances in various genres over the last 30 years.

Her ability to bring depth and emotion to her characters has earned critical acclaim and accolades, such as a BAFTA award.

Newton's impactful roles in movies like Beloved, Crash, and The Pursuit of Happyness solidify her status as a formidable presence in Hollywood.

Thandiwe Newton began her acting career with great momentum and has maintained it ever since, appearing in some of Hollywood's finest movies over the last 30 years. From her early roles in films like Flirting and Interview with the Vampire to her powerful performances in Beloved and Crash, Newton has consistently demonstrated her versatility and skill as an actress. Her work in both leading and supporting roles has garnered critical acclaim and numerous accolades, including a BAFTA award for her performance in Crash.

Newton's ability to bring depth and emotional resonance to her characters has made her a sought-after talent in the industry, and her contributions to films such as The Pursuit of Happyness, RocknRolla, and the Star Wars movie, Solo: A Star Wars Story have further solidified her status as a formidable presence on the big screen. Throughout her career, Newton has tackled a wide range of genres and roles, showcasing her adaptability and commitment to her craft. As she continues to take on new challenges, it is clear that Thandiwe Newton's impact on the world of cinema will endure for years to come.

Movie Title IMDb Rating Beloved 6.0/10 The Chronicles of Riddick 6.6/10 Besieged 6.8/10 Gridlock'd 6.9/10 Solo: A Star Wars Story 6.9/10 Flirting 7.1/10 RocknRolla 7.2/10 Interview with the Vampire 7.5/10 Crash 7.7/10 The Pursuit of Happyness 8.0/10

10 Beloved (1998)

Thandiwe Newton portrays Beloved

Thandiwe Newton's haunting portrayal of the enigmatic Beloved is a crucial element in the movie's exploration of the devastating consequences of slavery. Her performance adds depth and complexity to the story of Sethe, played by Oprah Winfrey, as she grapples with the ghosts of her past. Newton's Beloved serves as a catalyst for the emotional turmoil that engulfs Sethe and her daughter, forcing them to confront the painful memories they have tried to suppress.

The arrival of Paul Garner, Sethe's old friend, and the subsequent appearance of Beloved, create a tense and unsettling atmosphere that permeates the film. Newton's acting perfectly captures the mysterious and unsettling nature of her character, adding to the overall impact of the story. While Winfrey's powerful performance as Sethe is a defining aspect of the movie, Newton's contribution cannot be understated. Her portrayal of Beloved is essential in conveying the film's central themes of trauma, resilience, and the enduring impact of slavery.

9 Besieged (1998)

Thandiwe Newton portrays Shandurai

In Besieged, Thandiwe Newton delivers a captivating performance as an African expatriate working in Rome. The film, directed and co-written by the renowned Bernardo Bertolucci, explores the complex relationship between Newton's character and her employer, a composer played by David Thewlis. Newton's portrayal of a woman harboring a painful secret while navigating the composer's growing affection for her is both subtle and powerful, drawing the viewer into the story's emotional core.

Bertolucci's masterful direction and the stunning visuals of the film's foreign locales create an immersive experience that complements Newton's performance. Despite the film's limited success with U.S. audiences, critics widely praised Besieged for its engrossing narrative and exquisite craftsmanship. The adaptation of James Lasdun's short story The Siege provides a strong foundation for the film, allowing Newton to showcase her talent in a thought-provoking and emotionally charged role.

8 The Chronicles Of Riddick (2004)

Thandiwe Newton portrays Dame Vaako

The Chronicles of Riddick Where to Watch *Availability in US stream

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buy Not available Not available Not available Director David Twohy Release Date June 11, 2004 Writers David Twohy Cast Colm Feore , Vin Diesel , Thandie Newton , Karl Urban , judi dench Runtime 119 minutes

Thandiwe Newton's portrayal of Dame Vaako in The Chronicles of Riddick adds a layer of intrigue and manipulation to the sci-fi action sequel. As the wife of Lord Vaako, Newton's character embodies the seductive and cunning qualities of a Lady Macbeth-esque figure. Her performance brings depth to the Necromonger cult, a group intent on eradicating all life in the universe.

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Newton's Dame Vaako skillfully manipulates her husband, planting the seeds of ambition and betrayal in his mind. Newton's captivating screen presence and ability to convey the character's subtle machinations elevate the film's narrative. Her scenes add a sense of tension and unpredictability to the story, as viewers are left wondering about the true extent of Dame Vaako's influence and the consequences of her actions. While the Riddick movies primarily focus on Riddick's journey, Newton's performance as Dame Vaako provides an engaging subplot that enriches the overall viewing experience.

7 Gridlock’d (1997)

Thandiwe Newton portrays Cookie

In Gridlock'd, Thandiwe Newton showcases her versatility as an actress, delivering a compelling performance alongside Tim Roth and Tupac Shakur in this dark comedy that explores the struggles of addiction and the challenges of seeking rehabilitation. Newton's character's heroin overdose serves as the catalyst for the film's narrative, as her bandmates, played by Roth and Shakur, embark on a quest to get clean. Their journey is fraught with obstacles, from encounters with law enforcement and criminals to the indifference of bureaucratic systems, highlighting the complexities and frustrations often faced by those seeking help.

Despite its modest budget, Gridlock'd manages to make a significant impact through the strength of its ensemble cast and the deft direction of Vondie Curtis-Hall in his debut feature. Newton's portrayal contributes to the film's ability to subvert expectations, injecting humor into a grim subject matter and creating a unique tone that sets it apart from other movies dealing with similar themes. The critical acclaim the film received underscores the effectiveness of Newton's work in bringing her character to life and contributing to the overall success of this unconventional comedy-drama.

6 Solo: A Star Wars Story (2018)

Thandiwe Newton portrays Val

Thandiwe Newton plays Val in Solo: A Star Wars Story, showcasing her ability to make a significant impact even in a supporting role within a major franchise. As the wife of Tobias Beckett, played by Woody Harrelson, Newton's Val is instrumental in guiding young Han Solo through the dangerous criminal underworld. Her character's presence adds depth to the relationships between the main players, particularly the mentor-mentee dynamic between Beckett and Han.

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Newton's performance brings a sense of grounded realism to the fantastical Star Wars universe, helping to anchor the story in the gritty, crime-filled world that Han must navigate. The film's exploration of Han's origins and his transformation into the iconic character is enhanced by the contributions of talented actors like Newton. While Solo may not be one of the best Star Wars movies, Newton's involvement and the overall caliber of the cast elevate the film and make it a worthy addition to the franchise.

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5 Flirting (1991)

Thandiwe Newton portrays Thandiwe

Thandiwe Newton's role in Flirting, alongside Nicole Kidman and Naomi Watts, is a prime example of the film's exceptional ensemble cast. The movie follows a familiar coming-of-age narrative, but it is elevated by the performances of its talented actors. Newton's portrayal of her character is an integral part of the film's emotional resonance, as she brings depth and nuance to her role.

The genuine chemistry between the cast members creates a sense of authenticity, making them invested in the characters' journeys and the choices they make. The skillful direction and storytelling ability further enhance the impact of the performances, crafting a narrative that is both relatable and engaging. The sincerity of Flirting and the talent of its cast, including Newton, set it apart from other coming-of-age dramas. The genuine connection the movie brings is what makes it a standout in its genre.

4 RocknRolla (2008)

Thandiwe Newton portrays Stella

RocknRolla showcases Thandiwe Newton’s versatility as an actress by taking on a role that differs from her previous work, demonstrating her ability to adapt to various genres and styles. Directed by Guy Ritchie, RocknRolla is a high-energy crime comedy that revolves around the interconnected lives of criminals, real estate developers, and rock stars in London. Newton's character, Stella, is a key player in this complex web of relationships, and her performance adds significantly to the story.

Ritchie's signature style, characterized by quick-witted dialogue, stylized action sequences, and a non-linear narrative, is on full display in RocknRolla, and Newton's acting complements this approach perfectly. Her scenes with the other cast members crackle with energy and chemistry, contributing to the film's overall sense of fun and excitement. While RocknRolla may not have the same emotional depth as some of Newton's other films, it serves as an excellent showcase for her range as an actress.

3 Interview With The Vampire (1994)

Thandiwe Newton portrays Yvette

Thandiwe Newton's brief, but pivotal role in Interview with the Vampire highlights her ability to make a lasting impact even with limited screen time. As Louis' first human victim after his transformation into a vampire, Newton's character serves as a crucial turning point in his story, setting the stage for his internal struggles and the complex relationships he develops throughout the film. Her performance adds layers to Louis' narrative and contributes to the overall emotional weight of the story.

Interview with the Vampire, based on Anne Rice's novel, boasts an all-star cast, including Brad Pitt, Tom Cruise, Kirsten Dunst, and Antonio Banderas, and Newton's presence among these talented actors speaks to her own acting abilities. The film stands as a classic in the vampire genre, thanks in part to its faithful adaptation of Rice's work and the compelling performances of its ensemble cast. Newton's role, while small, is an essential piece of the puzzle, demonstrating her knack for making the most of every opportunity and leaving a lasting impression.

2 Crash (2004)

Thandiwe Newton portrays Christine

Crash Where to Watch *Availability in US stream

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buy Not available Not available Not available Director Paul Haggis Release Date May 6, 2005 Writers Bobby Moresco , Paul Haggis Cast Don Cheadle , Sandra Bullock , Brendan Fraser , Terrence Howard , Thandie Newton , Michael Pena , Matt Dillon , Ryan Phillippe , Larenz Tate , Ludacris , Jennifer Esposito Runtime 112 minutes

Thandiwe Newton's powerful performance as Christine Thayer in Crash is a key component of the film's exploration of racial tensions and the complexities of human relationships in the aftermath of 9/11. Her character's storyline, which involves a harrowing encounter with a racist police officer and a subsequent car crash, is one of the four interconnected narratives that director Paul Haggis skillfully weaves together. Newton's portrayal of Christine is raw and emotionally charged, capturing the trauma and resilience of her character as she navigates the aftermath of her experiences.

Her performance is a critical element in the film's ability to confront difficult issues head-on and spark meaningful conversations about race, prejudice, and the human condition. The accolades Newton received for her work in Crash, including a British Academy Film Award, underscore the strength of her acting and the impact of her contribution to the film. While Crash's Best Picture win at the Academy Awards is a testament to the overall quality of the film, Newton's performance is undeniably one of the standout elements that elevate the movie to greatness.

1 The Pursuit Of Happyness (2006)

Thandiwe Newton portrays Linda

The Pursuit of Happyness Where to Watch *Availability in US stream

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buy Not available Not available Not available Director Gabriele Muccino Release Date December 15, 2006 Writers Steven Conrad Cast Will Smith , Todd Black , Jason Blumenthal , James Lassiter , Steve Tisch , DeVon Franklin Runtime 117 Minutes

The Pursuit of Happyness is a movie that allows Thandiwe Newton to display a level of complexity that completely transforms the true story of Chris Gardner's journey from homelessness to success. Newton skillfully conveys the growing frustration Linda experiences with Chris' unpaid internship, and her decision to leave for New York in search of better opportunities serves as a turning point in the narrative. This choice sets the stage for Chris' unwavering determination to provide for his son, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles.

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The authentic chemistry between Newton and Will Smith, who plays Chris, brings a sense of realism to their on-screen marriage, making Linda's absence all the more poignant and heartfelt. Newton's ability to portray the inner conflict of a mother torn between her own aspirations and the needs of her family shows off her incredible skills as an actress. The NAACP Image Awards nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actress that Thandiwe Newton received for her performance is a well-deserved recognition of her contribution to the film, elevating The Pursuit of Happyness to a multifaceted exploration of family and perseverance.