Tessa Thompson has consistently demonstrated her captivating talent on screen, not only as Valkyrie in the Marvel Cinematic Universe but also through a diverse range of projects outside of the MCU. While she debuted her iconic role in Thor: Ragnarok (2017), Thompson has earned acclaim for her versatility in roles across film and television. Her impressive body of work beyond the Marvel franchise highlights why the search for the Tessa Thompson best movies extends well past the superhero genre.
Though it remains uncertain when Thompson will reprise her role as Valkyrie in the MCU, audiences can explore her strongest performances in five notable films that showcase her depth and range as an actress outside the comic book universe.
Thompson’s Role in the Creed Franchise
Thompson’s talents extend into the sports drama genre through the acclaimed Creed series, a spinoff that continues the legacy of Rocky. In the 2015 film Creed, she plays Bianca, a dedicated musician who forms a deep relationship with Adonis Creed, portrayed by Michael B. Jordan. Bianca is far more than a romantic partner; she passionately pursues her career as a singer-songwriter despite living with progressive hearing loss. The film’s emotional core revolves around the determination of both Bianca and Adonis, as their artistic and athletic ambitions intertwine, driving the narrative across sequels.
Carrying the weight of the Rocky franchise legacy is no small feat, but under Ryan Coogler’s direction, Creed successfully blends gripping boxing sequences with multilayered characters. Thompson’s Bianca contributes significantly to the emotional resonance that makes this the franchise’s standout installment, cementing it as one of the Tessa Thompson best movies.
The Complex Exploration in Passing
In the 2021 film Passing, Thompson takes on the role of Irene in a nuanced depiction of two Black women in 1920s New York whose lives diverge after reconnecting unexpectedly. Irene’s childhood friend Clare, played by Ruth Negga, is white-passing, setting the stage for a compelling examination of race, identity, and societal expectations. Director Rebecca Hall carefully crafts a story that elevates the subtle emotional tension between the characters while addressing harsh realities of racism and invisibility in America.
Thompson and Negga’s performances rely on restrained expressions and unspoken emotions to reveal deep psychological layers, making Passing one of the most powerful films about identity politics in recent years. This thoughtful adaptation of Nella Larsen’s novel offers a haunting cinematic experience, making it essential viewing for those interested in complex, character-driven narratives.
The Sci-Fi Intrigue of Annihilation
In the 2018 sci-fi thriller Annihilation, directed by Alex Garland, Thompson portrays Josie, a physicist joining a scientific team exploring an enigmatic zone known as the Shimmer. The region is filled with strange mutations and dangerous phenomena, providing the backdrop for an intense psychological and physical journey. Thompson’s Josie works alongside Lena, played by Natalie Portman, to confront the terrifying unknown and unravel the mysteries threatening their survival.
Annihilation captivates with its stunning visual effects and disturbing moments of violence while layered with thematic reflections on self-destruction and illness. Its allegorical storytelling invites multiple viewings to unpack the dense symbolism, making the film a memorable and challenging showcase of Thompson’s capacity to engage with cerebral roles. This film stands out for audiences seeking intellectually stimulating and visually hypnotic experiences.
Emotional Depth in Little Woods
Writer-director Nia DaCosta’s debut feature, Little Woods (2018), centers on Ollie (played by Thompson), a woman struggling to overcome economic hardship in rural America while reconnecting with her estranged sister Deb, portrayed by Lily James. The story unfolds against the backdrop of their mother’s passing and financial crisis, compelling the sisters to take desperate, high-stakes measures to navigate their precarious lives.
Little Woods offers a poignant look at poverty, reproductive rights, and the resilience of sisterhood in underserved American communities. Thompson’s portrayal of Ollie, a determined probationer seeking reinvention, carries the film’s emotional weight. The authentic and unvarnished storytelling, combined with strong performances, establishes this film as one of the most affecting works in Thompson’s career and ranks it as her second-best movie to date.
Masterful Performance in Hedda
Thompson’s latest film, Hedda, marks a significant milestone in her career, elevating her dramatic prowess through a modern reinvention of Henrik Ibsen’s classic play Hedda Gabler. Set over the course of an opulent party, the movie captures Hedda Gabler’s struggle with marital discontent, confrontations with a former lover, and a climactic scheme that seals the night’s fate. Thompson delivers a commanding, multifaceted performance, embodying both the intricate torment and cunning intellect of the character.
Hedda excels in its polished production design, striking cinematography, and sharp, witty script, creating an atmospheric experience from beginning to end. The film takes creative liberties with the original text to craft a fresh, thought-provoking narrative. This project reunites Thompson with director Nia DaCosta, and together they have produced what many regard as Thompson’s finest work yet. Currently streaming on Prime Video, the film offers viewers a captivating exploration of drama and psychology.
Whether through horror, drama, or social commentary, these films display Tessa Thompson’s remarkable range and dedication to her craft, proving why her work outside the MCU remains essential viewing.
