Happy Birthday Viola Davis: Exploring Her Top 10 Roles As Actress Turns 59

As a lifestyle expert with a keen eye for artistic brilliance and a deep appreciation for the transformative power of cinema, I can confidently say that Viola Davis is undeniably one of the most captivating and versatile actresses of our time. Her life experience, coupled with her raw talent, has led her to deliver performances that resonate deeply with audiences and critics alike.


Known for her exceptional acting talent in both theater and film, Viola Davis – an esteemed American actress and producer – has gained wide recognition over time. By refining her abilities and earning acclaim from viewers and critics alike, she has achieved significant success. To date, she has received four Oscar nominations, making history as the first African-American to secure such a distinction.

Viola Davis has amassed a plethora of accolades, ranging from BAFTA and Golden Globe Award nominations to actual wins, as well as Screen Actors Guild Awards and more. Her performances, both on the big screen and television, have been nothing short of iconic. In honor of this extraordinary actor on her 59th birthday, we’ve compiled a list of her top 10 roles to date. Let’s dive right in!

Fences (2016)

In a directorial venture by Denzel Washington, the film adaptation of August Wilson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play, Fences, unfolds. Viola Davis embodies Rose, the resilient wife of Troy Maxson, a waste collector portrayed by Denzel himself. The narrative delves into Rose’s determination as she confronts her husband’s indiscretions, a performance that is truly worthy of acclaim. Her portrayal of Rose, a character full of strength and resolve, is particularly noteworthy. This powerful depiction earned Viola Davis several prestigious accolades for the first time, including an Academy Award, Golden Globe Award, BAFTA Award, and her third Screen Actors Guild Award.

The Help (2011)

Viola Davis won her first two Screen Actors Guild Awards (for Best Actress and Best Ensemble Cast) for her role in the film adaptation of Kathryn Stockett’s best-selling novel, “The Help.” In Tate Taylor’s direction, Davis skillfully portrayed the character of Aibileen Clark, a strong-willed maid working in Jackson, Mississippi during 1964. Aibileen navigated her position carefully to keep her job secure. As a result, Viola Davis solidified her status as a talented and respected film actress.

Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom (2020)

George C. Wolfe’s direction has featured Viola Davis delivering an exceptional performance as Ma Rainey, the blues singer, in this August Wilson adaptation of his Tony-nominated play. Davis’ powerful acting skills breathed life into her character, and her captivating on-screen presence was beautifully balanced by Chadwick Boseman’s portrayal of Levee, a trumpet player. Regrettably, this film marks Boseman’s final performance.

Doubt (2008)

In my expert opinion as a lifestyle guide, the movie I’m referring to catapulted Viola into a leading role and solidified her as a top contender for awards. In this film, she brilliantly played Mrs. Miller, a mother who was navigating the challenges of raising a young African-American boy in a Catholic school during 1964.

The Woman King (2022)

In a historically accurate film set in the kingdom of Dahomey, West Africa, during 1923, Viola Davis took on the role of General Nanisca, an extraordinary leader of the Agojie – an elite group of female warriors. Her performance showcased why she was the perfect fit for such a challenging character. Although Davis has often portrayed powerful women in various projects, this role as a warrior required physical strength like no other. This film undeniably deserved recognition on the list.

Eat Pray Love (2010)

Over time, Viola Davis has taken on numerous best friend roles in various productions, but her portrayal of Delia Shiraz in Eat Pray Love stands out as exceptional. This film, based on Elizabeth Gilbert’s acclaimed memoir, directed by Ryan Murphy and featuring Julia Roberts as Elizabeth, tells the story of a woman who decides to leave her husband and embark on a global journey. As Elizabeth travels the world, Delia Shiraz enters the scene. Viola Davis brings a fresh charm to the character of Delia.

Suicide Squad (2016)

In my expert opinion on lifestyle and entertainment, I must commend Viola Davis for her remarkable portrayals of resilient characters. Among these stellar performances, her chilling depiction of Amanda Waller in Suicide Squad truly stands out. Stepping into the DC universe was a bold move that left viewers taken aback. As the government intelligence officer who masterminds and governs the Suicide Squad, Amanda’s character was anything but light-hearted. The film, featuring stars like Margot Robbie, Jared Leto, among others, offers an intriguing take on this dark and captivating tale.

Get On Up (2014)

“Get On Up is a biographical drama movie directed by Tate Taylor, focusing on the life story of James Brown. The role of James Brown was played by Chadwick Boseman, while Davis took on the supporting role as James Brown’s mother Susie. Despite its secondary character portrayals, Get On Up still warrants recognition in this list of accolades.”

Prisoners (2013)

2013’s intense drama film Prisoners showcased Davis as Nancy Birch, a devoted wife to Franklin (Terrence Howard) and mother to their only child Joy. However, when they welcome Grace (Maria Bello) and Keller Dover (Hugh Jackman) along with their daughter Anna for Thanksgiving, and later discover that their children have vanished, Davis and Howard deliver a powerful portrayal of their heartache and feelings. This film is truly remarkable, boasting top-notch performances from its talented cast.

Air (2023)

In a different take: Ben Affleck’s newest film, titled Air, stars Viola Davis. This movie focuses on Michael Jordan and his unique request for Ben to cast Davis as his mother. This choice has proven beneficial for all parties involved, and casting Viola Davis as Deloris Jordan was an inspired decision. Her portrayal in this film is a testament to her exceptional talent and emotional range.

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2024-08-11 06:22