Top 10 Must-Watch Movies With Taraji P. Henson

Taraji P. Henson is a powerhouse actress known for her captivating performances and undeniable talent. With a career spanning decades, she has graced the screen with her versatility, charisma, and depth of emotion. From gripping dramas to laugh-out-loud comedies, Henson has showcased her range as an actress in a variety of roles. In this article, we'll take a closer look at her top 10 must-watch movies, highlighting her standout performances and the impact she has made on the world of cinema.

1. "Hidden Figures" (2016)

Directed by Theodore Melfi, "Hidden Figures" is a biographical drama that tells the untold story of three African American women mathematicians who played crucial roles at NASA during the Space Race. Henson shines as Katherine Johnson, a brilliant mathematician whose calculations were instrumental in launching astronaut John Glenn into orbit. Her portrayal earned critical acclaim and solidified her status as one of Hollywood's most talented actresses.

2. "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" (2008)

In this fantasy drama directed by David Fincher, Henson delivers a poignant performance as Queenie, the adoptive mother of Benjamin Button, a man who ages backward. Her warmth and strength anchor the film, providing a sense of love and stability in Benjamin's unconventional journey through life. Henson's portrayal earned her widespread praise and showcased her ability to imbue her characters with depth and humanity.

3. "Hustle & Flow" (2005)

Directed by Craig Brewer, "Hustle & Flow" is a gritty drama that follows the struggles of a Memphis hustler named DJay who aspires to become a successful rapper. Henson delivers a standout performance as Shug, a sex worker who forms a bond with DJay and becomes involved in his music aspirations. Her portrayal is raw, authentic, and emotionally resonant, earning her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress.

4. "What Men Want" (2019)

In the 2019 comedy film "What Men Want," Taraji P. Henson stars as Ali Davis, a successful sports agent who is constantly overlooked and undermined in her male-dominated workplace. Frustrated by her inability to connect with men on a personal or professional level, Ali seeks out the help of a psychic, who accidentally grants her the ability to hear men's thoughts. Armed with this newfound power, Ali sets out to use it to her advantage, gaining insights into the minds of her colleagues and competitors.

5. "Baby Boy" (2001)

Directed by John Singleton, "Baby Boy" is a coming-of-age drama that follows the life of Jody, a young man struggling to find his place in the world. Henson delivers a powerhouse performance as Yvette, Jody's long-suffering girlfriend and the mother of his child. Her portrayal is nuanced and complex, capturing the pain, resilience, and humanity of a woman trapped in a cycle of poverty and dysfunction.

6. "The Best of Enemies" (2019)

In this historical drama directed by Robin Bissell, Henson portrays Ann Atwater, a civil rights activist who forms an unlikely alliance with a Ku Klux Klan leader to desegregate schools in Durham, North Carolina, in the 1970s. Henson's performance is powerful and compelling, capturing the strength and determination of a woman fighting for justice in the face of adversity.

7. "Think Like a Man" (2012)

Based on Steve Harvey's best-selling book, "Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man," this romantic comedy follows the lives of several couples as they navigate the complexities of love and relationships. Henson shines as Lauren, a successful businesswoman who finds herself falling for a man with commitment issues. Her performance is charming, relatable, and filled with humor and heart.

8. "No Good Deed" (2014)

In this tense thriller directed by Sam Miller, Henson stars as Terri, a woman who becomes the target of a dangerous escaped convict played by Idris Elba. Henson delivers a riveting performance as she fights to protect herself and her family from the relentless intruder. Her portrayal is intense, gripping, and keeps audiences on the edge of their seats until the very end.

9. "Proud Mary" (2018)

Directed by Babak Najafi, "Proud Mary" follows Mary, a skilled assassin with a mysterious past who becomes entangled in a conflict with her former crime family. Henson brings a mix of toughness and vulnerability to the role, showcasing her action chops and proving she can command the screen in any genre. While the film received mixed reviews, Henson's performance garnered praise for her magnetic presence and dynamic action sequences.

10. "Tyler Perry's Acrimony" (2018)

Directed by Tyler Perry, "Acrimony" is a psychological thriller that follows the tumultuous relationship between Melinda, played by Henson, and her deceitful husband Robert. Henson delivers a tour-de-force performance as she navigates the complex emotions of love, betrayal, and revenge. Her portrayal is raw, intense, and showcases her ability to captivate audiences with her emotional depth and range.

Conclusion: Exploring Taraji P. Henson's Diverse and Captivating Performances

Taraji P. Henson has solidified her place as one of Hollywood's most talented and versatile actresses, captivating audiences with her compelling performances and undeniable presence on screen. From her breakout roles in films like "Hustle & Flow" and "Hidden Figures" to her iconic portrayal of Cookie Lyon in "Empire," Henson continues to push boundaries and challenge stereotypes with each new project. Whether she's commanding the screen in a dramatic role or bringing humor and charm to a romantic comedy, Henson's talent and passion shine through, making her a true force to be reckoned with in the world of cinema. As we celebrate her incredible body of work, we eagerly anticipate the next chapter in Taraji P. Henson's storied career, confident that she will continue to inspire and entertain audiences for years to come.