Viola Davis in Beast Mode: 13 Times She Gave Main Character Energy On-Screen
Viola Davis is a force of nature. With her commanding presence, magnetic talent, and unparalleled ability to bring characters to life, she’s become one of the most respected actors in Hollywood. Whether portraying a fierce warrior or a powerful leader, Davis consistently delivers performances that demand attention and elevate the entire story. As her latest role in “G20” (premiering tomorrow, April 10 on Prime Video) proves, there’s no character too tough for her to embody.
With every new performance, Davis reminds us of why she’s one of the most dynamic and compelling actresses working today. Here are 13 iconic moments when Viola Davis brought her main character energy and showed the world what true cinematic power looks like.
1. “Doubt” (2008) – Sister Aloysius’
In “Doubt”, Viola Davis shares the screen with Meryl Streep in a tense drama about faith, suspicion, and moral certainty. Davis plays Mrs. Miller, a mother whose son is at the center of an accusation involving a priest. In just a few scenes, Davis delivers a powerhouse performance, particularly during her confrontation with Sister Aloysius.
Her quiet dignity and understated strength in these moments are a stark contrast to the fervor of Streep’s character, and yet, Davis holds her ground with an incredible amount of poise. She gives the movie an emotional depth that lingers long after the credits roll. “Doubt” earned Viola an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress.
2. “Prisoners” (2013) – Nancy Birch’s
In “Prisoners”, Davis plays Nancy Birch, a mother who joins in the search for her missing child. Though the film is filled with intense, action-packed moments, it’s Viola’s subtle, heartbreaking performance that stands out. As a mother whose world has been turned upside down, her desperation and fear are palpable. Yet, there’s a quiet strength in her every decision — she refuses to give up. Viola’s ability to express that kind of raw emotional depth in a thriller is a testament to her range.
3. “How to Get Away with Murder” (2014-2020) – Annalise Keating
As Annalise Keating, a brilliant law professor and defense attorney, Viola Davis exudes a presence that makes you believe she can win any case — and she does, no matter the personal cost. The 2015 Emmy-winning performance where Davis became the first Black woman to win the award for Best Actress in a Drama Series was a landmark moment.
Annalise is equal parts fierce, flawed, and fearless, a character who navigates a world full of betrayal, moral dilemmas, and scandal with a sharp mind and an even sharper will. In every courtroom scene, Viola oozes main character energy — there’s no doubt she’s the one running the show.
4. “Suicide Squad” (2016) – Amanda Waller
As Amanda Waller in “Suicide Squad”, Viola plays a no-nonsense government official who runs the covert Task Force X. Her cold, calculating demeanor and her ability to wield power with an iron fist make her one of the most intimidating characters in the DC universe. In every scene, she commands the screen with the authority of someone who is always 10 steps ahead. Viola’s portrayal of Waller is the definition of main character energy — ruthless, decisive, and unwavering in her goals.
5. “Fences” (2016) – Rose Maxson
In “Fences”, Viola portrays Rose Maxson, the long-suffering wife of Troy Maxson. One of her most unforgettable moments comes when she confronts her husband after learning about his affair. The raw emotion in this scene — pain, betrayal, and acceptance — is palpable. Viola doesn’t just act in this moment; she becomes Rose, a woman who has endured years of hardship, but who has, at last, had enough.
Her quiet but powerful resolve in this moment showcases the emotional range that makes her a leading lady in every sense of the word. Viola’s portrayal of Rose won her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress in 2017.
6. “Widows” (2018) – Veronica Rawlings
In “Widows”, Viola plays Veronica, the widow of a criminal mastermind who is left with a complex plan for vengeance. When her husband’s heist goes wrong, Veronica must step up and lead a group of unlikely allies to finish the job. Viola’s performance radiates cool intensity as Veronica faces betrayal, grief, and the weight of her late husband’s criminal legacy. With every glance and every calculated move, she channels a fierce main character energy, proving that even when the world is stacked against you, you can still take control.
7. “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom” (2020) – Ma Rainey
In “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom”, Viola Davis takes on the role of the legendary blues singer Ma Rainey. She portrays a woman who refuses to be controlled, whether by the music industry or the men who try to take advantage of her. Davis gives Ma a regal, commanding presence, capturing the essence of a woman who has worked hard for everything she has. Her energy is unshakable, and every scene she’s in, she takes ownership of — both literally and figuratively. Her exceptional portrayal of Ma Rainey earned her another Academy Award nomination for Best Actress.
8. “The Unforgivable” (2021) – Liz Ingram
Viola Davis doesn’t have one of the larger roles in “The Unforgivable”, but as usual, she makes her screen time count. She plays Liz Ingram, the new owner of Ruth’s childhood home, who quickly becomes suspicious of Ruth as her rocky past begins to unfold. In typical Viola fashion, Liz is commanding in every way, even with limited screen time. Davis has built a career out of playing effortlessly powerful women, and Liz is no exception.
“The Unforgivable” became a big hit for Netflix, and the star power of Viola Davis and Sandra Bullock in the lead roles definitely played a big part in that.
9. “The Woman King” (2022) – Nanisca
In “The Woman King”, Viola plays Nanisca, the general of the Agojie, an all-female warrior unit in the Kingdom of Dahomey. The film showcases her athleticism and strength, both physical and emotional, as she leads her soldiers into battle. Viola’s portrayal of Nanisca is a masterclass in empowerment. From the first battle to the final confrontation, she commands the screen, exuding authority, wisdom, and fierce maternal love. The scene where she trains a new generation of warriors is one of her most intense, as she instills in them the courage to face impossible odds.
10. “The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes” (2023) – Dr. Volumnia Gaul
In “The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes”, Viola Davis plays Dr. Volumnia Gaul, a ruthless scientist and the primary antagonist. This film marked a significant departure for Viola, as it was her first time truly stepping into the role of a villain. Gaul is cold, calculating, and a master of manipulation, qualities that Viola brings to life with chilling precision.
Her portrayal of this sinister character adds a new layer to her diverse range, showcasing her ability to make even a villain magnetic and commanding. As Dr. Gaul, she embodies the darker side of power and intellect, adding an unforgettable, menacing presence to the “Hunger Games” prequel.
11. “G20” (2025) – President Danielle Sutton
Viola Davis is stepping into the Oval Office—and straight into combat in “G20”, Prime Video’s upcoming action thriller. Davis plays U.S. President Danielle Sutton, a leader who must fight back after a terrorist faction seizes control during the G20 summit. Forced into a life-or-death battle to protect her family and global diplomacy, Sutton channels Davis’ signature intensity and action-hero energy. In the film, Davis shows off her badass combat skills, from dodging bullets to using kitchenware as makeshift weapons.
“G20” showcases a side of Viola Davis audiences have never seen before: a fierce, unstoppable hero determined to stop an international crisis at any cost. Premiering on Prime Video on April 10, it’s sure to be an electrifying ride.
Viola Davis continues to prove time and time again that she is one of the most versatile and compelling actresses of our generation. From fierce warriors to complex leaders, she brings unmatched intensity to every role. As her latest performance in “G20” demonstrates, Davis is never afraid to push boundaries and take on new challenges. Don’t miss the action—stream “G20” this weekend on Prime Video and watch her kick ass in a thrilling new role!
