Exploring Lupita Nyong’o’s Remarkable Cinematic Journey: 7 of Her Most Iconic Roles

From her Oscar-winning breakthrough to her versatile portrayals across genres, Lupita Nyong’o has carved an indelible niche in the entertainment realm. This esteemed Kenyan-Mexican actress has mesmerized audiences with her commanding screen presence, nuanced performances, and an unwavering commitment to diverse storytelling. Join us as we delve into seven of her most iconic roles, each a testament to her remarkable range and profound impact on contemporary cinema.

1. 12 Years a Slave (2013): A Searing Portrayal of Resilience

Nyong’o’s feature film debut in Steve McQueen’s historical drama “12 Years a Slave” was nothing short of a revelation. In her haunting portrayal of Patsey, an enslaved woman subjected to unimaginable cruelty, Nyong’o unveiled layers of raw emotion that left audiences spellbound. Her performance was a masterclass in conveying the depths of human suffering and the indomitable spirit of survival.

The Accolades Speak Volumes

Nyong’o’s tour de force in “12 Years a Slave” garnered universal acclaim, earning her the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, a Golden Globe, a BAFTA, and numerous other accolades. Her nuanced depiction of Patsey’s anguish and resilience resonated profoundly, solidifying her status as a formidable acting talent from the very outset of her career.

2. Black Panther (2018) and Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2022): A Fierce Warrior and Loyal Ally

In the groundbreaking Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) films “Black Panther” and its sequel “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever,” Nyong’o brought to life the character of Nakia, a fierce Wakandan spy and former love interest of T’Challa. Her portrayal seamlessly blended strength, intelligence, and a deep sense of loyalty to her nation. Both movies were widespread critical and commercial success.

Award Success

The first “Black Panther” was nominated for seven Academy Awards, winning three. It was even nominated for Best Picture and was the ninth highest-grossing film of all time at the time of release. The sequel grossed over $800 million dollars and generated awards buzz for Angela Bassett who was nominated for a Best Supporting Actress Oscar. This broke barriers as it was the first time an actor was nominated for their work in a Marvel movie.

A Standout Performance in an Ensemble Cast

While sharing the screen with an ensemble of talented actors, including Chadwick Boseman, Michael B. Jordan, and Danai Gurira, Nyong’o’s magnetic presence as Nakia ensured she left an indelible mark. Her ability to convey both vulnerability and unwavering determination made Nakia a fan favorite and a pivotal character in the Black Panther storyline.

In “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever,” Nyong’o’s role took on added poignancy as she grappled with the loss of T’Challa and the weight of preserving his legacy. Her nuanced portrayal of Nakia’s grief and resilience resonated deeply, solidifying her status as a vital component of the MCU’s tapestry.

3. Us (2019): A Chilling Duality

Jordan Peele’s psychological horror thriller “Us” showcased Nyong’o’s remarkable versatility as she took on the dual roles of Adelaide Wilson and her tethered doppelgänger, Red. This tour de force performance was a masterclass in contrasting characterizations, leaving audiences both captivated and unsettled. She was nominated for Best Actress at the Critic’s Choice Awards and Screen Actors Guild Awards.

Embodying Contrasting Personas

Nyong’o’s ability to seamlessly transition between the reserved Adelaide and the menacing, raspy-voiced Red was a testament to her acting prowess. Her physicality, vocal inflections, and mannerisms were so distinct that it seemed as if two separate actors were inhabiting the same frame. Through her portrayal of Adelaide and Red, Nyong’o delved into the complexities of identity, duality, and the human psyche, leaving an indelible mark on the horror genre.

4. Queen of Katwe (2016): An Inspiring Tale of Perseverance

In the heartwarming biopic “Queen of Katwe,” Nyong’o brought to life the character of Nakku Harriet, the mother of Phiona Mutesi, a young Ugandan girl who defied overwhelming odds to become a chess prodigy. Nyong’o’s radiant performance infused the film with warmth and authenticity, making it a compelling celebration of resilience and determination.

A Beacon of Maternal Love and Support

Nyong’o’s portrayal of Nakku Harriet captured the unwavering love and support of a mother who believed in her daughter’s potential, even when faced with the harsh realities of poverty. Her nuanced performance added depth and emotional resonance to the film’s uplifting narrative.

Celebrating the Power of Education

Through her role, Nyong’o highlighted the transformative power of education and the importance of nurturing talent, regardless of socioeconomic circumstances. Her performance served as a powerful reminder of the profound impact a supportive family can have on an individual’s journey toward success.

5. Star Wars Sequel Trilogy (2015-2019): A Captivating Presence in a Galaxy Far, Far Away

Nyong’o’s involvement in the Star Wars sequel trilogy, spanning “The Force Awakens,” “The Last Jedi,” and “The Rise of Skywalker,” showcased her versatility as an actress. Through her motion-capture performance and voice work, she breathed life into the enigmatic character of Maz Kanata, adding depth and authenticity to the beloved sci-fi saga.

A Compelling CGI Performance

Despite her limited screen time, Nyong’o’s portrayal of Maz Kanata left a lasting impression on audiences. Her ability to imbue the CGI character with emotional nuances and a sense of wisdom made Maz a standout presence in the Star Wars universe.

Bridging Generations of Fans

Nyong’o’s involvement in the Star Wars franchise allowed her to connect with fans of all ages, further solidifying her status as a versatile and respected actress. Her contributions to this iconic series cemented her place in the annals of cinematic history. This was following her big Oscar win at the 2014 ceremony, so it was a great move for her career.

6. The Jungle Book (2016): A Captivating Voice Performance

In Jon Favreau’s live-action adaptation of “The Jungle Book,” Nyong’o lent her talents to the voice of Raksha, the nurturing wolf mother who adopts the human child Mowgli. While her performance was entirely vocal, Nyong’o showed success with voice acting.

A Maternal Presence in the Jungle

Nyong’o’s warm and soothing tones brought a sense of maternal love and protection to the character of Raksha. Her vocal performance added depth and emotional resonance to Mowgli’s journey, serving as a constant source of guidance and comfort in the midst of the jungle’s perils.

7. Little Monsters (2019): A Comedic Turn in a Zombie Apocalypse

In the offbeat horror-comedy “Little Monsters,” Nyong’o took on the role of Miss Caroline, a kindergarten teacher thrust into a zombie apocalypse. Her performance showcased her comedic timing and ability to inject levity into even the most dire situations, providing a refreshing departure from her more dramatic roles.

A Delightful Blend of Comedy and Horror

Nyong’o’s portrayal of Miss Caroline brought a delightful balance of humor and horror to the film. Her interactions with the washed-up musician played by Alexander England created a charming dynamic, allowing her to showcase her versatility as an actress.

A Unique Perspective on the Zombie Genre

Through her role in “Little Monsters,” Nyong’o offered a unique perspective on the zombie genre, infusing it with a sense of whimsy and charm. Her ability to navigate the film’s tonal shifts with ease demonstrated her range and willingness to embrace unconventional roles.

Lupita Nyong’o’s remarkable journey in cinema has been marked by a diverse array of roles that showcase her incredible talent, emotional depth, and commitment to storytelling. From her groundbreaking debut to her genre-defying performances, she has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.

As her career continues to flourish, audiences eagerly anticipate the next chapter in her artistic odyssey, eagerly awaiting the profound and captivating characters she will undoubtedly bring to life. Up next, she has “A Quiet Place: Day One” which releases in theaters worldwide this Friday.