The Five Best Lupita Nyong O Movies Of Her Career

Okay, deep breaths everyone. We’re about to dive into a topic that might spark a tiny bit of friendly debate. And that’s totally fine! Because let’s be honest, when it comes to Lupita Nyong’o, picking just a few favorites is like trying to choose your favorite shade of sunset – they’re all pretty darn spectacular. But, you know, we gotta do it. So, grab a comfy seat, maybe a snack, and let’s get into it. My personal, slightly quirky, totally-not-trying-to-win-any-awards list of the five best Lupita Nyong’o movies.

First up, and I know this might sound a little out there to some, but hear me out. My number five is Queen of Katwe. Yes, yes, I know. Not the one with the terrifying ghosts or the Oscar win (we’ll get there!). But there’s something so incredibly pure and heartwarming about Lupita’s performance as Harriet Mutesi. She’s a mom, trying her best, her eyes full of both worry and fierce love. It’s a quiet strength that really sticks with you. It’s like a warm hug in movie form. Plus, watching young Phiona’s journey unfold, with Lupita as her guiding light? Chef’s kiss. It’s a story about believing in yourself, even when the odds are stacked against you, and Lupita absolutely nails that maternal glow. It’s the kind of movie that makes you want to call your mom and tell her you love her. And who doesn’t need more of that in their life? It’s subtle, it’s powerful, and it’s a testament to her ability to disappear into a role, even without the dramatic flair.

Moving on to number four! This one is a bit of a crowd-pleaser, and I think you’ll understand why. It’s Us. Now, some people found this movie a bit… much. And I get it. Jordan Peele is not exactly known for his straightforward, “sit back and relax” kind of flicks. But Lupita? Oh, Lupita. She plays two roles here, and both are utterly terrifying and captivating. As Adelaide, the matriarch, she’s a force to be reckoned with. And as Red, her doppelgänger? Pure, chilling brilliance. The way she contorts her body, the unsettling rasp in her voice – it’s the kind of performance that gives you nightmares in the best possible way. It’s a masterclass in duality, showing off a range I honestly didn’t know she had at the time. You’re left thinking about her long after the credits roll. It's the kind of performance that makes you look at your reflection a little differently for a while. And that little smile she does? Chilling!

Alright, buckle up for number three. This is where things get really intense. It’s 12 Years a Slave. Obviously, this is the one that catapulted her into superstardom, and for good reason. Her portrayal of Patsey is… well, it’s heartbreaking. It’s devastating. It’s a performance that’s so raw and so full of pain, yet also incredibly resilient. You feel every single ounce of her suffering, her longing for freedom. It’s a film that’s not easy to watch, but it’s essential, and Lupita is the beating heart of it. She deserved every single award she got for this. Every. Single. One. Her ability to convey so much with just a look, a sigh, a tremor in her voice is nothing short of astonishing. It’s a performance that stays with you, a stark reminder of history and the strength of the human spirit. It’s powerful, it’s profound, and it’s a role that will forever be etched in cinematic history.

Now, for number two! This is where I might lose some of you, but hear me out because I love this movie. It’s Black Panther. Yes, the superhero movie! But Lupita as Nakia? She’s not just a love interest. She’s a spy, a warrior, a woman with her own convictions and dreams. She’s strong, she’s smart, and she’s got this amazing sense of purpose. She’s the perfect balance to T’Challa’s royalty. And let’s be honest, her scenes with Chadwick Boseman? Pure magic. They have this incredible chemistry. She’s got that intelligence and a fierce loyalty that shines through. Plus, the costumes! Everything about her in this film is just wow. She brings such gravitas to a world of Wakanda. It's a movie that’s fun, action-packed, and has a powerful message, and Lupita is a huge part of why it all works so brilliantly. She’s more than just a side character; she’s a driving force.

And finally, my undisputed number one. The one that made me fall head over heels for Lupita Nyong’o. It’s Little Monsters. Okay, okay, I hear the collective gasp. "A zombie comedy?" you’re thinking. YES! And it’s glorious! Lupita plays Miss Caroline, a kindergarten teacher who’s just trying to keep her little rugrats safe from flesh-eating monsters while also dealing with a delightfully quirky Alex (Alexander England). She’s funny, she’s resourceful, and she’s surprisingly badass when the chips are down. There’s a moment where she’s just… rocking out to Taylor Swift to calm the kids, and it’s pure perfection. It shows a different side of her, a more playful, slightly unhinged but ultimately incredibly loving persona. It's a movie that doesn’t take itself too seriously, and Lupita’s commitment to the absurdity is what makes it a triumph. She proves that you can be both hilarious and incredibly competent, even when the world is ending. It’s pure, unadulterated fun, and Lupita is the absolute queen of it.

So there you have it! My totally subjective, completely biased, and utterly joyful list of the five best Lupita Nyong’o movies. What are yours? Let’s chat!