5 Black Actresses That Are on the Rise
Though Black History Month is over the celebration continues for black women since this month is Women’s History Month. One of the many ways I’m celebrating is by supporting the art of black women, especially black actresses. There are a few black actresses that I’ve been keeping an eye on and think are worth the watch.
Zoë Kravitz
A few months ago, I finally watched Hulu’s “High Fidelity,” which nonetheless stars the amazing Zoë Kravitz, who I’ve always adored. I’ve previously seen Kravitz in films “It’s Kind of a Funny Story,” “Gemini”, and “Dope,” to name a few, and always thought there was a lot of potential for her. In “High Fidelity,” her character struggles with accepting her singleness and mistakes she’s made in the past, and Kravitz plays this role perfectly. Recently I watched her as Catwoman in “The Batman,” and once again, she did not disappoint at all. In this role, she was constantly reassuring that she could take care of herself, proving how strong of a woman she is. Kravitz is now working on an upcoming film that’ll be her directorial debut, and I’m sure it will not disappoint.
Taylour Paige
Another actress who has caught my attention is Taylour Paige. Paige recently starred in the A24 film “Zola,” formerly adapted by a viral 2015 Twitter thread. The thread told the story of Zola, a Detroit stripper who is convinced by another stripper and friend to travel to Tampa to make more money. However, Zola doesn’t realize she’s in for a wild ride. Paige tells the story well and knows how to show her emotions, especially disgust. This film earned her the Independent Spirit Award for Best Female Lead, which Paige was more than deserving of.
Zendaya
One of the most talked-about series this past few months since its return has been none other than “Euphoria.” The drama-packed show has been the highlight on social media, with many discussing the great acting from Zendaya, who plays Rue. Zendaya gives a raw and emotional performance this season, as Rue struggles with her sobriety and relationships. Zendaya has certainly kept herself busy since the pandemic, starring in films “Malcolm & Marie,” “Dune,” and “Spider-Man: No Way Home.” In 2020 she received the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series for her role as Rue in “Euphoria,” and has received many other awards and nominations for numerous other projects. Zendaya has a whole career ahead of her, and I’m excited to see what’s next in store for her.
Zazie Beetz
“Atlanta” has become one of my favorite shows within the past few years, with phenomenal performances from Donald Glover, Brian Tyree Henry, and Lakeith Stanfield. But most importantly, it introduced me to actress Zazie Beetz, who plays Vanessa, also known as “Van.” Beetz’s character Van has a great character dynamic in which she has a blunt attitude but is very realistic and knows what she wants out of others in her life, same as Glover’s character “Earn.” In new trailers for the upcoming season of “Atlanta”, we see that Van is back, and it is exciting to see how Beetz is going to play out this role this time. Aside from the series, Beetz has been seen in films such as “The Harder They Fall,” “Deadpool 2,” and “Joker,” and is very virtuous in all of her roles.
Michaela Coel
HBO’s “I May Destroy You” was one of the toughest and most brutal shows I’ve watched, and Michaela Coel undoubtedly gives a remarkable and brave performance as Arabella. Created by Coel herself, the show follows Arabella as she tries to regain her memory and rebuild her life path after being sexually assaulted. I’ve previously seen Coel on “Chewing Gum,” where she plays a funny, awkward character, Tracey. Seeing her venture into a much more serious role in “I May Destroy You” as opposed to “Chewing Gum” just shows how talented and brilliant she is. Her writing in the show is also remarkable and pushes boundaries. Unfortunately, the show won’t have a second season, but I’m sure whatever Coel directs or acts in next will be just as amazing.
