7 Great MCU Performances Nobody Talks About

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As a devoted film enthusiast, I can’t help but acknowledge the exceptional acting performances that grace the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). While many of these stellar portrayals receive their due recognition, some truly outstanding performances seem to fly under the radar.

For instance, Robert Downey Jr., as Tony Stark/Iron Man, and Elizabeth Olsen, as Wanda Maximoff/Scarlet Witch, have delivered performances that are rightfully hailed among the franchise’s best. Chadwick Boseman’s portrayal of T’Challa/Black Panther, and Florence Pugh’s depiction of Yelena Belova, also rank high on this list.

However, within the expansive tapestry of the MCU, there are performances that, despite their excellence, often go unnoticed. These include one-off roles and minor supporting characters played by actors who are frequently overlooked. It’s always a rewarding experience to revisit the extensive library of MCU projects and unearth these hidden gems, as they showcase numerous acting performances that deserve more attention than they currently receive.

The following seven MCU performances are great, and they deserve more appreciation from fans.

1) Hugo Weaving as Johann Schmidt/Red Skull

Hugo Weaving skillfully plays the HYDRA leader Johann Schmidt in “Captain America: The First Avenger,” a role that deserves more recognition for its intensity. Weaving’s portrayal of evil is so convincing, it exudes the wickedness expected from a Nazi general during World War II. As Schmidt transforms into Red Skull by using the Super Soldier Serum to prolong his life, Weaving elevates his performance, embodying an even greater degree of insanity and immorality. While Red Skull may not be the most memorable or intricate villain in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Weaving’s chilling portrayal of unadulterated evil should not go unnoticed.

2) Danai Gurira as Okoye

In a stunning blend of power and sensitivity, Danai Gurira brilliantly portrays the Wakandan warrior Okoye across multiple Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) films like ‘Black Panther’, ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’, ‘Avengers: Infinity War’, and ‘Avengers: Endgame’. Throughout these movies, Okoye stands as a crucial figure in safeguarding her nation from various threats. The ex-commander of the Dora Milaje is formidable in battle, yet Gurira also infuses the character with deep emotion that resonates powerfully. In ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’, Gurira’s portrayal of Okoye, especially during the expulsion from the Dora Milaje by Queen Ramonda (Angela Bassett) after losing Shuri (Letitia Wright) to the Talokanil, leaves audiences in awe and tearful. Gurira’s performance alongside other exceptional talents like Chadwick Boseman and Lupita Nyong’o should be recognized as one of the finest in the MCU franchise.

3) Dave Bautista as Drax

In a nutshell, fans of Marvel Cinematic Universe often see Dave Bautista’s character Drax from Guardians of the Galaxy as a mix of brawny and comical. However, beyond that comedic facade lies a deeper character, thanks to Bautista’s exceptional acting. Throughout the Guardians trilogy, Drax becomes pivotal in many emotional scenes. Bautista masterfully blends Drax’s humorous mannerisms with his tender emotions and strong protective instincts for his loved ones. His comedic timing is spot-on, and his line deliveries feel authentic, making Drax’s humor relatable while showcasing his more human side in serious situations.

Drax carries a profound anger and propensity for violence due to the loss of his wife and child, which Bautista skillfully portrays while demonstrating Drax’s transformation into a crucial member of the Guardians. Although Drax may not receive the same acclaim as Zoe Saldaña’s Gamora or Karen Gillan’s Nebula, Bautista’s performance deserves recognition.

4) Hannah John-Kamen as Ava Starr/Ghost

In the film “Ant-Man and the Wasp,” Hannah John-Kamen’s character Ava Starr/Ghost is introduced as a complex villain who is compelled by her unstable molecular condition. In this Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) appearance, John-Kamen skillfully reveals Ava’s inner turmoil, making her one of the franchise’s most compassionate adversaries. Regrettably, “Ant-Man and the Wasp” isn’t particularly memorable for many viewers, so John-Kamen’s compelling performance has largely been underappreciated. However, Ava reappears in “Thunderbolts*” seven years later, restoring her relevance, and adding more comedic elements to her character development. In “Thunderbolts*”, John-Kamen expertly navigates the humorous tone surrounding Ghost. Here’s hoping she gets another opportunity to delve into Ava’s vulnerable aspects in future projects.

(*Please note that Thunderbolts is a fictional Marvel team and there’s currently no confirmed film or series titled “Thunderbolts.”)

5) Andy Serkis as Ulysses Klaue

Andy Serkis consistently delivers stellar performances, and this is evident in his brief roles within the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Ulysses Klaue. In “Avengers: Age of Ultron” and “Black Panther,” Serkis portrays Klaue, a notorious arms dealer with a dark sense of humor that complements his ruthless personality. Remarkably, Serkis almost makes Klaue endearing by infusing the character’s cruelty with comedy. As a result, Klaue proves to be an unforgettable and scene-stealing villain. Unfortunately, many fans overlook Serkis’ outstanding portrayal of Klaue due to his limited screen time in the MCU, but his commitment to every scene is commendable and deserves more recognition.

6) Debra Jo Rupp as Sharon Davis/Mrs. Hart

In the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), Debra Jo Rupp is one of the most underrated yet outstanding scene-stealers. In the series ‘WandaVision’ and ‘Agatha All Along’, she plays Sharon Davis, who later becomes Mrs. Hart, living next door to Wanda and Vision (Paul Bettany) in the Westview Anomaly. Sharon reappears in ‘Agatha All Along’ when Agatha Harkness (Kathryn Hahn) invites her to join her coven on the Witches’ Road.

Rupp excellently portrays Sharon’s cheerful and neighborly demeanor, which fits perfectly with the comedic tone in both shows. Her warmth and vibrant spirit make her a beloved character. The ridiculous situation that Sharon finds herself in during ‘Agatha All Along’, as she tries to comprehend the challenges on the Road, is particularly amusing.

Few actors manage to shine so brightly in supporting roles, but Rupp excels by providing numerous laughs.

7) Kurt Russell as Ego

In the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), Kurt Russell’s casting as Ego in “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2” proved to be a significant success. However, despite his compelling portrayal as Peter Quill/Star Lord’s estranged father, Russell’s performance hasn’t garnered the recognition it deserves. In the film, he skillfully brings Ego to life, making audiences and the Guardians fall for him while they dwell on his beautiful planet. However, the movie later unveils a shocking twist – Ego is actually a villain. This dramatic change in perception, from admiring Ego for his supposed kindness to despising him for causing Quill’s mother’s death and manipulating him, requires an exceptionally gifted actor. Russell masterfully handles this complex performance, leaving a lasting impression as a formidable villain in the MCU.

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2025-07-13 15:10