Tessa Thompson’s 5 Best Movies Outside of the MCU, Ranked

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Tessa Thompson consistently shines as an actress, both within the Marvel Cinematic Universe and in a variety of other roles. She first gained widespread recognition as Valkyrie in Thor: Ragnarok (2017) and has since appeared in five Marvel projects. However, many fans may not realize the depth of her work beyond Marvel. Thompson has delivered memorable performances in popular TV shows like Westworld, and critically acclaimed films such as Dear White People and Selma. She’s a captivating performer, and her projects are consistently engaging.

We don’t know exactly when Tessa Thompson will reprise her role as Valkyrie in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, but in the meantime, fans can check out five of her best films outside of the superhero world.

5) Creed

Tessa Thompson isn’t just known for her work in the Marvel Cinematic Universe; she also has a prominent role in the Creed films. She first appeared as Bianca in Creed (2015), a talented musician who becomes the love interest of Adonis Creed (Michael B. Jordan). Bianca is a complex character with her own ambitions – she’s a singer-songwriter determined to succeed despite losing her hearing. The dedication both Adonis and Bianca have to their careers is central to the story of Creed, and their relationship grows throughout the series.

Following in the footsteps of Rocky is no easy feat, but Creed delivers as a fantastic continuation of the story. The movie features brilliantly choreographed boxing matches and introduces captivating new characters. Director Ryan Coogler skillfully portrays Adonis’s journey as a professional boxer, making it a truly enjoyable watch. With a stellar cast and unforgettable moments, Creed stands out as the best film in the Rocky series and is considered one of Thompson’s top five favorite movies of all time.

4) Passing

The 2021 film Passing offers a compelling look at the lives of two Black women in 1920s New York who take very different paths. When Irene (Thompson) unexpectedly reconnects with Clare (Negga), a childhood friend who can pass as white, both women experience significant upheaval. Director Rebecca Hall delivers a nuanced adaptation of Nella Larsen’s novel, carefully building a story that’s both unsettling and beautifully detailed. The film thoughtfully explores racism in America without sacrificing Hall’s elegant visual style, and it consistently examines themes of identity, how we see each other, and the complexities of relationships. Tessa Thompson and Ruth Negga give outstanding performances, conveying a wealth of emotion through subtle expressions and gestures. Passing is a remarkably effective portrayal of complicated lives, making it a truly essential film.

3) Annihilation 

The 2018 film Annihilation follows a team of scientists as they explore the Shimmer, a strange and dangerous area filled with mutated creatures and bizarre biological phenomena. Tessa Thompson plays Josie, a physicist who joins Lena (Natalie Portman) and the others in facing the terrifying challenges within. The movie combines stunning visuals with intense violence, all wrapped around a complex story that many interpret as a metaphor for serious illness and self-destructive behavior. Directed by Alex Garland, Annihilation delivers both thrilling action and deeply moving character moments that stay with viewers long after the credits roll. While it takes multiple viewings to fully understand all of its themes and symbolism, the film’s captivating and mysterious experience is incredibly rewarding.

2) Little Woods

Nia DaCosta’s debut feature film, Little Woods (2018), tells a compelling story of struggle and the bond between sisters in the American Midwest. The film follows Ollie (Tessa Thompson) as she tries to manage her finances after reconnecting with her sister, Deb (Lily James), following their mother’s passing. Faced with mounting debt and unforeseen challenges, the sisters resort to desperate actions to support each other.

Little Woods is a deeply moving and honest film that explores the struggles women face with poverty and limited access to reproductive healthcare in rural America. The movie builds suspense and features touching scenes, driven by strong writing and performances. Tessa Thompson delivers a particularly heartfelt performance as a woman trying to rebuild her life, and it’s a standout role that makes this one of her best films.

1) Hedda

Thompson’s latest film is her best yet – a captivating and modern take on Henrik Ibsen’s classic play. Hedda transforms the original story into a fast-paced drama filled with love, conflict, and tragedy, all unfolding during a single, extravagant party. The film follows Hedda Gabler as she grapples with a dissatisfying marriage, confronts a past relationship, and makes choices that lead to a dramatic conclusion. Thompson gives a career-defining performance as the complex and manipulative Hedda, brilliantly capturing her character’s inner struggles and cunning nature.

Visually stunning with beautiful sets and costumes, and featuring sharp, clever writing, Hedda is a truly captivating film from beginning to end. It also takes some unexpected turns from the original story, creating a narrative that is both exciting and makes you think. Thompson and DaCosta deliver their strongest work yet as actor and director, working together seamlessly.

Hedda is now streaming on Prime Video.

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2025-11-04 22:14