Top Picks: Best Movies Of Taraji P. Henson

Taraji P. Henson is a powerhouse in the world of Hollywood, known for her striking performances and charismatic screen presence. Over the years, she has graced the silver screen with her remarkable talent, commanding the attention of audiences and critics alike. From gripping dramas to heartwarming comedies, Taraji's filmography is as diverse as it is impressive. In this article, we will delve into the best movies of Taraji P. Henson, celebrating her incredible journey in the film industry.

As an actress who consistently delivers compelling performances, Taraji P. Henson has become a beloved figure in the entertainment industry. Her ability to portray complex characters with depth and authenticity has earned her numerous accolades and a dedicated fan base. Whether she's playing a determined single mother or a savvy businesswoman, Taraji's performances are always memorable and impactful. In this exploration of her best films, we'll not only highlight her standout roles but also provide insights into the stories that have captivated audiences worldwide.

In addition to her impressive acting skills, Taraji P. Henson's personal journey is equally inspiring. Her rise to fame is a testament to her resilience, determination, and passion for her craft. As we explore the best movies of Taraji P. Henson, we'll also take a closer look at her biography, offering a glimpse into the life of the woman behind the characters we adore. Join us as we celebrate Taraji's contributions to cinema and explore the films that have solidified her status as one of Hollywood's most talented actresses.

Table of Contents

• Biography of Taraji P. Henson
• What was Taraji P. Henson's early life like?
• How did her career begin?
• The Rise to Fame
• Iconic Roles and Performances
• What are the best movies of Taraji P. Henson?
• Hidden Figures: A Landmark Film
• The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
• Think Like a Man: A Comedy Classic
• Acrimony: A Tale of Revenge
• Personal Life and Achievements
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Conclusion

Biography of Taraji P. Henson

Taraji Penda Henson was born on September 11, 1970, in Washington, D.C. She is an American actress and singer, known for her work in both film and television. Henson's journey to stardom is marked by perseverance, talent, and a passion for storytelling. She attended Howard University, where she studied acting and developed her skills, laying the foundation for her successful career in Hollywood.

What was Taraji P. Henson's early life like?

Growing up in Washington, D.C., Taraji P. Henson was raised by her mother, Bernice, and her father, Boris, who was a janitor and metal fabricator. Despite facing various challenges, Henson's parents instilled in her the values of hard work and determination. Her interest in the arts was evident from a young age, and she often participated in school plays and talent shows.

After graduating from Oxon Hill High School in Maryland, Henson initially attended North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, where she studied electrical engineering. However, her passion for acting led her to transfer to Howard University, where she pursued a degree in theater. During her time at Howard, she honed her craft and gained valuable experience, setting the stage for her future success in the entertainment industry.

How did her career begin?

Taraji P. Henson's journey to Hollywood was not without its challenges. After graduating from Howard University, she moved to Los Angeles to pursue her dream of becoming an actress. In the early stages of her career, Henson faced numerous auditions and rejections, but her determination and talent eventually paid off.

Her breakthrough came in 2001 when she landed a supporting role in the critically acclaimed film "Baby Boy," directed by John Singleton. Henson's performance as Yvette, a single mother navigating the complexities of love and life, garnered attention and praise from both audiences and critics. This role marked the beginning of her rise in the film industry and opened doors to more significant opportunities.

The Rise to Fame

Following her breakout role in "Baby Boy," Taraji P. Henson continued to build her reputation as a talented actress. She appeared in a variety of films and television series, showcasing her versatility and range as a performer. Her ability to portray diverse characters with depth and authenticity set her apart in the competitive world of Hollywood.

In 2005, Henson starred in the film "Hustle & Flow," where she played the role of Shug, a pregnant prostitute with dreams of a better life. Her performance was widely praised, and she even contributed her singing talents to the film's soundtrack. "Hustle & Flow" received critical acclaim, and Henson's portrayal earned her a BET Award for Best Actress.

As her career continued to flourish, Henson took on a variety of roles in both film and television. Her talent and dedication to her craft did not go unnoticed, and she quickly became a sought-after actress in the industry.

Iconic Roles and Performances

Throughout her career, Taraji P. Henson has delivered numerous iconic performances that have left a lasting impact on audiences. From powerful dramas to lighthearted comedies, her ability to adapt to different genres and bring characters to life is truly remarkable.

One of her most memorable roles came in the 2008 film "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button," where she played Queenie, the adoptive mother of Benjamin Button. Henson's performance was both heartwarming and poignant, earning her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. Her portrayal of Queenie showcased her ability to convey emotion and depth, solidifying her reputation as a talented actress.

What are the best movies of Taraji P. Henson?

Taraji P. Henson's filmography is filled with standout performances that have captivated audiences worldwide. Her ability to connect with viewers and bring characters to life is evident in her best movies, each showcasing her incredible talent and versatility.

Among her top films is "Hidden Figures," a critically acclaimed drama that tells the inspiring true story of African American women mathematicians who played a vital role in NASA's space program. Henson's portrayal of Katherine Johnson, a brilliant mathematician, earned her widespread acclaim and several award nominations. "Hidden Figures" not only highlighted Henson's acting prowess but also shed light on an important chapter in history.

Another standout film in Henson's career is "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button," where she delivered a powerful and emotional performance as Queenie. Her ability to convey love, compassion, and resilience in this role earned her an Academy Award nomination and further solidified her status as a top actress in Hollywood.

In addition to these films, Henson's performances in "Think Like a Man," "Acrimony," and "What Men Want" have also garnered praise from audiences and critics alike. Her versatility and range as an actress are evident in each of these films, making her one of the most respected and admired performers in the industry.

Hidden Figures: A Landmark Film

"Hidden Figures" is a groundbreaking film that tells the inspiring true story of Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson, three African American women mathematicians who played a crucial role in NASA's space program during the 1960s. Taraji P. Henson stars as Katherine Johnson, a brilliant mathematician whose calculations were essential to the success of the first manned spaceflight.

The film, directed by Theodore Melfi, received critical acclaim for its powerful storytelling, exceptional performances, and historical significance. Henson's portrayal of Katherine Johnson was widely praised, earning her several award nominations, including a Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture.

"Hidden Figures" not only highlighted the contributions of these remarkable women but also shed light on the challenges they faced in a racially segregated society. The film's success brought attention to an important chapter in history and underscored the significance of diversity and representation in the film industry.

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button

"The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" is a unique and thought-provoking film directed by David Fincher, based on a short story by F. Scott Fitzgerald. The film follows the life of Benjamin Button, a man who ages in reverse, starting life as an elderly man and growing younger as time passes.

In the film, Taraji P. Henson delivers a standout performance as Queenie, the adoptive mother of Benjamin Button. Her portrayal of Queenie is both heartwarming and emotional, capturing the essence of love, compassion, and resilience. Henson's ability to convey deep emotion and bring authenticity to her character earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress.

"The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" received critical acclaim for its innovative storytelling and exceptional performances, and Henson's role as Queenie remains one of her most memorable and impactful performances to date.

Think Like a Man: A Comedy Classic

"Think Like a Man" is a romantic comedy film based on Steve Harvey's book "Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man." Directed by Tim Story, the film follows the lives of several couples and the humorous challenges they face in their relationships.

Taraji P. Henson stars as Lauren, a successful businesswoman who struggles to find love while balancing her career. Her performance in the film was praised for its comedic timing and relatability, making her character one of the audience's favorites. "Think Like a Man" was a commercial success and received positive reviews for its humor and ensemble cast.

The film's success led to a sequel, "Think Like a Man Too," in which Henson reprised her role as Lauren. Her contributions to both films further solidified her status as a versatile actress capable of delivering both comedic and dramatic performances.

Acrimony: A Tale of Revenge

"Acrimony" is a psychological thriller film directed by Tyler Perry, featuring Taraji P. Henson in the lead role as Melinda, a woman who seeks revenge on her unfaithful husband. The film explores themes of betrayal, anger, and vengeance, with Henson delivering a powerful and intense performance.

Henson's portrayal of Melinda is both compelling and complex, capturing the character's emotional turmoil and descent into obsession. Her performance was praised for its intensity and depth, showcasing Henson's ability to tackle challenging and multifaceted roles.

"Acrimony" received mixed reviews from critics but was recognized for Henson's standout performance. Her ability to bring authenticity and nuance to the character of Melinda further demonstrated her versatility and talent as an actress.

Personal Life and Achievements

Beyond her successful acting career, Taraji P. Henson is also an advocate for mental health awareness and social justice. She founded the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation, named after her late father, to provide mental health support to African American communities. The foundation aims to break the stigma surrounding mental health and ensure that individuals have access to the resources they need.

Henson's dedication to philanthropy and advocacy has earned her recognition and respect beyond the entertainment industry. She has been honored with several awards for her contributions to film and her efforts to promote social change.

In addition to her advocacy work, Henson is also a proud mother to her son, Marcell Johnson. She often speaks about the importance of family and the impact her son has had on her life and career.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of Taraji P. Henson's most popular films?

Some of Taraji P. Henson's most popular films include "Hidden Figures," "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button," "Think Like a Man," "Acrimony," and "What Men Want."

Has Taraji P. Henson won any major awards?

Yes, Taraji P. Henson has received numerous awards and nominations throughout her career, including an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her role in "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button."

What is Taraji P. Henson's foundation focused on?

The Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation, founded by Taraji P. Henson, focuses on mental health awareness and support, particularly within African American communities.

What inspired Taraji P. Henson to pursue acting?

Taraji P. Henson's passion for storytelling and the arts inspired her to pursue a career in acting, along with her studies in theater at Howard University.

Does Taraji P. Henson have any upcoming projects?

As of the latest updates, Taraji P. Henson continues to be active in the film industry with several upcoming projects in development. Fans can look forward to seeing her in new and exciting roles.

Where can I learn more about Taraji P. Henson's advocacy work?

To learn more about Taraji P. Henson's advocacy work, you can visit the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation's official website and explore resources on mental health awareness and support.

Conclusion

Taraji P. Henson's journey in the film industry is a testament to her talent, resilience, and dedication to her craft. Her performances in some of the best movies of Taraji P. Henson have left a lasting impact on audiences worldwide, showcasing her versatility and range as an actress. From iconic roles in films like "Hidden Figures" and "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" to her advocacy work for mental health awareness, Henson continues to inspire and captivate audiences. As we celebrate her incredible contributions to cinema, we look forward to witnessing her future endeavors and the legacy she continues to build in Hollywood.