As we turn the corner into the new year, many of us are eagerly anticipating the big movie releases of 2021. While we may not know what twists and turns these films will have in store, we can all agree on one thing: the performances of the actors and actresses in these films will undoubtedly steal the show. Here are just a few of the actors and actresses who are poised to deliver Oscar-worthy performances in the coming months.
Daniel Kaluuya – Judas and the Black Messiah
Daniel Kaluuya is no stranger to awards, thanks to his standout performance in Get Out and his electrifying turn in Widows. Kaluuya is set to win even more accolades for his role in Judas and the Black Messiah, a film that follows the betrayal of Black Panther Party leader Fred Hampton by FBI informant William O’Neal. Kaluuya steps into the shoes of Hampton, delivering a performance that is both fiery and deeply emotional.
Viola Davis – Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom
Viola Davis has already won an Oscar for her role in Fences, and she is sure to be in the running for another with her performance in Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom. The film, which is based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning play by August Wilson, follows the legendary blues singer Ma Rainey (played by Davis) as she battles racism and sexism in the music industry. Davis brings a rawness and vulnerability to the role, making it one of her best performances yet.
Tom Holland – Cherry
Tom Holland has made his name as the friendly neighborhood Spider-Man, but he is set to break out of that mold with his performance in Cherry. The film, which is based on the novel by Nico Walker, follows an Army medic suffering from PTSD who turns to robbing banks to support his drug addiction. Holland’s performance has been described as intense and unnerving, and it’s clear that he is ready to tackle more challenging roles.
Andra Day – The United States vs. Billie Holiday
Andra Day may be known more for her singing career, but she is set to make a splash in the world of acting with her role in The United States vs. Billie Holiday. The film tells the story of legendary jazz singer Billie Holiday, who is targeted by the FBI for her controversial song “Strange Fruit.” Day is said to deliver a performance that is both haunting and heartbreaking, making her a strong contender for a Best Actress Oscar.
Chadwick Boseman – Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom
Tragically, Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom will also be remembered as the final film role of Chadwick Boseman, who passed away from cancer in August 2020. Boseman plays the ambitious trumpet player Levee, who clashes with Ma Rainey over the direction of their music. Boseman’s performance has been called electric and mesmerizing, making it a fitting tribute to the talented actor.
These are just a few of the actors and actresses who are set to light up the screen with their performances in 2021. With so much talent on display, it’s going to be tough to predict who will take home the awards at next year’s ceremony. But one thing is for sure: we’re in for a year of unforgettable performances.