Anya Taylor-Joy has rapidly emerged as a significant figure in contemporary cinema, showcasing her remarkable talent across a diverse array of genres. Since her breakout role as Thomasin in The Witch, she has captivated audiences in both mainstream blockbusters and independent films. While productions like Split and the acclaimed miniseries The Queen’s Gambit have garnered extensive recognition, several of her other performances deserve greater appreciation. Here are four overlooked films that highlight Taylor-Joy’s versatility and skill.
The Northman: A Viking Epic Reimagined
In The Northman, directed by Robert Eggers, Taylor-Joy reunites with the filmmaker to tell a gripping Viking revenge tale. The narrative centers on Amleth, portrayed by Alexander Skarsgård, a prince who witnesses his father’s murder at the hands of his uncle Fjölnir. As an adult, Amleth returns to confront his uncle while disguised as a slave. Taylor-Joy plays Olga, a fellow slave whose medicinal expertise aids Amleth on his quest for vengeance.
The film’s exploration of complex relationships elevates it beyond a conventional revenge story. While it struggled to find an audience during its theatrical run, it gained traction on Video on Demand, thanks to critical acclaim and robust word-of-mouth recommendations. The combination of action and rich Nordic mythology makes The Northman a unique cinematic experience that resonates with both arthouse enthusiasts and action fans.
Last Night in Soho: A Stylish Thriller
In Last Night in Soho, directed by Edgar Wright, Taylor-Joy portrays Sandie, a glamorous aspiring singer in 1960s London. The film follows Ellie, an introverted fashion student who becomes immersed in vivid dreams that reveal Sandie’s tragic story. Despite limited dialogue, Taylor-Joy commands the screen, capturing the essence of Sandie’s allure and the dark realities she faces.
Although the film received positive reviews, it did not achieve significant commercial success, partially due to the pandemic’s impact on theaters and the challenges of marketing its complex narrative. Nevertheless, Last Night in Soho stands as an impressive neo-noir mystery that expertly blends genres to create a hauntingly stylish experience.
Thoroughbreds: A Darkly Comedic Thriller
Another gem in Taylor-Joy’s filmography is Thoroughbreds, a darkly comedic thriller that delves into the lives of two estranged teenage girls, Amanda and Lily. As they reconnect, they discuss the possibility of eliminating Lily’s oppressive stepfather. Taylor-Joy’s performance as Lily is chilling and captivating, revealing a character that is both intelligent and manipulative.
The film cleverly plays with perceptions, showcasing how the characters navigate their moral ambiguity. Despite its estimated budget of $5 million, Thoroughbreds struggled at the box office, yet it has since gained a cult following for its sharp wit and unexpected twists.
Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga: A Compelling Origin Story
Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga serves as a prequel to Mad Max: Fury Road, focusing on the origin of the titular character, originally portrayed by Charlize Theron. In this film, Taylor-Joy takes on the role of Furiosa, who is abducted by a ruthless gang and must navigate a treacherous landscape to reclaim her identity and seek vengeance.
Despite being highly anticipated, the film underperformed at the box office, disappointing fans who had hoped for another thrilling installment in the franchise. Nevertheless, Taylor-Joy’s portrayal of Furiosa captures the character’s inner turmoil and rage, contributing to a narrative that explores themes of survival and revenge.
Anya Taylor-Joy’s filmography is still evolving, and these four films illustrate her remarkable ability to tackle diverse roles with depth and nuance. As audiences continue to discover her body of work, it is clear that Taylor-Joy is a compelling talent worthy of greater recognition in the cinematic landscape.
