Buzz
I’m not here to criticize Eternals (since I haven’t watched it yet), but the divided opinions so far indicate it might be the movie that cools our collective enthusiasm for Marvel films. Time will tell: Chloé Zhao is arguably the finest director superhero movies could hope for, and this cast is possibly Marvel’s most impressive lineup yet (pun fully intended). The film has already faced bans in much of the Persian Gulf, likely due to its portrayal of a gay couple—earning it extra credit in my book.
But let’s talk about this incredible cast. Eternals brings together a mix of rising stars and seasoned actors, including 16-year-old Lia McHugh (Sprite), who already boasts five years of solid acting experience. On the other end is Harish Patel, with a career spanning decades. In between are household names like Angelina Jolie and Salma Hayek.
Maybe Eternals isn’t your cup of tea, or perhaps you’re just burnt out on superhero flicks. That’s fair. Or maybe you adored the film and want to explore more of these actors’ work outside of cosmic battles and alien gods. Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered.
Angelina Jolie
Movie: Changeling (2008)
Despite being one of Hollywood’s biggest stars, Jolie has often been the standout in otherwise average films (like Tomb Raider or The Good Shepherd). In Clint Eastwood’s Changeling (written by J. Michael Straczynski), Jolie delivers a raw, emotionally charged performance as Christine Collins, a real-life mother whose son was kidnapped in 1928. The LAPD, under public pressure, returned a boy to her—only it wasn’t her son—and then labeled her as delusional.
Where to stream: HBO Max
Also watch: Girl, Interrupted (Starz), featuring Jolie’s Oscar-winning role as a magnetic yet manipulative psychiatric patient. I also highly recommend her take on the iconic Disney villain in Maleficent (Disney+).
Salma Hayek
Movie: Frida (2002)
Hayek’s illustrious career spans both acting and producing, from her breakout role in a beloved telenovela to founding her production company, Ventanarosa, and executive producing Ugly Betty. For her film work, her Oscar-nominated portrayal of artist Frida Kahlo in Frida stands out. Despite the film’s vibrant visuals, Hayek’s performance shines, perfectly capturing Kahlo’s charm and vitality.
Where to stream: HBO Max
Also watch: Desperado (Netflix, HBO Max). Hayek’s collaborations with Robert Rodriguez (like Once Upon a Time in Mexico or From Dusk till Dawn) offer a stark contrast to her dramatic roles but are equally captivating for fans of action-packed cinema.
Gemma Chan
Movie: Crazy Rich Asians (2018)
While much of Chan’s standout work has been on TV (Secret Diary of a Call Girl, Humans), her breakthrough role came as Astrid in the hit film Crazy Rich Asians. Chan’s portrayal of a wealthy, stylish socialite who remains deeply relatable is both captivating and nuanced, making her one of the film’s most memorable characters.
Where to stream: HBO Max
Also watch: Let Them All Talk (HBO Max). In a star-studded cast featuring Dianne Wiest, Candice Bergen, and Meryl Streep, Chan stands out as Streep’s beleaguered literary agent, proving her versatility and talent.
Richard Madden
Movie: Rocketman (2019)
While Richard Madden is still widely recognized as Robb Stark from Game of Thrones, his career has expanded with standout roles in TV series like Medici and Bodyguard, as well as in films. In the Elton John biopic Rocketman, Madden delivers a compelling performance as the antagonistic manager John Reid, leaving a lasting impact despite limited screen time.
Where to stream: Hulu, Paramount+, Epix
Also watch: In 1917 (fuboTV, Showtime Anytime), Madden once again captivates in a brief but pivotal role as Joseph Blake, the brother central to the film’s plot. He also shines in the 2015 live-action adaptation of Cinderella.
Kumail Nanjani
Movie: The Big Sick (2017)
While Silicon Valley catapulted Nanjani to fame, The Big Sick showcased his depth as an artist beyond comedy. Co-written with his wife, Emily V. Gordon, and inspired by their real-life experiences, the film tells the story of a Pakistani-American comedian and a psychology student whose budding relationship faces challenges when Emily falls seriously ill. The film is both witty and heartfelt, with Nanjani delivering a standout performance.
Where to stream: Prime Video
Also watch: Nanjani has excelled in several romantic comedies, with 2020's The Lovebirds (Netflix), co-starring Issa Rae, being a highlight in the genre.
Brian Tyree Henry
Movie: The Outside Story (2021)
Henry has been a versatile presence in recent years, balancing memorable film roles with his lead part in Atlanta. In The Outside Story, he portrays a man who gets locked out of his apartment, leading to unexpected encounters with his neighbors. The film’s quirky premise is enhanced by sharp writing and strong performances, with Henry anchoring the story with his charm and talent.
Where to stream: Hulu, Hoopla, Kanopy
Also watch: In Widows (fuboTV, FX Now), Henry demonstrates his range as a crime boss determined to recover stolen money from Viola Davis’ character’s late husband.
Don Lee
Movie: Train to Busan (2016)
Ma Dong-seok, also known as Don Lee, boasts an impressive list of films and accolades, though not all of his South Korean projects are easily accessible to American audiences. However, his standout role in the critically acclaimed zombie thriller Train to Busan is unforgettable. Initially portrayed as abrasive, his character transforms into the emotional core of the film, embodying its commentary on social class.
Where to stream: Prime Video, Shudder, Peacock, fuboTV, Vudu, Hoopla, Redbox, Plex
Also watch: In 2018's Unstoppable (available for digital rental), Ma plays a reformed gangster striving for a peaceful life until circumstances force him to take action.
Kit Harington
Movie: Testament of Youth (2014)
While Kit Harington is often associated with his iconic role as Jon Snow in Game of Thrones, his work beyond Westeros has been equally compelling. In Testament of Youth, he portrays Roland Leighton, a real-life poet and soldier entangled in a love triangle with Alicia Vikander’s character. The film’s success hinges on its performances, and Harington delivers a poignant and memorable portrayal.
Where to stream: fuboTV, Showtime Anytime
Also watch: For a change of pace, check out Pompeii (fuboTV). Though the film is over-the-top, it’s an entertaining disaster flick with Harington fully committing to his role.
Lauren Ridloff
Movie: Sound of Metal (2019)
While Marvel films have faced criticism for their lack of representation, the inclusion of a deaf superhero played by a deaf actress in Eternals is a step forward. Ridloff, who gained recognition for her Tony-nominated performance in Children of a Lesser God on Broadway and later starred in The Walking Dead, delivers a standout performance as Diane, an ASL teacher in Sound of Metal. Her character helps Riz Ahmed’s protagonist adapt to his hearing loss, offering drum lessons in return.
Where to stream: Prime Video
Also watch: Though her role is small, Ridloff appears in 2017's Sign Gene (available for rental on Prime), a unique sci-fi film exploring deaf superheroes whose abilities are tied to regional sign languages.
Barry Keoghan
Movie: The Killing of a Sacred Deer (2017)
Barry Keoghan delivers a chilling performance as Martin, a peculiar teenager who infiltrates the life of a surgeon, played by Colin Farrell, and his wife, Nicole Kidman. Martin’s unsettling presence hints at a darker motive, culminating in a revenge plot that is as disturbing as it is unforgettable. Keoghan’s portrayal is so haunting that it leaves a lasting impression, making it hard to see him in other roles without feeling a sense of unease.
Where to stream: Netflix, Hoopla, Kanopy
Also watch: Keoghan’s role in Calm with Horses (Netflix) earned him a BAFTA nomination, showcasing his ability to play a menacing figure in this gritty Irish crime drama.
