Queen Bey on the Big Screen: We Ranked Her Top 10 Unforgettable Movie Moments
Beyoncé Knowles-Carter, is renowned for her commanding stage presence, powerhouse vocals, and dynamic performances but her skill is not just limited to music. This powerhouse has also graced the silver screen with her talent and charisma. As a pop sensation who effortlessly transitioned into acting, Beyoncé’s filmography mirrors her versatility and dedication to her craft. In this article, we delve into all of Beyoncé’s cinematic ventures, ranking movies she has starred in based on a bunch of different factors including impact, critical reception, performance, vocal contribution, box office success, cultural relevance, personal growth, and overall reception.
10. Life Is But a Dream (2013)
Rating: 6.2/10 (IMDb)
Box Office: N/A
“Life Is But a Dream” (2013) deviates from traditional film projects, offering an intimate documentary perspective on Beyoncé’s life, career, and personal struggles. While not a conventional movie, its insight into Beyoncé’s world adds depth to our ranking.
Beyoncé’s filmography exemplifies her evolution as an artist, with each project contributing to her multifaceted legacy. From musical dramas to comedies and animated features, Beyoncé’s on-screen performances captivate audiences and solidify her status as a prominent entertainer. As she continues to explore new cinematic avenues, fans eagerly anticipate the next chapter of her remarkable journey.
9. Carmen: A Hip Hopera (2001)
Rating: 4.6/10 (IMDb)
Box Office: N/A
Beyoncé’s acting career began with “Carmen: A Hip Hopera,” a modern retelling of the classic opera. While her acting was still evolving, the film foreshadowed her potential as an actress and paved the way for her subsequent ventures.
8. Epic (2013)
Rating: 6.7/10 (IMDb), 64% (Rotten Tomatoes)
Box Office: $268.4 million
Beyoncé lent her voice to the animated character Queen Tara in “Epic,” a family-friendly adventure. While the film didn’t achieve widespread acclaim, her involvement contributed to the project’s appeal for younger audiences.
7. The Fighting Temptations (2003)
Rating: 5.5/10 (IMDb), 19% (Rotten Tomatoes)
Box Office: $32.7 million
In “The Fighting Temptations,” Beyoncé embraced the role of Lilly, a lounge singer. While the film utilized her musical talents, it didn’t fully capitalize on her vocal abilities or on-screen presence. Nevertheless, her participation adds a layer of musicality to the film’s narrative.
6. The Pink Panther (2006)
Rating: 5.6/10 (IMDb), 22% (Rotten Tomatoes)
Box Office: $158.9 million
Beyoncé’s role as Xania in the comedic reboot of “The Pink Panther” may have been small, but her charisma and chemistry with co-star Steve Martin left an impression. While a departure from her more substantial roles, her presence contributed to the film’s lighthearted appeal.
5. The Lion King (2019)
Rating: 6.9/10 (IMDb), 52% (Rotten Tomatoes)
Box Office: $1.656 billion
Although “The Lion King” is an animated film, Beyoncé’s voice acting as Nala deserves recognition. Her contribution to the film’s soundtrack, including the powerful song “Spirit,” underscores her ability to convey emotion through her vocals. While not a traditional acting role, Beyoncé’s involvement added a layer of gravitas to the film’s characters.
4. Obsessed (2009)
Rating: 4.9/10 (IMDb), 19% (Rotten Tomatoes)
Box Office: $73.8 million
In the psychological thriller “Obsessed,” Beyoncé delved into a dramatic role that showcased her range as an actress. Portraying a wife whose life unravels due to an unstable co-worker, Beyoncé’s performance resonated with audiences. While the film garnered mixed reviews, her commitment to the character and the tense narrative earn “Obsessed” a respectable position on our list.
3. Cadillac Records (2008)
Rating: 7.0/10 (IMDb), 68% (Rotten Tomatoes)
Box Office: $8.9 million
Beyoncé’s portrayal of legendary singer Etta James in “Cadillac Records” demonstrated her ability to embody an iconic figure. While her screen time was limited, her rendition of “At Last” was a standout moment, capturing the essence of the era and the music industry at the time. The film’s exploration of musical history and Beyoncé’s dedication to her performance earn “Cadillac Records” a well-deserved place in our ranking.
2. Austin Powers in Goldmember (2002)
Rating: 6.2/10 (IMDb), 54% (Rotten Tomatoes)
Box Office: $296.7 million
In a departure from her dramatic roles, Beyoncé’s cameo as Foxxy Cleopatra in “Austin Powers in Goldmember” injected humor and charisma into the film. Her vivacious performance and undeniable chemistry with Mike Myers contributed to the film’s comedic appeal, making it a standout in her filmography. While not a starring role, Beyoncé’s presence leaves an indelible mark on the Austin Powers franchise.
1. Dreamgirls (2006)
Rating: 6.5/10 (IMDb), 78% (Rotten Tomatoes)
Box Office: $154.9 million
“Dreamgirls” unquestionably stands as the zenith of Beyoncé’s film career. Her portrayal of Deena Jones, a member of a girl group who rises to stardom, showcased her acting prowess and solidified her status as a true triple threat. The film’s musical numbers, including Beyoncé’s soul-stirring rendition of “Listen,” highlighted her vocal prowess. Her nuanced performance earned her a Golden Globe nomination and paved the way for her future success on the big screen. The film’s impactful narrative, alongside Beyoncé’s standout performance, secures “Dreamgirls” at the top of our list
