Colman Domingo’s 10 best movie roles, ranked

Colman Domingo is a versatile actor who has earned a reputation for his acting skills and depth of character. His career has allowed him to play various roles, making him one of the industry.

No doubt that he is regarded as one of the most influential actors in Hollywood. So, if you are looking for his best films, in this article, we will discuss Colman Domingo's top 10 film roles that you must watch.

Here are Colman Domingo's top 10 film roles that you must watch!

10. Rustin

Where to watch: Netflix

Rustin shows Colman Domingo as an almost forgotten leader in history. In this film, his identity and political ideology were notably attractive.

Here, Colman Domingo brings to life not just a leader, but a complex man on screen. Especially in the moments where Rustin stands firm in his ideals against his will to achieve his rights. Rustin is a must-watch historical film.

9. Sing Sing

Where to Watch: Prime Video

In Sing Sing, Colman Domingo plays “Paul”, a former inmate. The character is inspired by real-life events. Here, Domingo’s character, Paul, is a symbol of humanity and compassion.

This performance is a unique addition to Colman Domingo's career and is a perfect example of his powerful yet sensitive acting style.

8. Ma Rainey's Black Bottom

Where to watch: Netflix

In this movie, Cutler’s character is quiet but strong, with a voice that carries the weight of patience and experience. He’s not just a band member but a bridge builder who maintains order among the band members while also expressing loyalty to Rainey.

Domingo’s performance captures this balance beautifully. Domingo's performance beautifully portrays this dual role of restraining emotions on the one hand, and balancing the tension within the band on the other.

7. Zola

Where to watch: Prime Video

Colman Domingo plays the unsettling, mysterious, and dangerous character “X” in the critically acclaimed and exceptional 2020 film Zola.

The film is inspired by a real-life viral Twitter thread in which a stripper recounts a bizarre, exciting, and violent road trip. “X” is the mysterious man who is the shadowy protagonist of the whole situation, part manager, part abuser, and all in all, a reflection of a vague moral compass.

6. Candyman

Where to watch: Prime Video

Here, Colman Domingo stars as William Burke, a laundromat owner in the Cabrini-Green neighborhood, who helps the main character, Anthony, tell the story of the "Candyman" legend.

Although he initially seems like a neutral witness, as the story progresses, it becomes clear that he has his own past-torn tragedy and goals, which push him to a radical decision.

Domingo portrays the character in a way that combines kindness, terror, and madness. The emotional complexity of William Burke is perfectly conveyed in the expressions of his eyes and the fluctuations of his voice. This performance proves that Domingo is not only adept at playing emotional characters but also at the psychological level of thrillers and horror.

5. Selma

Where to watch: Prime Video

Domingo's performance in Selma is calm yet strong, which highlights the real-life struggle and spiritual strength within the character.

He maintains his own voice even when he is next to Martin Luther and it is very subtle in the performance. The strength that is seen in his voice, especially in political discussions, strategic planning, or religious sermons, makes the character real.

His performance in Selma sends a clear message: history is made not just by standing in front of a stage, but by working shoulder to shoulder. Domingo brings a sincerity and seriousness to this supporting character that provides a strong foundation for the emotions of the entire film.

4. If Beale Street Could Talk

Where to watch: Prime Video

Domingo's performance as Joseph Rivers is touching and quietly powerful. His presence as Joseph stabilizes the film's emotions, where instability, injustice, and depression surround every moment.

Domingo appears here as a father who builds a moral foundation not just for his own family, but for the entire community. His warmth and determination combine to create a human character who permanently takes up residence at the heart of the film.

3. The Butler

Where to Watch: Prime Video

This historical drama shows Colman Domingo as Freddie Fallow, a veteran and elite White House butler. The film is based on the life of Eugene Allen, who is a real-life African-American butler who served several American presidents for decades. Domingo’s portrayal of the character is understated yet deeply affecting. Freddie Fallow is a colleague and primarily a friend to Cecil (Forest Whitaker), who teaches him the etiquette, rules, and survival techniques of the White House.

2. The Birth of a Nation

Where to Watch: Prime Video

The film was directed and written by Nat Parker, and stars Colman Domingo as "Israel". Israel is a key character who is a colleague and fellow soldier of Nat Turner (played by Nate Parker). Domingo's character, Israel, is a brave, loyal, and just man. He risks his life to support Turner's movement and the rebellion against slavery. In the role, Domingo skillfully portrays Israel's grief, struggle, and courage.

1. The Harder They Fall

Where to Watch: Netflix

Domingo's performance brings depth and power to the film. "Richmond" is a wise, experienced, and mysterious character who is both terrifying and cunning. Domingo conveys every emotion of the character through his voice and presence, presenting him not just as a villain but as a symbol of an unseen danger.

His character reflects a kind of cunning and perfect planning, which creates the crisis of the entire story.

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Colman Domingo's acting career is a unique journey, where each character is a reflection of his artistry and moral commitment. He is not just an actor but a cultural icon who has brought diversity, complexity, and emotion to every role.

His characters, whether they are political boldness in Rustin or social fear in Zola or Candyman, have left their mark even in sci-fi or animated characters.

These 10 film roles prove that Domingo is not just a popular actor but establishes him as a visionary artist who continues to tell human stories through each of his characters. The more he does in the future will surely fascinate and inspire us.