Last updated on: October 30, 2025
Let me tell you something: if you have not been watching Teyonah Parris, you’re missing out. Seriously. This lady has quietly yet profoundly made her own niche in Hollywood, and the scope she demonstrates in her movies? Mind-blowing. Whether she’s crying you out, having you laugh, or keeping you on the edge of your seat, Teyonah has an ability to draw you in, genre notwithstanding. I’ve seen her perform, and let me tell you—it gets under your skin.
Today, we’re taking a look at the top 7 Teyonah Parris films, why they’re significant, and why you should leave what you’re doing alone and watch them.
Who is Teyonah Parris, Really?
So, picture this: a young woman from Hopkins, South Carolina, walks into Juilliard—one of the most prestigious performing arts schools in the world. That’s Teyonah Parris. Right from the start, she had the chops, the dedication, and, honestly, that star quality that makes people sit up and notice.
But she didn’t just want to look good on screen; she wanted to make characters feel real, relatable, and unforgettable.
Her first real buzz was with Dear White People, which was a show and film that got people discussing. And discuss they did—in terms of race, identity, and social dynamics, all presented in smart, cutting edge and that definitive Teyonah charm. What I adore about her is that she is choosy—she doesn’t simply take roles for the money. Each performance she gives brings something to it, whether it’s to a low-budget indie or a massive summer blockbuster.
That’s why when you hear “Teyonah Parris,” you should instinctively think: “versatile, powerful, unforgettable.“
Why Her Movies Hook You Every Time
Here’s the thing about Teyonah: she doesn’t act; she takes you in. Have you ever been watching a movie and felt as though the actor was talking to you? That’s her.
Drama, romance, comedy, action—you tell her what it is, she does it. It’s not only that she’s on screen; it’s that she brings emotional truth. You laugh with her, you cry with her, you’re angry with her characters—and suddenly, you care.
Consider a movie like The Photograph. It’s a romance, I guess, but Parris’ acting makes it something more. It’s about identity, family, and the messy, gorgeous things in life. You leave wondering what her characters would do if they were in your place.
That’s what makes her movies worth seeing. So if you’ve ever wondered, “Why should I be watching Teyonah Parris movies?”—that’s the answer: because they remain with you long after the credits have rolled.
The Top 7 Teyonah Parris Movies
1. If Beale Street Could Talk (2018)
Oh, this one registers. Adapted from James Baldwin’s timeless novel, If Beale Street Could Talk is a love story, an injustice tale, and a testament to the indomitable human spirit. Teyonah has a supporting role but what a performance it is. You can sense the heft of every emotion, every look. This isn’t acting—it’s storytelling in its rawest form.
The movie is about Tish and Fonny, a young couple who are trying to persevere against racial injustice. Parris’ role brings depth to the narrative, making it realistic while heightening the emotional tension. Critics adored it, and viewers couldn’t get enough of her acting. Honestly, if you need to see her at her best, this is the movie. It is heart-wrenching, lovely, and indelible—essentially everything a phenomenal movie should be.
2. 90 Days (2010)
Let’s go back in time. 90 Days is one of her first films, and it’s amazing to realize how much raw talent she possessed even then. It’s a low-key drama, but Parris shows she can carry emotion with ease. Watching here, you can almost glimpse the seeds of the powerhouse actress she’s evolved into.
The movie gets into relationships and what it means to trust and grow as a person. And though it may never be a mainstream hit, it’s a hidden treasure for anyone following her career. You get this sense like she’s leaning in and telling you, “I’ve got more to show you,” and by the time you finish, you see that she really does.
3. Charm City Kings (2020)
This one’s quick, high-energy, and a bit gritty. Charm City Kings is a coming-of-age tale taking place in Baltimore, with street racers as the central focus, along with loyalty and ambition. Parris’ character adds balance to the mayhem, offering emotional substance through it all in terms of speed and adrenaline.
I adore how she brings her character to life without explaining too much. It’s real, intelligent, and accessible. The film demonstrates her range—she can shine in ensemble pieces and still make a lasting impact.
4. The Photograph (2020)
Here’s a film where you may be laughing, crying, and thinking about your life—same scene. Parris co-stars with Issa Rae in this romantic drama on love, family secrets, and self-discovery. Her character walks through the intricacies of her emotions so naturally that it’s hard not to relate to her.
The movie itself received good reviews, and it’s not hard to see why. Teyonah adds subtlety, heart, and depth. You feel like you’re having a quiet chat with a friend who understands all the messy ways life can be when you see her in this film.
In all honesty, if someone asked me where to begin watching her, The Photograph would be close to the top of my list.
5. Dear White People (2014)
Oh, the movie that opened up so many doors. Dear White People is biting, satirical, and socially aware. Parris walks a delicate tightrope here—blending humor with social commentary—and succeeds. She’s smart, she’s real, and she makes you think without ever making you feel lectured.
This movie is a cultural reference point, and her character demonstrates she’s not here simply to perform; she’s here to make a difference. Seeing her in Dear White People, you understand she’s not hesitant to take on tough roles that incite debate.
6. Point Blank (2019)
You just want a thriller sometimes, don’t you? Point Blank gets it done. Teyonah is in the middle of things—a nurse who becomes embroiled in a situation with crime and high stakes. She adds emotional heft to the tension, so the tale is not just about action.
It’s impressive because she turns what could have been a simple supporting role into a vital piece of the story. Her screen presence is commanding, and her performance is memorable.
If you’re into thrillers but want depth in the characters, this is the perfect mix.
7. They Came Together (2014)
And last but not least, a bit of comedy to prove she’s also versatile. They Came Together is a spoof of romantic comedies, and Parris excels with her comedic sense. You laugh, you cringe at how ridiculous, and throughout it all, she makes her character lovable and endearing.
This is the type of part that shows her she’s not only serious or dramatic—she’s funny, smart, and versatile. Comedy, drama, romance, action—you name it. She can do it.
Why Teyonah Parris is a Rising Star
Let’s face it: Teyonah is a star on the rise—she’s a force. From her early independent films to her Marvel projects such as Monica Rambeau in WandaVision and Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania, she has shown she can do anything Hollywood throws at her.
What’s exciting is that she doesn’t just pick roles for fame. She chooses characters that matter, stories that resonate. And if you follow her career, you’ll notice she’s not just building a resume—she’s shaping a legacy. Watching her work feels like witnessing someone destined for greatness.
How to Watch These Movies
You don’t have to search far. All of Teyonah’s movies are available on mainstream streaming services: Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, Disney+. For thrillers or recent releases, you may be able to rent digitally on Apple TV or Google Play.
Honestly, if you’re serious about exploring her work, make a weekend of it. Grab some popcorn, maybe a friend, and dive in. You’ll walk away amazed at her range, talent, and the emotional punch she packs into every scene.
Final Thoughts
Here’s the bottom line: Teyonah Parris is one of the most talented, engaging actresses of our day. From the dramatic range of If Beale Street Could Talk to the hilarious genius of They Came Together, these top 7 Teyonah Parris films indicate just why she’s someone you should be watching.
If you take away anything from this, let it be this: seeing her movies is not entertainment—it’s an experience.
So, which do you choose to start with? My wager is that you won’t end with just one.
