Amandla Stenberg has demonstrated remarkable versatility as an actress, taking on a diverse array of roles throughout her burgeoning career. She burst onto the scene at the tender age of 13 when she was cast in the first installment of the iconic “The Hunger Games”series. Following this breakout performance, Stenberg continued to hone her craft in productions such as “Sleepy Hollow,””Rio 2,”and “Mr. Robinson.”By 2017, she had taken on another notable role in the young adult film adaptation of “Everything, Everything.”
The subsequent year proved pivotal for Stenberg as she delivered a powerful performance in “The Hate U Give.”She then ventured into the realms of horror comedy with “Bodies, Bodies, Bodies”and lent her voice to a character in “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse.”More recently, Stenberg has expanded her horizon by entering the “Star Wars”franchise in her dual role within the upcoming series “The Acolyte,”which is set over a century prior to “Star Wars: The Phantom Menace.”
10The Eddy (2020)
Amandla Stenberg as Julie Udo
In “The Eddy,”a French-American musical drama miniseries set against the vibrant backdrop of Paris, Stenberg plays Julie Udo, the troubled daughter of Elliot Udo (André Holland), a jazz musician grappling with profound loss. The series intricately weaves together the narratives of Elliott and his bandmates while exploring the emotional aftermath of violence—evoking a jazz-infused atmosphere that meticulously develops both the story and its characters. Stenberg expertly portrays the complexities of her character’s fraught relationship with her father, marking it as one of the show’s standout arcs.
9As You Are (2016)
Amandla Stenberg as Sarah
“As You Are”transports viewers to the early 1990s, focusing on the tangled relationships of three teenagers whose lives are unraveled by a police investigation into a murder. Stenberg’s character, Sarah, becomes entangled in a love triangle with Jack and Mark (played by Owen Campbell and Charlie Heaton). As the plot unfolds, Stenberg adeptly navigates the layers of Sarah’s character, revealing her emotional struggles and her attempts to understand the chaos surrounding her relationships.
8My Animal (2022)
Amandla Stenberg as Jonny
“My Animal”is a supernatural horror romance that follows a young woman with a secret: she is a werewolf. Stenberg’s character, Jonny, finds herself falling for figure skater Heather, who also has her own supernatural challenges. The film not only excels in the horror genre but also enriches its narrative with a poignant queer love story, heightening its overall impact. Stenberg’s ability to convey the emotional turmoil in Jonny’s evolving relationship is striking, capturing the challenges faced as secrets surface.
7Sleepy Hollow (2013-2014)
Amandla Stenberg as Macey Irving
“Sleepy Hollow,”a supernatural drama inspired by Washington Irving’s classic tale, showcases Stenberg’s talents in a supporting role. Portraying Macey Irving, a high school student plagued by dark forces, Stenberg effectively captures the harrowing transformations of her character as she faces possession by a demon. Despite her limited screen time, her performance leaves a lasting impact, particularly as she conveys the duality of Macey’s character when she is possessed, unpacking a side of her acting range that many may not have seen before.
6Everything, Everything (2017)
Amandla Stenberg as Maddy Whittier
Adapting popular young adult literature, “Everything, Everything”tells the story of Maddy Whittier, a teenager with a severe immune deficiency that confines her indoors. Her budding romance with neighbor Olly Bright (Nick Robinson) offers a glimpse of life beyond her sheltered existence. Stenberg’s portrayals navigate the nuances of Maddy’s longing for freedom amidst her illness, providing depth and emotional resonance that elevates the film beyond traditional young adult narratives.
5The Acolyte (2024)
Amandla Stenberg as Osha and Mae
As part of the expanding “Star Wars”universe, “The Acolyte”promises to explore new lore set during the High Republic era. Stenberg takes on a challenging double role as Osha and Mae, portraying the complexities of siblings split apart by tragedy. Through her performances, she brings depth to the contrasting personalities of the twins, one following the light and the other descending into darkness—demonstrating her remarkable range as she transitions between the two characters.
4Bodies Bodies Bodies (2022)
Amandla Stenberg as Sophie
“Bodies Bodies Bodies”delivers a fresh take on slasher films wrapped in clever social commentary. Featuring a hilarious yet tense plot, Stenberg stars as Sophie, a wealthy young woman navigating the perils of a house party gone wrong. Her character’s outsider status creates tension, which Stenberg captures beautifully, portraying both vulnerability and the mounting chaos as friendships unravel throughout the night.
3Spider-Man: Across The Spider-Verse (2023)
Amandla Stenberg as Margo Kess / Spider-Byte
As a sequel to the groundbreaking “Into the Spider-Verse,””Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse”dives deeper into Miles Morales’s journey while expanding the multiverse concept. Stenberg plays Margo Kess, a brilliant student who becomes Spider-Byte, showcasing her range in a role that, while limited in screen time, is pivotal to the overall narrative. The film successfully combines stunning visuals with a deeper exploration of character, and Stenberg’s inclusion signals her growing presence in high-profile projects.
2The Hunger Games (2012)
Amandla Stenberg as Rue
Launching the young adult dystopian genre to new heights, “The Hunger Games”remains a cornerstone of cinematic storytelling. Stenberg’s portrayal of Rue, a young tribute from District 11, resonated with audiences, embodying both vulnerability and strength. Her character serves as a catalyst for the protagonist, Katniss Everdeen, marking a transformative moment within the narrative. Stenberg’s debut role propelled her into the spotlight, showcasing her natural talent and ability to convey profound emotion.
1The Hate U Give (2018)
Amandla Stenberg as Starr Carter
Notably, “The Hate U Give”stands out as a landmark adaptation of Angie Thomas’s powerful novel. Through Starr Carter’s eyes, Stenberg presents a raw and emotional portrayal of grief, anger, and resilience following the tragic death of her best friend at the hands of police. The film’s poignant examination of systemic racism and police brutality resonates deeply in today’s societal landscape. Stenberg’s performance encapsulates the tumultuous emotional journey of Starr, making it arguably her most significant and career-defining role to date.