10 LGBTQ+ Actresses Who Stole The Spotlight Despite Weak Films
Sometimes a movie flops, but the actors still soar. Even when scripts stumble or plots collapse, certain LGBTQ+ actresses deliver performances so magnetic that eyes stay glued to the screen.
Charisma, courage, and lived authenticity turn shaky scenes into moments that hum with emotion and defiance. What should have been forgettable cinema becomes a showcase of queer brilliance, resilience, and unapologetic presence.
Talent like that does more than save scenes, it rewrites how audiences connect to flawed stories. Step into the spotlight and celebrate the LGBTQ+ performances that turned cinematic misfires into cult obsessions, proving queer star power never waits for perfect material.
1. Kristen Stewart in ‘Spencer’ (2021)
Kristen Stewart became Princess Diana in a way that left critics speechless. Her transformation wasn’t just physical but deeply emotional, capturing Diana’s fragility and strength simultaneously.
Though the film itself received mixed reviews for its unconventional narrative style, Stewart’s performance earned her an Academy Award nomination. She channeled Diana’s inner turmoil with haunting precision.
Every glance and gesture felt authentic, making viewers forget they were watching an actress at all.
2. Sarah Paulson in ‘The Spirit’ (2008)
Before becoming a household name through Ryan Murphy’s projects, Sarah Paulson appeared in this visually ambitious but narratively messy comic adaptation. Critics savaged the film, but Paulson’s commitment never wavered.
Her portrayal added depth to an otherwise cartoonish world. She brought genuine emotion to scenes that could have been purely style-over-substance.
This role proved her versatility, setting the stage for her later triumphs in prestige television.
3. Tessa Thompson in ‘Thor: The Dark World’ Era
When Tessa Thompson entered the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Valkyrie, she injected energy into a franchise that desperately needed it. Her swagger and complexity made every scene crackle with life.
Thompson’s portrayal broke new ground for LGBTQ+ representation in blockbuster cinema. She gave audiences a warrior who was tough, vulnerable, and unapologetically herself.
4. Jodie Foster in ‘Elysium’ (2013)
Jodie Foster’s icy portrayal of Secretary Delacourt showcased her ability to dominate the screen regardless of script quality. Though the film struggled with heavy-handed social commentary, Foster remained mesmerizing.
She brought chilling authority to every line, making her character genuinely intimidating. Her performance demonstrated why she’s remained relevant across decades of changing cinema.
Even critics who panned the movie acknowledged Foster’s commanding presence throughout.
5. Cate Blanchett in ‘Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull’ (2008)
Cate Blanchett went full villain mode as Soviet agent Irina Spalko, delivering camp perfection in a film fans love to criticize. Her exaggerated accent and intense physicality made her character unforgettable.
While the movie faced backlash for its outlandish plot elements, Blanchett committed completely to the role’s theatrical demands. She understood the assignment and then some.
6. Lily Tomlin in ‘I Heart Huckabees’ (2004)
Lily Tomlin brought her signature wit to this divisive existential comedy that confused as many viewers as it delighted. Her comedic timing remained impeccable throughout the film’s bizarre philosophical tangents.
Tomlin’s chemistry with co-stars elevated even the most absurd scenes. She grounded the surreal narrative with genuine humanity and humor.
Critics were split on the film itself, but Tomlin’s performance earned universal praise for its intelligence and warmth.
7. Ellen Page (Elliot Page) in ‘X-Men: The Last Stand’ (2006)
Before coming out as transgender, Elliot Page played Kitty Pryde in this critically panned X-Men installment. Despite the film’s narrative chaos, Page brought genuine emotion to the character’s journey.
Their portrayal of the phasing mutant added heart to overstuffed action sequences. Page’s naturalistic acting style contrasted beautifully with the film’s bombastic tone.
Fans still cite their performance as one of the trilogy’s highlights, proving talent transcends flawed material.
8. Queen Latifah in ‘Taxi’ (2004)
Queen Latifah’s comedic energy couldn’t save this critically demolished remake, but she sure tried her hardest. Her charisma and physical comedy skills shone through even the weakest jokes.
Latifah brought genuine joy to her role as a speed-demon cab driver. She elevated tired material through sheer force of personality and impeccable comic timing.
Though the film flopped, her performance reminded audiences why she remains a beloved entertainment icon.
9. Wanda Sykes in ‘Evan Almighty’ (2007)
Wanda Sykes delivered sharp comedic relief in this expensive box office disappointment that tried too hard to replicate its predecessor’s magic. Her sardonic wit cut through the film’s syrupy sentimentality.
Sykes made every scene she inhabited infinitely more watchable. Her natural timing and deadpan delivery provided genuine laughs amid forced biblical humor.
10. Portia de Rossi in ‘Cursed’ (2005)
Portia de Rossi brought elegance to this troubled werewolf film that suffered extensive production problems and reshoots. Despite behind-the-scenes chaos, her performance remained polished and committed.
She navigated the horror-comedy tone with grace, making her character’s arc believable. De Rossi’s screen presence elevated scenes that could have felt completely disposable.
