Yahya Abdul-Mateen II’s 10 Best Movies, Ranked

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II is an emerging actor known for his versatility, having delivered standout performances in some of the film industry’s finest movies, with undoubtedly more to come. Over the past few years, Abdul-Mateen has enjoyed a rapid rise to prominence on the back of a series of compelling performances that highlight his incredible range as an actor. Since deciding to pursue acting full-time and landing his breakout role in 2016’s The Get Down, Abdul-Mateen’s star has skyrocketed. He has shown the ability to seamlessly fit into any genre, starring in acclaimed films such as Us, The Trial of the Chicago 7, Candyman, and The Matrix Resurrections.

As leading characters in Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom and Ambulance, Abdul-Mateen has cemented himself as one of the most in-demand actors today. Possessed with undeniable magnetism and intensity, Abdul-Mateen has proven adept at portraying characters that require profound emotional depth. As he continues to choose diverse, complex roles across a variety of genres, Abdul-Mateen’s versatility and commitment to his craft will likely see him become a mainstay in Hollywood for years to come.

10 Candyman (2021)

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II portrays Anthony McCoy

Nia DaCosta’s Candyman reboot stands as one of Yahya Abdul-Mateen II’s finest acting showcases for good reason. As struggling artist Anthony McCoy, Abdul-Mateen portrays a complex character descending into obsession and madness after encountering the Candyman legend. He delivers a riveting and intense performance that exposes the film’s timely themes of generational trauma and the haunting power of urban myths. Combined with DaCosta’s sharp direction and social commentary, Candyman allows Abdul-Mateen to showcase his talent through a slowly unraveling character. His committed and captivating work is essential to the film’s horror and serves as a highlight of his promising career.

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9 Boundaries (2018)

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II portrays Serge

Though his screen time is limited, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II’s performance in Boundaries marked a pivotal early showcase of his talent. As the character Serge, Abdul-Mateen brings charm and mystery to an otherwise formulaic coming-of-age story. With sparse dialogue, he relies on magnetism and intensity to leave a lasting impression. While supporting actor Christopher Plummer carries much of the film’s weight, Abdul-Mateen’s cameo heralded the start of his rapid rise, demonstrating a range beyond his previous work. Shortly after Boundaries, he landed his star-making turn as Black Manta in Aquaman. For providing a breakout opportunity and kickstarting his ascension, Abdul-Mateen owes much to this small, but significant role.

8 All Day and a Night (2020)

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II portrays Big Stunna

Despite a supporting role, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II leaves a lasting mark on the otherwise formulaic drama All Day and a Night. As the intimidating gangster Big Stunna, Abdul-Mateen brings an air of unpredictability that energizes the film. With limited screen time, he relies on his presence to convey a sense of danger lurking beneath the surface. While lead Ashton Sanders capably shoulders the weight of this coming-of-age story, Abdul-Mateen’s standout performance provides its most compelling moments. On the heels of his breakout year, All Day and a Night showcases Abdul-Mateen’s ability to command attention, even in a small part.

7 Ambulance (2022)

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II portrays Will Sharp

Though playing second fiddle to Jake Gyllenhaal’s more unpredictable character, Abdul-Mateen brings complexity and empathy to the veteran sharpshooter drawn into a heist gone wrong. Despite limited dialogue, he uses striking charisma to give Sharp moral weight among Ambulance’s visceral action. In lesser hands, Will could have been a generic stock character; instead, Abdul-Mateen makes him the film’s most compelling personality. Michael Bay’s movie shows Abdul-Mateen’s ability to match high-octane material while projecting subtle depths beneath tough exterior characters. For elevating a supporting part into an iconic role, his portrayal of Will Sharp is an impactful showcase of range and control destined to drive his star higher.

6 First Match (2018)

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II portrays Darrel

Though largely flying under the radar, the indie drama First Match provided one of Yahya Abdul-Mateen II’s first platforms to showcase his acting talent. As the caring coach of a girls’ wrestling team, Abdul-Mateen brings a quiet wisdom and empathy to the mentor role. He relies on subtle complexities rather than showy emotions to leave his mark in the film. While rising star Elvire Emanuel shoulders much of the film’s inspirational story, Abdul-Mateen’s supporting performance gives it heart. Years before his breakout, First Match demonstrated Abdul-Mateen’s ability to inject depth into smaller parts. Abdul-Mateen’s thoughtful presence provided early proof that he could captivate audiences.

5 The Matrix Resurrections (2021)

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II portrays Morpheus

Though falling short of the original, The Matrix Resurrections aptly demonstrates Yahya Abdul-Mateen II’s magnetic screen presence. As a Morpheus replicate searching for purpose, Abdul-Mateen captures the mannerisms of Laurence Fishburne’s iconic character while injecting his own charismatic spin. Despite the film’s flaws, his performance channels the cool mystique of the Wachowskis’ sci-fi universe. Abdul-Mateen’s striking confidence and command prove he can compellingly fill the shoes of a legendary role. The Matrix Resurrections showed he could match franchise favorites like Keanu Reeves and Carrie-Anne Moss. Though not a perfect sequel, the film provided Abdul-Mateen with a platform to showcase his acting strengths.

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4 Aquaman (2018)

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II portrays Black Manta

As Aquaman’s vengeful foe Black Manta, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II electrifies in the flashy superhero blockbuster, bringing a striking intensity and charisma to the ruthless villain. He adeptly handles both frenzied action scenes and heavier emotional moments with equal skill. His screen-stealing performance injects some compelling dramatic weight into Aquaman’s CGI-laden canvas. His Black Manta role proved Abdul-Mateen could command blockbuster material with both force and showmanship. Abdul-Mateen cemented himself as a performer to watch and brings immense flair whenever on screen.

3 Us (2019)

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II portrays Russell Thomas

Us cements Jordan Peele as a one-of-a-kind horror mastermind, and features a pivotal early showcase of Yahya Abdul-Mateen II’s striking talent. Abdul-Mateen brings harrowing intensity to his limited role as the father of Lupita Nyong’o’s character in a flashback. Abdul-Mateen’s scene provides the film’s most chilling moments, and he portrays the moments well. Us proved Abdul-Mateen could maximize his impact despite minimal screen time, and inject eye-catching skill into Peele’s rich themes. While not the central figure, Abdul-Mateen’s minor role previews later stunning performances, reminding that even in support he commands attention.

2 The Greatest Showman (2017)

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II portrays R.D. Wicks

The splashy musical The Greatest Showman rounds out its all-star cast with a charismatic cameo from Yahya Abdul-Mateen II. As famed 19th century African American hooper R.D. Wicks, Abdul-Mateen brings signature flair and style to the film’s circus spectacle. Though on screen for just one ensemble number, he energizes the scene with smooth dance moves and magnetic confidence. In a picture carried by household names like Hugh Jackman, Abdul-Mateen’s minor part reinforces his talent. The Greatest Showman gave glimpses of Abdul-Mateen’s versatility, showcasing his ability to sing, dance and charm amidst seasoned theater veterans.

1 The Trial Of The Chicago 7 (2020)

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II portrays Bobby Seale

As part of the powerhouse ensemble of Aaron Sorkin’s acclaimed legal drama The Trial of the Chicago 7, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II turns in his most decorated performance yet. Abdul-Mateen brings striking conviction and depth to his portrayal of Black Panther co-founder Bobby Seale, capturing Seale’s righteousness and fortitude amidst a biased court. Abdul-Mateen’s committed work earned him numerous awards shared with his A-list co-stars. Combined with Sorkin’s sharp direction, the film provides Abdul-Mateen the perfect platform to showcase his dramatic skills. The Trial of the Chicago 7 positions Abdul-Mateen among Hollywood’s top talents and gives him rich dialogue through which Yahya Abdul-Mateen II displays impressive talent.