Fun
Frisky
Nostalgic
Intense
Adventurous
Choked Up
Curious
Romantic
Weird
If you haven’t been watching HBO’s Western drama about the limits of humanity, then you’re missing out. Westworld, which has just been renewed for a second season, is an elegantly constructed and gorgeously acted exploration into what it means to be human. Standing at the center of this universe is Westworld’s own madam with a heart for revolution, Thandie Newton’s Maeve Millay.
Newton portrays one of Westworld’s most interesting characters, which is saying a lot. From Episode One, Newton has seduced us with her onscreen presence. The actress walks a delicate line as Maeve, bringing us a character that is equally charming and dangerous, vulnerable and in control. Watching Maeve scheme and sacrifice to figure out what is going on in her home has been addicting to watch, cementing Newton’s place as the emotional hinge to this high-stakes show. We know you’re just as obsessed with Newton’s character as we are, especially after these past couple of weeks, and we’re here to help. Consider this your “meet cute” to the actress behind your new favorite prostitute. Just don’t fall in love too quickly. This ruthless character is only out for herself.
Beloved (1998)
One of Newton’s first roles was in the film adaptation of one of the most powerful pieces of American literature, Toni Morrison’s Beloved. Also starring Oprah Winfrey, Danny Glover, and Kimberly Elise, Beloved follows Sethe (Winfrey), a mother of three who is haunted, quite literally, by her slavery past and the desperate actions she took in pursuit of freedom. In this horror-drama, Newton plays the titular Beloved, a mentally handicapped woman who stumbles into Sethe’s yard and stays with the family.
Crash (2005)
Newton won a BAFTA Award for Best Actress in a Supporting Role for her role in this Paul Haggis drama. Starring Sandra Bullock, Don Cheadle, Brendan Fraser, Terrence Howard, Ludacris, and many others, this story of interweaving characters takes place over the course of two days in Los Angeles. Newton portrays Christine Thayer, the argumentative wife of a television director who is molested by a LAPD officer.
The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)
In this Will Smith helmed autobiographical drama, Newton plays Linda, Christopher Garner’s (Smith) bitter and increasingly alienated wife who works as a hotel maid. In this incredibly sad movie about escaping societal restraints and poverty, Linda stands as another painfully human obstacle in one incredible man’s life. Yes, Linda leaving her husband and child hurt, but Newton added a painful dose of humility to Linda’s revelation that she wouldn’t be a good single mother for Christopher Jr. (Jaden Smith).
[Where to watch The Pursuit of Happyness]
W. (2008)
Written and produced by Oliver Stone, this biographical drama about George W. Bush was met with mixed reviews. However, Newton’s portrayal of U.S. National Security Advisor-turned-Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice was a shining aspect of the film.
Westworld: Season One (2016)
One of the most interesting characters in HBO’s show about the limits of human deprivation and empathy is Newton’s Maeve Millay, an android park host who is the head of Westworld’s brothel. Maeve is essentially every spoiled guest’s worst nightmare — smart, charming, and, as we’ve increasingly seen, unafraid of violence. Forget Dolores. Maeve is the host who has the potential to overthrow the park’s delicate balance.
