Olivia Colman’s most devastating role is a movie you’ve never heard of

It’s Olivia Colman’s 50th birthday, and to celebrate, we’re taking a look at her most devastating movie role – and it’s a hidden cinematic gem you might not have heard of. 

Happy birthday to one of the most versatile acting talents on the circuit. Olivia Colman is a woman who proves she can do it all, whether that be delivering laughs as the sweet-natured Sophie in Jesse Armstrong’s Peep Show, embodying the regal gravitas of Queen Anne in Yorgos Lanthimos’ The Favourite, or breaking our hearts alongside Paul Mescal in The Lost Daughter. 

As she continues to ascend, last year, Colman made her MCU debut as Sonya Falsworth in Secret Invasion. While the series itself left a lot to be desired, her performance was a notable highlight. As we said in our Episode 5 review, “Every time Olivia Colman is on screen, she’s having tremendous fun.”

Colman’s journey is a testament to her exceptional range and widespread appeal. Yet, amid the glitz and glamor of her Hollywood roles, there exists a hidden gem in Colman’s filmography – one that stands out not for its blockbuster status but for the profound emotional impact it delivers. 

Paddy Considine gave Olivia Colman her most devastating role

The 2011 British drama film Tyrannosaur – House of the Dragon star Paddy Considine’s directing debut – is a cinematic revelation, and Olivia Colman’s performance within it is nothing short of devastating.

Set against the gritty backdrop of working-class England, Tyrannosaur unfurls as an unflinching exploration of human suffering and redemption. The film introduces us to Joseph, played by Peter Mullan, a widower tormented by rage and despair. In this poignant narrative, Colman steps into the role of Hannah, a Christian charity shop worker ensnared in an abusive relationship. 

Colman’s portrayal of Hannah is a masterclass in emotional vulnerability. In a land far away from Hollywood’s big budgets and CGI-heavy settings, she embraces the rawness of the character, bolstered by Considine’s authentic writing and Mullan’s equally compelling portrayal. Hannah’s journey is a tumultuous odyssey through the harsh landscapes of domestic violence and shattered dreams, highlighting Colman’s ability to convey the silent screams of suppressed pain, and the flickering hope within a soul yearning for escape. 

Tyrannosaur does not shy away from the brutality of life, but within its darkness, there’s a glimmer of connection and redemption. As Hannah, Colman navigates the heart-wrenching terrain of her character’s emotional upheaval with a grace that is both haunting and deeply affecting.

What makes Colman’s performance particularly impactful is something we’ve seen her bring to every role she takes on: authenticity. From the flickering pain as she tries to put on a brave face to the woeful cries of a woman whose life is stolen from her, Colman exposes the harsh realities faced by many while lending a voice to those silenced by the insidious nature of abuse.

All of this culminates in a climax that is among the most emotional, devastating scenes ever seen on screen. Colman has a way of connecting with the viewer, evoking empathy when it’s needed the most, and it’s this ability that elevates Tyrannosaur as it reaches its heart-wrenching conclusion. 

StudioCanal

In the shadow of more widely celebrated projects, Tyrannosaur might be a hidden treasure in Colman’s filmography, but it stands as a testament to her willingness to embrace challenging and unconventional narratives. So, as the star celebrates her 50th birthday today, it’s fitting to honor not only her illustrious career in the spotlight but also the profound impact she has made in the quieter, more contemplative corners of cinema. 

Tyrannosaur serves as a stark reminder that, beyond the streamers and blockbusters, there are stories that demand to be told, and actors like Colman, with their immense skill and empathy, ensure that these narratives resonate with audiences in ways that are as unforgettable as they are devastating.

Tyrannosaur is available on-demand on Amazon Prime, which you can sign up for here. 

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