Anya Taylor-Joy’s Best Movies Before Furiosa, Ranked by Impact and Style

Anya Taylor-Joy has become one of the most popular up-and-coming actresses in the past few years. The talented performer has been picking up roles at an exciting rate. In 2024, she portrayed the titular character Imperator Furiosa in Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga.

With her dazzling beauty, exceptional grace, and ability to pull off nuanced performances, she’s quickly becoming the talk of Hollywood and beyond.

Anya Taylor-Joy in a white Dior Fall 2022 dress with a gold collar necklace and Tiffany & Co. Schlumberger bracelet, rings, and earrings at the Los Angeles Premiere of “The Northman” at TCL Chinese Theatre on April 18, 2022, in Hollywood, California (Credit: DFree / Shutterstock)

Although best known for her breakout performance in Netflix’s The Queen’s Gambit, Anya Taylor-Joy has built an impressive film résumé over the years. Ahead of her high-profile turn as Imperator Furiosa in Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga, we’re revisiting 11 of her most captivating movie roles that helped shape her rise to stardom.

Before Furiosa: Anya Taylor-Joy’s Early Life and Early Roles

Anya Taylor-Joy was born in the sunny city of Miami, Florida, on April 16, 1996. Since her parents were on holiday in the United States, Taylor-Joy received citizenship despite leaving the country soon after.

Anya Taylor-Joy and her Marrowbone co-star George MacKay at the “The Meyerowitz Stories” screening during the 70th annual Cannes Film Festival at Palais des Festivals on May 21, 2017, in Cannes, France (Credit: Jaguar PS / Shutterstock)

Before she made a name for herself in Hollywood, the actress lived in Buenos Aires, Argentina, until she was six years old, when her family moved to London.

Growing up in the United Kingdom, Anya was less than happy. She felt forcibly removed from her home country and desperately wished to return.

Anya Taylor-Joy flaunts her legs in a purple Oscar de la Renta blazer mini dress paired with an animal print Gigi Burris hat at the 2021 CFDA Awards at The Seagram Building on November 10, 2021, in New York City (Credit: Media Punch / INSTARimages)

She furthered her education at several schools, focusing primarily on acting and dancing, specifically ballet. At 16 years old, Anya Taylor-Joy dropped out of school after relentless bullying from classmates.

Due to her upbringing and movement from country to country, she was teased by her peers and even shoved into lockers.

Anya Taylor-Joy stuns in a dramatic embellished gold collar necklace and starburst earrings at The Northman premiere, exuding regal, Viking-inspired elegance (Credit: DFree / Shutterstock)

One year later, she was recruited to be a model when a scout noticed her walking her dog. By the following year, Anya had already landed her first role in Vampire Academy, although her part was ultimately removed from the final cut.

11. Morgan: Artificial Grace and Danger

Anya Taylor-Joy made her second feature film appearance at just 19 in Morgan, a sleek sci-fi thriller directed by Luke Scott. She stars as the titular character—an eerie, genetically engineered humanoid whose rapid development poses an existential threat.

Anya Taylor-Joy embodies eerie minimalism as the genetically engineered Morgan, wearing a muted gray hoodie and simple tank top that underscore her character’s haunting detachment (Credit: 20th Century Fox)

Though the film’s reception was lukewarm and its theatrical run brief, Taylor-Joy’s chilling performance stood out. Her quiet intensity and controlled menace hinted at the powerful screen presence she would later become known for.

10. Marrowbone: Gothic Romance and Hauntings

After seeing significant success within the horror genre, Anya Taylor-Joy chose Marrowbone for her second role in 2017, quickly gaining traction as a 20-year-old actress.

The film, directed by Sergio G. Sanchez, follows a group of brothers and sisters who move from England to Maine and begin experiencing paranormal activity in their new home.

Anya Taylor-Joy channels vintage elegance as librarian Allie in Marrowbone, wearing a fitted, sleeveless green dress with a structured collar and subtle red accents that nod to the film’s mid-century aesthetic (Credit: Universal Pictures)

Anya plays Allie, a girl who works at the local library and is Jack’s love interest. She is one of the siblings from the Marrowbone family. By the film’s end, Allie is the only character of reasonable sanity left to pick up the pieces of the destroyed family.

In a tender moment from Marrowbone, Anya Taylor-Joy wears a soft green knit top, a leaf-print headscarf, and a vintage silver locket—capturing her character Allie’s quiet warmth and timeless, countryside charm (Credit: Universal Pictures)

While Marrowbone wasn’t a huge hit, Anya met some actors on set with whom she would continue to work on subsequent films. These include Charlie Heaton and Mia Goth, with whom she appeared on screen in The New Mutants and EMMA.

9. Radioactive: A Brief but Bold Turn

By 2019, Anya Taylor-Joy had already established herself as a serious actress at 22. Eager to pick up roles in genres other than horror, she accepted a smaller part in the dramatic biographical film Radioactive.

Based on the true story of Nobel prize winner Marie Sklodowska-Curie (played by Rosamund Pike), Radioactive is set in 1934 and deals with the discovery of radioactivity. Anya Taylor-Joy plays the 18-year-old version of Irene, Marie’s supportive daughter.

Anya Taylor-Joy portrays a young Irene Curie in Radioactive, wearing a traditional wartime nurse’s cloak and head covering—capturing the understated strength and historical realism of her supporting role (Credit: StudioCanal)

As a film produced for the Amazon Prime Video service, Radioactive was the first streaming service project in which Anya appeared.

She would later dominate all of television on Netflix’s The Queen’s Gambit, providing a decent trend of success in the blossoming world of streaming media.

8. Last Night in Soho: Retro Glam and Horror

Written and directed by beloved creator Edgar Wright, Last Night in Soho is a psychological horror film about a young fashion designer who experiences vivid dreams of the 1960s.

During her nighttime excursions, she meets Sandie (played by Anya Taylor-Joy), a singer who aspires to make it big. With its creepy vibes juxtaposed against the glitz and glamor of 60s nightlife, Last Night in Soho is a beautiful film elevated by Anya’s performance.

Anya Taylor-Joy exudes retro glamour as aspiring singer Sandie in Last Night in Soho, wearing a flowing peach halter dress with a jeweled neckline and a voluminous blonde bouffant, evoking the seductive style of 1960s nightlife (Credit: Focus Features / Universal Pictures)

Riding off her newfound stardom, Anya expertly plays the stylish singer easily at 24 years old, proving she’s as mysterious as she is alluring.

Last Night in Soho is also where you can catch Anya showing off her singing abilities. Reportedly, producer George Miller was so impressed with her performance that he immediately offered her a role in the Mad Max spin-off, Furiosa.

7. Split: A Psychological Breakout

Though she’d already appeared in several films, Split marked Anya Taylor-Joy’s true breakout. At 19, she held her own opposite James McAvoy in M. Night Shyamalan’s psychological thriller, playing Casey Cooke—a sharp, guarded teen abducted by a man with dissociative identity disorder.

Her haunting performance added emotional depth to the suspense, signaling her arrival as a leading force in genre film.

Anya Taylor-Joy delivers raw intensity as Casey Cooke in Split, wearing a distressed ivory long-sleeve top that mirrors her character’s vulnerability and resilience in the film’s tense underground setting (Credit: Universal Pictures)

Overall, Split was a smash hit and considered one of the year’s best films. Not only did it mark a brief return to quality for M. Night Shyamalan, but it also helped propel Anya Taylor-Joy towards stardom.

6. Barry: College Love and Early Netflix Success

Based on the early life of United States President Obama, Barry is a biographical picture starring Devon Terrell and directed by Vikram Gandhi.

Released on Netflix, Anya Taylor-Joy’s introduction to the streaming service would eventually solidify her as a bona fide star.

Anya Taylor-Joy brings collegiate charm to her role in Barry, styled in a classic navy coat, soft pastel scarf, and pearl earrings—perfectly embodying the intellectual poise of a 1980s university student (Credit: Netflix)

In the film, Anya Taylor-Joy plays Charlotte, Barack’s early love interest and college girlfriend. By examining their intimacy, the film touches on subjects such as discrimination due to interracial relationships and familial woes.

Although Devon Terrell is fantastic in Barry, Anya Taylor-Joy was the only actress recognized during award season for the film. For her efforts, Anya was nominated for the Breakthrough Film Artist award from the Columbus Film Critics Association at just 19 years old.

5. EMMA: Period Perfection and Austen Wit

In a stylish departure from her darker roles, Anya Taylor-Joy shines as the mischievous matchmaker Emma Woodhouse in Autumn de Wilde’s vibrant adaptation of Jane Austen’s classic.

Set in early 1800s England, the film blends romance and wit as Emma meddles in the love lives of those around her, often with chaotic results.

Anya Taylor-Joy brings Regency-era flair to life in EMMA., wearing a rust-toned spencer jacket with matching gloves and a dramatic feathered bonnet—perfectly capturing her character’s playful elegance and social status (Credit: Focus Features / Universal Pictures)

Straightforward, funny, and ending on a happy note, EMMA is undoubtedly one of the most fun-loving films that Anya Taylor-Joy has been a part of.

Interestingly, Anya Taylor-Joy initially showed hesitance in taking on the role, as she claimed she was not beautiful enough to portray the lead character of Emma.

Anya Taylor-Joy oozes aristocratic charm in EMMA., wearing a blush embroidered gown, delicate gloves, and a floral-trimmed bonnet—capturing the refined yet mischievous spirit of Austen’s iconic heroine (Credit: Focus Features / Universal Pictures)

Critics disagreed with the 23-year-old’s assessment, as the movie received plenty of praise, including two Academy Award nominations.

4. The Menu: A Satirical Slice of Suspense

In The Menu, Anya Taylor-Joy brings to life the character of Margot, an enigmatic young woman with a mysterious background who accompanies a celebrity food critic to a remote island for an exclusive dining experience hosted by a renowned chef, played by Ralph Fiennes.

Margot’s initial portrayal as a detached and somewhat aloof guest gradually unravels to reveal her sharp wit and intricate knowledge of the culinary world. Her performance delicately balances suspicion and charm, adding complexity to the film’s satirical examination of food culture and elitism.

Anya Taylor-Joy serves up quiet intensity and sleek style in The Menu, wearing a satin lavender slip dress with lace detailing—her look equal parts sultry and suspenseful amid the film’s chilling fine-dining setting (Credit: Searchlight Pictures)

Initially, Emma Stone was slated to star in “The Menu” with Alexander Payne directing. However, by 2021, both had exited the project, and Anya Taylor-Joy and director Mark Mylod stepped in to fill their roles.

3. Thoroughbreds: Dark Comedy and Deadpan Chic

Although Anya Taylor-Joy has been on a hot streak the past couple of years, one of her most critically acclaimed films came at the beginning of her career. At 20, the actress showed off her ability to perform dark comedy in the indie film Thoroughbreds.

Written and directed by Cory Finley, the movie tells the story of Amanda (played by Olivia Cooke) and Lily (played by Anya Taylor-Joy), two suburban teens who hatch a plan to kill Lily’s stepfather.

Anya Taylor-Joy as Lily Reynolds in Thoroughbreds (2017), wearing a crisp ivory blouse with black piping and a ribbon tie, perfectly reflecting her character’s polished exterior and underlying tension (Credit: Focus Features)

Dark, suspenseful, and ultimately hilarious, Thoroughbreds is often overlooked when compared to Anya Taylor-Joy’s other projects.

That’s unfortunate, as the film continues to show off Anya’s penchant for playing deceptively dark characters in this fantastic movie. While the story was initially written as a stage play, we’re glad it turned into a feature film, as it helped display Anya’s versatility early in her career.

2. The Northman: Viking Revenge and Mysticism

Directed by acclaimed director Robert Eggers and set in 895 AD, The Northman is a brutal tale of revenge complete with Viking mythology and intense action.

The film stars Alexander Skarsgard, Nicole Kidman, and more, and follows Viking warrior Amleth as he seeks vengeance for his father’s murder.

Anya Taylor-Joy transforms into mystical healer Olga in The Northman, wrapped in layered Nordic knits and wool cloaks—her ethereal look blending seamlessly into the film’s raw, windswept landscapes (Credit: Focus Features / Universal Pictures)

In this immaculately shot film, Anya Taylor-Joy plays Olga of the Birch Forest, a mysterious sorceress whom Amleth meets while under captivity. Together, Amleth and Olga plan to earn justice and escape their imprisonment.

As Anya Taylor-Joy continues to tackle bigger projects, her talent as an actress grows and grows. That’s blatantly clear in The Northman, as the 25-year-old actress exudes personality and power.

Although she’s only a supporting character and is not the movie’s focus, she still sticks out as one of the best performances. She looked stunning at the premiere in a Dior crystal-embellished sheer mini dress.

1. The Witch: A Haunting Debut in Black Magic

Surprisingly, Anya Taylor-Joy’s most critically acclaimed movie was also her first (not counting Vampire Academy), as the 18-year-old actress got her start with this folkloric tale of horror and magic.

Directed by Robert Eggers (the same mind behind The Northman), the movie is set in 1630s New England and tells the story of a family challenged by their community during a time of outrageous accusations.

In the film, Anya Taylor-Joy stars in the lead role as Thomasin, the daughter of a young farmer whose family is banished from their home village over their religious beliefs.

Anya Taylor-Joy makes a haunting debut in The Witch, cloaked in somber 17th-century garb with a linen bonnet and roughspun wool cape—perfectly reflecting the film’s chilling Puritan aesthetic (Credit: A24 / Elevation Pictures / Universal Pictures)

Through a series of tragic accidents, Thomasin is accused of being a witch and is imprisoned for her imaginary crimes. As both Anya Taylor-Joy’s debut as an actress and Robert Eggers’ debut as a director, The Witch was immensely popular and helped establish both in the filmmaking world.

Overall, the film dazzled critics and audiences alike, reportedly even terrifying the undisputed master of horror, author Stephen King.

Style Spotlight: Anya Taylor-Joy’s Most Iconic Fashion Moments

From red carpet glamour to avant-garde ensembles, Anya Taylor-Joy consistently captivates with her fashion choices. Here are some of her most memorable looks:

Boho-Chic at Comic Con São Paulo

• Event: 2024 Comic Con Experience in São Paulo, Brazil
• Outfit: Anya stunned in a creamy white lace ensemble featuring featherlight pantaloons and a sheer bralette from Chloé’s Spring 2025 collection.
• Footwear: She completed the look with white Aquazzura wraparound sandals, adding a bohemian flair.
• Read more: Anya Taylor-Joy’s boho-chic look at Comic Con São Paulo

Flapper Glamour at Dior Couture 2025

• Event: Dior Couture Spring 2025 Show
• Outfit: She embraced 1920s elegance in a black velvet one-shoulder bodysuit paired with a beaded fringed skirt from Dior’s archery-themed collection.
• Accessories: Black leather opera gloves and strappy stiletto heels added a modern twist to the vintage-inspired ensemble.
• See more: Anya Taylor-Joy’s flapper-inspired look at Dior Couture 2025

Edgy Elegance at Dior Cruise 2025

• Event: Dior Cruise 2025 Show at Drummond Castle, Scotland
• Outfit: Anya showcased a chic gray tweed blazer over a black cashmere turtleneck, paired with short shorts for a bold, pantsless look.
• Footwear: Black patent leather boots with multiple buckles and sheer tights with semi-circle cutouts completed the edgy ensemble.
• Discover more: Anya Taylor-Joy’s edgy take on classic businesswear at Dior Cruise 2025

Avant-Garde at the Vanity Fair Oscar Party

• Event: 2024 Vanity Fair Oscar Party
• Outfit: She turned heads in a bespoke little black dress, designed by Miss Sohee, adorned with intricate embellishments.
• Accessories: A dramatic butterfly-inspired headpiece added an ethereal touch to the avant-garde ensemble.
• Explore her style: Anya Taylor-Joy’s avant-garde look at the Vanity Fair Oscar Party

Retro Vibes on ‘The Gorge’ Press Tour

• Event: ‘The Gorge’ Press Tour
• Outfit: Anya embraced retro aesthetics with a series of outfits, including shearling coats, mini-skirts, and cycling shorts, showcasing her versatile style.
• Footwear: Her shoe choices ranged from knee-high boots to pumps and kitten heels, complementing each ensemble.
• See her looks: Anya Taylor-Joy’s retro-inspired outfits on ‘The Gorge’ press tour

Anya Taylor-Joy continues to redefine fashion norms with her bold and eclectic style choices, solidifying her status as a modern fashion icon.