'From indie films to blockbusters: The evolution of Hollywood's darling, Tessa Thompson!'
Hollywood A-lister Tessa Thompson reflected on her career ascent, citing "Men In Black" and Will Smith as pivotal inspirations. Thompson champions inclusion and challenges in genre films.
Updated : October 20, 2023 05:27 PM ISTHollywood A-lister Tessa Thompson reflected on her career ascent, citing "Men In Black" and Will Smith as pivotal inspirations. Thompson champions inclusion and challenges in genre films.
Tessa Thompson (Source: The Hollywood Reporter)
Throwback Glimpse: Tessa Thompson’s Hollywood Odyssey and Her Passion for Change!
Remember when Tessa Thompson graced our screens in Thor: Ragnarok, and later, the Men in Black franchise? Today, as we stroll down memory lane, we’re diving deep into the journey of Hollywood’s gem, Tessa Thompson, and her strong advocacy for inclusivity in the film industry.
Inspired by Legends
Rewinding a bit, Tessa's love affair with Men In Black dates back to her teenage years. As a die-hard Will Smith fan, the original MIB films left an indelible mark on her. "I grew up watching The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air," she reminisces. "If I didn’t watch Will Smith on television, I might not have thought my career would even be possible.” As a 14-year-old, witnessing a black male identity on such a global scale instilled a belief in her – a belief that paved the way for her own stellar career.
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From Indie Stardom to Big Screens
Thompson's journey wasn't just about chasing big blockbusters. Her performances in profound films like Dear White People and Selma cemented her as a versatile actress. But her gravitation towards genre films was deliberate. “It presents real challenges as an actor,” she claims, detailing the nuances of performing with green screens and addressing the pure imaginative power required.
For Thompson, there’s always been a balance to strike in her roles. Citing the original MIB films, she admired "the stillness of Tommy Lee Jones" just as much as the vibrant energy of Will Smith. It’s this dynamic of embodying truth in each role that defines her approach.
Pushing for Progress
More than just a face on the big screen, Tessa Thompson has always been a voice for inclusion. With her involvement in TIME'S UP, she's persistently challenged Hollywood to embrace a more diverse range of talent. "I don't think inclusion happens by mistake. It doesn't just happen," she opines.
While Hollywood has witnessed positive changes over the years, there remains a need for a more conscious push. Thompson, in her candid reflections, makes it clear: inclusion isn’t merely a buzzword but a pressing necessity.
As we toast to the incredible journey of Tessa Thompson, we're reminded not only of her meteoric rise but also of her ceaseless fight for a more inclusive, varied, and genuine Hollywood.
(Several parts of the text in this article, including the title, were generated with the help of an AI tool.)