LaKeith Stanfield has been making waves in Hollywood ever since his breakout performance in 2013’s indie drama Short Term 12. However, despite his supporting roles in box office smashes like Knives Out and Get Out, it is not until recently that the actor has really solidified himself as a household name. Stanfield has never let this stop him, though. He continues to take on new and intriguing roles with each new project he tackles, making it impossible for anyone to put the gifted actor in a box.
Stanfield truly came into his own in recent years, appearing in the Netflix Western The Harder They Fall alongside Jonathan Majors and Idris Elba and in Disney's Haunted Mansion, the second big-screen adaptation of the beloved theme park ride that garnered mixed reviews but featured an exceptional leading performance by Stanfield and his fellow cast members like Owen Wilson and Rosario Dawson. His most recent cinematic endeavor was in the biblical dramedy, The Book of Clarence. Here are some of his most notable performances to date.
Update January 15, 2024: In honor of The Book of Clarence opening in theaters, this list has been updated with even more great performances by LaKaieth Stanfield and where each title is currently streaming.
10 The Harder They Fall (2021)
Touting an exceptional ensemble cast led by Jonathan Majors, Idris Elba, Regina King, and LaKeith Stanfield, the thrilling Netflix original Western The Harder They Fall centers on famous cowboy Nat Love (Majors) as he assembles a ragtag band of outlaws to exact revenge against the man responsible for the cold-blooded murder of his parents two decades before. When the ruthless Rufus Buck (Elba) is freed from his prison sentence by his equally brutal gang members, Nat makes it his mission to rectify the past and see the notorious outlaw six feet under, no matter the cost.
A Cool & Calculating Villain
Stanfield embraced his antagonistic side when he appeared as Cherokee Bill in the action-packed picture, who will do anything for his cutthroat leader and is known across the land as the most accurate and fastest shot there is. The character is very complex in that he would prefer not to shed blood and waste his time on lesser gunmen, yet he has no problem putting an opponent down; his disarming calmness is downright menacing, and he is the right-hand man of Buck. The Harder They Fall garnered widespread praise, and it took home numerous accolades, including Best Cast at the National Board of Review Awards. Stream on Netflix
The Harder They Fall
- Release Date
- November 3, 2021
- Director
- Jeymes Samuel
- Cast
- Edi Gathegi , Zazie Beetz , Idris Elba , LaKeith Stanfield , Regina King , Jonathan Majors
9 Knives Out (2019)
In this wildly popular modern whodunit, Stanfield plays no-nonsense Detective Lieutenant Elliott in Knives Out, who serves the important job of keeping viewers — if not the Thrombey family — grounded throughout the film. Elliott sticks to the rules. He doesn’t read fiction. Unlike all members of the untrustworthy Thrombeys, he doesn’t appear to have any ulterior motives. Stanfield’s character adds a critical layer of intrigue and depth to Rian Johnson’s dysfunctional family mystery.
A Worldwide Sensation
Due to Knives Out’s sprawling cast of A-listers, including Daniel Craig, Jamie Lee Curtis, and Chris Evans, it’s easy to overlook Stanfield’s performance in the Oscar-nominated 2019 film. However, that does not make it any less iconic or memorable, especially as the much-needed antidote to Daniel Craig’s eccentric Benoit Blanc — whom viewers will remember for his accent if nothing else. Unfortunately, Stanfield did not reprise his role for 2022's highly-buzzed sequel Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery, yet only time will tell if the character appears in future Benoit Blanc installments. Rent/Buy on Prime Video
Knives Out
- Release Date
- November 27, 2019
- Director
- Rian Johnson
- Cast
- Toni Collette , Ana De Armas , Chris Evans , Katherine Langford , Jaeden Martell , Edi Patterson
8 The Changeling (2023)
Stanfield once again returned to the small screen to headline the horror fantasy series The Changeling, which is set in an alternate version of New York City and follows rare book dealer Apollo Kagwa as he embarks on an all-consuming journey to locate his beloved wife Emma (Clark Backo) and newborn child after she commits a shockingly horrific act. Apollo must reflect back upon his own difficult childhood and unsettling dreams as he sets out to discover if something supernatural has been plaguing his family for generations.
An Eerie & Spellbinding Series
The Changeling superbly blends fantasy with horror as Apollo (Stanfield) wanders through an enchanted world in search of his disturbed wife, and the ominous and gothic setting left audiences on the edge of their seats as they embarked upon the quest right along with the determined protagonist. The series is based on the Victor LaValle novel of the same name and winningly combined chilling elements of horror with classic folklore, and Stanfield unsurprisingly delivered an earnest and tortured performance as the devastated Apollo in the gripping slow burn show. Stream on Apple TV+
The Changeling
- Release Date
- September 8, 2023
- Cast
- LaKeith Stanfield , Adina Porter , Clark Backo , Malcolm Barrett
- Seasons
- 1
7 The Book of Clarence (2024)
Stanfield's most recent cinematic outing was the biblical dramedy The Book of Clarence, for which the illustrious actor starred as the streetwise-yet-struggling eponymous character as he becomes enamored by the mystique surrounding the rising Messiah and sets out to claim his own divine existence and prove himself worthy of becoming an Apostle himself. The wildly entertaining and unique film also stars Omar Sy, David Oyelowo, and James McAvoy. It features Clarence as he ponders whether he could also be a Messiah destined for greatness.
Stanfield's Glorious Leading Role
Stanfield was brimming with allure as the soul-searching Clarence, showcasing his overwhelming appeal and power as a performer with his eccentric energy in the lead role. The Jeymes Samuel extravaganza premiered at the BFI London Film Festival, where it received glowing reviews for its masterful direction, unique premise, and refreshing allegorical take on Christian theology. The Times UK was blown away by Stanfield's riveting portrayal, noting that the dynamic actor "is the kind of unfeasibly charismatic lead whom you can imagine people following in their thousands." While the film is struggling at the box office, this is certainly another fine performance from one of the best actors currently working today. Currently in theaters
6 Uncut Gems (2019)
While most of the attention for Uncut Gems went to Adam Sandler, it was another great role for LaKaeith Stanfield, who was proving himself to be one of the most exciting actors. Stanfield plays Demany, an intermediary who recruits clients for Howard's (Sandler) jewelry business. He plays a vital role in setting Howard up with NBA superstar Kevin Garnett and kicking off the film's main plot while also providing a bit of laid-back humor to a film that is operating in a high-tension mode.
Stanfield Goes Toe to Toe with Sandler
Demany is a difficult role to play, as it requires the viewer to be frustrated with him like Howard is but also cool and likable that the audience is more frustrated with Howard for relying on Demany. Stanfield plays the role perfectly, having the perfect laid-back attitude that contrasts well with the high-energy stress that Sandler's performance brings. Nobody can blame Demany when he finally has enough of Howard's treatment, and it speaks to Stanfield's abilities as an actor that in a movie that is primarily designed to showcase a different side to Adam Sandler, he can hold his own and be a standout. Stream on Netflix
Uncut Gems
- Release Date
- August 30, 2019
- Director
- Ben Safdie , Joshua Safdie
- Cast
- Adam Sandler , Julia Fox , Kevin Garnett , The Weeknd , Idina Menzel , Jonathan Aranbayev
- Runtime
- 130
5 Get Out (2017)
Jordan Peele’s 2017 breakout film Get Out shocked and unnerved audiences everywhere, becoming a horror classic overnight. The story follows Daniel Kaluuya as Chris Washington, a young Black man visiting the family of his white girlfriend, only to discover their hosts have truly disturbing secrets. To say the least, Chris might be staying at their estate longer than expected.
Peele's Oscar-Winning Masterpiece
In the film, which grossed over $250 million worldwide, Stanfield plays the supporting antagonist, Logan King. His role is multilayered and complex, in the truest sense of those words. Without any spoilers, Stanfield plays more than one “person” in this film — or he is not exactly who he seems to be. Stanfield’s performance, in its beautiful subtlety and nuance, is downright creepy. He is visible evidence of the true evils of the Armitage family and their haunting legacy. For many this was their first exposure to Stanfield and it certainly was a memorable performance in an iconic film. Rent/Buy on Apple TV+
Get Out
- Release Date
- February 24, 2017
- Director
- Jordan Peele
- Cast
- Daniel Kaluuya , Allison Williams , Catherine Keener , Bradley Whitford , Caleb Landry Jones , Marcus Henderson
4 Sorry To Bother You (2018)
This 2018 acclaimed surrealist comedy follows down-on-his-luck Cassius Green, who finds a portal into an alternate reality while working as a telemarketer. But, that’s really only where the absurdity begins. The film also features Armie Hammer as psychopathic CEO Steve Lift, as well as Danny Glover, Green’s coworker who teaches him the subtle art of mastering his “white voice.” Directed by outspoken activist Boots Riley, Sorry to Bother You is a deeply relevant, and therefore pretty polarizing film, whose ending certainly isn’t leaving the collective consciousness any time soon.
Stanfield's Sensational Performance
As Green, Stanfield offers us a performance with all the finesse and energy required for the character. He is scheming, yet likable; self-aware, yet no less startled by the events of the film than the audience is. With a name that literally translates to “cash is green,” Stanfield expertly walks the line between what's real and what's farce. As things become increasingly unbelievable, his panic is no less than contagious for viewers — but how much does Cash ever really know? Stanfield always keeps us with him and always keeps audiences wondering. Rent/Buy on Prime Video
Sorry to Bother You
- Release Date
- July 6, 2018
- Director
- Boots Riley
- Cast
- Tessa Thompson , Armie Hammer , LaKeith Stanfield , Patton Oswalt , Steven Yeun , Terry Crews
3 Short Term 12 (2013)
The 2013 indie film Short Term 12 marks Stanfield’s first role in a major film — and the first signal of the young actor’s outrageous talent. The film centers around Grace Howard (Brie Larson), who is a supervisor for a group home for troubled teenagers. It is actually based largely on writer-director Destin Daniel Cretton’s own personal experiences working at similar short-term homes. Upon its release, the movie earned massive critical acclaim, with Roger Ebert’s Christy Lemire calling it, “One of the best films I have seen this year.” In addition to Larson and Stanfield, the film also features performances from future stars like Kaitlyn Dever (Booksmart), Stephanie Beatriz (Brooklyn Nine-Nine), Rami Malek (Bohemian Rhapsody), and John Gallagher Jr. (10 Cloverfield Lane).
A Scene-Stealing Debut
Although he is only on the screen for a short time, Stanfield steals the (already powerful) show as Marcus, one of the teens whom Larson's character works with. We are introduced to the character just a week before his 18th birthday — right before Marcus can leave the facility as an adult. Stanfield makes it clear to viewers that Marcus’s healing journey is far from over. He depicts a character who is as vulnerable as he is threatening — perhaps threatening only because he is vulnerable. At age 22, Stanfield’s prodigious performance landed him an Independent Spirit Award nomination. He also co-wrote the rap his character performs in the movie, which, if anything, should be remembered as a work of art on its own. Stream on Peacock
Short Term 12
- Release Date
- August 23, 2013
- Director
- Destin Cretton
- Cast
- Brie Larson , John Gallagher Jr. , Kaitlyn Dever , Stephanie Beatriz , Rami Malek , Alex Calloway
2 Atlanta (2016-2022)
Atlanta is far from your average network comedy-drama. Just like Stanfield, the show refuses to be put in a box. It generally follows aspiring rapper Paper Boi on the precarious road to success, but lately, it has been reminding viewers more of Black Mirror than anything else. Overall, the series is unique and surreal-feeling and always tackles cultural commentary with an insightful, sardonic edge.
Stanfield's Eccentric Portrayal
Stanfield is sometimes a vessel for this commentary, but oftentimes he’s just Paper Boi’s eccentric, lovable henchman — which is why fans adore him so much. As Darius, Stanfield gets to show off his idiosyncratic brand of comedic talent. He’s certainly not “funny” in the traditional sense of the word — that’s because, indeed, Darius rarely cracks real “jokes,” and seems to take himself with a certain degree of seriousness. He is his own authority. In Darius’s words, ”I’m that guy. People see me, and they just want to give me free drinks. What can I say?” After being totally bewitched by him on the show, fans can’t help but agree. Stream on Hulu
1 Judas and the Black Messiah (2021)
Judas and the Black Messiah is a biographical crime drama that made powerful waves among both critical and commercial audiences last year. The film received a total of five Oscar nominations, two of which were in the Best Supporting Actor category, headed by both Stanfield and his co-star Daniel Kaluuya. Although it is Kaluuya who ultimately took home the Oscar for his staggering performance as Fred Hampton, Stanfield’s role here is no less noteworthy nor commendable (but one has to wonder why Stanfield was not nominated in the Best Actor category).
A Riveting Cinematic Spectacle
Stanfield plays Chicago FBI agent William O’Neal, who is forced to reckon with the moral quandary of betrayal against both a political movement and a friend. Stanfield’s performance is truly unforgettable as he tackles the inner torment of someone who has something terrible to hide. If there’s anything the actor has shown us, it’s that he can successfully put on more faces — and more masks — than one ever thought possible. Stream on Max
Judas and the Black Messiah
Offered a plea deal by the FBI, William O'Neal infiltrates the Illinois chapter of the Black Panther Party to gather intelligence on Chairman Fred Hampton. Starring Daniel Kaluuya, LaKeith Stanfield and Jesse Plemons.
- Release Date
- February 12, 2021
- Director
- Shaka King
- Cast
- Jesse Plemons , Daniel Kaluuya , LaKeith Stanfield , Martin Sheen , Dominique Fishback , Ashton Sanders
Check out MovieWeb's interview with LaKeith Stanfield and RJ Cyler regarding their latest film, The Book of Clarence.