by Emilia Clarke’s rise to fame may have been propelled by her iconic portrayal of Daenerys Targaryen in Game of Thrones, but beyond the realm of dragons and fantasy, she has delved into darker, more unsettling territory in her film career. From psychological thrillers to true crime dramas, Clarke has demonstrated her versatility as an actress by tackling roles that explore the depths of human despair and darkness. In this article, we will explore two of Clarke’s darkest movie roles, Before I Wake and Above Suspicion, and examine the impact they’ve had on audiences and critics alike.
Before I Wake (2016): A Haunting Journey into the Nightmares of Childhood
In Before I Wake, Emilia Clarke steps into the role of Louise, a woman who, along with her husband, adopts a young boy named Cody. However, their joy soon turns to horror as they discover that Cody’s dreams have the power to manifest in reality. Directed by Mike Flanagan, known for his work in the horror genre, Before I Wake explores themes of grief, loss, and the blurred lines between dreams and reality. Clarke’s portrayal of Louise is layered and nuanced, capturing the desperation and fear of a mother grappling with forces beyond her control. As the film unravels, so too does Louise’s sanity, leading to a heart-wrenching climax that leaves audiences breathless. Clarke’s performance in Before I Wake showcases her ability to convey vulnerability and resilience in the face of unimaginable circumstances, solidifying her status as a powerhouse actress.
Above Suspicion (2017): A True Crime Tale of Betrayal and Tragedy
Based on a true story, Above Suspicion thrusts Emilia Clarke into the role of Susan Smith, a woman trapped in an abusive marriage who finds solace and escape in the arms of an FBI agent. As their relationship deepens, Susan becomes embroiled in a dangerous game of deception and betrayal, leading to dire consequences for all involved. Directed by Phillip Noyce, Above Suspicion is a gritty and unflinching portrayal of small-town corruption and the devastating impact of obsession. Clarke’s portrayal of Susan is haunting and raw, capturing the tumultuous emotions of a woman torn between loyalty and self-preservation. Throughout the film, Clarke navigates Susan’s descent into darkness with poise and authenticity, delivering a performance that is as gripping as it is heartbreaking. Above Suspicion stands as a testament to Clarke’s ability to tackle complex and challenging roles with grace and conviction, leaving a lasting impression on audiences long after the credits roll.
Comparative Analysis: Which Role Left You Breathless?
Both Before I Wake and Above Suspicion showcase Emilia Clarke’s talent for immersing herself in dark and emotionally demanding roles, but which one left audiences truly breathless? In Before I Wake, Clarke’s portrayal of Louise is characterized by vulnerability and maternal instinct, as she fights to protect her family from the terrifying manifestations of Cody’s nightmares. The film’s supernatural elements add an extra layer of tension and suspense, culminating in a climax that is both harrowing and cathartic. On the other hand, Above Suspicion offers a more grounded and gritty portrayal of human frailty and corruption. Clarke’s performance as Susan Smith is raw and unflinching, exposing the harsh realities of abuse and manipulation with heartbreaking authenticity. The film’s true crime roots lend it a sense of urgency and immediacy, drawing audiences into Susan’s tragic journey with relentless intensity.
Conclusion
Emilia Clarke’s darkest movie roles offer a glimpse into the complexities of the human experience, exploring themes of trauma, betrayal, and redemption with unflinching honesty. Whether she’s grappling with supernatural forces in Before I Wake or navigating the treacherous waters of small-town corruption in Above Suspicion, Clarke’s performances are characterized by depth, vulnerability, and emotional resonance. As audiences continue to be captivated by her work, one thing is certain: Emilia Clarke’s ability to inhabit the darkest corners of the human psyche is nothing short of mesmerizing, leaving an indelible mark on cinema for years to come.
