Idris Elba Movies and TV Shows

Idris Elba is a well-known actor who has starred in various movies and TV shows. Some of his notable TV roles include playing the drug kingpin Stringer Bell in “The Wire” and the tough detective DCI John Luther in “Luther.” In movies, Elba has shown his versatility in roles such as Heimdall in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, including films like “Thor” and “Thor: The Dark World.” He has also starred in intense dramas like “Beasts of No Nation” and action-packed movies such as “Pacific Rim.” Additionally, Elba has voiced characters in popular animated films like “Zootopia,” “The Jungle Book,” and “Finding Dory.” His powerful performances and diverse roles have made him a standout actor in Hollywood.

Here’s the list of Idris Elba movies and TV shows.

1. Beasts of No Nation (2015)

“Beasts of No Nation” is a war drama that tells the harrowing story of a young boy who becomes a child soldier as his country goes through a brutal civil war. Idris Elba plays Commandant, the fierce leader of a rebel faction who takes the boy under his wing.

Elba’s Role and Performance: Idris Elba’s portrayal of Commandant is intense and formidable, earning him critical acclaim. His character is complex, showing both brutal authority and surprising vulnerability, which added depth to the film and highlighted Elba’s dynamic acting skills.

2. Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom (2013)

This biographical film chronicles the life of Nelson Mandela from his childhood in a rural village through to his inauguration as the first democratically elected president of South Africa. Idris Elba stars as Nelson Mandela.

Elba’s Role and Performance: Elba captures Mandela’s spirit, resilience, and dignified charisma. His performance conveys the emotional and physical toll of Mandela’s long struggle for freedom, making it a compelling portrayal that resonates with the audience.

3. Pacific Rim (2013)

“Pacific Rim” is a sci-fi action film where humanity builds giant robots to combat monstrous sea creatures attacking Earth. Idris Elba plays Stacker Pentecost, the commanding officer of the robot pilots.

Elba’s Role and Performance: As Stacker Pentecost, Elba delivers a strong and inspirational performance. He is the steadfast leader whose famous speech rallies the pilots for a final stand against the creatures, embodying hope and courage.

4. Thor (2011)

In this Marvel Cinematic Universe film, “Thor” tells the story of the Norse god banished to Earth from Asgard. Idris Elba plays Heimdall, the all-seeing and all-hearing Asgardian sentry of the Bifrost Bridge.

Elba’s Role and Performance: Elba’s Heimdall is stoic and powerful, guarding the gateway to Asgard with a noble and imposing presence. His performance adds a layer of gravitas to the fantastical elements of the film.

5. The Mountain Between Us (2017)

“The Mountain Between Us” is a survival drama about two strangers who must rely on each other after a tragic plane crash leaves them stranded on a remote, snow-covered mountain. Elba plays Dr. Ben Bass, a surgeon returning from a medical conference.

Elba’s Role and Performance: Elba’s character, Dr. Ben Bass, is resourceful and determined, driving much of the film’s emotional and survival elements. His chemistry with co-star Kate Winslet, who plays a photojournalist, is notable as they portray characters pushed to their physical and emotional limits.

6. The Jungle Book (2016) – Voice role

This live-action/CGI adaptation of Rudyard Kipling’s classic tales features Idris Elba voicing the fearsome tiger Shere Khan, who bears the scars of man and vows to eliminate what he sees as a threat.

Elba’s Role and Performance: Elba’s voice acting as Shere Khan is menacing and authoritative, effectively conveying the tiger’s animosity and cunning nature. His vocal performance adds a compelling antagonist presence to the lush, vibrant jungle world created in the film.

7. Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw (2019)

In this spin-off from the “Fast & Furious” franchise, Idris Elba plays Brixton Lore, a cybernetically enhanced terrorist who poses a global threat. Elba’s character is a formidable antagonist with superhuman strength and advanced technology at his disposal.

Elba’s Role and Performance: As Brixton Lore, Elba is electrifying and menacing, bringing high-octane energy to the action sequences. His performance as the technologically enhanced villain adds a thrilling element to the dynamic between the main protagonists, Hobbs and Shaw.

8. The Suicide Squad (2021)

This superhero film, directed by James Gunn, is a standalone sequel to “Suicide Squad” (2016). Idris Elba plays Robert DuBois/Bloodsport, a mercenary with a talent for turning anything into a weapon. He is imprisoned for putting Superman in the ICU with a kryptonite bullet.

Elba’s Role and Performance: Elba’s Bloodsport is a tough, reluctant leader of the titular team, showcasing Elba’s ability to blend toughness with vulnerability. His character’s development throughout the film highlights his complex relationship with his daughter, adding depth to his role.

9. Concrete Cowboy (2020)

Based on the novel “Ghetto Cowboy” by Greg Neri, this film explores the urban cowboy subculture in Philadelphia. Idris Elba plays Harp, a man who finds solace in maintaining a stable of horses in inner-city Philly.

Elba’s Role and Performance: As Harp, Elba portrays a stoic and wise father figure who helps guide his estranged son through the challenges of life using lessons from their unique equestrian lifestyle. His performance is grounded and impactful, enriching the film’s narrative with authenticity.

10. Beast (2022)

In this survival thriller, Elba plays Dr. Nate Samuels, a recently widowed man who takes his two daughters on a trip to a South African game reserve, where they become stalked by a rogue lion.

Elba’s Role and Performance: Elba’s character in “Beast” is both protective and resourceful, combining physicality with emotional depth. His interactions with the predatory challenge and his daughters bring a palpable tension and urgency to the film.

Idris Elba is a renowned actor celebrated for his powerful performances in both movies and TV shows. Born on September 6, 1972, in London, England, Elba’s charisma and presence have made him a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, recognized for his ability to bring depth and intensity to his roles.

Idris has made a significant impact in Hollywood with his diverse roles in both movies and TV shows. He first gained major attention with his role as Stringer Bell in the critically acclaimed TV series “The Wire.” His versatile acting skills have led him to star in a variety of films, including the thrilling “Beasts of No Nation,” the action-packed “Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw,” and the superhero blockbuster “Thor” series.

On television, Elba captivated audiences with his portrayal of the title character in “Luther,” a gritty crime drama that has earned him multiple awards.

We’ll take a look at some of his best movies and TV shows. This article provides a comprehensive list of Idris Elba Movies and TV Shows, showcasing his versatile talent and creative vision.