Michelle Yeoh’s determination earned her a Best Actress Oscar for her role in Everything Everywhere All at Once. She played Evelyn Wang, the owner of a laundromat who travels across multiple dimensions to save the multiverse. Both audiences and critics raved about her performance. Yeoh defied expectations and faced the challenges of an industry that tends to sideline older actresses. She told the Los Angeles Times during the 2023 awards season, “As you get older, the roles get smaller… People start saying, ‘Oh yeah, you should retire. You should do this.’ No, guys. Don’t tell me what I should do. I should be in control of what I’m capable of doing, right?”
After gaining fame in Hong Kong, she became willing to perform almost all stunts including daring feats like swinging from moving vehicles, rolling off the hood of a car on highways and even riding a motorcycle on top of a train. The film industry knows her for her dedication and skill. Yeoh can play any role be it comedy or drama despite her aptitude for action roles. Her dedication and skill have made her a loved and respected figure in the film industry. Let’s dive deep into Michelle Yeoh’s filmography after her performances as we give a complete insight into some of her best movie roles on her birthday.
1. Florence, Gunpowder Milkshake (2021)
The female-centric film is well received by the audience, with some criticising it for being a bit derivative. The film gave the audience an entertaining experience. Yeoh thoroughly enjoyed the role and was seen in a light-hearted behind-the-scenes video shared by Headey. The character’s dynamism is seen in their playful dialogue. In the film, Headey’s Carlette is a former assassin, and Yeoh’s Florence – a member of a vengeful sisterhood that highlights both complex and layered relationships.
2. Saiwa, the Far North (2007)
Michelle Yeoh brilliantly played the role of Savia, a woman who was prophesied to bring evil. The film was set in the Arctic and showed Savia’s lonely life being disrupted by a runaway soldier. Asif Kapadia’s film oscillates between sympathy for her character’s harsh life and fear of a bleak future. The tone of the film is depressing, but Yeoh stuns everyone with her strong performance.
3. Tso Ngan Kwan, Master Z: Ip Man Legacy (2018)
Michelle Yeoh’s performance in Master Z: Ip Man Legacy is a pure testament to her dedication to martial arts cinema star Dave Bautista, who endured the rigorous guerrilla filmmaking process, and showed her admiration for legendary director Yuen Woo-ping. Yeoh played Tso Ngan Kwan, a criminal syndicate leader aiming to reform her gang. In the film, she showcased her protective side and fierce combat skills. She expertly balanced complex stunts – whether it was performing with a full glass of water or showcasing her talents. Yeoh revealed her playful charm that underscored her status as a master in both martial arts and storytelling.
4. Inspector Ng, Yes Madam (1985)
Yes, Madam (1985) was a career-defining film that showcased her stunts for the first time. Even though Western audiences were unfamiliar with high-octane Hong Kong action films, Yeoh gave a stellar performance. She fought off sexist doubts about her abilities and performed impressive stunts. Characterized by dynamic action sequences, the film featured Yeoh as an inspector tasked with recovering an important microfilm. The final fight scene captured everyone’s attention and established her as a formidable action star. Her exceptional talent and commitment to performance were established.
5. Aung San Suu Kyi in The Lady (2011)
A profound portrayal of Burmese leader Aung San Suu Kyi who fought against the oppressive regime leaves everyone spellbound. The historical drama focuses on Suu Kyi’s return to Burma, her struggle for political reform, and her personal sacrifices. Yeoh embodied the strength and weakness of the character. The film depicts the entire journey from winning the general election to living under house arrest imposed by the corrupt military regime. Yeoh convincingly portrays Suu Kyi’s emotional turmoil and determination. Her portrayal was both compelling and heartbreaking. The film’s success was due to Yeoh’s ability to convey complex emotions in a natural way.
6. The Soothsayer in Kung Fu Panda 2 (2011)
Michelle Yeoh voiced the prophetess, a wise and kind goat who had a key role in the story. Even though the film was comedic and chaotic in nature, Yeoh’s performance added a layer of depth. She demonstrated emotional resonance while her character revealed important backstory elements for the protagonist, Po, voiced by Jack Black. Yeoh’s portrayal as a prophetess had a powerful presence that contrasted with the whimsical aspects of the film. Yeoh conveyed profound truths amidst the film’s comedic elements. She also brought emotional depth to her roles in the animated feature.
7. Corazon in Sunshine (2007)
Michelle Yeoh played Corazon, a biologist on a mission to save the dying sun. The film was an extraordinary tribute to philosophical science-fiction, where Yeoh’s character maintained the ship’s oxygen supply through a beautiful garden. The sterile atmosphere of the film was balanced by Yeoh’s character who was filled with passion and spiritual depth. She contributed to the emotional and thematic depth of the film. Her performance saw a unique blend of intellectual and emotional depth that explored the film’s theme.
8. Wai Lin in Tomorrow Never Dies (1997)
Wai Lin is a Chinese secret agent who works closely with James Bond, played by Pierce Brosnan. The film received mixed reviews but Yeoh’s impressive performance stood out. Yeoh felt like the perfect Bond girl with the ability to execute complex action sequences. She acted with great ease and precision, adding a new dimension to the film. This role helped her establish her identity in Hollywood and paved the way for better films in the future.
9. Eleanor Young in Crazy Rich Asians (2018)
Michelle Yeoh played Eleanor Young, a powerful matriarchal woman. She posed a significant challenge to Rachel Chu, played by Constance Wu. Eleanor is a complex character driven by familial duty and personal pride. Her performance reflected emotional depth that helped her stand out. Her formidable presence evoked a range of emotions, whether intimidating or sympathetic. She added richness to the film’s narrative based on culture and family dynamics.
10. Evelyn Wang in Everything Everywhere All at Once (2022)
Yeoh played Evelyn Wang, a woman navigating multiple realities, with emotional depth and resonance. She explored the concept of the road less traveled as Evelyn grapples with her life choices and contemplates other possibilities. She tackles complex and multifaceted roles brilliantly. Her performance reflects a culmination of diverse roles with elements of drama and action. She proved her exceptional range as an actor in Everything Everywhere All at Once.
Also read: Michelle Yeoh receives the prestigious Presidential Medal of Freedom from Joe Biden; DET