19. Beyoncé, Cadillac Records (2008)

After getting passed over for her Deena Jones, Beyoncé went full Effie White - and she deserved.

20. Aunjanue Ellis, Ray (2004)

One of many fiery and nuanced female performances in this film, Aunjanue enters and exits as if the movie belongs to her. The first of two times on celluloid that she's gone toe-to-toe with the equally excellent Regina King.

21. Eartha Kitt, The Emperor's New Groove (2000)

It's long past time that the academy implemented awards for stunt performers and voice-over actors and Eartha Kitt made a great case for the latter as the hilarious and frightening Yzma in the Disney film.

That's all I got? Who did I miss? And should I do another thread for Oscar-nominated actresses like Cicely, Angela, and Lupita who deserve multiple nods?

Alright, y'all suggested some good ones, so I'm gonna extend this...

22/23. Janelle Monáe, Moonlight (2016), Hidden Figures (2016)

Janelle came out the gate with two strikingly different, equally deserving performances. (My fave? Moonlight, of course. I dig nuance and tenderness.)

24. Thandie Newton, Crash (2004)

Time has not been kind to this film's manipulative story-weaving, and rightfully so, but Thandie Newton's raw, unflinching portrayal of a dehumanized woman still stands.

25. Nicole Beharie, American Violet (2008)

Nicole will win an Oscar one day, but this film, her debut performance, was the first indication that we had new acting royalty in our presence. All hail!