
Margaret Qualley has marked 2024 as a pivotal year in her acting career, delivering standout performances across three significant film releases. Among these, her role in The Substance, directed by Coralie Fargeat, has drawn considerable attention, being hailed as one of the finest films of the year. Qualley deftly portrays a young woman designed to embody the “perfect” version of an older dance instructor, skillfully navigating themes that address contemporary beauty standards and society’s distorted views on aging, particularly for women. This compelling performance sheds light on the correlation between youth and success, presenting an insightful critique of modern values.
In addition to her role in The Substance, Qualley showcased her versatility in Yorgos Lanthimos’ unconventional romantic tale Kinds of Kindness and Ethan Coen’s darkly humorous flick Drive-Away Dolls. These films allowed her to explore a comic and stylized approach to acting that diverges from her previous dramatic chops. Before these projects, Qualley had established herself primarily as a dramatic talent, especially following her acclaimed role in Netflix’s Maid, which solidified her as one of the leading actresses of her generation. Her presence in three major films this year undoubtedly urges audiences to revisit her best work.
Why Qualley’s Triumph in The Substance Highlights Maid‘s Importance on Netflix
Exploring The Substance and Its Impact on Qualley’s Career


The Substance stands out as one of the most critically lauded films of 2024, garnering predictions for success at the upcoming 2025 Oscars. Although Qualley has made a significant mark with this role, her acting journey began with Maid, a miniseries released in 2021, where she portrayed a young mother who takes up housecleaning to rebuild her life after escaping an abusive relationship.
Qualley’s portrayal in Maid introduced her to a wider audience, leaving a lasting impression through her emotional depth and vulnerability. The character’s traumatic past and relentless stress resonated with viewers, successfully highlighting important issues and themes relevant to contemporary society. The synergy between Qualley and the show’s talented writers and directors propelled the narrative, allowing her performance to shine brightly.
Award Recognition for Qualley’s Performance in Maid
The Actress Earned Significant Award Nominations

In her breakthrough role in Maid, Qualley garnered prestigious nominations, including at the Critics’ Choice Awards, Golden Globe Awards, SAG Awards, and Primetime Emmys. Despite not winning in her categories—largely due to Kate Winslet’s celebrated performance in Mare of Easttown—her nominations served as a significant platform to boost her visibility in the industry. Prior to Maid, her roles in The Nice Guys and Death Note had not fully showcased her exceptional talent.
With her recent success in The Substance, Qualley is once again receiving accolades, with her performance earning nominations at the Golden Globes and Critics’ Choice Awards. Among her notable 2024 films, it is her portrayal of Sue in The Substance that has notably captured the attention of critics, delivering a powerful performance that skillfully balances both emotional and physical elements—traits frequently favored by awards voters.
The Dynamic Duo: Qualley and MacDowell in Maid
A Family Affair: Andie MacDowell’s Role in the Series

Interestingly, Maid features not only Margaret Qualley but also her mother, renowned actress Andie MacDowell. Their on-screen relationship mirrored their real-life bond, albeit with a stark contrast in dynamics. In the series, MacDowell portrays a character grappling with severe bipolar disorder and traits of narcissism, complicating their interactions and highlighting the challenges faced by Qualley’s character, Alex.
As Alex strives for independence and seeks to redefine her life post-relationship, the complex portrayal of mother-daughter dynamics adds depth to the narrative. Despite their emotional struggles, Qualley and MacDowell’s performances offer a compelling exploration of family ties, successfully resonating with viewers as they confront their intertwined journeys.
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