10 Times Comedic Actors Went Against Type (And Totally Pulled It Off)

Mo'Nique's role in the 2009 drama film Precious can simply be referred to as a revelation. Out of the blue and completely immersive, her performance as abusive mother Mary Johnston earned her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress and a spot on every "best against type role" list in existence.

Previously known as a successful stand-up comedienne, performing at such venues as The Apollo, Mo'Nique made a name for herself as a member of the film The Queens of Comedy. To solidify her fame and popularity, she also played a major role in the sit-com The Parkers from 1999 to 2004.

A veteran in stand-up comedy, her casting in Precious proved to a risky move on paper. But on screen, it was phenomenal.

Playing the mother of titular character Precious Jones, Mo'Nique was terrifying, cruel, violent and tear-inducing. Constantly, effortlessly convincing, her performance was truly extraordinary, and one of the best examples of just how effective at drama comedians can be when given the right material.