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So is Bassett happy with the things she's done? ''I am content that the work that I've done is wonderful,'' she declares. Then she raises her capable, delicate hands to her mouth, flits her fingers over an invisible instrument, and literally toots her own horn. It's moments like this when the strong and surprisingly sensitive woman reveals something truly unexpected: a playful side. Of course, she's still sweet — and intense as hell. As we part, Bassett offers a hug and a great piece of advice: ''Kick ass,'' she commands.

MY BRILLIANT CAREER

A look back at some of Bassett's time on screen

1991 Critters 4

1991 Boyz N the Hood
At last: ''A studio movie that might mean something.''

1992 Passion Fish

1992 Malcolm X
She played Betty Shabazz, the martyred leader's wife.

1993 What's Love Got to Do With It
''The public had such love for her. You better not mess up.''

1995 Waiting to Exhale
''It reached black folks, mix it up!''

1998 How Stella Got Her Groove Back
If we nabbed Taye Diggs, we'd get our groove back too.

1999 Music of the Heart

2002 The Rosa Parks Story
Bassett (who also produced) got an Emmy nomination. ''It's good to be reminded how meaningful television can be.''

2005 Alias
She had a too-brief stint as (what else?) a tough agent.

2006 Akeelah and the Bee

ANGELA BASSETT'S MUST LIST

Here are five things the Akeelah star is watching, listening to, and, um, gliding on these days.

Thief 2006
Bassett's jazzed about this new FX crime drama — for one reason: ''Andre Braugher. Period.''

Regina is...the Songs of Dinah Washington 2004
''Regina Marie Williams is one of the most talented artists you haven't heard.''

Untitled, Greg Breda 2005
Bassett owns this painting and two more by Breda, a self-taught artist from California.

Precor EFX 546i
''This elliptical has a built-in generator.'' Because everyone needs to work out in a power outage. Right?

Gonzalo Rubalcaba
''I've enjoyed [the Cuban pianist] at Dizzy's Club in NYC. You hear some of the best there.''


Posted Apr 21, 2006 | Published in issue #874-875 Apr 28, 2006 | Order Article Reprints
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