Every Denzel Washington Movie, Ranked

In my humble opinion, Denzel Washington is not just an exceptional actor, but a living testament to the power of resilience and determination. His journey from humble beginnings in Mount Vernon, New York, to Hollywood’s A-list is as inspiring as any blockbuster film he’s starred in.

This piece initially came out in 2018, but it’s since been revised to incorporate the actor’s latest projects, such as Gladiator II.

Among top-tier actors, Denzel Washington’s career might be the most admired. Despite maintaining a distinctive onscreen image, he has the versatility to transition from adult-rated action movies like “The Book of Eli” to serious dramas such as “Philadelphia,” and even take on passion projects with frequent collaborators such as Spike Lee. With “The Equalizer” being his primary franchise, it draws a crowd, but not so massively that there’s any risk of Denzel Washington fatigue. (Note: He has only starred in six movies that grossed over $100 million domestically, with the highest-grossing one being “American Gangster,” which made $130 million.) Unlike many consistent box office attractions, Washington himself is the main attraction: Even when he remakes a film (like “The Magnificent Seven” or “The Taking of Pelham 1 2 3”), it’s primarily due to his presence.

Many esteemed actors have climbed the Hollywood ladder, exchanging their Academy Award recognition for substantial payments but sometimes compromising their dignity. However, Washington’s career path has been different. Unlike Nicholas Cage, who often risks becoming a caricature of himself, Washington has maintained his authenticity by focusing on hard-hitting genre films initially, before surprising us with emotionally powerful performances in movies like ‘Flight’ or ‘Fences’.

But which performance is his best? Here are all of Denzel Washington’s movie roles, ranked.

49. Heart Condition (1990)

https://youtube.com/watch?v=watch?v=xw2PV7o8B0E

Hailing from the questionable realm of unfunny concepts, this hypothetical “comedy” presents Bob Hoskins as a bigoted police officer who frequently refers to people of color as “spooks.” After receiving a heart transplant from a black attorney he loathed during his lifetime and whose murder he must now investigate, the movie is as cringeworthy as its description suggests. Despite Denzel Washington’s usual grace and humor being amplified in this film, there are moments when it seems he can sense better times on the horizon and yearns to escape this predicament. (He went on to star in two films directed by Spike Lee in the following years.)

48. Carbon Copy (1981)

In his first movie role, Washington portrays Segal’s long-lost son. Segal, a lawyer who’s overly focused on image, secretly keeps his Jewish identity hidden from his bigoted superior; he must now choose whether to embrace this unexpected offspring or stick with the prejudiced colleagues at his law firm. The tagline for this film, humorously displayed on its poster, is “The similarity between Father and Son is just plain hilarious.

47. John Q (2002)

In this film, Denzel Washington portrays a devoted father whose child requires a heart transplant, but his insurance refuses to cover the cost. Desperate, he holds a hospital captive in a dramatic attempt to highlight our country’s healthcare crisis. The movie serves as a powerful commentary on the state of American health care and is as direct as a life-saving defibrillator. Washington delivers impassioned speeches, but the audience learns that immediate action is needed, and the film’s plot moves with the solemnity of a funeral procession. This movie features characters who are not the sharpest tools in the shed, and while Denzel Washington excels at many roles, he struggles to convincingly portray an unintelligent character in this particular story.

46. Virtuosity (1995)

In the ’90s, it was inevitable that Denzel Washington, rising to superstardom, would appear in at least one less-than-stellar “cyber” film. This is his. In this film, he’s once again on the hunt for a serial killer, but with a twist – this time, the murderer is a computer program that bears a striking resemblance to Russell Crowe. As with many movies of its kind, it doesn’t age gracefully, but this one seems particularly outdated. However, Crowe delivers a tasty line of robot dialogue: “Even though I’m filled with the urge to destroy your family, it doesn’t mean we can’t be friends.

45. Déjà Vu (2006)

A film directed by Tony Scott, yet overloaded with elements attempting to be a police drama, a time-travel science fiction adventure, and a critique of post-Hurricane Katrina New Orleans. The end result is much like you’d expect from a movie attempting to combine all those aspects into one Hollywood production. There’s a decent concept hidden within, but it gets lost in the mix.

44. 2 Guns (2013)

2 Guns presents an entertaining spectacle as it showcases Denzel Washington’s charismatic swagger, but the film itself doesn’t quite reach the level of coolness of its leading man. In this action-packed tale, Washington partners with Mark Wahlberg to portray a pair of undercover cops, each bringing their unique brand of wit, as they take on the drug cartel. Their unlikely duo offers some enjoyable moments, but the movie is more of a pass-time for Washington while he waits for more compelling roles to come along.

43. The Bone Collector (1999)

This film is one of numerous imitations of “Se7en,” with its plot revolving around a quadriplegic police officer, portrayed by Washington, who collaborates with a novice cop (Angelina Jolie) to capture a serial killer. The character played by Washington attempts to convey his detective’s desperation due to his inability to walk, but the movie is marred by its excessive absurdity and sloppiness, which hinders any deep exploration of this emotional aspect. It was intended to initiate a series of films featuring this detective duo, but that did not come to fruition.

42. The Preacher’s Wife (1996)

I wholeheartedly endorse this delightful, heartwarming reimagination of “The Bishop’s Wife,” a family comedy where I, an angel from above, find myself aiding a dedicated preacher (Courtney B. Vance, who later became Johnny Cochran) and his compassionate spouse (Whitney Houston). The film subtly establishes a love triangle, yet it primarily focuses on providing Houston with ample chances to share her exceptional vocal talents. And boy, does she deliver! With each note she sings, it’s Whitney Houston at her best, leaving spectators enraptured and strangely unable to recall any other aspects of the film.

41. The Magnificent Seven (2016)

Antoine Fuqua manages to make Denzel Washington appear somewhat uninteresting on screen in his film, where Washington plays the leader of a band of rough men trying to protect a vulnerable community from a dangerous psychopath (Peter Sarsgaard). Instead of portraying a powerful, silent character, Washington’s performance veers towards monotonous and unengaging. This is particularly problematic in this slow-paced remake that struggles to explain its relevance in the first place.

40. The Taking of Pelham 1 2 3 (2009)

A remake of the 1974 subway-hijack thriller is inferior in just about every way, particularly with its villain, played by a way-too-jacked-up John Travolta. Washington’s a little too, well, Denzel Washington to be believable as a nerdy subway dispatcher pushed into an impossible situation; you know he’s going to end up saving the day because, jeez, he’s Denzel Washington. You can’t nerd up Denzel just by giving him glasses.

39. The Book of Eli (2010)

https://youtube.com/watch?v=watch?v=idJklVyn5PE

This is a post-apocalyptic thriller by Washington, but it’s not the most original one. Denzel plays the tough guy, but his character isn’t wild enough to truly bring the world on screen to life. On a positive note, this film features an interaction between Denzel Washington and Tom Waits, and we’re just grateful that such a scene is possible in our world.

38. Fallen (1998)

In another one of those movies reminiscent of “Se7en”, Washington found himself ensnared in a storyline that borders on the absurd. This particular production ranks among the less intelligent entries, as it weaves a serial-killer enigma that unexpectedly incorporates the concept of Hell. Despite Washington’s valiant efforts to maintain a semblance of reality, one can’t help but question if the film’s bizarre elements could have been amplified for a more engaging viewing experience.

37. The Manchurian Candidate (2004)

This is an outstanding reinterpretation where Denzel Washington delivers a top-notch performance as a veteran soldier who grows suspicious that he and his comrades, such as Liev Schreiber, were manipulated for sinister intentions. It’s engaging to watch the Academy Award winner embrace the paranoid-thriller genre – he consistently demonstrates unmatched toughness that one should never underestimate. However, this adaptation of The Manchurian Candidate doesn’t demand an extraordinary acting range from Washington.

36. Ricochet (1991)

In simpler terms, the initial action-thriller starring Washington, featuring an element of fun, revolves around a former police officer turned district attorney joining forces with his old friend-turned-drug dealer Ice-T to apprehend a deranged serial killer played by John Lithgow. Notably, this film offers a platform for Lithgow’s exceptional acting skills as he delivers an unforgettable performance. Compared to his roles in later films, Washington’s character in this movie leans towards grittier and more rugged portrayals.

35. For Queen and Country (1988)

In a shift from his usual persona, Denzel Washington portrays Reuben, a former British soldier, who, following years of combat, finds himself misunderstood upon returning home under Thatcher’s rule. His country views him more as a black man than a war hero. Despite numerous hardships and clashes with a system working against him, Reuben retaliates against the police and government that have seemingly overlooked him. Washington’s talent for instantly capturing audience sympathy proves invaluable, and his portrayal strikes the ideal balance of fury and vulnerability. It is also noteworthy that he masterfully adopts an English accent for this role.

34. Safe House (2012)

https://youtube.com/watch?v=watch?v=1IfQY4fNcnw

As a fan, I often mistake “Safe House” as one of Tony Scott’s masterpieces due to the frequent collaboration between the two. However, this action-thriller is actually directed by the talented Swedish filmmaker Daniel Espinosa in his Hollywood debut. In this film, Denzel Washington plays a highly skilled, ruthless CIA operative who goes rogue, with Ryan Reynolds portraying a fresh-faced agent tasked with escorting him back to the U.S. for punishment. The film exudes that signature Scott-ian sleekness, yet it’s Denzel Washington who truly rules the screen with his effortless cool demeanor. While it may not be everyone’s favorite Denzel performance, I can understand if one were to forget its existence after a while.

33. Philadelphia (1993)

This role is challenging – portraying a rigid lawyer grappling with his internal homophobia while defending a gay man (played by Tom Hanks). Nevertheless, Washington delivers a commendable performance, making the character more than just a moral guide for the audience; he gives him depth and personality. Despite not receiving an Oscar nomination for his role in Philadelphia, it was one of the last times he took on a supporting part in a film.

32. The Great Debaters (2007)

In a different wording, Denzel Washington’s second directorial venture, unlike his initial film “Antwone Fisher,” doesn’t achieve the same level of success but still manages to be intermittently compelling. The movie features Washington as Melvin Tolson, a debate coach at Wiley College who assembles a team that includes Nate Parker, in one of his early roles, who later became famous for “The Birth of a Nation.” This film ultimately challenges Harvard. With its sports-themed narrative and association with Oprah Winfrey, it exudes a wholesome, good-for-you atmosphere. While it has its strong points, it fails to match the intensity of “Fisher.

31. Power (1986)

In essence, the rarely mentioned Sidney Lumet film aims to make a profound commentary on contemporary life, yet often becomes entangled in narrative complexities and actor-centric excesses. Richard Gere portrays a media advisor who finds himself in deep water, but it’s Washington who steals the show as a PR mastermind who senses Gere’s deceitfulness and starts to manipulate his thoughts. The film bites off more than it can chew: by the conclusion, it unravels, but Washington remains the sole captivating element.

30. The Little Things (2021)

In the movie “The Little Things,” Denzel Washington doesn’t need to exert much effort to portray Deke Deacon’s faded greatness and persistent brilliance; it’s simply a matter of being Denzel Washington. The film leverages his authoritative, straightforward demeanor significantly, particularly when Deke teams up with Rami Malek’s ambitious detective, who enlists the seasoned veteran to help solve a series of gruesome murders in Los Angeles. A significant part of the enjoyment derived from John Lee Hancock’s modest thriller stems from watching Washington outmaneuver those around him and project an air of weary majesty that hints at the horrors he’s encountered throughout his career. His commanding presence overshadows both Malek and Jared Leto (in their roles), which might account for their self-consciously affected performances. They struggle to emulate Washington’s effortless, authentic charisma.

29. The Pelican Brief (1993)

A film often associated with popular culture due to its satirical portrayal in the “30 Rock” episode titled “The Pelican Brief,” is a crucial stepping stone for Denzel Washington as he moved from being an acclaimed actor towards becoming a mainstream star. In John Grisham’s novel, the tenacious journalist character Gray Grantham was originally white; however, it is said that Julia Roberts pushed for Washington to play the role. With his charisma and intellectual charm, Washington provided an ideal early showcase for his leading-man abilities. Before long, he became the focal point of every movie he appeared in.

28. Courage Under Fire (1996)

In a new collaboration with director Edward Zwick, following their work on Glory, Denzel Washington stars as a lieutenant colonel tormented by past mistakes, tasked with determining if a female soldier deserves the Medal of Honor for her bravery. The film, titled Courage Under Fire, presents an intriguing investigation reminiscent of the Japanese classic Rashomon, delving into gender politics and moral complexities. Although the narrative’s twists and turns may not be entirely captivating, Washington’s portrayal of a man grappling with his own guilt while embodying quiet heroism is compelling. Few actors can make self-torment appear as noble as Washington does in this role.

27. Out of Time (2003)

Initially, Out of Time might appear as yet another typical 2000s political thriller from Washington, considering Dean Cain is part of the cast. However, upon closer inspection, this movie, directed by Carl Franklin, offers a unique blend of darkness, humor, and sensuality. The story revolves around an alcoholic Florida police officer who finds himself in a series of predicaments and must navigate his way out. While the plot is complex, over-the-top, and filled with tension, it remains entertaining. Interestingly, Out of Time seems to anticipate the quirky style of Inherent Vice, albeit set in Florida with rum instead of California and weed.

26. Remember the Titans (2000)

https://youtube.com/watch?v=watch?v=uiqdA1B3_Nc

In a more casual and relatable manner: Here’s Denzel in top form, delivering a crowd-favorite performance. Yes, Remember the Titans might seem cheesy, but with an actor as captivating in the lead role, who cares? This film, based on a true story about a football coach trying to unite a racially mixed team in 1971, is solidly grounded by Washington’s genuine sincerity and his ability to make every motivational speech sound like authentic wisdom. If he were your coach, you’d be ready to charge through a brick wall for the man.

25. Much Ado About Nothing (1993)

In this particular movie, Washington stated that he has never been as goofy or playful as his character Don Pedro in Kenneth Branagh’s cheerful adaptation. This sentiment seems to be reflected by the broad smile on his face during an interview, indicating how much fun he had deviating from his usual acting style. In “Much Ado About Nothing,” Washington doesn’t appear to have missed his chance at interpreting Shakespeare, but he does seem a bit out of his element in the role – yet he is incredibly captivating, showcasing his charm and humor that are typically hidden under dramatic weight.

24. The Siege (1998)

https://youtube.com/watch?v=watch?v=VzLQOc-B0Ys

Following the 9/11 attacks, the popularity of this drama directed by Zwick surged, as its portrayal of a martial law-imposed New York City after a string of Islamist terrorist acts struck a chord of urgency and relevance. Despite maintaining politically sound messaging, culminating in a stirring Washington speech about values versus terrorism, the film is marred by a heavy-handed storyline, overtly sincere tone, and an unconvincing performance from Bruce Willis. Nonetheless, Denzel’s speech remains powerful even today, marking nearly two decades since its release.

23. Antwone Fisher (2002)

In this movie, I stepped behind the camera for the first time, telling the story of a man named Derek Luke, battling intense emotions like rage and fear. Guided by my therapist character, we delve into the roots of these feelings. Drawing inspiration from a real-life Sony Pictures lot security guard, this film is a grittier, more authentic version of Good Will Hunting. It’s rawer in places too, thanks to Luke’s intense performance and my unwavering direction. This movie packs a stronger emotional punch than you might recall.

22. The Equalizer, The Equalizer 2, and The Equalizer 3 (2014, 2018, 2023)

In a surprising twist, an intense and gruff character, reminiscent of an old ’80s TV series, is brought to life by Washington with remarkable skill. Despite the brutal, ruthless nature of his black-ops vigilante, which ranks among his most merciless portrayals, the film never explicitly asks viewers to like him. Instead, it’s a hidden gem that showcases kicking butt with unapologetic, immoral efficiency. Washington, who was approaching 60 when these action thrillers were released, shows no signs of slowing down; in fact, age seems to have added an even more imposing presence to his persona.

21. Gladiator II (2024)

In a somewhat ambiguous manner, we find ourselves ambivalent towards prominent actors who receive acclaim for their offbeat performances in secondary roles. At their peak, these performers can inject a touch of humor while grabbing the spotlight. However, at their weakest, such performances might merely be self-serving and self-absorbed. Washington primarily falls into the former category in “Gladiator II,” a mediocre sequel that would undoubtedly be less appealing without him. As Macrinus, a cunning manipulator and former slave who recruits Paul Mescal’s Lucius into his stable of gladiators, Washington relishes the opportunity to portray someone with disdain for everyone around him – though he never overtly shows it. His smile, feigned as if it were a knife, Macrinus stealthily maneuvers every situation to his advantage, making him the most delightful aspect of “Gladiator II.” The Academy Award winner hasn’t been this audacious and brash since “Training Day.” If he is indeed contemplating retirement, it appears that he intends to enjoy himself before calling it a day.

20. Unstoppable (2010)

In his last project with director Tony Scott, who passed away two years afterwards, the movie “Unstoppable” showcases Denzel Washington’s brilliance in traditional, man-versus-machine action thrillers. This role serves as a contemporary demonstration of Washington’s extraordinary talent for portraying intelligent, no-nonsense characters. Although he is the main actor, Washington also excels at collaborating with others, particularly Chris Pine, who was relatively new to the scene at that time. Together, they deliver an impressive performance as they struggle to survive while attempting to control a runaway train. Despite its basic plotline, Washington breathes life into it in a remarkable way.

19. American Gangster (2007)

https://youtube.com/watch?v=watch?v=cXCMz340CRg

Speaking hypothetically, if we were evaluating Washington’s performances based solely on their cold-heartedness, the character of Frank Lucas from ‘American Gangster’ would be among the top contenders. This Harlem gangster follows a rigid moral code, as most do, but what makes Washington’s portrayal stand out is the underlying racial animosity of the character. Despite being respected and feared, Lucas is a black man navigating White America, and he bears this sense of injustice with an unwavering anger that hints at a deep-seated frustration, suggesting that no matter his power, it may never fully alleviate his resentment.

18. Roman J. Israel, Esq. (2017)

In this rephrased version:

17. A Soldier’s Story (1984)

In the movie’s promotional materials, Washington was heavily showcased, yet he only appears as a supporting character in this film adaptation of Charles Fuller’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play, “A Soldier’s Story.” Denzel portrays the diligent private with a hidden past, projecting an intelligent, eager demeanor that masks his shrewdness and potential danger. His performance is impressive, and despite the presence of other talented actors, the audience finds themselves anticipating Washington’s reappearance.

16. Cry Freedom (1987)

In this film, Washington delivered a notable performance as Stephen Biko, the activist who was tragically murdered while fighting against apartheid in South Africa during the 1980s. Interestingly, the movie features a white character, portrayed by Kevin Kline, who serves as an interpreter for the black characters’ ideas. However, Kline and Washington have excellent chemistry, and Kline’s role is generally limited. Despite some flaws in the movie, Washington’s portrayal of the accent and his powerful courtroom speech are commendable.

15. Man on Fire (2004)

https://youtube.com/watch?v=watch?v=eDDh50B6kA4

In this film, Denzel Washington portrays a character seeking just retribution, a role that beautifully sets the stage for many action-packed thrillers similar to those featuring Liam Neeson. His character is a retired CIA agent who finds new purpose in protecting a young girl, Dakota Fanning, until she’s abducted and he embarks on a rescue mission. The narrative structure serves as an excellent template for such films, with Washington delivering an imposing presence that makes him the last person anyone would want to confront. Furthermore, his character is rewarded with an outstanding final scene.

14. The Hurricane (1999)

https://youtube.com/watch?v=watch?v=nQkiJT2MR4w

One of Washington’s most notable accomplishments lies in his ability to transform seemingly award-winning roles into something extraordinary. His portrayal of Rubin Carter, the boxer falsely accused of murder, was tailor-made for Academy recognition, as evident by his Best Actor nomination. However, Washington consistently delivers a compelling performance as a man who has been wronged. His emotional depiction of Carter’s plight is made all the more impactful by his portrayal of decency, enabling viewers to empathize with Carter’s anger and powerlessness.

13. The Mighty Quinn (1988)

https://youtube.com/watch?v=watch?v=4ALdG_nhQBY

Roger Ebert noted that this role catapulted Washington into stardom, and indeed it did. This film may not be his best movie or performance, but it showcases Denzel’s unparalleled charm more than any other. Each action of his seems to radiate from the screen. In the story, he portrays a Caribbean cop working to free a childhood friend (Robert Townsend) wrongfully accused of a crime. However, this film is essentially a platform for Denzel Washington to display his magnetic charm. Honestly, just watch him play the piano – it’s almost unjust.

12. Inside Man (2006)

As a dedicated cinephile, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing Spike Lee and Denzel Washington collaborate on three films tackling race and class. However, their collaboration on “Inside Man” – a gripping crime thriller that became their most successful project – should not overshadow its brilliance or Washington’s captivating portrayal of a suave hostage negotiator. This character, pitted against Clive Owen’s equally cool-headed bank robber, is a testament to Washington’s ability to infuse every Lee production with a spark that sets it apart. In “Inside Man”, Washington imbues his street-smart character with a jazz-like improvisational charm that keeps you on the edge of your seat, making it both compelling and exhilarating.

11. Glory (1989)

https://youtube.com/watch?v=watch?v=KD5DVxqmjRo

It’s highly plausible that Washington earned his first Oscar primarily due to his powerful portrayal in the movie “Glory,” particularly the impactful whipping scene, which showcased his unique ability to blend defiance and vulnerability. Although “Glory” can be categorized as a white-savior drama, it’s easy to underestimate the film or Washington’s performance. However, the character of Trip portrayed by Washington remains vivid and cocky even after nearly 30 years, demonstrating that he was one of the most commanding figures on screen — a star in the making.

10. Flight (2012)

When the film “Flight” premiered, Washington was typically taking on simpler, action-packed roles in films. However, this Robert Zemeckis drama served as a reminder that Washington is capable of delivering nuanced performances. He gives an exceptional portrayal of a heroic pilot struggling to outmaneuver his addiction issues before they cause his downfall. Known for playing tough characters or noble heroes, Washington takes on the role of a pitiful, small man in this film, and the shift in character type only adds to its intensity.

9. The Tragedy of Macbeth (2022)

In 2022, Washington himself admitted that he intentionally avoided prior interpretations of Macbeth to ensure his portrayal remained unique: He hadn’t witnessed any stage production or film adaptation before embarking on this role. As a result, Washington’s Macbeth, though not necessarily the ultimate interpretation, bears a strong resemblance to him. In this performance, Washington portrays the doomed thane as a warrior brimming with intensity and purpose, every emotion etched clearly on his weathered face.

8. Mississippi Masala (1991)

https://youtube.com/watch?v=watch?v=kSrPYziDGW8

Mira Nair, known for her large-scale Disney films like “Queen of Katwe” and daring biopics such as “Amelia,” truly shines in this follow-up to “Salaam Bombay!” The film tells the tale of an Indian-American woman (portrayed by Sarita Choudhury) who develops a romantic relationship with a carpet cleaner (Washington) in Mississippi. Their families struggle greatly with their union, but the movie does not avoid heavier themes and carries an undercurrent of sadness. However, to only focus on these aspects would overlook the film’s immense sexiness and the powerful chemistry between Washington and Choudhury, which can at times be overpowering. Regrettably, this movie has been largely forgotten, but it merits a second glance.

7. Fences (2016)

In Denzel Washington’s most powerful directorial performance yet, based on August Wilson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play “Fences”, Washington masterfully straddles multiple character categories as Troy Maxson, a former ballplayer turned sanitation worker in 1950s Pittsburgh. He skillfully portrays Troy as both humorous and endearing while embodying the strong moral authority of a man striving to be a role model for righteous living.

6. Mo’ Better Blues (1990)

Mo’ Better Blues” debuted mere months following Washington’s initial Oscar win, marking the start of a prosperous collaboration between Washington and Lee. In this film, Washington portrays Bleek, a charismatic jazz enthusiast who is equally talented on the trumpet as he is prone to self-destructive behavior. On paper, this character may seem like a tired cliché, but Washington imbues him with genuine emotion, making Bleek a character that one cannot help but empathize with, despite his frequent mistakes in life.

5. Crimson Tide (1995)

In the 90’s film “Crimson Tide”, Washington played a rising star opposite Gene Hackman, who was already established as a seasoned actor. This movie marked the passing of the baton, as in more recent films like “Safe House” and “Unstoppable”, Washington has taken on the role of respected elder to younger actors. Despite being under the command of Hackman’s character, Washington held his own, making “Crimson Tide” one of the most compelling man-to-man, character-driven thrillers of the 90’s. The movie was never overly dramatic, always maintaining a high level of tension, and serving as an ideal showcase for two outstanding actors.

4. Devil in a Blue Dress (1995)

In a turn of events, this film adaptation of Walter Mosley’s novel didn’t perform well at the box office. However, it garnered considerable attention for Don Cheadle’s captivating portrayal as a mad sidekick to Washington’s character, the composed and strategic private eye Easy Rawlins. Despite this, it is Washington who gives “Devil in a Blue Dress” its confident stride, by offering a skillful, gritty depiction of his character that echoes the racial tensions of postwar Los Angeles.

3. He Got Game (1998)

In the movie “He Got Game,” Denzel Washington portrays a character unlike any other in Washington – a convicted murderer granted temporary freedom to persuade his gifted basketball-playing son (Ray Allen) to join the governor’s former college. This film revolves around redemption, but Washington’s unenlightened and guarded persona makes it seem improbable that he can change. The improbability of this transformation only intensifies the emotional impact. It’s a performance brimming with suppressed male dignity, and the actor imbues this tense father-son relationship with poignancy, playing a flawed individual who must ultimately learn to be a hero instead of a villain.

2. Training Day (2001)

Initially, Training Day might seem like a typical cop film with Denzel Washington portraying the seasoned officer instructing Ethan Hawke, the rookie. However, as the story unfolds, Detective Alonzo Harris proves to be not just corrupt but also pitiful and extremely dangerous. Washington’s performance in this movie was award-winning, truly deserving of the Oscar he received: He transformed a genre thriller into something chilling, amusing, seductive, and at times horrifying. Washington had been playing noble yet monotonous characters prior to Training Day, but you can tell he savors the opportunity to embody a monster, albeit one with a humanity that cannot be ignored. His performance is electrifying and hard to turn away from, even when you catch it on a random Saturday afternoon on cable. It’s high time Washington took on more villainous roles.

1. Malcolm X (1992)

https://youtube.com/watch?v=watch?v=sx4sEvhYeVE

As a film critic, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing Denzel Washington revisit the role of Malcolm X before – in the ’80s, he portrayed him on stage in “When the Chickens Came Home to Roost.” Yet, when he agreed to take on Spike Lee’s epic film, he knew it would be no easy task. To fully embody Malcolm, Denzel took a break from other projects and dedicated an entire year to understanding his mindset.

Grierson & Leitch frequently discuss films for The New Republic magazine and also run a podcast about cinema. You can follow their latest updates on Twitter @griersonleitch, or check out their website at griersonleitch.com.

2024-11-24 18:56