All 18 Denzel Washington Movies From The 1990s, Ranked

Denzel Washington is one of the best actors of all time and has been a powerhouse of cinema since his first feature-length role, all the way back in 1981. Testament to his immense talent and longevity, he has forged a reputation for playing a diverse and eclectic collection of characters that all have his underlying poise and charisma. The 1990s were a particularly breakout decade for Washington as he was able to string together an impressive 18 films, most of which he starred in, with many gaining massive critical and commercial success.

✕ Remove Ads

Known for his many Oscar-nominated roles in a career highlighted with impeccable performances, some of his best work from the ’90s helped solidify him as a Hollywood icon. From his role in the ahead-of-its-time law drama Philadelphia, which saw him portray a gritty, complex lawyer, to his roles in sports films like He Got Game and The Hurricane, which show his physical and emotional command of the screen. Washington brought an intensity and gravitas to his characters that was seldom matched by any other actor in the ’90s.

18 Virtuosity (1995)

As Parker Barnes

Virtuosity (1995) - Poster - Denzel Washington - kelly lynch - russel crowe

Your Rating

10 stars9 stars8 stars7 stars6 star5 stars4 stars3 stars2 stars1 star Rate Now 0/10 Leave a Review

Your comment has not been saved

Virtuosity RActionCrimeScience FictionThriller

Virtuosity is a science fiction film that explores the intersection of virtual reality and reality. The film follows Parker Barnes, a former policeman played by Denzel Washington, who is tasked with capturing SID 6.7, a highly advanced artificial intelligence entity, created by a virtual reality program, that has become self-aware and escapes into the real world.

Director Brett Leonard Release Date August 4, 1995 Studio(s) Paramount Distributor(s) Paramount Pictures Writers Eric Bernt Cast Denzel Washington , Russell Crowe , Kelly Lynch , Alanna Ubach , William Forsythe Runtime 106 Minutes Main Genre Action Expand

✕ Remove Ads

Virtuosity is a science fiction action thriller that stars Washington as Parker Barnes, a former police officer who is serving 17 years in prison for killing a terrorist who murdered his family. Barnes is offered a deal to catch a virtual training system serial killer (Russell Crowe) who has manipulated their way into the real world via a synthetic android body. In one of Washington’s lesser-known works, the narrative is a little disjointed, but the chemistry between Washington and Crowe is magnetic, and the authenticity they bring to the roles makes it a film worth watching.

Imagery-from-Safe-House-and-Training-Day Related Denzel Washington’s 10 Best Thrillers

With a career as vast and varied as Denzel Washington’s, it’s no surprise this two-time Oscar winner has plenty of incredible thrillers.

1

17 Heart Condition (1990)

As Napoleon Stone

01161224_poster_w780.jpg

Your Rating

10 stars9 stars8 stars7 stars6 star5 stars4 stars3 stars2 stars1 star Rate Now 0/10 Leave a Review

Your comment has not been saved

Heart Condition RComedyCrimeDramaFantasy

Heart Condition is a 1990 film featuring a racist police officer, Jack Moony, who receives a heart transplant from his deceased rival, Napoleon Stone. The ghost of Stone accompanies Moony, offering advice on his personal and professional life, challenging Moony’s views and prejudices.

Director James D. Parriott Release Date February 2, 1990 Cast Bob Hoskins , Denzel Washington , Chloe Webb , Roger E. Mosley , Ja’net DuBois , Alan Rachins , Ray Baker , Jeffrey Meek , Eva LaRue , Frank R. Roach , Robert Apisa , Kieran Mulroney , Lisa Stahl , Clayton Landey , Julia Silverman , Phyllis Hamlin , Jeff MacGregor , George Kyle , Bill Applebaum , Mary Catherine Wright , Johnny Walker , Ken Martinez , Diane Cary , Monte Landis , Anthony “Wink” Atkinson Runtime 100 minutes Expand
✕ Remove Ads

Washington stars as ‘ambulance chasing’ lawyer Napoleon Stone alongside a bigoted, racist cop, Jack Moony (Bob Hoskins), in the 1990 comedy-drama Heart Condition. When Stone dies in an apparent car accident at the same time as Moony has a heart attack, Moony is given Stone’s heart as a replacement, with his ghostly figure now haunting him. The premise is unique, and it gives Washington a chance to show his comedy chops, which he performs expertly. The film has many heartwarming and humorous moments, and the charm and chemistry between leads once again lead the narrative to a satisfying conclusion.

Washington used his influence to ‘tone down’ the character of Napoleon Stone, who was initially written to be a flashy pimp, wanting to negate some of the negative racial stereotypes.

✕ Remove Ads

16 The Preacher’s Wife (1996)

As Dudley

01413208_poster_w780.jpg

Your Rating

10 stars9 stars8 stars7 stars6 star5 stars4 stars3 stars2 stars1 star Rate Now 0/10 Leave a Review

Your comment has not been saved

The Preacher’s Wife PGFamilyFantasyDramaComedyRomance

The Preacher’s Wife is a romantic comedy-drama centered around Reverend Henry Biggs, who faces challenges in his marriage and work while an angel, Dudley, arrives to offer divine assistance. The film explores themes of faith and love as Biggs navigates personal and professional struggles.

Director Penny Marshall Release Date December 13, 1996 Writers Allan Scott Cast Denzel Washington , Whitney Houston , Courtney B. Vance , Gregory Hines , Jenifer Lewis , Loretta Devine , Paul Bates , Justin Pierre Edmund , Lionel Richie , Victor Williams , Shari Headley , Marcella Lowery , Cissy Houston , Charlotte d’Amboise , Helmar Augustus Cooper , Jernard Burks Runtime 123 minutes Expand

Penny Marshall’s The Preacher’s Wife is a comedy-drama starring Washington as Dudley, an angel from heaven who is sent to help out a struggling preacher and his wife (Whitney Houston) in their time of need. In another film that gives Washington the chance to show off his comic timing and delivery, his portrayal, alongside Houston, is the bright spot in this charming film. It delves into deep themes of family, love, and faith, and it’s a semi-rare opportunity to see Washington bring a loving warmth and lighthearted nature to his roles that perfectly showcase his versatility as an actor.

15 Ricochet (1991)

As Nick Styles

Ricochet (1991) - Poster - Denzel Washingtion as a cop

Your Rating

10 stars9 stars8 stars7 stars6 star5 stars4 stars3 stars2 stars1 star Rate Now 0/10 Leave a Review

Your comment has not been saved

Ricochet RCrimeThrillerActionDrama

Ricochet is a 1991 action thriller directed by Russell Mulcahy, starring Denzel Washington as Nick Styles, a rookie cop who becomes a hero after taking down a notorious villain.Years later, the villain, Earl Talbot Blake, escapes from prison and seeks revenge against Styles, who must confront his troubled past to stop him.

Director Russell Mulcahy Release Date October 4, 1991 Studio(s) HBO , Cinema Plus , Indigo Productions , Silver Pictures , Warner Bros. Pictures Writers Steven E. de Souza Cast Denzel Washington , John Lithgow , Ice-T , Kevin Pollak , Lindsay Wagner Runtime 102 Minutes Main Genre Crime Expand
✕ Remove Ads

Ricochet is an action crime thriller that sees Washington masterfully portray Nick Styles, a formidable lawman who’s forced to confront an old criminal (John Lithgow) who wants revenge on Styles for putting him behind bars. The dynamic cat-and-mouse game between the two stars feels realistic and like it has genuine stakes. Washington gave one of the best performances of his career to that date and helped set the stage for him to become an iconic figure in the crime/action genre with his suspenseful and nuanced performance.

See also  Backpack Kid Biography: Net Worth, Floss, Instagram, Age, Dance, YouTube, TikTok, Wikipedia, Parents, Height

14 The Siege (1998)

As Anthony Hubbard

Denzel Washington on the phone in front of police cars in The Siege.

✕ Remove Ads

Edward Zwick’s The Siege is an action film that sees Washington star as determined FBI Agent Anthony Hubbard, who must leap into action when a collection of terrorist cells commit attacks across New York City. Washington shines in an ensemble cast featuring stars like Tony Shalhoub and Bruce Willis, and his grounded approach to Hubbard provides much of the film’s emotional stakes. Though Washington’s gripping portrayal of a character grappling with the moral implications of upholding national security is fascinating to watch, the storyline feels a little too straightforward for him to flesh out the role fully.

13 Mississippi Masala (1991)

As Demetrius

Mississippi Masala - Poster

Your Rating

10 stars9 stars8 stars7 stars6 star5 stars4 stars3 stars2 stars1 star Rate Now 0/10 Leave a Review

Your comment has not been saved

Mississippi Masala RDramaRomance

Mississippi Masala is a romantic drama directed by Mira Nair that explores cultural diversity and identity. The film follows the lives of an Indian family expelled from Uganda, relocating to Mississippi, where their daughter, Mina (Sarita Choudhury), falls in love with Demetrius (Denzel Washington), an African American man. The narrative delves into the complexities of interracial relationships and the challenges faced by immigrants in a racially segregated environment.

Director Mira Nair Release Date February 5, 1992 Writers Sooni Taraporevala Cast Denzel Washington , Sarita Choudhury , Roshan Seth , Sharmila Tagore , Charles S. Dutton , Joe Seneca , Ranjit Chowdhry , Mohan Gokhale , Mohan Agashe , Tico Wells , Yvette Hawkins , Aanjjan Srivastav , Konga Mbandu , Sahira Nair , Dipti Suthar , Varsha Thaker , Ashok Lath , Natalie Oliver , Karen Pinkston , Willy Cobs , Mira Nair , Rajika Puri , Sharon Williams , Cyreio Hughes , Stacy Swinford , Rick Senn , Jim Haffey Runtime 118 Minutes Main Genre Drama Expand
✕ Remove Ads

In Mira Nair’s romantic drama Mississippi Masala, Washington portrays a Black man named Demetrius, who falls for and begins a relationship with an Indian-American woman named Mina (Sarita Choudhury). Washington’s chemistry with Choudhury is palpable and undeniable throughout the film, and the two masterfully embody their forbidden romance in a film that delicately deals with race, traditions, and prejudices. Mississippi Masala shows that Washington is more than capable of being a romantic lead in a sensitive film, but in a way, it fails to play to his true strengths as a commanding, dominant figure in the crime genre.

Denzel Washington in The Book of Eli and Inside Man on a blue sky gritty background Related Denzel Washington’s 10 Most Underrated Movies

Denzel Washington has made a career out of Oscar-winning performances and films, but he has starred in many underrated films that need more love.

1

✕ Remove Ads

12 Mo’ Better Blues (1990)

As Minifield “Bleek” Gilliam

01257989_poster_w780.jpg

Your Rating

10 stars9 stars8 stars7 stars6 star5 stars4 stars3 stars2 stars1 star Rate Now 0/10 Leave a Review

Your comment has not been saved

Mo’ Better Blues RDramaRomanceMusicComedy

Mo’ Better Blues: A Spike Lee film featuring Denzel Washington as Bleek Gilliam, a talented but self-centered trumpeter. The 1990 release follows Bleek as he navigates his intense commitment to music and relationships with two women. His world is challenged when he aids his manager, adding unexpected turmoil.

Director Spike Lee Release Date August 3, 1990 Cast Denzel Washington , Spike Lee , Wesley Snipes , Giancarlo Esposito , John Turturro , Charlie Murphy , Nicholas Turturro , Robin Harris , Joie Lee , Cynda Williams , Flavor Flav , Bill Nunn , Dick Anthony Williams , Samuel L. Jackson , Tracy Camilla Johns , Coati Mundi , Scot Anthony Robinson , Abbey Lincoln , Rubén Blades , Diahann Carroll , Leonard L. Thomas Runtime 129 minutes Expand

Mo’ Better Blues sees the continuation of brilliant collaborations with Spike Lee and Washington, with Lee writing, directing, and starring in this musical comedy-drama. The film’s plot follows a talented yet haunted jazz musician whose life decisions have cost him much of his talent, friends, and career. Lee and Washington’s close friendship allows the two to bring that chemistry onto the screen, and they provide commanding performances in a beautiful story about friendship and music. Washington’s portrayal of a man on the edge who wishes to improve his life is beautifully nuanced and is an underrated gem in his filmography.

✕ Remove Ads

11 The Bone Collector (1999)

As Lincoln Rhyme

Your Rating

10 stars9 stars8 stars7 stars6 star5 stars4 stars3 stars2 stars1 star Rate Now 0/10 Leave a Review

Your comment has not been saved

The Bone Collector RThrillerDramaCrimeMystery

The Bone Collector is a crime thriller directed by Phillip Noyce, starring Denzel Washington as a quadriplegic detective and Angelina Jolie as a young patrol officer. The film follows their efforts to solve a string of brutal murders in New York City, with Washington’s character guiding Jolie’s through the investigation from his immobilized state. The suspense-driven narrative explores themes of determination and partnership.

Where to Watch

  • stream
  • rent
  • buy

Not available

Not available

Not available

*Availability in US Director Phillip Noyce Release Date November 5, 1999 Writers Jeremy Iacone Cast Denzel Washington , Angelina Jolie , Queen Latifah , Leland Orser , Michael Rooker Runtime 118 minutes Main Genre Crime Expand

The Bone Collector is a crime thriller that sees Washington play quadriplegic homicide detective Lincoln Rhyme, who, with the help of a young rookie officer (Angelina Jolie), tracks down a serial killer who leaves clues at his crime scenes. Washington and Jolie create magic every time they share the screen, with one playing off the other expertly, combining their skills to create a gripping and intricate drama. Washington proves he can command an audience with his delivery and intelligence, even with limited physicality. However, the film’s basic plot prevents it from being one of the standouts of the decade.

✕ Remove Ads

imagery from Remember the Titans and Man on Fire Denzel Washington as a coach and in a suit Related All 12 Denzel Washington Movies From The 2000s, Ranked

Denzel Washington had one of the most incredible decades in film in the 2000s, with iconic performances in Training Day and American Gangster.

10 Fallen (1998)

As Detective John Hobbes

Fallen (1998) - Poster

Your Rating

10 stars9 stars8 stars7 stars6 star5 stars4 stars3 stars2 stars1 star Rate Now 0/10 Leave a Review

Your comment has not been saved

Fallen RThrillerCrimeDrama

Fallen (1998) is a supernatural thriller centered on Detective John Hobbes, played by Denzel Washington, who confronts a series of mysterious murders linked to a malevolent, ancient force. As the investigation unfolds, Hobbes realizes the killer possesses the ability to shift from one body to another, leading to a tense and eerie cat-and-mouse chase. Directed by Gregory Hoblit, the film delves into themes of good versus evil and fate.

Where to Watch

  • stream
  • rent
  • buy

Not available

Not available

Not available

*Availability in US Director Gregory Hoblit Release Date January 16, 1998 Writers Nicholas Kazan Cast Denzel Washington , John Goodman , Donald Sutherland , Embeth Davidtz , James Gandolfini , Elias Koteas , Gabriel Casseus , Robert Joy , Aida Turturro , Michael J. Pagan , Frank Medrano , Ronn Munro , Cynthia Hayden , Ray Xifo , Tony Michael Donnelly , Tara Carnes , Reno Wilson , Wendy Cutler , Jeff Tanner , Jerry Walsh , Bob Rumnock , Ellen Sheppard Runtime 124 Minutes Main Genre Thriller Expand

Fallen is a supernatural thriller that follows Detective John Hobbes (Washington), who is tasked with investigating occult murders committed by a copycat killer who can shift between bodies. In a rare outing for Washington into the paranormal, he takes to the role like a duck to water and provides a grounded authenticity to the storyline. Washington is again able to showcase his range as the lead in a different genre; however, it was noted “Washington has the almost impossible task of holding together a convoluted picture that’s only intermittently suspenseful and not very engaging emotionally or intellectually” (via Variety)

✕ Remove Ads

See also  Who are Ali Sethi Parents? Meet Najam Sethi and Jugnu Mohsin

9 Courage Under Fire (1996)

As Lieutenant Colonel Nathaniel Serling

Courage Under Fire (1996) - Poster

Your Rating

10 stars9 stars8 stars7 stars6 star5 stars4 stars3 stars2 stars1 star Rate Now 0/10 Leave a Review

Your comment has not been saved

Courage Under Fire RDramaActionMystery

Courage Under Fire is a drama and war film directed by Edward Zwick, starring Denzel Washington and Meg Ryan. The film follows a troubled Army officer tasked with investigating a female pilot’s worthiness for the Medal of Honor. Through interviews with her crew, he uncovers conflicting accounts of her actions during a dangerous rescue mission in the Gulf War.

Director Edward Zwick Release Date July 12, 1996 Writers Patrick Sheane Duncan Cast Denzel Washington , Meg Ryan , Lou Diamond Phillips , Michael Moriarty , Matt Damon , Bronson Pinchot , Seth Gilliam , Regina Taylor Runtime 116 Minutes Main Genre Drama Expand

Washington and director Edward Zwick collaborated for the second of their three films together to produce the stellar war drama Courage Under Fire. Washington plays a Lieutenant Colonel who investigates a Medal of Honor candidate’s role in the Gulf War, which leads to a series of conflicting narratives, old secrets, and hidden traumas. Washington has always excelled at playing an authoritative figure who has a haunted and potentially criminal past, as he is able to perfectly convey the mixed emotions and feelings that come with fighting one’s own personal demons while aiming to maintain an air of grace.

✕ Remove Ads

8 Devil In A Blue Dress (1995)

As Easy Rawlins

Your Rating

10 stars9 stars8 stars7 stars6 star5 stars4 stars3 stars2 stars1 star Rate Now 0/10 Leave a Review

Your comment has not been saved

Devil in a Blue Dress RCrimeDramaMystery

Devil in a Blue Dress, directed by Carl Franklin, is set in late 1940s Los Angeles and follows Easy Rawlins, an unemployed black World War II veteran, who is hired to locate a missing white woman, Daphne Monet. The investigation draws him into the dangerous undercurrents of the city’s jazz club scene.

Director Carl Franklin Release Date September 29, 1995 Writers Walter Mosley , Carl Franklin Cast Denzel Washington , Tom Sizemore , Jennifer Beals , Don Cheadle , Maury Chaykin , Terry Kinney , Mel Winkler , Albert Hall Runtime 102 Minutes Main Genre Crime Expand

Carl Franklin’s mystery thriller, based on Walter Mosley’s novel of the same name, sees Washington play the lead of World War II veteran Ezekiel “Easy” Rawlins. Rawlins, desperate for any line of work, is hired as a detective to track down a missing woman and uncovers a mystery that he may not be able to escape. Widely regarded as one of the most stylish neo-noir crime films of the 90s, Washington and Cheadle’s iconic performances help hold the film together, with Washington once again able to flow seamlessly between criminal drama and touching, sensitive topics.

✕ Remove Ads

All 18 Denzel Washington Films From the ’90s On This List:

IMDb Rating:

Virtuosity (1995)

5.5/10

Heart Condition (1990)

5.5/10

The Preacher’s Wife (1996)

5.7/10

Ricochet (1991)

6.2/10

The Seige (1998)

6.4/10

Mississippi Masala (1991)

6.8/10

Mo’ Better Blues (1990)

6.7/10

The Bone Collector (1999)

6.7/10

Fallen (1998)

7.0/10

Courage Under Fire (1996)

6.6/10

Devil in a Blue Dress (1995)

6.8/10

The Pelican Brief (1993)

6.6/10

Crimson Tide (1995)

7.3/10

Much Ado About Nothing (1993)

7.3/10

He Got Game (1998)

6.9/10

Malcolm X (1992)

7.7/10

The Hurricane (1999)

7.6/10

Philadelphia (1993)

7.7/10

✕ Remove Ads

7 The Pelican Brief (1993)

As Gray Grantham

The Pelican Brief Official Poster

Your Rating

10 stars9 stars8 stars7 stars6 star5 stars4 stars3 stars2 stars1 star Rate Now 0/10 Leave a Review

Your comment has not been saved

The Pelican Brief PG-13CrimeDocumentaryDramaMysteryThriller

The Pelican Brief is a legal thriller starring Julia Roberts as law student Darby Shaw, who uncovers a conspiracy that links the murders of two Supreme Court justices. Based on John Grisham’s novel, the film follows her tense journey with investigative reporter Gray Grantham, played by Denzel Washington.

Where to Watch

  • stream
  • rent
  • buy

Not available

Not available

Not available

*Availability in US Director Alan J. Pakula Release Date September 17, 1993 Writers John Grisham , Alan J. Pakula Cast Julia Roberts , Denzel Washington , Sam Shepard , John Heard , Tony Goldwyn , James Sikking Runtime 141 minutes Main Genre Crime Expand

Based on John Grisham’s novel from 1992, The Pelican Brief sees Washington star as investigative journalist Gray Grantham, who teams up with a young law student (Julia Roberts) to uncover a grand political conspiracy. Washington and Roberts produce a formidable pair, with palpable chemistry and witty dialogue delivered with exceptional style. The plot is fast-paced, and the complex narrative produces many twists and turns, with Washington providing much of the driving force behind the plot in one of the most underrated performances of his career.

✕ Remove Ads

6 Crimson Tide (1995)

As Commander Ron Hunter

Crimson Tide (1995) - Poster - Denzel Washington & Gene Hackman

Your Rating

10 stars9 stars8 stars7 stars6 star5 stars4 stars3 stars2 stars1 star Rate Now 0/10 Leave a Review

Your comment has not been saved

Crimson Tide RThrillerActionDrama

Crimson Tide is a submarine thriller directed by Tony Scott, set during a period of political turmoil in Russia. The film follows Lieutenant Commander Ron Hunter, played by Denzel Washington, who clashes with Captain Frank Ramsey, played by Gene Hackman, over the interpretation of orders from the US government. As tensions rise, the crew of the USS Alabama must navigate the crisis and prevent a catastrophic outcome.

Where to Watch

  • stream
  • rent
  • buy

Not available

Not available

Not available

*Availability in US Director Tony Scott Release Date May 12, 1995 Studio(s) Hollywood Pictures , Don Simpson/Jerry Bruckheimer Films Writers Michael Schiffer Cast Denzel Washington , Gene Hackman , Matt Craven , George Dzundza , Viggo Mortensen Runtime 116 Minutes Main Genre Thriller Expand

Crimson Tide is a thriller that takes place on a nuclear submarine, with Washington portraying a Lt. Commander who clashes with his Captain (Gene Hackman). The film is set during a hotbed of political tension between Russia, the United States, and Japan, with each threatening to launch nuclear weapons if provoked by the others. The film is full of action and high-energy action sequences, and Washington rounds out the movie with a well-crafted performance and impeccable delivery as a resilient and determined naval officer who refuses to bow down to the chain of command.

Every Upcoming Denzel Washington Movie Related Every Upcoming Denzel Washington Movie

Denzel Washington has been called the best actor of the 21st century so far, and has generated a lot of excitement for his upcoming roles.

1
✕ Remove Ads

5 Much Ado About Nothing (1993)

As Don Pedro

Close

Washington plays the charismatic nobleman Don Pedro in Kenneth Branagh’s film adaption of Shakespeare’s iconic play Much Ado About Nothing. The film is set in the Italian countryside and utilizes Shakespeare’s witty dialogue and intriguing narrative to the fullest with an ensemble cast, including Emma Thompson, Michael Keaton, and Keanu Reeves. Washington, known for his more prominent action roles, handles the lighter-hearted portrayal with ease, matching the Shakespearean prose with an energetic and comedic approach. Washington’s performance is truly magnetic but falls just short of some of his most iconic roles from the 1990s.

See also  10 Most Read Star Wars Fanfictions On AO3 (SFW)

✕ Remove Ads

4 He Got Game (1998)

As Jake Shuttlesworth

01160773_poster_w780.jpg

Your Rating

10 stars9 stars8 stars7 stars6 star5 stars4 stars3 stars2 stars1 star Rate Now 0/10 Leave a Review

Your comment has not been saved

He Got Game RDrama

He Got Game is a sports drama directed by Spike Lee, starring Denzel Washington as Jake Shuttlesworth, a convict granted a temporary parole. He must persuade his talented son, Jesus, portrayed by Ray Allen, to enroll in the governor’s alma mater in exchange for a reduced prison sentence.

Release Date May 1, 1998 Writers Spike Lee Cast Denzel Washington , Ray Allen , Rosario Dawson , Milla Jovovich , Hill Harper , Ned Beatty , Jim Brown , Joseph Lyle Taylor , Bill Nunn , Michele Shay , John Turturro , Shaquille O’Neal , Charles Barkley , Michael Jordan , Jill Kelly , Chasey Lain , Robin Roberts , Scottie Pippen , Reggie Miller , Bill Walton , Dick Vitale , Bobby Cremins , Rick Pitino , Jim Boeheim , George Karl Runtime 136 minutes Expand

In potentially the most overlooked film in Washington’s entire filmography, Spike Lee’s He Got Game sees Washington star as convicted murderer Jake Shuttlesworth. Jake is in prison for killing his wife but is given a chance for freedom if he can convince his son, a high-school basketball sensation, to join the governor’s college. Washington provides an expert portrayal of a father caught in a moral dilemma between his freedom and his family. While not receiving the critical acclaim of some of his other performances, Washington’s introspective and honest depiction of a broken father is one of his finest performances ever.

✕ Remove Ads

3 Malcolm X (1992)

As Malcolm X

Malcolm X (1992) - Poster

Your Rating

10 stars9 stars8 stars7 stars6 star5 stars4 stars3 stars2 stars1 star Rate Now 0/10 Leave a Review

Your comment has not been saved

Malcolm X PG-13BiographyDramaHistory

Malcolm X is a biographical film directed by Spike Lee, depicting the life of the influential African American leader and civil rights activist. Starring Denzel Washington in the titular role, the film chronicles Malcolm X’s journey from his troubled youth to his rise as a prominent figure in the Nation of Islam and his subsequent transformation after a pilgrimage to Mecca. The film captures the complexities and evolution of Malcolm X’s beliefs and activism.

Director Spike Lee Release Date November 18, 1992 Studio(s) 40 Acres And A Mule Filmworks , JVC , Largo Entertainment Distributor(s) Warner Bros. Pictures Writers Spike Lee , Arnold Perl , Alex Haley Cast Denzel Washington , Angela Bassett , Albert Hall , Al Freeman Jr. , Delroy Lindo Runtime 202 minutes Main Genre Drama Expand

In yet another collaboration with Spike Lee, Washington stars in one of the most memorable roles of his career as the titular civil rights leader Malcolm X. The film dramatizes key events in Malcolm’s life, from his early beginnings to his political and social influence, to his tragic assassination. Washington earned himself a Best Actor nomination at the Academy Awards for his portrayal, which spanned many aspects and variations of Malcolm X’s character. Washington effortlessly embodies each version of the civil rights icon, and his respect and commitment to the role make it a landmark in his career.

✕ Remove Ads

Denzel Washington As Malcolm X From Malcolm X And Denzel Washington As John Hobbes From Fallen Related All 16 Denzel Washington Movies Where His Character Dies

Denzel Washington has many roles where his characters often die. Washington has a total of 16 movies where his character ultimately dies.

1

2 The Hurricane (1999)

As Rubin “Hurricane” Carter

The Hurricane (1999) - Poster - Denzel Washington

Your Rating

10 stars9 stars8 stars7 stars6 star5 stars4 stars3 stars2 stars1 star Rate Now 0/10 Leave a Review

Your comment has not been saved

The Hurricane RDrama

The Hurricane (1999), directed by Norman Jewison, stars Denzel Washington as Rubin “Hurricane” Carter, a middleweight boxer wrongly imprisoned for murder. The film depicts Carter’s journey through the American legal system and the efforts of a diverse group of supporters aiming to prove his innocence.

Where to Watch

  • stream
  • rent
  • buy

Not available

Not available

Not available

*Availability in US Director Norman Jewison Release Date September 17, 1999 Studio(s) Universal Pictures , Azoff Entertainment , Beacon Communications , Beacon Pictures , Buena Vista International , Touchstone Pictures Writers Armyan Bernstein , Dan Gordon Cast Denzel Washington , Vicellous Shannon , Deborah Kara Unger , Liev Schreiber , John Hannah Runtime 146 Minutes Main Genre Drama Expand

The Hurricane follows the true life story of Rubin “Hurricane” Carter, portrayed by Washington, a former middleweight boxer who was wrongly convicted and imprisoned for a triple murder. The film depicts his early years, arrest, and time in prison, as well as his quest for justice and redemption. Once again, Washington received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor for his timeless and dedicated depiction of a man broken by society and the justice system who never loses hope. Washington brings his trademark intensity and tenacity to the role, and gained praise as one of his most critically acclaimed roles.

✕ Remove Ads

Once Denzel Washington agreed to play the role, he went through extensive boxing training with Rubin Carter in order to prepare for the portrayal.

1 Philadelphia (1993)

As Joe Miller

Your Rating

10 stars9 stars8 stars7 stars6 star5 stars4 stars3 stars2 stars1 star Rate Now 0/10 Leave a Review

Your comment has not been saved

Philadelphia PG-13Drama

Philadelphia (1994) is a legal drama directed by Jonathan Demme, starring Tom Hanks and Denzel Washington. Tom Hanks plays Andrew Beckett, a lawyer who is fired due to his HIV-positive status, while Denzel Washington portrays Joe Miller, a personal injury attorney who takes on Beckett’s wrongful dismissal case. The film addresses themes of discrimination, prejudice, and social justice in the context of the early AIDS epidemic.

Director jonathan demme Release Date January 14, 1994 Writers Ron Nyswaner Cast Tom Hanks , Denzel Washington , Roberta Maxwell , Buzz Kilman , Karen Finley , Daniel Chapman , Mark Sorensen Jr. , Jeffrey Williamson Runtime 125 Minutes Main Genre Drama Expand

Philadelphia sees Washington deliver the most stand-out performance of his career to that date, playing defiant lawyer Joe Miller, who takes on the case of a man with AIDS (Tom Hanks) who wishes to sue his former employers. It’s not just a film and a performance that put Washington on the map as one of the best dramatic actors of his era, but it also helped address and promote some incredibly important societal issues at the time. His nuance, his delivery, his tone, and his command of the scenes make it truly his finest performance of the 1990s.

✕ Remove Ads

Source: Variety

Headshot Of Denzel Washington In The Premiere Of Apple Original Films' and A24's Denzel Washington

Birthdate December 28, 1954 Birthplace Mount Vernon, New York, USA

Leave a Comment