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| Denzel Washington December 19, 2016. Photo by Nathan Congleton. |
Denzel Washington is a name synonymous with intensity, talent, and unforgettable performances. Known for his commanding presence and ability to bring authenticity to every role, Washington has established himself as one of the most respected actors in Hollywood. From action thrillers to powerful dramas, his career showcases a remarkable range and depth. Let’s explore some of the standout films in his incredible filmography.
POTENTIAL SPOILERS AHEAD!
My favorite Movie/TV Show he has been in:
Training Day (2001)
Rotten Tomatoes rating: 73%
IMDB rating: 7.7/10
Where to watch: Max, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV
In Training Day, Denzel Washington delivers a career-defining performance as Alonzo Harris, a corrupt, unhinged LAPD narcotics officer. Released in 2001, this gritty crime thriller is a roller-coaster ride through a dark day in Los Angeles, with Washington’s intense portrayal at its center. Here’s why Training Day is a must-watch for fans of Washington’s work.
From the moment we meet Alonzo, Washington’s charisma is undeniable. His character is cunning, unpredictable, and fearsome—a man who commands respect but instills fear. Washington’s portrayal of Alonzo is nothing short of magnetic, shifting effortlessly between charm and menace. Every line he delivers is powerful, and his scenes are filled with tension as he manipulates rookie cop Jake Hoyt (played by Ethan Hawke) to follow his twisted version of justice.
Washington’s performance is complemented by a stellar supporting cast. Ethan Hawke gives a nuanced performance as the naive but determined rookie, and his chemistry with Washington drives the film’s tension and emotional stakes. The two actors create a powerful dynamic, with Hawke’s character torn between loyalty and morality. Additionally, the film features memorable appearances by Scott Glenn, Eva Mendes, and Snoop Dogg, each adding to the gritty realism of Training Day.
The screenplay of Training Day is packed with intense dialogue and memorable moments. Lines like “King Kong ain’t got [expletive] on me!” have become iconic, showcasing Washington’s skill at delivering unforgettable lines. The writing and pacing create a relentless atmosphere that builds toward a shocking climax.
Beyond the action, Training Day explores themes of corruption, loyalty, and power. Washington’s Alonzo is a cautionary tale of what happens when authority is abused, and his performance adds a haunting layer to these themes. It’s no surprise that Washington won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his work in this film.
My rating:
I give Training Day a 10/10. Denzel Washington’s performance is electrifying, and the film’s intensity makes it one of the best crime thrillers of the 2000s.
My favorite Movie/TV Show he has been in that you may not have seen:
The Hurricane (1999)
Rotten Tomatoes rating: 83%
IMDB rating: 7.6/10
Where to watch: Peacock, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV
In The Hurricane, Denzel Washington plays Rubin "Hurricane" Carter, a middleweight boxer who was wrongfully convicted of murder. This emotional and inspiring drama, based on a true story, highlights Washington’s ability to bring depth to complex characters. His portrayal of Carter is powerful, capturing the man’s resilience and the injustices he endured.
Washington brings a quiet intensity to Carter, portraying his character’s inner strength and vulnerability. The scenes of Carter in prison are particularly poignant, as Washington conveys the pain of a man fighting for his freedom and dignity. His performance is deeply moving, making you root for Carter as he battles against a flawed justice system.
The film’s cast also includes standout performances from Vicellous Reon Shannon as Lesra Martin, a young man determined to help free Carter, and Deborah Kara Unger as Lisa Peters, one of Carter’s advocates. Their chemistry with Washington underscores the film’s themes of hope, perseverance, and the power of belief.
The Hurricane is a powerful film about injustice and redemption, with a script that balances courtroom drama and human emotion. Washington’s portrayal adds another layer to the story, bringing dignity and power to Carter’s struggle.
My rating:
I give The Hurricane a 7.5/10. Washington’s performance is captivating, and the story is a stirring reminder of the resilience of the human spirit.
Don’t waste your time with this Movie/TV Show:
Virtuosity (1995)
Rotten Tomatoes rating: 32%
IMDB rating: 5.6/10
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV
While Denzel Washington brings his usual dedication to the role of LAPD officer Lt. Parker Barnes, Virtuosity doesn’t quite live up to his other films. The movie features Washington facing off against a cyber-criminal played by Russell Crowe, but the futuristic plot and special effects haven’t aged well, leaving the film feeling somewhat outdated and lacking depth.
Washington’s character is well-acted, but the movie’s script and execution leave much to be desired. The premise of a virtual reality killer feels over-the-top and doesn’t offer the emotional weight or substance found in Washington’s best work.
While Virtuosity may hold some nostalgic appeal for fans of 90s sci-fi thrillers, it ultimately falls short of showcasing Denzel Washington’s immense talent.
My rating:
I give Virtuosity a 5/10. Washington does his best, but the film’s weak script and dated concept make it a less-than-memorable addition to his filmography.
Honorable Mentions to check out:
Denzel Washington’s remarkable career spans a wide variety of genres, each demonstrating his versatility and dedication. Here are a few more must-watch films from his filmography:
- Malcolm X
- Glory
- American Gangster
- Remember the Titans (If you asked me what my favorite Denzel sports movie is, this would be the one. An argument could be made that it's my favorite sports movie of all time)
- Fences
- Flight
- Philadelphia
- Inside Man
- Man on Fire
Each of these films showcases Washington’s ability to deliver powerful performances, whether he’s inspiring audiences, portraying historical figures, or keeping us on the edge of our seats. His talent, charisma, and commitment to his craft make Denzel Washington’s filmography an unforgettable journey in cinema.