TOP 10 Denzel Washington MOVIES

Denzel Washington is one of the most acclaimed actors of his generation, with a career spanning over four decades. He has starred in a wide range of films, from powerful dramas to action-packed thrillers, and has received numerous accolades for his performances, including two Academy Awards, three Golden Globe Awards, and a Tony Award. In this introduction, we will take a look at some of Denzel Washington’s best movies, showcasing his incredible range as an actor and his ability to bring complex characters to life on screen. From his breakout role in “Glory” to his iconic turn as detective Alonzo Harris in “Training Day,” Denzel Washington has delivered countless unforgettable performances that have solidified his place as one of Hollywood’s most talented actors.
Training Day (2001)

Training Day is a 2001 crime thriller directed by Antoine Fuqua and starring Denzel Washington and Ethan Hawke. The movie tells the story of a rookie LAPD officer named Jake Hoyt (Hawke), who is taken under the wing of veteran detective Alonzo Harris (Washington) for a one-day training exercise.
However, as the day progresses, Jake begins to realize that Alonzo is not the upstanding officer he appears to be, but rather a corrupt cop who is involved in drug dealing and other criminal activities. Alonzo’s actions put Jake in danger and force him to question his own morals as he decides whether to go along with Alonzo’s illegal activities or stand up to him and do the right thing.
Training Day is a gripping and intense thriller that showcases Denzel Washington’s talent for playing complex and morally ambiguous characters. Washington’s portrayal of Alonzo earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor, and the film itself received critical acclaim for its gritty and realistic depiction of the criminal underworld. Ethan Hawke also delivers a strong performance as Jake, the naive but determined officer who must navigate a dangerous and corrupt world. Overall, Training Day is a thrilling and thought-provoking film that has cemented its place as a modern classic in the crime thriller genre.
Man on Fire 2004

Man on Fire is a 2004 action thriller film directed by Tony Scott and starring Denzel Washington. The movie is based on the novel of the same name by A.J. Quinnell and tells the story of John Creasy (Washington), a former CIA operative who is hired to be the bodyguard of a young girl named Lupita Ramos (Dakota Fanning) in Mexico City.
Despite his initial reluctance to take on the job, Creasy soon forms a bond with Lupita and becomes a father figure to her. However, when Lupita is kidnapped by a Mexican cartel, Creasy becomes a man on a mission, using his skills and experience to track down those responsible and exact his own form of justice.
Man on Fire is a visually stunning and emotionally powerful film that showcases Denzel Washington’s range as an actor. Washington delivers a tour-de-force performance as Creasy, a tortured and haunted man who finds redemption through his love for Lupita. Dakota Fanning also gives a standout performance as Lupita, a young girl who is wise beyond her years and whose innocence and optimism inspire Creasy.
The film is known for its stylish direction and editing, which help to create a tense and atmospheric mood throughout. Man on Fire is a thrilling and emotional ride that is sure to keep audiences on the edge of their seats from start to finish.
American Gangster (2007)

American Gangster is a 2007 biographical crime film directed by Ridley Scott and starring Denzel Washington and Russell Crowe. The movie is based on the true story of Frank Lucas (Washington), a powerful drug lord who rose to prominence in the 1970s by smuggling heroin into the United States from Southeast Asia.
At the same time, Richie Roberts (Crowe), an honest and dedicated detective with the NYPD, is investigating the drug trade in New York City and becomes obsessed with bringing down Lucas and his organization. As the two men’s paths cross, they find themselves locked in a dangerous game of cat-and-mouse that threatens to destroy them both.
American Gangster is a compelling and thought-provoking film that showcases Denzel Washington’s commanding presence as an actor. Washington delivers a powerful performance as Frank Lucas, a complex and often ruthless character who is nevertheless sympathetic in his desire to rise above his circumstances and provide for his family. Russell Crowe also gives a standout performance as Richie Roberts, a flawed but determined man whose pursuit of justice puts him at odds with the corrupt system he is sworn to uphold.
The film is notable for its attention to detail and its portrayal of the social and political climate of the time, as well as its exploration of themes of power, corruption, and morality. American Gangster is a gripping and powerful film that is sure to leave a lasting impression on audiences.
Inside Man (2006)

Inside Man is a 2006 crime thriller directed by Spike Lee and starring Denzel Washington, Clive Owen, and Jodie Foster. The movie tells the story of a bank robbery in New York City, which quickly turns into a hostage situation that becomes increasingly complicated and unpredictable.
Denzel Washington plays Detective Keith Frazier, a seasoned NYPD detective who is called in to negotiate with the robbers and resolve the situation. Clive Owen plays the leader of the robbers, who is calm, calculated, and always one step ahead of the police. Jodie Foster plays a mysterious power broker who has her own interests in the situation and may be connected to the robbers.
As the standoff drags on, the tension between the hostages, the robbers, and the police begins to escalate, and everyone involved begins to question their own motives and allegiances. The film keeps viewers guessing until the very end, with several unexpected twists and turns.
Inside Man is a stylish and intelligent thriller that showcases the talents of its cast and director. Denzel Washington delivers a nuanced and engaging performance as Detective Frazier, while Clive Owen is a formidable villain who is both charming and terrifying. Jodie Foster’s character adds an intriguing layer of mystery and intrigue to the story.
The film is notable for its intricate plot, sharp dialogue, and visually striking cinematography. Inside Man is a thought-provoking and thrilling film that is sure to keep audiences on the edge of their seats from beginning to end.
John Q ( 2002)

John Q is a 2002 drama film directed by Nick Cassavetes and starring Denzel Washington, Robert Duvall, and James Woods. The movie tells the story of John Quincy Archibald (Washington), a working-class man who takes extreme measures to save his son’s life when he is denied a life-saving heart transplant due to his family’s lack of insurance.
When John’s son collapses during a baseball game, he is rushed to the hospital and diagnosed with a heart condition that requires a transplant. However, the hospital refuses to perform the surgery because John’s insurance does not cover the cost. Frustrated and desperate, John takes the emergency room hostage and demands that his son be put on the donor list and receive the heart transplant he needs.
As the standoff between John and the police intensifies, tensions rise and emotions run high. John’s actions spark a national debate about the state of healthcare in America and the plight of working-class families who struggle to afford medical care.
John Q is a powerful and emotional film that showcases Denzel Washington’s range as an actor. Washington delivers a heartfelt and passionate performance as John, a man who will do anything to save his son’s life, even if it means risking his own. The film is also notable for its strong supporting cast, including Robert Duvall as a sympathetic police negotiator and James Woods as a cynical hospital administrator.
The film raises important questions about healthcare and social inequality in America and is a thought-provoking commentary on the state of the healthcare system. John Q is a gripping and emotionally charged film that is sure to leave a lasting impact on audiences.
The Manchurian Candidate (2004)

The Manchurian Candidate is a 2004 political thriller directed by Jonathan Demme and starring Denzel Washington, Meryl Streep, and Liev Schreiber. The movie is a remake of the 1962 film of the same name, based on the novel by Richard Condon.
The film follows Ben Marco (Washington), a former soldier in the Gulf War who begins to experience vivid and disturbing dreams about his time in the military. As he investigates the source of his dreams, he uncovers a sinister plot involving his former commander, Raymond Shaw (Schreiber), who has been brainwashed into becoming a political assassin.
Meryl Streep plays Shaw’s power-hungry mother, Eleanor, who is the mastermind behind the brainwashing and manipulation of her son. As Marco delves deeper into the conspiracy, he finds himself caught in a dangerous game of politics and power.
The film is a tense and suspenseful thriller that explores themes of mind control, political corruption, and the power of propaganda. Denzel Washington delivers a compelling performance as a man struggling to uncover the truth and confront his own demons. Meryl Streep is equally impressive as the ruthless and calculating Eleanor, who will stop at nothing to achieve her own political ambitions.
The film also features strong supporting performances from Liev Schreiber, as the troubled and manipulated Raymond Shaw, and Jon Voight, as a senator and presidential candidate who is unwittingly caught up in the conspiracy.
The Manchurian Candidate is a thought-provoking and chilling film that raises important questions about the role of government and the media in shaping public opinion and manipulating the masses.
The Pelican Brief (1993)

The Pelican Brief is a 1993 legal thriller film directed by Alan J. Pakula and starring Denzel Washington and Julia Roberts. The movie is based on the novel of the same name by John Grisham.
The film follows a law student named Darby Shaw (Roberts) who writes a brief on the assassination of two Supreme Court justices. When her brief reaches the hands of a high-ranking government official, she becomes a target for assassination. She seeks help from Washington’s character, Gray Grantham, an investigative reporter who helps her uncover a vast conspiracy involving the government, oil companies, and the judiciary.
As they delve deeper into the conspiracy, Darby and Gray become embroiled in a dangerous game of cat and mouse as they try to stay one step ahead of their pursuers. Along the way, they uncover a web of corruption and deceit that threatens to undermine the very foundations of the American political system.
The Pelican Brief is a fast-paced and suspenseful film that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. Denzel Washington and Julia Roberts deliver strong performances as the two protagonists who find themselves caught up in a deadly conspiracy. The film also features a talented supporting cast, including Sam Shepard, John Heard, and James B. Sikking.
The movie is a thought-provoking commentary on the dark side of American politics and the lengths that those in power will go to maintain their grip on it. It is a gripping thriller that combines action, drama, and intrigue to create an unforgettable cinematic experience.
MALCOLM X

Malcolm X is a 1992 biographical drama film directed by Spike Lee and starring Denzel Washington in the title role. The movie is based on the autobiography of the same name by Malcolm X and Alex Haley.
The film chronicles the life of Malcolm X, from his early years as a street hustler and criminal, to his conversion to Islam and his rise to prominence as a leader in the Nation of Islam. As he becomes increasingly disillusioned with the Nation of Islam and its leader, Elijah Muhammad, Malcolm X breaks away and forms his own organization, which promotes racial equality and advocates for the rights of African Americans.
Denzel Washington delivers a powerful and unforgettable performance as Malcolm X, capturing the complexity and nuance of the man’s personality and beliefs. The movie also features a strong supporting cast, including Angela Bassett as Malcolm’s wife, Betty Shabazz, and Delroy Lindo as the Nation of Islam’s leader, Elijah Muhammad.
The film explores themes of racial identity, political activism, and personal transformation, as Malcolm X evolves from a young man filled with anger and resentment to a mature and thoughtful leader who seeks to empower his people and fight for their rights. The movie also provides a rich and nuanced portrayal of the African American experience in the mid-20th century, shedding light on the challenges and obstacles faced by those who sought to challenge the status quo and bring about meaningful change.
Malcolm X is a powerful and important film that remains relevant and resonant today, as it speaks to the ongoing struggle for racial justice and equality. It is a testament to the enduring legacy of one of the most influential and controversial figures in American history.
Flight (2012)

Flight is a 2012 drama film directed by Robert Zemeckis and starring Denzel Washington. The film tells the story of Whip Whitaker, an airline pilot who becomes a hero after successfully crash-landing a malfunctioning airplane. However, an investigation into the crash reveals that Whip had been drinking and using drugs before the flight, putting the lives of his passengers in danger.
Denzel Washington delivers a powerful performance as Whip, a troubled and flawed man struggling with addiction and personal demons. The film explores themes of responsibility, accountability, and redemption, as Whip tries to come to terms with his actions and make amends for the mistakes he has made.
The movie also features a strong supporting cast, including Don Cheadle as Whip’s lawyer, John Goodman as his drug dealer, and Kelly Reilly as a fellow addict he meets in the hospital. The film’s intense and emotional scenes are expertly crafted by Zemeckis, who infuses the story with a sense of urgency and tension that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
Flight is a powerful and thought-provoking film that examines the complexities of addiction and the struggle for personal redemption. It is a character-driven drama that showcases the talent of its cast and the skill of its director, and it remains one of Denzel Washington’s most memorable performances.
DejaVu (2006)

Deja Vu is a 2006 science-fiction thriller directed by Tony Scott and starring Denzel Washington. The movie follows Doug Carlin, an ATF agent investigating a terrorist attack in New Orleans who discovers that he has the ability to travel back in time and prevent the tragedy from happening.
The film explores themes of fate, destiny, and the consequences of our actions, as Doug uses his newfound ability to try to prevent the bombing and save the lives of the people involved. As he delves deeper into the investigation, he discovers a shocking conspiracy that threatens to upend everything he thought he knew about the case.
Denzel Washington delivers a strong performance as Doug, a determined and resourceful agent who is willing to do whatever it takes to prevent the tragedy from occurring. The film’s intricate plot is expertly crafted by Tony Scott, who combines suspense, action, and science fiction elements to create a tense and thrilling viewing experience.
The movie also features a strong supporting cast, including Val Kilmer as another agent involved in the investigation, and Paula Patton as a woman whose involvement in the case becomes crucial to its resolution.
Deja Vu is a smart and engaging thriller that keeps viewers guessing until the very end. It is a thought-provoking exploration of the nature of time and the power of our choices, and it showcases Denzel Washington’s range and versatility as an actor.
