Best Denzel Washington Movies In Order Of Popularity

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The Book of Eli (2010)

“The Book of Eli” (2010) is a post-apocalyptic film starring Denzel Washington as Eli, a lone wanderer on a mission to protect a sacred book that holds the key to humanity’s future.

As Eli traverses a desolate landscape, he encounters challenges and adversaries, including the ruthless Carnegie, played by Gary Oldman.

Mila Kunis joins the cast as Solara, a young woman who becomes Eli’s ally.

Directed by the Hughes Brothers, the film blends action, drama, and a gripping narrative, as Eli’s quest unfolds against a backdrop of a world in chaos.

Philadelphia (1993)

“Philadelphia” (1993) is a powerful legal drama directed by Jonathan Demme. Tom Hanks stars as Andrew Beckett, a talented lawyer who is unjustly fired due to his battle with AIDS.

Denzel Washington plays Joe Miller, the attorney who reluctantly takes on Beckett’s discrimination case against his former employer.

The film explores themes of discrimination, friendship, and the fight for justice in the face of adversity. Hanks and Washington deliver stellar performances, earning Hanks an Academy Award for Best Actor.

“Philadelphia” is a poignant and impactful exploration of societal prejudices and the triumph of the human spirit.

Déjà Vu (2006)

“Déjà Vu” (2006), directed by Tony Scott, is a gripping sci-fi thriller featuring Denzel Washington as ATF agent Doug Carlin.

When a terrorist attack rocks New Orleans, Carlin discovers a cutting-edge technology allowing him to witness events in the past.

Teaming up with Val Kilmer, Paula Patton, and Jim Caviezel, Carlin races against time to prevent the tragedy.

The film seamlessly combines action, suspense, and intricate plotting, showcasing Washington’s intense performance and the ensemble cast’s chemistry.

As the narrative unfolds, “Déjà Vu” explores the complexities of time travel and the consequences of altering fate.

Man on Fire (2004)

“Man on Fire” (2004) is a gripping action thriller directed by Tony Scott.

Denzel Washington stars as John Creasy, a former CIA operative haunted by his past.

Hired as a bodyguard for a young girl, played by Dakota Fanning, their bond grows amidst the dangerous backdrop of Mexico City.

When the girl is kidnapped, Creasy unleashes a relentless quest for vengeance.

The film explores themes of redemption, justice, and the intensity of Creasy’s commitment.

With an electrifying performance by Washington and a stellar supporting cast including Dakota Fanning and Christopher Walken, “Man on Fire” delivers a riveting tale of action and emotion.

Antwone Fisher (2002)

“Antwone Fisher” is a poignant drama directed by Denzel Washington. The film follows Antwone Fisher, played by Derek Luke, a young sailor with a troubled past.

Under the guidance of Navy psychiatrist Dr. Jerome Davenport, portrayed by Denzel Washington, Fisher confronts his painful history and learns to heal.

The cast includes Joy Bryant as Cheryl, Salli Richardson as Berta, and Novella Nelson as Mrs. Tate.

This emotional journey explores themes of resilience, forgiveness, and self-discovery, delivering a compelling narrative enriched by powerful performances from its talented ensemble cast.

The Pelican Brief (1993)

“The Pelican Brief” (1993) is a legal thriller directed by Alan J. Pakula.

Starring Julia Roberts as law student Darby Shaw and Denzel Washington as investigative journalist Gray Grantham, the film follows their pursuit of the truth behind the assassinations of two Supreme Court justices.

Adapted from John Grisham’s novel, the story unveils a dangerous conspiracy that places them at the center of a political cover-up.

With a stellar cast including Sam Shepard, John Heard, and Tony Goldwyn, the film captivates audiences with its suspenseful narrative, intricate plot twists, and the chemistry between its two lead actors.

The Hurricane (1999)

“The Hurricane” (1999) is a gripping biographical drama directed by Norman Jewison.

Denzel Washington delivers a powerful performance as Rubin “Hurricane” Carter, a boxer wrongfully convicted of murder.

The film follows Carter’s life, imprisonment, and the tireless efforts of Lesra Martin, played by Vicellous Reon Shannon, to prove his innocence.

Co-starring Deborah Kara Unger and Liev Schreiber, the film explores themes of racial injustice, resilience, and the pursuit of justice.

Washington’s compelling portrayal earned him critical acclaim and an Academy Award nomination, solidifying “The Hurricane” as a poignant and impactful piece of cinema.

Out of Time (2003)

“Out of Time” (2003) is a gripping thriller starring Denzel Washington as Matt Lee Whitlock, a small-town police chief entangled in a web of deception.

Faced with a murder investigation and a ticking clock, Whitlock navigates a complex plot filled with unexpected twists.

The cast includes Eva Mendes as Whitlock’s estranged wife, Alex, and Sanaa Lathan as Anne Merai Harrison, the murder victim.

As the suspense unfolds, Whitlock must race against time to uncover the truth and clear his name.

The film, directed by Carl Franklin, showcases Washington’s intense performance in a high-stakes and suspenseful narrative.

The Bone Collector (1999)

“The Bone Collector” (1999) is a gripping crime thriller directed by Phillip Noyce.

Denzel Washington stars as quadriplegic detective Lincoln Rhyme, alongside Angelina Jolie as his assistant. Rhyme, once a brilliant crime scene investigator, is now confined to a bed after a tragic accident.

Together, they race against time to solve a series of gruesome murders.

The film combines suspense, forensic intrigue, and a stellar cast to deliver a compelling narrative.

Washington’s portrayal of Rhyme and Jolie’s dynamic performance creates a tense and engaging atmosphere, making “The Bone Collector” a must-watch for crime thriller enthusiasts.

Courage Under Fire (1996)

“Courage Under Fire” (1996) follows Lt. Colonel Nathaniel Serling (Denzel Washington), tasked with investigating the eligibility of Captain Karen Walden (Meg Ryan) for the Medal of Honor.

As Serling unravels the truth, he confronts the complexities of honor, integrity, and the harsh realities of war.

The cast includes Lou Diamond Phillips, Michael Moriarty, and Matt Damon in pivotal roles. Director Edward Zwick delivers a gripping military drama that explores moral quandaries and the toll of combat, while Washington’s powerful performance anchors the film, making it a compelling exploration of courage and the human cost of heroism.

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