10 Denzel Washington Movies You Shouldn't Miss Out On

In this war drama, Denzel Washington plays a soldier in the first African American regiment during the American Civil War. His role as Private Trip is powerful, filled with both pain and courage. The film shows the struggles, sacrifices, and bravery of the soldiers who fought for freedom. Washington’s intense and emotional performance won him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, making this role one of his early career highlights.

Denzel Washington plays a corrupt yet charismatic police detective named Alonzo Harris. The film follows his tense and unpredictable day with a rookie cop, showing his manipulative and dangerous behavior. Washington’s powerful performance keeps viewers on edge, mixing charm with menace. His portrayal earned him the Academy Award for Best Actor, proving his unmatched ability to bring complex, morally grey characters to life.

In this biographical film, Washington portrays the life of civil rights leader Malcolm X. The story covers his troubled youth, rise to leadership, and final years before his assassination. Washington delivers a deeply moving performance, showing Malcolm X’s fiery passion and personal struggles. This role, widely praised by critics, is considered one of Washington’s most transformative and important works.

In this striking adaptation of Shakespeare’s play, Washington plays Macbeth, a Scottish lord consumed by ambition. The film follows his rise to power after a prophecy and his tragic downfall. Washington’s layered performance captures both the ruthless determination and the vulnerability of the character, making it a captivating modern take on a timeless story.

This tense thriller takes place on a U.S. Navy submarine during a potential nuclear crisis. Washington plays the executive officer who clashes with the captain over whether to launch missiles. His calm but firm approach in moments of extreme danger creates gripping drama. The sharp conflict between him and Gene Hackman’s character keeps audiences hooked until the end.

Washington plays a lawyer who reluctantly agrees to represent a man with AIDS, played by Tom Hanks, after he is unfairly fired from his job. At first skeptical, his character slowly changes as the case unfolds. Washington’s performance captures the struggle between prejudice and compassion, making the film a touching and thought-provoking courtroom drama.

Based on a true story, Washington plays Rubin “Hurricane” Carter, a boxer wrongly imprisoned for murder. The film follows Carter’s decades-long fight to prove his innocence with the help of a small group of supporters. Washington’s passionate and heartfelt performance shows the emotional toll of injustice while highlighting Carter’s strength, hope, and refusal to give up.

Washington plays a former CIA operative turned bodyguard for a young girl in Mexico. When she is kidnapped, he launches a relentless mission to rescue her. His performance blends tender, father-like care with intense, action-driven determination. This emotional and thrilling journey shows Washington’s versatility in balancing heartfelt moments with high-stakes action.

In this family drama, Washington plays a former baseball player turned garbage collector, struggling with his past dreams and current responsibilities. The story focuses on his complicated relationship with his wife and son. Washington’s deeply emotional performance, combined with his work as the film’s director, creates a powerful portrayal of family, pride, and regret.

This smart crime thriller follows Washington as a detective trying to solve a complicated bank robbery with hostages. The plot is filled with clever twists and unexpected turns. Washington’s calm, confident, and sharp-minded approach to the investigation shows his skill in playing intelligent and composed characters, making the film both exciting and satisfying to watch.