Top 10 Best Denzel Washington Movies

If you've seen Training Day (2001), you'll certainly remember Detective Alonzo Harris – the role that earned Denzel Washington an Academy Award for Best Actor. The director who played a key role in this monumental achievement in Washington's career is Antoine Fuqua. The Equalizer (2014) is another collaboration between director Antoine Fuqua and the iconic actor Denzel Washington.

While the plot of The Equalizer isn't groundbreaking, it's quite familiar within the action genre of Hollywood films. However, the film's well-crafted characters, solid performances, and controlled pacing elevate it, with the protagonist standing out as a true hero. The combination of emotional depth and action makes the film both engaging and entertaining, providing a balanced experience that isn't too heavy-handed.

IMDb Rating: 7.2

Tomatometer: 60%

Audience Rating: 76%

It took screenwriter John Gatins a decade to complete the script for “Flight.” He is also known for his previous well-regarded works such as “Dreamer” (2008) and “Real Steel” (2011).

In Flight (2012), Washington plays a pilot who becomes a national hero after successfully crash-landing a malfunctioning plane. However, blood tests later reveal alcohol and cocaine in his system, which swiftly brings the character down from his heroic status. Apart from the intense crash and explosion scenes, the film’s tone is mostly subdued, intimate, and occasionally infused with humor. The film was a major success, grossing $25 million in its opening weekend alone.

IMDb Rating: 7.3
Tomatometer: 77%
Audience Rating: 75%

American Gangster (2007) tells the true story of Frank Lucas, who rose from being a driver to becoming the notorious drug lord of Harlem, New York, in the 1970s. Denzel Washington masterfully portrays this cunning crime boss, who is ruthless when necessary but deeply devoted to his family.

It’s hard to imagine anyone better suited to play such a drug kingpin than Denzel Washington. “American Gangster” delivers a compelling, captivating, and thoroughly entertaining experience… everything about it is perfection. The film rightfully earned its spot as the number one movie at the North American box office and is also widely regarded by critics as one of the best crime films of 2007.

IMDb Rating: 7.8

Tomatometer: 81%

Audience Rating: 87%

The Great Debaters (2007) is one of the films that addresses racial tensions. It is inspired by a true story, based on an article by Tony Scherman published in the spring of 1997 in the magazine American Legacy.

The film revolves around the efforts of coach Melvin B. Tolson (played by Denzel Washington) at Wiley College, a historically black university. He believed that his debate team should be treated as equals to the all-white teams in the South during the 1930s. Together with four of his students, he forms a team that competes against several top schools. After much perseverance, the Wiley debate team triumphs by defeating Harvard University and claiming the championship in a convincing manner.

IMDb Rating: 7.5
Tomatometer: 80%
Audience Rating: 86%

Inside Man (2006) marks the final collaboration between Denzel Washington and director Spike Lee, released in 2006. This American crime thriller centers around a meticulously planned bank robbery masterminded by Dalton Russell (Clive Owen). Wearing painter’s smocks and masks, Dalton and his crew infiltrate a Wall Street bank, disabling security cameras and taking everyone inside—including customers, employees, and security guards—hostage.

Inside Man (2006) became Spike Lee's highest-grossing film, earning $88 million domestically and $184 million worldwide. It’s a thrilling, suspense-filled movie that keeps you on the edge of your seat until the very end. It’s definitely worth a watch!

IMDb Rating: 7.6

Tomatometer: 86%

Audience Rating: 85%

Man on Fire (2004) presents a familiar plot, yet it is meticulously crafted with a strong emphasis on character psychology. Denzel Washington delivers a stellar performance, brilliantly portraying the emotional transformation of his character, from a cold and reserved man to one who shows warmth and openness.

The story follows John Creasy, a former CIA assassin who, after retiring from his deadly career, is hired as a bodyguard for a young girl named Pita. When Pita is kidnapped, John embarks on a relentless quest to track down the kidnappers and rescue the innocent child. The film evokes a range of emotions and is an excellent choice for Denzel Washington fans.

IMDb Rating: 7.7

Tomatometer: 38%

Audience Rating: 89%

Training Day (2001) is regarded as one of Denzel Washington's finest performances. The film starts off slowly, but its intensity builds with surprising twists as it progresses. Denzel Washington showcases his range in this multi-layered role, solidifying his status as one of the greatest actors of his generation.

In Training Day (2001), Alonzo Harris is a deeply complex character, whose words and actions are unpredictable, and behind each move lies a sinister agenda. Washington masterfully portrays the internal struggles, deceit, and manipulation of his character with a unique and compelling performance.

To join the Los Angeles narcotics division, rookie cop Jake Hoyt must undergo a one-day training session with veteran detective Alonzo Harris. However, things take a dark turn as Alonzo isn't a typical cop—he's involved in illegal activities and collaborates with criminals for personal gain...

IMDb Rating: 7.7

Tomatometer: 73%

Audience Rating: 89%

The Little Things (2021) premiered on January 29 and quickly became a box-office hit, grossing $4.8 million in its opening weekend in North America.

The film follows Deputy Sheriff Joe Deacon (played by Denzel Washington) as he teams up with Sergeant Jim Baxter (Rami Malek) to hunt down a serial killer. The Little Things captured the attention of audiences thanks to its star-studded cast: Denzel Washington, Rami Malek, and Jared Leto—three actors who have each won an Academy Award for acting. It's no wonder the film received such a warm reception from fans.

IMDb Rating: 6.3
Tomatometer: 45%
Audience Rating: 67%

Four years after the first installment, The Equalizer 2 hits the screen with a familiar storyline that follows Hollywood’s ‘quiet hero’ trope. Yet, director Antoine Fuqua and star Denzel Washington deliver a seamless collaboration, creating an impressive and captivating portrayal of the main character.

In this sequel, Denzel Washington doesn’t rely on a polished or overtly handsome appearance. His simple, composed look, combined with a warm and sincere gaze, draws viewers in. Washington’s performance as Robert McCall is subtle, natural, and perfectly captures the emotional depth of the character.

The plot of The Equalizer 2 is gripping, especially with its realistic action scenes. Washington never disappoints fans with his brutal fight sequences and intense shootouts. The film exudes a tense, dark atmosphere, full of intricate mind games, unexpected traps, and nail-biting chases that keep audiences on the edge of their seats.

IMDb Rating: 6.7
Tomatometer: 52%
Audience Rating: 60%

The Magnificent Seven (2016) takes viewers on a thrilling journey back to 19th-century America, a time when good-hearted people were forced to endure oppression and injustice from greedy capitalists. Enter seven heroic outlaws, willing to risk their lives to bring justice to the oppressed.

With powerhouse stars like Denzel Washington and Chris Pratt, along with one of Hollywood's finest action directors, Antoine Fuqua, this remake of the classic tale is a fresh, exciting take that does justice to the original, overcoming the monumental legacy of its predecessor.

IMDb Rating: 6.9

Tomatometer: 64%

Audience Rating: 72%