Anna Daniels
In 1990, Denzel Washington won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor for his intense performance as Private Trip in the Civil War film Glory. This achievement solidified his rising star status, but Washington reflects on it with mixed feelings. He noted, “Winning an Academy Award led to some bad movies, because it became about, ‘Now you make this kind of money…’ My agent wanted me to be a leading man or an action star or whatever it was, and I had bills.”
Washington didn’t highlight specific films he regrets, but one can infer from his 1990s film choices. Movies like Ricochet, Virtuosity, Fallen, and The Bone Collector leaned significantly on action and suspense, often prioritizing box office success over artistic merit. While these films showcased Washington’s undeniable talent, they generally lacked the depth seen in his later works.
A Course Correction
His subsequent Oscar victory for Training Day (2002) signified a pivotal shift in his career. Since then, Washington has become more discerning in his choices, working alongside acclaimed directors like Ridley Scott, Antoine Fuqua, and Spike Lee. He now seeks projects that align with his artistic vision. As he mentioned in a ScreenDaily interview, “I only want to work with the best, and there are only so many roles… I talk to [directors like Ryan Coogler and Steve McQueen] because I’m curious and want to learn from them as filmmakers.”
Washington’s dedication to storytelling goes beyond acting; he also produces. He is adapting August Wilson’s Century Cycle plays for Netflix, emphasizing his commitment to supporting new talent while staying true to his artistic heritage. The upcoming film, The Piano Lesson (2024), which is directed by his son Malcolm, illustrates this commitment.
Future Projects and Legacy
On the horizon for Washington is Gladiator II, directed by Ridley Scott, which is already attracting Oscar buzz due to its impressive cast and Scott’s reputation. Washington expressed admiration for Scott, saying, “Ridley is my hero because he’s addicted to working; it’s not pressure for him but adrenaline. I want to feel that way as a filmmaker, and give 1,000% of myself to whatever it is I’m doing.”
Additionally, Washington will appear in Spike Lee’s Highest 2 Lowest, a remake of Akira Kurosawa’s renowned film High and Low. This project emphasizes Washington’s longstanding collaboration with Lee, whose films often delve into morally intricate and socially relevant topics.
Personal Insights: Denzel Washington’s career exemplifies perseverance and transformation. His honest recognition of earlier missteps post-Oscar adds richness to his impressive legacy. It’s uncommon for a star of his caliber to showcase vulnerability, and such honesty enhances his status as a profound artist. His current path—partnering with visionaries like Ryan Coogler and Ridley Scott while uplifting underrepresented voices—suggests that his most outstanding work might still be to come.
What are your thoughts on Denzel Washington’s views regarding awards and their effects on an actor’s career? Do early achievements impede long-term progress? We invite you to share your thoughts in the comments below!
