Movies with Denzel Washington: 1990 – 1981

Denzel Washington, deservedly recognized as one of the greatest actors of our generation, has become a true icon of Hollywood cinema. His talent, charisma and expressive acting have made him a favorite of audiences around the world. In this selection, we offer to review the films in which Denzel Washington played major roles and impressed with his acting skills.

Mo’ Better Blues (1990)

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The film delves into the world of jazz music, exploring the personal and professional struggles of the protagonist while providing a vivid and authentic portrayal of the New York jazz scene.

The story centers on Bleak Gilliam, a talented and ambitious jazz trumpeter. Bleak leads a jazz band called the Bleak Gilliam Quintet and dreams of making it big in his musical career. However, his personal life is intertwined with his professional aspirations as he tries to navigate the complexities of love, loyalty, and artistic integrity.

Glory (1989)

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Set in the 1860s, Glory tells the story of Colonel Robert Gould Shaw, played by Matthew Broderick, a young and idealistic Union officer. Despite initial resistance and skepticism from his superiors, Shaw is entrusted with the command of the 54th Massachusetts, an African-American regiment composed of both freedmen and former slaves.

The Mighty Quinn (1989)

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The film is set on the fictional island of St. Thomas, where the idyllic life of Quinn’s community is suddenly disrupted by a shocking murder. When Quinn’s close friend, a prominent businessman, is found dead, the police quickly identify his wife, played by Mimi Rogers, as the prime suspect.

Refusing to believe she is guilty, Quinn embarks on a personal mission to uncover the truth behind the murder. As he delves deeper into the investigation, he uncovers a complex web of corruption, secrets and deceit that reaches the highest levels of power on the island.

Cry Freedom (1987)

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Set in the 1970s, at the height of apartheid in South Africa, the film explores the harsh realities and systemic racism faced by the country’s black population. The film centers on the relationship between Biko, played by Denzel Washington, and Woods, played by Kevin Kline.

Biko, a charismatic and influential leader, stands for equality, justice and the rights of black South Africans. Woods, who is initially skeptical of Biko’s methods and ideology, is inspired by his courage and begins to challenge his own preconceived notions of apartheid and the repressive regime.

A Soldier’s Story (1984)

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The story is set in the racially segregated Deep South of the 1940s, where the murder of a black soldier, Sergeant Vernon Waters, played by Adolph Caesar, becomes the catalyst for an investigation. Captain Richard Davenport, played by Howard E. Rollins, Jr. is tasked with finding out the circumstances of Waters’ death.

Carbon Copy (1981)

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The story revolves around Walter Whitney Jr. played by George Segal, a successful and wealthy white executive who discovers that he has a biracial son named Roger Porter, played by Denzel Washington. This discovery shocks Walter, as he had never known Roger existed.

Read more:

• Movies with Denzel Washington: 2023 – 2012
• Movies with Denzel Washington: 2010 – 2003
• Movies with Denzel Washington: 2002 – 1996
• Movies with Denzel Washington: 1996 – 1991