Denzel Washington is one of Hollywood’s most respected and talented actors. With a career spanning several decades, he has been part of a myriad of films that showcase his versatility and charisma. Here is a comprehensive ranking of every Denzel Washington movie, from worst to best:

Worst:

1. “Heart Condition” (1990) – This attempt at a comedic twist to buddy-cop dynamics fell flat, with Washington’s performance as a lawyer ghost not captivating audiences.

2. “The Preacher’s Wife” (1996) – A remake lacking the charm and humor necessary to make it stand out, despite Washington’s efforts as an angel named Dudley.

3. “Virtuosity” (1995) – A sci-fi action film that doesn’t fully utilize Washington’s capabilities in a role that pits him against a virtual reality entity.

4. “John Q” (2002) – While Denzel delivers an emotionally charged performance, the movie itself is often criticized for its melodramatic approach and over-the-top moralizing.

5. “Out of Time” (2003) – Despite Washington’s solid performance as the chief of police caught in a web of deceit, the plot does not quite measure up against his other works.

Mid-Ranking:

1. “Carbon Copy” (1981) – Denzel’s debut with an earnest performance, putting a comedic twist on racial identity issues.

2. “Mississippi Masala” (1991) – A unique love story displaying Washington’s softer side, set against racial tensions between African Americans and Indian immigrants in the Deep South.

3. “Ricochet” (1991) – A high-energy thriller that showcases his toughness but lacks depth in storytelling.

4. “Deja Vu” (2006) – Displaying Washington’s skills in a science fiction narrative about time travel despite being hampered by convoluted plotting.

5. “Unstoppable” (2010) – An adrenaline-pumping action thriller that makes effective use of Washington’s heroic persona but is somewhat formulaic in execution.

Best:

1. “Glory” (1989) – This Civil War epic won Denzel an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his powerful depiction of an African-American soldier fighting for freedom and dignity.

2. “Malcolm X” (1992) – A defining and enduring portrayal that delivered monumental depth in bringing to life one of America’s most complex civil rights leaders—garnering him an Oscar nomination for Best Actor.

3. “Training Day” (2001) – Earned him an Oscar for Best Actor for his magnetic performance as Detective Alonzo Harris, displaying the corruption within the police department like never before.

4. “Fences” (2016) – Another Oscar-nominated performance where Washington shines both as director and actor, masterfully translating August Wilson’s play to the big screen and giving an intensely personal portrayal.

5. “Flight” (2012) – As a troubled airline pilot who performs heroics while under duress, this nuanced role shows Washington’s acting range, hitting emotionally resonant notes throughout the film.

This ranking captures just how wide-ranging Denzel Washington’s portfolio is, with certain films demonstrating not only his star power but also his capacity to dive deep into complex characters — solidifying his status as one of cinema’s all-time greats.