In a surprising twist, John David Washington has revealed that two of his all-time favorite films feature none other than his father, the legendary Denzel Washington. While Denzel has unquestionably starred in his share of less-than-stellar films, he’s also graced the screen in some of cinema’s finest. His undeniable charisma brings brilliance to every role, making his works memorable.
Looking back at Denzel’s career, some might recall his earlier days in films like “Training Day,” where he seemed to play a version of himself rather than a distinct character. However, for those who experienced Denzel in his transformative role in “Malcolm X,” the narrative shifts entirely. One standout film that has solidified itself in the hearts of many—and is particularly cherished by John David—is the 1989 Civil War drama “Glory,” directed by Edward Zwick.
In “Glory,” Denzel portrays Silas Trip, a formerly enslaved man who enlists in one of the Union’s first Black regiments. His performance won him the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor and earned the film a staggering 95% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. For John David, “Glory” transcends mere entertainment; it represents a pivotal moment in cinematic history and personal growth. He once expressed to a publication that the film was not just a depiction of history, but a “transformative” experience for him, allowing viewers to see characters that looked like him during a time of limited representation.
With a childlike enthusiasm, John David recalled how he learned every line and would rewatch the film until the VHS tape broke. He emphasized the importance of Zwick’s direction in making the film feel authentic and insightful, stating that the director deserved significant recognition for creating something so impactful.
Interestingly, Denzel’s cinematic legacy doesn’t end there. John David’s favorite film list includes another of his father’s works, “Man on Fire,” directed by Tony Scott. Although the film received mixed reviews upon its 2004 release, it has since gained admiration for its sheer intensity and action-packed narrative. In “Man on Fire,” Denzel plays John Creasy, a bodyguard seeking violent retribution after the kidnapping of a young girl he has sworn to protect.
What has struck John David about “Man on Fire” isn’t merely Denzel’s action hero persona, but Scott’s visionary direction. He noted how ahead of its time the film was, especially with its innovative sound design that added depth to the viewing experience. John praised Scott for effectively weaving in sound elements that heightened the film’s emotional impact and celebrated the director’s portrayal of Mexico within the film.
John David Washington’s appreciation for these films reveals not just a connection to his father’s work, but a profound respect for the craft of filmmaking itself. He refers to “Man on Fire” as the “perfect film,” a statement reflecting a balance of commercial viability and artistic integrity that resonates deeply with audiences. Alongside these films, John David’s list also features classics like “Dances with Wolves,” Martin Scorsese’s “Raging Bull,” and the iconic “Coming to America,” rounding out a selection defined not just by box office success, but by cultural significance and personal resonance.
