Uncategorized
Denzel Washington Reflects on ‘Clunkers’ of the ’90s and Why He Never Watches His Old Movies
Nov
Denzel Washington, celebrated as one of the greatest actors of his generation, recently admitted that even his illustrious career isn’t without missteps. In an interview with The Times, the Gladiator II star candidly referred to some of his ’90s films as “real clunkers,” explaining that he chose projects during that period primarily out of financial necessity.
“After Malcolm X, I made some real clunkers,” Washington said, refusing to name specific films but inviting audiences to “look them up.” He added, “But I was earning. I had responsibilities.”
The ’90s: Balancing Art and Responsibility
Washington’s ’90s filmography includes critically panned titles like the sci-fi thriller Virtuosity (1995), The Siege (1998), and The Bone Collector (1999), all of which received lukewarm reviews. Even more notable films like The Pelican Brief (1993) and The Preacher’s Wife (1996) failed to leave a lasting mark with critics and audiences.
The actor explained his mindset during that era: “In life, you learn, earn, and then you return,” he said, referencing a philosophy that guided his career choices. “From 30 to 60, you earn. So in that era, I was earning… with bills, four kids, and a house.”
On Acting and Cinema
Despite his stature in Hollywood, Washington admitted he’s not a cinephile and doesn’t hold film acting in high regard as a learning ground for young actors. “I see very few films,” he said. “I can’t tell you I grew up loving movies and would escape in them.”
Washington believes aspiring actors learn their craft on stage, not in front of a camera. “I told my kids they have to get on the stage because that’s where you learn to act. You don’t learn to act on TV. You don’t learn to act in movies. You learn to act on stage.”
This philosophy has influenced his advice to his children, John David Washington and Olivia Washington, who are also actors. “TV and films are a director’s medium — where they are in control,” he explained.
Why He Doesn’t Revisit His Films
Washington also revealed he doesn’t rewatch his own work, not even acclaimed performances like Malcolm X. “I watch it so I know what I’m talking about,” he said, referring to newer projects he promotes. “But I haven’t watched any film from my past from start to finish… All you see is what you did wrong. Also, why would you do it anyway?”
The only exception? His Oscar-winning role in Glory. “I did [rewatch it] because my son John David watched and rewatched it. He knows every line by heart,” Washington said.
Moving Forward with Gladiator II
As Washington continues his career with projects like Gladiator II, he remains reflective but forward-focused, embracing the lessons and responsibilities that have shaped his choices. Even as he acknowledges the “clunkers” in his career, his enduring talent and commitment to his craft ensure his legacy remains as one of cinema’s greats.
