Denzel Washington’s 8 Remake Movies Ranked

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Denzel Washington’s filmography boasts numerous original masterpieces, yet he has also graced the screen in a significant number of remakes throughout his career. Interestingly, despite his recent openness towards making sequels, Washington stands out as one of the rare A-list actors who has managed to sustain decades of fame and accolades without heavily relying on franchises. However, it’s worth noting that Washington has participated in several remakes, breathing life into some legendary roles and offering fresh perspectives on hidden gems that were previously overlooked.

Looking forward to my reunion with Spike Lee in the upcoming film, “Highest 2 Lowest,” which is also a modern-day adaptation of Akira Kurosawa’s “High and Low.” As I eagerly await this movie’s release, there are numerous other Denzel Washington remakes to delve into. Just like with any movie remake, some fail to live up to the original, while others manage to surpass them. Yet, despite my affinity for remakes, I demonstrate my acting prowess in each role, showing off my versatility as an actor.

8. The Taking Of Pelham 123 (2009)

As Walter Garber

Much like Spike Lee’s consistent collaboration with Denzel Washington, Denzel Washington and Tony Scott shared a fruitful creative bond spanning multiple films over time, culminating in five movies before Scott’s passing in 2012. Notably, their second-to-last joint production was “The Taking of Pelham 123,” which unfortunately marked one of their less successful projects. This film is a modern reinterpretation of the iconic ’70s crime movie of the same name, adapted from John Godey’s novel. The narrative revolves around a gang of criminals who seize control of a New York City subway train, taking hostages and demanding a substantial ransom.

The issue I have with the remake lies in its lack of humor compared to the original film, which was both hilarious and exhilarating. In the new version, Washington plays a competent dispatcher turned negotiator, but his performance pales in comparison to Walter Matthau’s messy yet charming portrayal of the original hero. Similarly, John Travolta brings an enjoyable twist to his villain role, but it falls short against Robert Shaw’s chilling and calm depiction from the 1974 version. The remake takes away the enjoyment provided by the movie and replaces it with excessive violence, which seems unnecessary.

7. The Preacher’s Wife (1996)

As Dudley

1947’s timeless Christmas comedy, “The Bishop’s Wife,” offers a captivating, gentlemanly role for Cary Grant – in a contemporary twist, this role is now filled by Denzel Washington as Dudley, an angel sent to Earth to aid a distressed minister (Courtney B. Vance). While fulfilling his mission, Dudley unexpectedly forms a connection with the minister’s wife, portrayed by Whitney Houston.

In contrast to the original, which is a delightful Old Hollywood classic, the remake doesn’t bring much freshness to differentiate itself. Yet, the standout aspect of this film is Denzel Washington’s performance, where he showcases a comedic side that we don’t often see from him, and he certainly lives up to expectations. The movie leans more into the fish-out-of-water shenanigans of Dudley compared to the original, providing Washington with plenty of opportunities for humor. Moreover, the film offers Houston a chance to sing as well, making it even more appealing.

6. The Magnificent Seven (2016)

As Sam Chisolm

Antoine Fuqua’s “The Magnificent Seven” isn’t just a reimagining, it’s a remake of a remake. The original Western film, released in 1960, goes by the same name and boasts an illustrious cast including Yul Brenner, Steve McQueen, and Charles Bronson. These gunslingers were hired by a small village to protect them from a ruthless gang of bandits. Interestingly, this Western tale is itself a retelling of the legendary Akira Kurosawa movie, “Seven Samurai.

Washington heads an impressive ensemble, including Chris Pratt, Vincent D’Onofrio, and Ethan Hawke who was Washington’s co-star in “Training Day”. The action is strong and the cast seems to enjoy working together, but it fails to match the lively spirit of the 1960s Western. Washington’s character, while heroic, is one of his less memorable roles as the restrained persona doesn’t provide much room for the actor to shine.

5. Much Ado About Nothing (1993)

As Don Pedro

In essence, “Much Ado About Nothing” isn’t a direct replica of any prior film, but rather a tale that has been retold in numerous movies before. Based on the play by William Shakespeare, this romantic comedy is one of Kenneth Branagh’s many adaptations and remains one of his most delightful works. The story revolves around a variety of characters leading up to a wedding of two lovers, with their friends devising strategies to transform Benedick (played by Branagh) and Beatrice (portrayed by Emma Thompson), long-time adversaries, into lovers instead.

Branagh’s adaptation of Much Ado About Nothing stands out among his previous epic Shakespearean works because it brilliantly balances the story’s humor, romance, and adventure. Washington delivers a commanding performance as Don Pedro, lending his character both authority and comic relief. The ensemble cast, including Michael Keaton and Keanu Reeves, is equally impressive.

4. The Manchurian Candidate (2004)

As Ben Marco

Among Denzel Washington’s less-acknowledged films, “The Manchurian Candidate” is a noteworthy adaptation that may not reach the heights of its original political thriller, but it stands independently as a valuable rendition. In this film, Washington portrays a distressed former military officer who witnesses his fellow soldier (Liev Schreiber) rising as a Vice Presidential candidate for the United States. However, Washington’s character gradually becomes suspicious of a sinister plot orchestrated by shadowy forces aiming to install their mind-controlled agent in the country’s highest seat of power.

As a passionate film enthusiast, I must say that the original, featuring Frank Sinatra, is an unmatched masterpiece in the thriller genre. Yet, Director Jonathan Demme skillfully reimagines this classic, creating a gripping modern-day thriller. Instead of focusing on external threats to America, this remake delves into the internal conflicts, portraying enemies lurking within our nation’s heart. I found Washington’s portrayal of the more fragile protagonist particularly captivating – a man wrestling with his past experiences and piecing together the puzzle of truth.

3. The Equalizer Trilogy (2014-2023)

As Robert McCall

In contrast to Denzel Washington’s other movie remakes, the “Equalizer” films represent his adaptation of a beloved 1980s TV series into a fresh cinematic experience. The original “Equalizer” television series featured Edward Woodward as Robert McCall, a former military operative who has since left that life behind and now uses his skills to protect those in need while confronting the wrongdoers who exploit the defenseless.

The Equalizer film series consistently adheres to a similar narrative, where Washington’s character McCall employs his impressive abilities to safeguard ordinary individuals he develops affection for. Although these films may not delve as deeply as some of Washington’s other ventures, he convincingly portrays an action hero and enhances the content with his acting skills. The series forms a robust trilogy, as each installment successfully fulfills its intended purpose.

2. The Tragedy Of Macbeth (2021)

As Macbeth

In another interpretation of Shakespeare’s work, titled “The Tragedy of Macbeth“, Denzel Washington steps into the shoes of one of history’s most intricate characters. For the first time as a sole director, Joel Coen brings to life this monochrome adaptation of the timeless tale, with Washington portraying the ambitious nobleman who is consumed by a prophecy promising him kingship. In his pursuit to make this prophecy a fact, he embarks on a ruthless journey, ready to pay any price. His wife, Lady Macbeth, played by Frances McDormand, remains his steadfast ally and fellow ambition-driven partner throughout this tale of power and its devastating consequences.

Despite the fact that the story of Macbeth has been told multiple times, Coen manages to find an intriguing fresh angle, particularly with the casting. In contrast to traditional portrayals where Macbeth is usually a younger man, Washington’s role brings a poignant sense of desperation to his ambition. This nuanced performance from Washington has recently earned him an Oscar nomination.

1. Man On Fire (2004)

As Creasy

In Denzel Washington’s filmography, ‘Man on Fire’ might be one that fans weren’t aware was a remake. The original movie from 1987 had Scott Glenn playing a former CIA agent turned bodyguard for an Italian girl, developing a deep connection with her that exposed his troubled past. When she got kidnapped, he embarked on a vengeful rampage against the perpetrators. In another partnership with Tony Scott, Washington starred in the lead role.

Man on Fire, initially panned by critics upon its debut, has since developed a devoted fanbase, catapulting it to become one of the most beloved movies in Washington’s repertoire. Despite his knack for portraying stoic and resolute characters, Washington infuses depth into the persona of Creasy, revealing him as a tormented man grappling with his inner demons while finding solace in the presence of his young charge. The on-screen chemistry between Washington and young actress Dakota Fanning, who plays Pita, is also noteworthy.

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2025-05-30 19:28