Will Smith's 10 Best Movie Roles

Will Smith is undeniably one of the most versatile and compelling actors in Hollywood. Since his debut in the late 80s, he has shown an incredible range in his performances, delivering a powerful blend of drama, action, comedy, and romance. Here's a look at ten of the best roles in his illustrious career, which have solidified his position as an iconic figure in the film industry.

1. The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)

Arguably Smith's most emotionally resonant performance, his portrayal of struggling salesman-turned stockbroker Chris Gardner earned him an Academy Award nomination. Smith demonstrated his ability to balance raw emotion with subtle performance, rendering a heartbreaking yet inspirational narrative that left a significant impact.

2. Ali (2001)

Will Smith's role as Muhammad Ali, one of the most influential figures in the sports world, saw him morph into the charismatic and outspoken personality of the boxing legend. Smith's performance was richly nuanced, portraying Ali's struggles, triumphs, and complexities with incredible skill, earning him his first Oscar nomination.

3. Men in Black (1997)

Smith's charm, wit, and comedic timing came to the forefront in his role as Agent J in this beloved sci-fi franchise. With Tommy Lee Jones as his straight-laced partner, Smith's dynamic performance turned "Men in Black" into a cultural phenomenon that further cemented his status as a bankable star.

4. I Am Legend (2007)

In this post-apocalyptic thriller, Smith played Dr. Robert Neville, the last human survivor in New York City following a virus outbreak. The movie showcased Smith's ability to carry a film virtually single-handedly, with his nuanced and emotionally charged performance making a lasting impression.

5. Enemy of the State (1998)

Will Smith starred as lawyer Robert Clayton Dean in this action-packed thriller, navigating a world of conspiracy and surveillance. Smith demonstrated his capacity for intense dramatic roles, perfectly capturing his character's paranoia and determination.

6. Independence Day (1996)

Playing Captain Steven Hiller, a daring fighter pilot, Smith's performance in "Independence Day" brought him global recognition. His blend of heroism and humor became a trademark style, making this film one of the biggest box-office successes of its time.

7. Seven Pounds (2008)

This emotionally charged drama saw Smith deliver one of his most poignant performances as Ben Thomas, an IRS agent with a tragic secret. Smith's portrayal of grief and redemption was deeply affecting, demonstrating his versatility as an actor.

8. Hitch (2005)

In this rom-com, Smith played Alex "Hitch" Hitchens, a professional "date doctor." Smith's charisma and comedic flair shone brightly, making "Hitch" a delightful watch and proving his mastery over the genre.

9. Bad Boys (1995)

Smith's role as Detective Mike Lowrey in the "Bad Boys" series showcased his flair for action-comedy. His electrifying chemistry with co-star Martin Lawrence created a memorable on-screen partnership, leading to a highly successful franchise.

10. Concussion (2015)

In "Concussion," Smith portrayed Dr. Bennet Omalu, the forensic pathologist who discovered the extent of brain damage in NFL players. Smith's compelling performance as the determined, soft-spoken doctor earned him critical acclaim, highlighting his ability to portray real-life figures with depth and sincerity.

Early Career and Transition from Music to Acting

Before Will Smith became a household name in Hollywood, he was widely recognized as one half of the hip-hop duo DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince, alongside his friend Jeffrey Townes. Known for their playful, radio-friendly style, they scored a major hit with "Parents Just Don't Understand," which earned them the first Grammy awarded in the Rap category in 1989.

While enjoying success in the music industry, Smith began to feel the allure of acting. His breakthrough came with the 1990s sitcom, "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air," where he essentially played a fictionalized version of himself. The show was a hit, running for six seasons and catapulting Smith into the acting world. His charming, charismatic, and comedic performance on the show set the foundation for his future roles in Hollywood, marking the beginning of an impressive acting career that has spanned multiple genres and decades.

Collaborations with Prominent Directors

Throughout his acting career, Will Smith has collaborated with a number of distinguished directors, which have played a crucial role in shaping his acting prowess. Working with Michael Bay in "Bad Boys" and "Bad Boys II," Smith showcased his action hero skills with a comedic touch, defining a signature style that would recur in many of his future roles.

Smith also worked with legendary director Ridley Scott in "Enemy of the State," which allowed him to demonstrate his ability to handle intense, high-stakes drama. Furthermore, his collaboration with director Gabriele Muccino in "The Pursuit of Happyness" and "Seven Pounds" revealed a deeper, more emotional side of Smith, earning him critical acclaim.

Another notable collaboration was with M. Night Shyamalan for "After Earth," a science-fiction adventure film that presented a different kind of challenge for Smith, showcasing his adaptability and versatility as an actor.

Voicing Animation Characters

Will Smith's charisma and distinctive voice have made him a valuable asset in the world of animated films. He first lent his voice to the character Oscar, a smooth-talking fish, in DreamWorks' "Shark Tale" (2004). Smith's vocal performance was praised, and he brought the same lively, playful energy to the character as he does to his live-action roles.

In "Spies in Disguise" (2019), Smith voiced Lance Sterling, a top-secret agent who is accidentally turned into a pigeon. His vocal performance brought humor, style, and a degree of emotional depth to the character, contributing to the movie's success. These ventures into animation demonstrate another facet of Smith's talent, reinforcing his place as one of the most versatile figures in Hollywood.

Smith's extraordinary body of work is a testament to his range as an actor, encompassing roles from charismatic heroes to nuanced, complex figures. His performances leave a lasting impact, resonating with audiences and critics alike, demonstrating why he is a fantastic actor.