Among Hollywood's greatest actors of all time, there's one name that is always taken with immense respect and that is none other than Denzel Washington. The actor has given some stellar performances in his long career and has been treating the audiences finest pieces of acting since the early 90s. There's no denying that the kind of screen presence and charisma that Washington has, it is rare to find. If you happen to pick any of his films today, you will quickly realise that there's no one other than him who could pull off those intense roles with such ease. Jared Leto Might Play A Serial Killer In Denzel Washington And Rami Malek's Upcoming Crime Thriller 'The Little Things'!

As the actor turns 65, we look at some of his notable performances over the years that have made him a legend in Hollywood. Ovet the years, the actor has starred in some of the greatest films and it almost seems impossible to pick his best roles. Can you even imagine watching Malcolm X without Denzel Washington in it? Well, so is the case with every other film that he has acted in. Here's looking at the crème de la crème of them all.

1. Malcolm X

Malcolm X was a controversial figure but there's no denying that he was one of the leading figures of the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s and even with his questionable tactics, his legacy is pivotal to America’s history. Spike Lee knew exactly what he wanted when he went on to direct this film and his best decision was to cast Denzel in the pivotal role. Denzel's performance in the film is unforgettable as he channels in all of X's oratory skills and cadence to perfection.

2.Remember the Titans

This is indeed one of Washington's finest roles. He essays the role of Herman Boone, the coach of the Titans in this film. The story showcases him as a common man striving hard to lead a team of black and white high school football players to a championship in the early 70s. The film was based on a true story and if you haven't watched this one yet, it's still not too late.

3.Philadephia

Starring two great actors Denzel Washington and Tom Hanks in lead, this film manages to wow us in every frame. The 1993 film revolves around Hanks' character being diagnosed with HIV and who later gets fired from his firm due to his HIV status. His character then sues or discrimination and his lawyer was played exceptionally by Washington. This is a powerful film with a strong message and some top-notch performances from both the leads.

4. The Equalizer

This is an action film that has Washington in one of his most badass roles. In this film, he essays the role of Robert McCall, who is living a quiet life of retirement until he meets a young girl who needs his help. On a quest for vengeance and the will to bring everyone to justice, McCall comes out of his self-imposed retirement in this one. This incredible performance makes you wonder why the actor didn't work more in action flicks before.

5. Flight

This is one of Washington's more recent films and his performance in it is beyond amazing. Denzel plays Whip Whitaker, a commercial aeroplane pilot who struggles with addiction in this intriguing drama. The film revolves around Whitaker's investigation following a situation where he has to crash land. Washington pulls off the flawed character really well and leaves the audience divided on whether they should root for him in the end. Rami Malek to Star in Denzel Washington’s Cop Thriller Little Things?

Merely scratching over the surface of his mammoth filmography, these are some of the performances of Washington that surely make you want to watch him more and admire his craft as an actor. We hope the actor continues to do so in the coming years too!

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Dec 28, 2019 11:00 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).