Denzel Washington is one of the most recognizable and talented actors of his generation, having a presence and charisma on screen that is virtually unrivaled. Over his stellar 40-year career, he has embodied some of the most morally ambiguous and larger-than-life characters that have made him an icon in cinema. In every role he plays, he is known for the ruthless authenticity and genuine immersion that he brings each character to life in his extensive filmography.

The 2000s were a decade when Washington continued his monumental run, performing in some of his most career defining roles, such as the energetic Detective Alonzo Harris in Training Day or the subdued and intellectual Melvin B. Tolson in The Great Debaters. His portrayals are usually the shining centerpiece of the films he appears in, and his aura brightens the rest of the cast around him. It's this quality, combined with his longevity and...