Denzel Washington at 70: his 20 greatest films – ranked!

Ahead of his birthday next month, we celebrate the filmography of Washington, from his charisma-oozing role in Cry Freedom to his colossal performance in Gladiator II

Already radiating charisma, and sporting a credible South African accent, Denzel Washington earned the first of his 10 Oscar nominations for this portrayal of anti-apartheid activist Steve Biko. Alas, Richard Attenborough’s well-meaning film seems more preoccupied with the fate of the white journalist (Kevin Kline as Donald Woods) on whose book this was based.