Imagine being one of the most iconic, revered, and prolific actors of our time. A man whose filmography reads like a masterclass in captivating storytelling and powerful performances. Now, imagine that same man admitting he doesn’t watch movies. Not even his own.
That’s the surprising, incredibly Denzel-esque truth revealed by the legend himself in a recent GQ video featuring A$AP Rocky and Spike Lee. When asked about his viewing habits, Denzel Washington, without missing a beat, confessed: “I don’t watch movies, man. I really don’t.”
A bent-over chuckle from A$AP Rocky and a hearty laugh from long-time collaborator Spike Lee couldn’t deter him. Washington doubled down: “I’m just being honest with you. I don’t watch movies, man. I don’t go to the movies. I don’t watch movies.”
“I’m Tired of Movies”
A$AP Rocky, perhaps echoing the thoughts of millions, asked if it was because he spends his life making movies. “Probably,” Washington replied with a shrug. “You know, I’m tired of movies.”
It’s an understandable sentiment from a man who, when asked by Spike Lee how many films he’d made, simply said, “Too many.” He then pondered, “I think 50.” (For the record, it’s actually closer to 60, depending on the count, making his “tired of movies” declaration even more poignant.)
The “Next One” is Always the Favorite
The conversation took place in the context of their latest collaboration, the neo-noir crime thriller “Highest 2 Lowest,” which marks Washington’s fifth film with Spike Lee. Their storied partnership began with the 1990 drama “Mo’ Better Blues.”
When Rocky probed for Denzel’s favorite piece from his work with Lee, the answer was classic Washington: “I don’t have favorites. I always tell people – they say, ‘What’s your favorite movie?’ I say, ‘My next one.’ I’m not interested in the past.”
Then came the mic drop that will surely send fans reeling: “Actually, I’ve never seen ‘Mo’ Better’ since.”
Spike Lee, incredulous, clarified: “Since the premiere?”
“Yeah, I haven’t seen it,” Washington confirmed.
And it doesn’t stop there. When Lee asked if this was the case with all his films, Denzel laid it bare: “I haven’t seen any of ‘em from top to bottom.”
A Glimpse Behind the Curtain
This revelation offers a fascinating insight into the mind of a meticulous artist. For Denzel, the craft seems to be all about the process—the character, the scene, the moment. Once it’s done, it’s done. His focus relentlessly shifts to the next challenge, the next character to inhabit, the next story to tell. Perhaps this detachment from the finished product is what allows him to consistently deliver such fresh, powerful performances, free from the burden of past successes or the temptation of self-critique.
The interview also had its lighter moments, like when A$AP Rocky casually mentioned his close friendship with Denzel’s son, John David Washington. “I made really good friends with your son, John David. Really good friends and he’s a really good brother,” Rocky shared, genuinely surprising Denzel. “So, you and John David are tight?” Washington asked, receiving another chuckle from Rocky before Spike Lee playfully quipped, “He doesn’t see films.”
It’s clear that Denzel Washington is a man who lives in the present, always looking forward. While we avidly watch and rewatch his cinematic masterpieces, cherishing every nuanced performance, Denzel is already on to the next. He’s currently gearing up for the Netflix heist movie “Here Comes the Flood,” starring alongside English actors, and you can bet he’ll be giving it his all. Just don’t expect him to stream it when it comes out.
What do you think of Denzel’s unique approach to his incredible career? Does it make you appreciate his work even more? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
