Will Smith has enjoyed a long and varied career, from his early days as a rapper and TV star to becoming one of Hollywood’s most bankable actors. Over the decades, he’s delivered box-office hits, critically acclaimed performances, and a few surprising misses. Here’s a look at the best and worst Will Smith movies, ranked from top to bottom.
The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)
In this inspiring biographical drama, Will Smith delivers one of the best performances of his career as Chris Gardner, a struggling salesman who becomes homeless while raising his young son. Smith’s portrayal is heartfelt and powerful, earning him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. The film’s emotional depth and true story of perseverance make it a standout in his filmography.
Sony Pictures, 2006
Men in Black (1997)
“Men in Black” is one of Smith’s most iconic films, blending science fiction with humor. As Agent J, Smith’s chemistry with Tommy Lee Jones was electric, making this alien-busting duo a hit with audiences worldwide. The film’s success helped establish Smith as a leading man in blockbuster films and spawned several sequels, though none quite matched the original’s charm.
thefilmrewind.com
Independence Day (1996)
“Independence Day” was the film that truly launched Will Smith into superstar status. His role as Captain Steven Hiller, a cocky fighter pilot who helps save the world from an alien invasion, was a perfect blend of action and humor. The movie was a massive box-office success and remains a defining moment in Smith’s career.
Jaleesa M. Jones USA TODAY
Bad Boys (1995)
“Bad Boys” introduced the world to the dynamic duo of Will Smith and Martin Lawrence as Miami detectives Mike Lowrey and Marcus Burnett. The film is a high-octane action-comedy that became a cult favorite and solidified Smith’s transition from TV star to movie star. The franchise’s success led to multiple sequels, with the chemistry between the leads remaining a highlight.
Columbia/Kobal/REX/Shutterstock
Hitch (2005)
“Hitch” is one of the best romantic comedies of the 2000s, with Smith playing the charming and witty “date doctor” Alex Hitchens. The film’s success owes much to Smith’s natural charisma and chemistry with co-stars Eva Mendes and Kevin James. It’s a light-hearted, feel-good movie that highlights Smith’s talent for comedy and romance.
imdb.com
Wild Wild West (1999)
Wild Wild West” is often cited as one of the biggest missteps in Smith’s career. This steampunk Western comedy was a critical and commercial failure, criticized for its lackluster script, over-the-top special effects, and uneven tone. Despite Smith’s efforts, the film couldn’t overcome its many flaws and remains a low point in his filmography.
Murray Close | Credit: Warner Bros./Getty Images
Gemini Man (2019)
“Gemini Man” had an intriguing premise—Will Smith plays both an aging hitman and his younger clone—but the execution fell flat. The film’s reliance on CGI to de-age Smith didn’t resonate with audiences, and the plot was criticized for being predictable and uninspired. Despite Smith’s dual performance, “Gemini Man” failed to live up to its potential.
Paramount Pictures photo via AP
Bright (2017)
Bright,” a Netflix original film, was a high-profile release that combined elements of fantasy and police drama. Despite its ambitious premise, the film was criticized for its clunky dialogue, heavy-handed social commentary, and uneven pacing. Smith’s performance was serviceable, but the film as a whole failed to live up to expectations.
Dino-Ray Ramos
Concussion (2015)
“Concussion” is a biographical drama where Smith plays Dr. Bennet Omalu, the pathologist who discovers the link between football and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). While Smith’s performance was praised, the film itself was criticized for being formulaic and lacking the emotional impact necessary to fully engage the audience.
Netflix
Collateral Beauty (2016)
“Collateral Beauty” attempted to be a heartfelt drama about grief and healing but was instead met with derision for its manipulative plot and uneven tone. Smith’s performance as a grieving father was overshadowed by the film’s convoluted story, and it was widely regarded as a missed opportunity given the talented cast.
irishtimes.com
