Key takeaways:
– Acclaimed actor Denzel Washington was bold in taking on the role of a villain in his 2001 film ‘Training Day'.
– He defied critics and challenges, demonstrating his versatility as an artist.
– Washington's approach extended beyond roles stipulating him as a ‘good guy', breaking a longstanding stereotype.
– He also emphasized the need to uplift the status of awards, not the reverse.
– Despite potential controversy, he acted against type, embodying his role as LAPD officer Alonzo Harris.
Denzel Washington, the iconic Hollywood actor known for his outstanding performances, risked controversy to dismantle a longstanding stereotype by portraying a villain in his 2001 film, ‘Training Day'. Ethan Hawke, his co-star, uncovered this lesser-known facet of Washington's career during an interview.
Washington's choice to play Alonzo Harris – an LAPD officer and the primary antagonist in ‘Training Day' – marked a significant deviation from his previous conventional roles. Aware of the potential backlash, he remained unwavered in his commitment to challenge the stereotype.
The daring step not only risked personal blowback due to his race but also courted potential controversy for the film. Washington, undeterred, reiterated his determination to excel in his craft irrespective of the difficulties.
According to Hawke, Washington engaged in a counterargument with the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People concerning his role in ‘Training Day'. To answer their protest, he questioned, “What, Al Pacino can play a bad guy. Gene Hackman can play a bad guy. I can't play a bad guy?”
Underscoring his point, Washington further elaborated, “I'm an artist. That's how I lead, not by being some dubious role model by only playing squeaky clean people. I'll be a role model by being great at my job.”
Contrary to his fears, the audience and critics applauded Washington's portrayal of Alonzo Harris. His performance dismantled the stereotype and brought him his first Oscar for Best Actor in a Leading Role, making him part of Hollywood history.
In a recent interview with Chris Wallace, Hawke recollected a conversation with Washington during the 74th Academy Awards ceremony. Though Washington won Best Actor, Hawke was only nominated. Washington told his disappointed co-star, “You don't want an award to improve your status. You want to improve the award's status.”
Emphasizing the value of performance over accolades, Hawke praised Washington: “I think when all is said and done, he's the greatest actor of our generation. The Academy Award has more power because Denzel has a couple. It didn't elevate who he was.”
Denzel Washington, with his remarkable acting skills and dedication to breaking stereotypes, has left an undeniable mark on the entertainment industry. These revealing insights into his steps to challenge and reshape expectations amplify his standing as a true legend in Hollywood.
Denzel Washington's ‘Training Day' is available on Prime Video.
