Denzel Washington never goes out of style, but there are times when he stands out above other actors of his caliber. This is one of those years, as all predictions indicate that he will win the Oscar —or at least come close— with his performance in Gladiator 2. But, while we wait to see what happens with Ridley Scott’s movie, it’s a good time to review some of the most interesting roles of his career.
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Subscribe (it's FREE) ►The truth is that Washington is more than well-established in Hollywood, as he already has two Oscars for Glory and Training Day, in addition to eight nominations in total. But there is a movie that went unnoticed —despite earning him a nomination in 2022— and is worth watching to understand the full scope of Washington’s acting: The Tragedy of Macbeth.
Shakespeare has revived
Available on Apple TV+, The Tragedy of Macbeth proves that his talent knows no bounds. In this adaptation of Shakespeare’s play directed by Joel Coen, Washington delivers a performance that could well be considered the best of his career, a remarkable achievement given his extensive and acclaimed trajectory.
The film is a modern and stylized adaptation of one of the most famous tragedies by the English bard. Written and directed by Joel Coen —in his first project without his brother Ethan—, The Tragedy of Macbeth retains the essence of Shakespeare’s original text, but frames it in a visually innovative cinematic experience… that despite not fully succeeding at the box office, undoubtedly serves as an experiment worth watching.
The story follows Macbeth, a Scottish warrior who, after hearing a prophecy from three witches predicting he will become king, succumbs to ambition and the manipulation of his wife, Lady Macbeth, embarking on a path of murder, paranoia, and moral decay. Lady Macbeth, incidentally, is played by an incredible Frances McDormand, who has nothing to envy Washington in his role.
Shot in black and white, the film combines a minimalist and theatrical aesthetic with influences from German Expressionism. The sets are abstract, almost dreamlike, and shadows play a crucial role, emphasizing the psychological tension and symbolism of each scene. This stylistic choice not only pays homage to the original text, but also underscores the timelessness of the story, as explained by its director.
This visual decision also highlights the loneliness of the characters and the isolation that power causes. Each frame is carefully composed, from the extensive wide shots showing Macbeth in desolate landscapes to the intense close-ups capturing his internal struggles. Undoubtedly, the atmosphere is as important as the narrative itself, and it is what sets it above other reinterpretations of this story.
As for Denzel Washington, the actor offers both a physical and emotional performance. Coen ensures that he captures all the complexities of the character: from his initial bravery as a loyal warrior to his descent into madness, paranoia, and remorse. In his most powerful moments, his Macbeth dominates the screen with an imposing presence, such as when he confronts his enemies or proclaims his aspirations to the throne. But in the more intimate moments, like the soliloquies that reflect his guilt and fear, his performance is subtle and moving.
If you have Apple TV+, you cannot miss the opportunity to watch this feature film that, despite not attracting much attention at the time, is a gem that captivates every cinephile as soon as they see its first frames. A very English film that perfectly captures the spirit of Shakespeare.
