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Best Halle Berry Movies of All Time Ranked

Halle Berry attends the European Gala Screening for Amazons: ‘Crime 101’ at Odeon Luxe Leicester Square on January 28, 2026 in London, England. Photo: Kate Green/Getty Images for Amazon MGM Studios and Sony Pictures Entertainment.

Academy Award winner Halle Berry is one of the most accomplished and beloved actresses of her generation.

First appearing in supporting roles in now classic movies like ‘Jungle Fever‘, ‘The Last Boy Scout‘, and ‘Boomerang‘, Berry won an Oscar for Best Actress for her performance in 2001’s ‘Monster’s Ball‘, becoming the first and only Black woman to ever receive that honor from the Academy.
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But she has also appeared in some of the most popular franchises of all time including the original ‘X-Men‘ trilogy, ‘John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum‘, ‘Kingsman: The Golden Circle‘, and the James Bond movie, ‘Die Another Day‘.

Not to mention starring in critically acclaimed movies like ‘Losing Isaiah‘, ‘Bulworth‘, and ‘Could Atlas‘. Her latest, the new crime thriller ‘Crime 101‘, opens in theaters on February 13th.

In honor of the new film’s release, Moviefone is counting down the 20 best movies of Halle Berry’s long and impressive career, including her latest.

Let’s begin!

Related Article: Halle Berry, Percy Daggs IV and Anthony B. Jenkins Talk ‘Never Let Go’

20. ‘X-Men: The Last Stand‘ (2006)

(L to R) Halle Berry and Hugh Jackman in ‘X-Men: The Last Stand’. Photo: Marvel Studios.

When a cure is found to treat mutations, lines are drawn amongst the X-Men, led by Professor Charles Xavier (Patrick Stewart), and the Brotherhood, a band of powerful mutants organized under Xavier’s former ally, Magneto (Ian McKellen).
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19. ‘Never Let Go‘ (2024)

In this new psychological thriller/horror, as an Evil takes over the world beyond their front doorstep, the only protection for a mother (Berry), and her twin sons (Percy Baggs IV and Anthony B. Jenkins) is their house and their family’s protective bond. Needing to stay connected at all times – even tethering themselves with ropes – they cling to one another, urging each other to never let go. But when one of the boys questions if the evil is real, the ties that bind them together are severed, triggering a terrifying fight for survival.
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18. ‘Executive Decision‘ (1996)

Terrorists hijack a 747 inbound to Washington D.C., demanding the release of their imprisoned leader. Intelligence expert David Grant (Kurt Russell) suspects another reason and he is soon the reluctant member of a special assault team that is assigned to intercept the plane and hijackers.
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17. ‘The Program‘ (1993)

Several players from different backgrounds try to cope with the pressures of playing football at a major university. Each deals with the pressure differently, some turn to drinking, others to drugs, and some to studying.
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16. ‘The Call‘ (2013)

Jordan Turner (Berry) is an experienced 911 operator but when she makes an error in judgment and a call ends badly, Jordan is rattled and unsure if she can continue. But when teenager Casey Welson (Abigail Breslin) is abducted in the back of a man’s car and calls 911, Jordan is the one called upon to use all of her experience, insights and quick thinking to help Casey escape, and not just to save her, but to make sure the man is brought to justice.
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15. ‘Swordfish‘ (2001)

(L to R) Halle Berry, John Travolta, Don Cheadle and Hugh Jackman in ‘Swordfish’. Photo: Warner Bros.

Rogue agent Gabriel Shear (John Travolta) is determined to get his mitts on $9 billion stashed in a secret Drug Enforcement Administration account. He wants the cash to fight terrorism, but lacks the computer skills necessary to hack into the government mainframe. Enter Stanley Jobson (Hugh Jackman), a n’er-do-well encryption expert who can log into anything.
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14. ‘Losing Isaiah‘ (1995)

Khaila Richards (Berry), a crack-addicted single mother, accidentally leaves her baby in a dumpster while high and returns the next day in a panic to find he is missing. In reality, the baby has been adopted by a warm-hearted social worker, Margaret Lewin (Jessica Lange), and her husband, Charles (David Strathaim). Years later, Khaila has gone through rehab and holds a steady job. After learning that her child is still alive, she challenges Margaret for the custody.
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13. ‘Bulworth‘ (1998)

A suicidally disillusioned liberal politician (Warren Beatty) puts a contract out on himself and takes the opportunity to be bluntly honest with his voters by affecting the rhythms and speech of hip-hop music and culture.
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12. ‘X-Men: Days of Future Past‘ (2014)

The ultimate X-Men ensemble fights a war for the survival of the species across two time periods as they join forces with their younger selves in an epic battle that must change the past – to save our future.
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11. ‘Die Another Day‘ (2002)

James Bond (Pierce Brosnan) is sent to investigate the connection between a North Korean terrorist and a diamond mogul, who is funding the development of an international space weapon.
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10. ‘Crime 101‘ (2026)

(L to R) Chris Hemsworth and Halle Berry star in ‘Crime 101’. Photo Credit: Merrick Morton.

Set against the sun-bleached grit of Los Angeles, ‘Crime 101’ weaves the tale of an elusive jewel thief (Chris Hemsworth) whose string of heists along the 101 freeway have mystified police. When he eyes the score of a lifetime, his path crosses that of a disillusioned insurance broker (Berry) who is facing her own crossroads. Convinced he has found a pattern, a relentless detective (Mark Ruffalo) is closing in, raising the stakes even higher. As the heist approaches, the line between hunter and hunted begins to blur, and all three are faced with life-defining choices–and the realization that there can be no turning back.
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9. ‘Boomerang‘ (1992)

Marcus (Eddie Murphy) is a successful advertising executive who woos and beds women almost at will. After a company merger he finds that his new boss, the ravishing Jacqueline (Robin Givens), is treating him in exactly the same way. Completely traumatized by this, his work goes badly downhill.
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8. ‘X-Men‘ (2000)

Two mutants, Rogue (Anna Paquin) and Wolverine (Hugh Jackman), come to a private academy for their kind whose resident superhero team, the X-Men, must oppose a terrorist organization with similar powers.
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7. ‘Kingsman: The Golden Circle‘ (2017)

When an attack on the Kingsman headquarters takes place and a new villain rises (Julianne Moore), Eggsy (Taron Egerton) and Merlin (Mark Strong) are forced to work together with the American agency known as the Statesman to save the world.
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6. ‘The Last Boy Scout‘ (1991)

When the girl (Berry) that detective Joe Hallenback (Bruce Willis) is protecting gets murdered, the boyfriend (Damon Wayans) of the murdered girl attempts to investigate and solve the case. What they discover is that there is deep seated corruption going on between a crooked politician and the owner of a pro football team.
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5. ‘John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum‘ (2019)

(L to R) Keanu Reeves and Halle Berry in ‘John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum’. Photo: Lionsgate.

Super-assassin John Wick (Keanu Reeves) returns with a $14 million price tag on his head and an army of bounty-hunting killers on his trail. After killing a member of the shadowy international assassin’s guild, the High Table, John Wick is excommunicado, but the world’s most ruthless hit men and women await his every turn.
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4. ‘Jungle Fever‘ (1991)

A successful and married black man (Wesley Snipes) contemplates having an affair with a white girl (Annabella Sciorra) from work. He’s quite rightly worried that the racial difference would make an already taboo relationship even worse.
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3. ‘X2‘ (2003)

Professor Charles Xavier (Patrick Stewart) and his team of genetically gifted superheroes face a rising tide of anti-mutant sentiment led by Col. William Stryker (Brian Cox). Storm (Berry), Wolverine (Hugh Jackman) and Jean Grey (Famke Janssen) must join their usual nemeses—Magneto (Ian McKellen) and Mystique (Rebecca Romijn)—to unhinge Stryker’s scheme to exterminate all mutants.
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2. ‘Monster’s Ball‘ (2001)

A prison guard (Billy Bob Thornton) begins a tentative romance with the unsuspecting widow (Berry) of a man whose execution he presided over.
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1. ‘Cloud Atlas‘ (2012)

(L to R) Tom Hanks and Halle Berry in ‘Cloud Atlas’. Photo: Warner Bros.

A set of six nested stories spanning time between the 19th century and a distant post-apocalyptic future. ‘Cloud Atlas’ explores how the actions and consequences of individual lives impact one another throughout the past, the present and the future. Action, mystery and romance weave through the story as one soul is shaped from a killer into a hero and a single act of kindness ripples across centuries to inspire a revolution in the distant future.
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February 19, 2026
Civil Rights Leader Reverend Jesse Jackson Dead at 84
The Reverend Jesse Jackson. Photo: Jesse Jackson’s Instagram.

Preview:
- Reverend Jesse Jackson has died at the age of 84.
- He was best known as a protégé of Martin Luther King Jr. and a leading voice for civil rights, economic equality, and political empowerment.
- In later years, he remained an influential moral voice in American politics, even as he faced health challenges including Parkinson’s disease.
Reverend Jesse Jackson, the civil rights leader who rose to national prominence as a close associate of Martin Luther King Jr. and later became a groundbreaking presidential candidate and founder of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, has died at the age of 84.
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Jackson’s family released a statement:

“Our beloved father, grandfather, and brother, Reverend Jesse Louis Jackson Sr. passed peacefully surrounded by family. He dedicated his life to expanding opportunity, lifting the voices of the marginalized, and calling this nation to live up to its highest ideals. We are grateful for the outpouring of love and ask for privacy as we celebrate his extraordinary life and legacy.”

Related Article: ‘The Godfather’ and ‘Apocalypse Now’ Actor Robert Duvall Dies At 95

Jesse Jackson: Early Life and Rise in the Civil Rights Movement

The Reverend Jesse Jackson. Photo: Jesse Jackson’s Instagram.

Born October 8, 1941, in Greenville, South Carolina, Jesse Louis Jackson grew up in the segregated South. He attended North Carolina A&T State University and later studied at the Chicago Theological Seminary, where he was ordained a minister.

In the mid-1960s, he became involved in the civil rights movement and worked closely with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., serving as a key organizer within the Southern Christian Leadership Conference. Jackson was present in Memphis in 1968 during King’s assassination, an event that profoundly shaped his life and mission.

Following King’s death, Jackson founded Operation PUSH (People United to Save Humanity) in 1971, later merging it into the Rainbow PUSH Coalition.

Jesse Jackson: A Political Force

(L to R) James Brown, Eddie Murphy, Jesse Jackson, and Al Sharpton. Photo: Jesse Jackson’s Instagram.

Jackson made history with his presidential campaigns in 1984 and 1988. His 1988 bid, in particular, was groundbreaking: he won several primaries and caucuses, built a diverse “Rainbow Coalition,” and became one of the most successful African American candidates in presidential primary history at the time.

Over the decades, Jackson remained active in public life, advocating for voting rights, criminal justice reform, labor rights, and international human rights.

In 2017, Jackson revealed he had been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Despite his health challenges, he continued to make public appearances and speak out on issues he believed were central to the nation’s conscience.

Jesse Jackson: Off the Pulpit

(L to R) Jacqueline Jackson and Jesse Jackson. Photo: Jesse Jackson’s Instagram.

Offstage, Jackson was known as a charismatic orator with a preacher’s cadence and a gift for memorable phrases. His call to “keep hope alive” became a defining refrain of his career.

He was also a husband, father, and grandfather who often spoke about faith as the foundation of his activism. Admirers saw him as a relentless advocate for the disenfranchised; critics acknowledged his undeniable impact on American political life.

(L to R) Al Sharpton and Jesse Jackson. Photo: Jesse Jackson’s Instagram.

Selected Movies Featuring Jesse Jackson:
- ‘Richard Pryor: Live on the Sunset Strip’ (1982)
- ‘King: Man of Peace in a Time of War’ (2007)
- ‘Rise Up: The Movement that Changed America’ (2018)
- ‘Summer of Soul (…Or, When the Revolution Could Not Be Televised)’ (2021)
- ‘September First, Twenty-Twenty’ (2021)
- ‘South to Black Power’ (2023)
Buy Jesse Jackson Movies and TV on Amazon
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February 17, 2026
‘Crime 101’ Interview: Chris Hemsworth and Halle Berry
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Opening in theaters on February 13th is the new crime thriller ‘Crime 101’, which was directed by Bart Layton (‘American Animals’) and stars Chris Hemsworth (‘Thor’), Halle Berry (‘X-Men’), Mark Ruffalo (‘The Avengers’), Barry Keoghan (‘Eternals’), Monica Barbaro (‘Top Gun: Maverick’), Corey Hawkins (‘Straight Outta Compton’), Jennifer Jason Leigh (‘The Hateful Eight’) and Nick Nolte (’48 Hrs.’).
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Moviefone recently had the pleasure of sitting down in person with Chris Hemsworth and Halle Berry to talk about their work on ‘Crime 101’, what fans can expect from the new movie, their complex characters, how Hemsworth connected to his role, and why Berry thinks the film is a “love letter to LA.”

(L to R) Halle Berry and Chris Hemsworth star in ‘Crime 101’.

You can read the full interview below or click on the video player above to watch our interviews with Hemsworth, Berry, and director Bart Layton.

Related Article: Halle Berry, Percy Daggs IV and Anthony B. Jenkins Talk ‘Never Let Go’

Chris Hemsworth stars in ‘Crime 101’. Photo Credit: Merrick Morton.

Moviefone: To begin with, Chris, what would you say to audiences sitting down right now in a theater to watch this movie to prepare them for the theatrical experiences they are about to have?

Chris Hemsworth: Propulsive. Sophisticated. Relevant. Thought provoking. There’s a beautiful momentum in the film, and continuity from the action and the intensity there through the dramatic scenes. I think we’ve, and (director) Bart Layton speaks of this a lot, prioritized the action as the most important, impressive part. But the action means nothing if you’re not invested in those characters. Every time we cut to an action scene, right before that, you’re invested in the emotional content and then the interplay between the people that are about to collide. So, it’s fun.

MF: Halle, what would you say to moviegoers to get them excited for this film?

Halle Berry: Gritty. Sexy. Character driven. Action. We’ve got some chases you haven’t seen before. It’s a love letter to LA. You see it in a brand-new way. We haven’t seen the city like that in a very long time.

Halle Berry stars in ‘Crime 101’. Photo Credit: Merrick Morton.

MF: Halle, can you expand on that? What do you mean by a “love letter to LA”?

HB: Well, because you see all of what the city encompasses. You see the glamour and the glitz, but you see the underbelly, you see the real. I think there is beauty in the real. Anything that’s real and true, I think people see beauty and truth in. He captured it in a beautiful way and the cinematography highlights it in the best way.

MF: Chris, you just used the word “Relevant” to describe the film. What did you mean by that?

CH: Well, we didn’t write the script, Bart Layton wrote the script. It’s based on a short story. He talks about wanting to have it entertaining, but if you could smuggle in questions that we’re asking ourselves about, I suppose “relevant” now being the system being unfair and people breaking out of the social expectations or what we’re being told is the good and what we’re being told is evil and provoking more of the conversation around the ambiguity of things, the humanity in all of us, and how whatever side of the fence you may sit on, you’re going to find good and bad people. It’s not as clean cut as like, “Well, you’re from there. That means I can put you in that box.” It’s a lot more, open for discussion. The tropes that maybe you walk into a film and expect within these characters, I do feel we break out of those and there’s some unexpected turns. I think when I watch those movies, it certainly provokes a second discussion with yourself around, “Oh, I’ve met people like that and I assumed that in a second, and how wrong I was.” They’re going through something; they’re doing their best. Nothing’s as simple as we’d like to think.

(L to R) Chris Hemsworth and Halle Berry star in ‘Crime 101’. Photo Credit: Merrick Morton.

MF: Halle, how would you describe your character in your own words and how she connects to Chris’ character?

HB: Well, I think what we discovered about our characters, they both come from meager beginnings, right? That connected us as characters in the movie. But my character has worked hard as a woman of color to get where she got to in her insurance company. Rightfully so, she’s expecting the rightful promotion and the rightful place within that system. She gets painfully made aware that she has aged out and that and she’s no longer useful. That is the moment that I think she feared, always knew could come, but somehow thought she was different and realized she’s not. So, she got presented with a moral question about what will you do when you realize the system is unfair? How will you mitigate that? And she makes a choice.

MF: Chris, how would you describe your character and why he teams up with Halle’s character?

CH: There’s this crisis of identity, I think. I’m not going to speak for her, but with my character, what he thought was going to bring fulfillment and happiness, it was material wealth. He literally has a number of which if he gets to that number, it’ll solve all his problems. There’s this beautiful line that her character says, “Those who come from chaos, crave order.” I think that speaks volumes with many people’s experiences, especially if you’re in your formative years and there’s abuse and neglect and you don’t have that foundation to fall back upon. You seek it in all the wrong places, or you attempt to build structure and safety through outside acknowledgement or status or material wealth. We all know that that doesn’t hold true. What is important and what they need is love, connection, support, and to be seen by people who also have had similar experiences. That’s a true connection that they are both seeking.

Chris Hemsworth stars in ‘Crime 101’. Photo Credit: Dean Rogers.

MF: Finally, Chris, obviously you grew up differently than your character but how did you tap into his intensity for this film?

CH: I mean, I grew up in a beautiful household, but we had very little money and were certainly aware of the financial burden my parents were under. It was week to week paychecks to pay for food and bills. I’d see and feel the stress that was on them. I literally was like, “Oh, I could become an actor and I could pay the house off finally.” I remember asking my dad, “When will you pay it off?” He was like, “Oh, never mate.” My dad worked as a social worker in child protection and was doing one of the most important jobs, protecting those who were the most vulnerable of us, that being children. Yet, he was tied to the bank in that way and was never going to escape it. So, I empathized or connected with the idea of that financial burden, if I could solve that thing, that will fix it. Then I did that, and then you arrive at an existential crisis of, “Well, now what?” It brings you happiness for a period, but then it’s about something else. Then you go into your second mountain of life. It’s like there’s something deeper, there’s some other burning inner desire. Your psyche stops speaking up, and your soul wants something else. None of that I have answered yet, but it’s been around my brain a lot in the recent times.

Editorial Note: President & COO of Moviefone, Rahsan-Rahsan Lindsay, conducted this interview and contributed to this article.

(L to R) Mark Ruffalo and Chris Hemsworth star in ‘Crime 101’. Photo Credit: Merrick Morton.

What is the plot of ‘Crime 101’?

A jewel thief named Mike Davis’ (Chris Hemsworth) heists along the 101 freeway have left police baffled. When he sets his sights on the ultimate score, his plans intersect with those of insurance broker Sharon Colvin (Halle Berry). A detective named Lou Lubesnick (Mark Ruffalo) believes he has cracked Mike’s pattern and is determined to bring him down before the next job.

Who is in the cast of ‘Crime 101’?
- Chris Hemsworth as Mike Davis
- Mark Ruffalo as Det. Lou Lubesnick
- Barry Keoghan as Ormon
- Halle Berry as Sharon Coombs
- Monica Barbaro as Maya
- Corey Hawkins as Det. Tillman
- Jennifer Jason Leigh as Angie
- Nick Nolte as Money
- Tate Donovan as Steven Monroe
- Devon Bostick as Devon
- Payman Maadi as Sammy Kassem
- Babak Tafti as Ali
- Deborah Hedwall as Anne
- Paul Adelstein as Mark
- Drew Powell as Det. Townsend
- Matthew Del Negro as Police Captain Stewart
Halle Berry attends the European Gala Screening for Amazons: ‘Crime 101’ at Odeon Luxe Leicester Square on January 28, 2026 in London, England. Photo: Kate Green/Getty Images for Amazon MGM Studios and Sony Pictures Entertainment.

List of Halle Berry Movies:
- ‘Jungle Fever‘ (1991)
- ‘The Last Boy Scout‘ (1991)
- ‘Boomerang‘ (1992)
- ‘The Program‘ (1993)
- ‘The Flintstones‘ (1994)
- ‘Executive Decision‘ (1996)
- ‘Bulworth‘ (1998)
- ‘X-Men‘ (2000)
- ‘Swordfish‘ (2001)
- ‘Monster’s Ball‘ (2001)
- ‘Die Another Day‘ (2002)
- ‘X2‘ (2003)
- ‘Catwoman‘ (2004)
- ‘X-Men: The Last Stand‘ (2006)
- ‘Cloud Atlas‘ (2012)
- ‘X-Men: Days of Future Past‘ (2014)
- ‘Kingsman: The Golden Circle‘ (2017)
- ‘John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum‘ (2019)
- ‘Moonfall‘ (2022)
- ‘The Union‘ (2024)
- ‘Never Let Go‘ (2024)
- ‘Crime 101‘ (2026)
Buy Tickets: ‘Crime 101’ Movie Showtimes

Buy Halle Berry Movies On Amazon
February 10, 2026
New Images from the Michael Jackson Biopic Online
Jaafar Jackson as Michael Jackson in ‘Michael’. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Lionsgate.

Preview:
- New images from ‘Michael’ have landed online.
- Antoine Fuqua directs the Michael Jackson biopic.
- It’ll be in cinemas this coming April.
It’s been a while since we’ve heard much from the team –– including director Antoine Fuqua –– behind Michael Jackson biopic ‘Michael.’

There has been chatter about re-shoots, legal concerns and speculation as to whether it might even arrive as two movies.
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Now, though, we have a confirmed April release date, some fresh images from the movie and the latest trailer, which you can find lower down the page.

Related Article: First Look at Jaafar Jackson as Michael Jackson in New Biopic ‘Michael’

What’s the story of ‘Michael’?

Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson in ‘Michael’. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Lionsgate.

Per the official blurb: “The film tells the story of Michael Jackson’s life beyond the music, tracing his journey from the discovery of his extraordinary talent as the lead of the Jackson Five, to the visionary artist whose creative ambition fueled a relentless pursuit to become the biggest entertainer in the world. Highlighting both his life off-stage and some of the most iconic performances from his early solo career, the film gives audiences a front-row seat to Michael Jackson as never before.”

In addition to Jaafar Jackson (the late singer’s nephew), the movie features Colman Domingo, Nia Long, Miles Teller and Kat Graham.

When will ‘Michael’ make its cinematic bow?

The movie will be in theaters on April 24.

(L to R) Judah Edwards as Young Tito, Jaylen Hunter as Young Marlon, Juliano Krue Valdi as Young MJ, Nathaniel McIntyre as Young Jackie and Jayden Harville as Young Jermaine in ‘Michael’. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Lionsgate.

Nia Long as Katherine Jackson in ‘Michael’. Photo Credit: Glen Wilson/Lionsgate.

Jaafar Jackson as Michael Jackson in ‘Michael’. Photo Credit: Glen Wilson/Lionsgate.

List of Movies Similar to ‘Michael’:
- ‘Sid and Nancy‘ (1986)
- ‘The Doors‘ (1991)
- ‘Ray‘ (2004)
- ‘Walk the Line‘ (2005)
- ‘I’m Not There‘ (2007)
- ‘Control‘ (2007)
- ‘Nowhere Boy‘ (2010)
- ‘The Runaways‘ (2010)
- ‘Get on Up‘ (2014)
- ‘Love & Mercy‘ (2015)
- ‘Bohemian Rhapsody‘ (2018)
- ‘Rocketman‘ (2019)
- ‘The Dirt‘ (2019)
- ‘Elvis‘ (2022)
- ‘Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance with Somebody‘ (2022)
- ‘Weird: The Al Yankovic Story‘ (2022)
- ‘Bob Marley: One Love‘ (2024)
- ‘Michael‘ (2026)
Buy Antoine Fuqua Movies on Amazon
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February 7, 2026
Best Movies and TV Shows About Martin Luther King Jr.

David Oyelowo as Martin Luther King Jr. in ‘Selma’. Photo: Paramount Pictures.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day is on January 19th and there have been many documentaries, movies and TV shows made about the iconic civil rights leader.

From films like director Ana DuVernay‘s ‘Selma‘, to documentaries like 2018’s ‘I Am MLK Jr.‘, to mini-series like season 4 of ‘Genius‘ entitled ‘MLK/X‘, there are plenty of movies and TV shows to watch to learn more about King’s life and contributions.
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In honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Moviefone is counting down the 15 best movies and TV shows about the civil rights leader, his family and his legacy.

Let’s begin!

Related Article: Kelvin Harrison Jr. and Aaron Pierre Talk Anthology Series ‘Genius: MLK/X’

15. ‘Selma, Lord, Selma‘ (1999)

1999’s ‘Selma, Lord, Selma’. Photo: Walt Disney Television.

In 1965 Alabama, an 11 year old girl (Jurnee Smollett) is touched by a speech by Martin Luther King, Jr. and becomes a devout follower. But her resolution is tested when she joins others in the famed march from Selma to Montgomery.
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14. ‘Path to War‘ (2002)

A powerful drama of soaring ambition and shattered dreams that takes a provocative insider’s look at the way the USA goes to war—as seen from inside the LBJ (Michael Gambon) White House leading up to and during the Vietnam War.
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13. ‘King in the Wilderness‘ (2018)

A chronicle of the final chapters of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s life, revealing a conflicted leader who faced an onslaught of criticism from both sides of the political spectrum.
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12. ‘In the Hour of Chaos‘ (2016)

Documentary film about the life and trials of the Reverend Martin Luther King Sr. (“Daddy King”), father of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr.
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11. ‘Bringing King to China‘ (2011)

‘Bringing King to China’ is a father’s “love letter” to his adult daughter, a young American woman struggling to bring Martin Luther King, Jr.’s dream of nonviolence to China, and then back to the United States.
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10. ‘All the Way‘ (2016)

(L to R) Anthony Mackie as Martin Luther King Jr. and Bryan Cranston as President Lyndon B. Johnson in ‘All the Way’. Photo: HBO Films.

Lyndon B. Johnson‘s (Bryan Cranston) amazing 11-month journey from taking office after JFK‘s assassination, through the fight to pass the 1964 Civil Rights Act and his own presidential campaign, culminating on the night LBJ is actually elected to the office – no longer the ‘accidental President.’
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9. ‘We Are the Dream: The Kids of the Oakland MLK Oratorical Fest‘ (2020)

Every year, hundreds of children from pre-K through 12th grade take the stage at the Oakland MLK Oratorical Fest, a public speaking competition where they perform poetry and speeches inspired by the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The film covers the months leading up to the 40th annual festival, as schools across the city send their top-placing students to compete. It is a portrait of young people raising their voices about issues they care about and of the unique community that celebrates and supports them.
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8. ‘I Am MLK Jr.‘ (2018)

This feature documentary deeply explores Dr. King, his experience, his legacy and the Movement at large through key events – The Montgomery Bus Boycott, The Birmingham Campaign, March on Washington, the Selma Movement and Assassination and Legacy.
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7. ‘Our Friend, Martin‘ (1999)

‘Our Friend, Martin’ is a 1999 animated children’s educational film about Martin Luther King, Jr. and the American civil rights movement. Two friends travel through time, meeting Dr. King at several points during his life. It featured an all-star voice cast and was nominated for an Emmy award in 1999 for Outstanding Animated Program.
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6. ‘King: A Filmed Record… Montgomery to Memphis‘ (1970)

Constructed from a wealth of archival footage, the documentary follows Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. from 1955 to 1968, in his rise from regional activist to world-renowned leader of the Civil Rights movement. Rare footage of King’s speeches, protests, and arrests are interspersed with scenes of other high-profile supporters and opponents of the cause, punctuated by heartfelt testimonials by some of Hollywood’s biggest stars.
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5.’Genius: MLK/X‘ (2024)

Kelvin Harrison Jr. as Martin Luther King Jr. in ‘Genius: MLK/X.’ Photo: National Geographic/Richard DuCree.

The fourth season chronicles the lives of Martin Luther King Jr. (Kelvin Harrison Jr.) and Malcolm X (Aaron Pierre).
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4. ‘MLK/FBI‘ (2021)

Based on newly declassified files, the film explores the US government’s surveillance and harassment of Martin Luther King, Jr.
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3. ‘Betty and Coretta‘ (2013)

The widows of Martin Luther King (Angela Bassett) and Malcolm X (Mary J. Blige) and how they carry on as single mothers after the assassination of their husbands.
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2. ‘Boycott‘ (2001)

This made-for-TV movie dramatizes the historic boycott of public buses in the 1950s, led by civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. (Jeffrey Wright).
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1. ‘Selma‘ (2015)

(Center) David Oyelowo as Martin Luther King Jr. in ‘Selma’. Photo: Paramount Pictures.

‘Selma,’ as in Alabama, the place where segregation in the South was at its worst, leading to a march that ended in violence, forcing a famous statement by President Lyndon B. Johnson (Tom Wilkinson) that ultimately led to the signing of the Voting Rights Act. David Oyelowo plays Martin Luther King Jr.
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January 19, 2026
Veteran Actor Isiah Whitlock Jr. Dies at 71
Isiah Whitlock Jr. as Larry Dokes in episode 107 of ‘The Residence.’ Photo: Jessica Brooks/Netflix © 2024.

Preview:
- Actor Isiah Whitlock Jr. has died aged 71.
- He was known for performances in ‘The Wire’ and ‘Veep.’
- Whitlock Jr. was also a regular collaborator with director Spike Lee.
Actor Isiah Whitlock Jr. has died at the age of 71, his manager confirmed, following a brief illness.

Best known for his unforgettable portrayal of corrupt state senator Clay Davis on HBO’s ‘The Wire’ — and for co-starring in ‘Veep’ and several films by director Spike Lee — Whitlock’s career spanned more than four decades.
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Stars, collaborators, and fans around the world are paying tribute to the beloved actor.

Related article: French Screen Legend and Cultural Icon Brigitte Bardot Has Died at the Age of 91

Isiah Whitlock Jr.: Early Life and Career

Isiah Whitlock Jr as Judge Lomax in ‘I Care a Lot.’ Photo: Seacia Pavao/NETFLIX.

Born September 13, 1954 in South Bend, Indiana, Whitlock began his journey far from Hollywood’s red carpets. After studying theater on a scholarship, he trained at the prestigious American Conservatory Theater in San Francisco, laying the groundwork for a career defined by versatility and depth.

Whitlock’s early work included guest appearances on television series throughout the 1980s and 1990s. He also had small roles in films such as ‘Goodfellas’ and ‘Pieces of April,’ showcasing his ability to shine in any role, large or small.

Isiah Whitlock Jr.: A Life in Film and Television

(L to R) Isiah Whitlock Jr. as Larry Dokes, Dan Perrault as Colin Trask, Spencer Garrett as Wally Glick, Uzo Aduba as Cordelia Cupp, Randall Park as Edwin Park, Andrew Friedman as Irv Samuelson, Ken Marino as Harry Hollinger, Molly Griggs as Lilly Schumacher in ‘The Residence’. Photo: Erin Simkin/Netflix © 2024.

Whitlock’s breakthrough came with HBO’s ‘The Wire,’ where his portrayal of the charismatic and corrupt State Senator Clay Davis became iconic.

He went on to captivate audiences in the political satire ‘Veep,’ playing Secretary of Defense George Maddox, and appeared in acclaimed series such as ‘Your Honor’ and ‘The Residence.’

On the big screen, Whitlock was a favorite of director Spike Lee, collaborating on multiple films including ’25th Hour,’ ‘Da 5 Bloods,’ ‘BlacKkKlansman,’ ‘Chi-Raq,’ and more — a creative partnership marked by mutual respect and deep friendship.

Across more than 120 film and television credits, Whitlock gave performances that were at once commanding, humorous, and deeply human.

Isiah Whitlock Jr.: Offscreen

(L to R): Isiah Whitlock Jr and Ayoola Smart in ‘Cocaine Bear.’ Photo: Universal Pictures.

Though Whitlock kept much of his personal life private, those close to him remembered his warmth, generosity, and infectious spirit. In a heartfelt announcement, his manager Brian Liebman described him as “a brilliant actor and even better person,” noting that all who knew him were deeply affected by his loss.

Tributes have poured in from peers and collaborators, including Lee, who referred to Whitlock as “my dear beloved brother,” a testament to their long friendship both on and off set.

Isiah Whitlock Jr.: Legacy

(L to R): Isiah Whitlock Jr. as Melvin, Norm Lewis as Eddie, Delroy Lindo as Paul,, Clarke Peters as Otis and Jonathan Majors as David in ‘Da 5 Bloods.’ Photo: Courtesy of Netflix © 2020.

Isiah Whitlock Jr.’s legacy will endure in the memorable characters he brought to life and the joy he brought to audiences around the world. Whether delivering a sly smile, a sharp political jab, or his unforgettable vocal cadence, he was an actor who left an indelible mark on stage and screen alike.

He will be remembered not just for what he played, but how he made us feel: entertained, moved, and always, at times, saying — in his unforgettable way — “sheeeee-it.”

Selected Movies and TV Featuring Isiah Whitlock Jr.:
- ‘Goodfellas’ (1990)
- ‘The Spanish Prisoner’ (1997)
- ’25th Hour’ (2002)
- ‘The Wire’ (2002)
- ‘Pieces of April’ (2003)
- ‘She Hate Me’ (2004)
- ‘Enchanted’ (2007)
- ‘Cedar Rapids’ (2011)
- ‘Red Hook Summer’ (2012)
- ‘Veep’ (2013)
- ‘Chi-Raq’ (2015)
- ‘BlacKkKlansman’ (2018)
- ‘Da 5 Bloods’ (2020)
- ‘Cocaine Bear’ (2023)
- ‘The Residence’ (2025)
Buy Isiah Whitlock Jr. Movies and TV on Amazon
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December 31, 2025
‘Sinners’ Press Conference With Michael B. Jordan and More
Director Ryan Cooler and the cast of ‘Sinners’ at the New York Premiere. Photo: Warner Bros.

‘Sinners‘ follows twin brothers Smoke and Stack (Michael B. Jordan) as they attempt to leave their troubled lives behind and return to their hometown. Moviefone was in attendance at a recent press conference, which featured stars Michael B. Jordan, Wunmi Mosaku, Miles Caton, Delroy Lindo, and director Ryan Coogler.
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Related Article: Movie Review: ‘Sinners’

1) Delroy Lindo Details How His Past Work Helped Him Prepare For ‘Sinners’

Delroy Lindo at the New York Premiere of ‘Sinners’. Photo: Warner Bros.

Delroy Lindo is no stranger to films with rich historical and cultural backdrops. He reveals how projects like ‘Da Five Bloods’ and ‘Malcolm X‘ helped him prepare for this role.

Delroy Lindo: I knew that there would be a research component. Ryan had sent me off the top, he sent me two books, Deep Blues by Robert Palmer and Blues People by Amiri Baraka. Amiri Baraka was Leroy Jones when he wrote the book. So I started there and then I listened to a lot of music. Cats like Sunhouse, Muddy Waters, Howlin’ Wolf, Ike Turner… I just steeped myself in the music. There was just an intense research component, which is consistent with how I’ve worked on other historical films.

2) Miles Caton Reveals How He Became Involved In ‘Sinners’

Miles Caton at the New York Premiere of ‘Sinners’. Photo: Warner Bros.

The character of Sammie Moore is a role that needed an actor who can also sing. Miles Caton proved to be the perfect choice. Here, he reveals how he became involved in the movie.

Miles Caton: I was on tour. I was singing background for H.E.R. And towards the end of that tour, somebody at the show had seen me perform and they said that this kid should audition for this movie. We got back home and H.E.R. calls me one day and she tells me, “Little bro, somebody in the crowd saw you perform and they think you should audition for this movie.” I had no idea what it was about or who was attached to it initially. And as time went on, as I sent in my first audition, I got little bits and pieces of information, and then I finally found out it was Ryan Coogler, and just the thought that I’d be able to work with him was just amazing. And then I found out it was starring Michael B. Jordan. And the way the process happened, everything kind of just happened so fast, and the further I got, the closer I felt like it was becoming a real thing. And after the audition process, I got home and Ryan called me from that Oakland phone number, and it literally said Oakland on it. I was like, “Hold on, bro. I don’t know anybody from Oakland, don’t got no friends from Oakland.” And I answered it. And he said he wanted me to be a part of the project, and that was it.

3) Wunmi Mosaku Says ‘Black Panther’ Was Part Of What Made Her Want To Work With Ryan Coogler

Wunmi Mosaku at the New York Premiere of ‘Sinners’. Photo: Warner Bros.

When asked what it is about Ryan Coogler that made her want to say yes, she reveals that ‘Black Panther‘ was a big part of it.

Wunmi Mosaku: I think Black Panther is on in my house at least once a month. For me, I shouldn’t say this as someone in the MCU, but I was not an MCU fan. I didn’t think it was for me. It just wasn’t part of my radar. And then everyone said, “Go watch Black Panther,” and I was like, “Okay, everyone’s going to watch.” I mean, the whole world is going to see Black Panther. I went to see it and I was like, “Oh, this nuance and this heart in a superhero movie. I’m torn. Am I Team Killmonger? Am I Team Black Panther?” I saw and understood them both so deeply, and I felt like it was a revelation that you could tell stories that meant something to someone like me who is not a comic book fan or a superhero fan and make me feel really seen, excited, hopeful. I just felt like a bridge between the diaspora, the continent. I felt like all of a sudden as a Black Brit, African-American culture, African culture, Black… I felt united, and I felt really like it blew my mind, because I didn’t expect Marvel to do that. So that was the first thing I watched, and then I watched everything, and again, just really moved by the heart. There’s always heart,there’s always truth. There’s always US, ancestry, reverence, connection. There is no divide. The first time I really understood the idea of Pan-Africanism was through Ryan. I thought there was a divide, an then I realized there wasn’t. And that was all because of Ryan.

4) Michael B. Jordan Explains How ‘Sinners’ Is A Love Letter To His Grandparents’ Parents

Michael B. Jordan at the New York Premiere of ‘Sinners’. Photo: Warner Bros.

Michael B. Jordan reveals how he was able to stay on the right path while working on ‘Sinners’ and how it is a love letter to his great-grandparents.

Micahel B. Jordan: I think one of the great things about filmmaking is, just acting in general, is going right up to the cliff, going right up to the edge of uncertainty and unknowns and then just jumping off and things that are outside of your control. So I think being prepared, knowing the characters inside and out, and then developing up until a point where you’ve done all you could, and now you just have to walk the walk each day. And I think that that uncertainty kind of keeps you on your toes and keeps you locked in; you’re kind of prepare for anything. And when you’re dealing with an incredible cast and you’re in this incredible world, it really builds the illusion and allows you to be locked in and dialed in the entire time. So we shot down in Louisiana, so when you’re out there on those sugarcane fields and those cotton fields, and that’s where your ancestors were, and that’s where my grandmother, my great-grandmother, that was their day-to-day. So when you walk in those spaces and you carry that type of energy and that history with you, these characters, this movie was almost… it was a love letter to my grandparents parents, to my great-grandmother and my great-grandfather. And because you only know your grandmother as being an older woman. And you forget like, “Oh wait, my grandma was 25 at one time, she was 28?

5) Ryan Coogler On Finding The Perfect Balance Of History & Mythical Elements

Director Ryan Cooler at the New York Premiere of ‘Sinners’. Photo: Warner Bros.

Ryan Coogler details how he was able to balance the historical setting of the Jim Crow era in Mississippi and the heightened mythical elements that makes ‘Sinners’ so unique.

Ryan Coogler: Wunmi [was] talking about Pan-Africanism, and that was a concept that I was always taught and steeped in being from Oakland, California, which was a birthplace at a Black Panther Party for Self-Defense. And all the Gen Xers and the millennials in that area, the Panthers were our uncles and aunts. But the idea of Pan-Africanism was kind of drilled into us, because it became an international organization. You’ll go all over the world and see organizations fighting for self-determination of human beings that were inspired by the Black Panther Party. And when you look at California where we are and we kind of the furthest outpost–Oakland is of a place that’s where Black culture is the dominant culture of a city. And it was a big deal for me to get back to the continent to research for Black Panther. But I got to the continent before I got to the American South and really contemplated a place that my ancestors had been for over four centuries. And it was a more recent place for us than, so there were a lot of questions that I had with myself as to why I hadn’t done that yet, and I had to unlock the reality that there’s a lot of shame involved with that, with Black people who are products of the great migration. You know what I mean? Obviously your ancestors, they migrated from something, usually for the concept of greener pastures, but also you realize things were left behind in that place that was home for so long. And for me, when I realized that these people who were living in this backbreaking form of American apartheid denied the right to vote, denied the right to own anything, and kind of condemned to being a sharecropper, that was all that could be in the 1930s. And every weekend they would affirm that humanity at these juke joints or at church the next day, a lot of times at both. And that art that they were making, it ended up changing the world. You know what I mean? It ended up creating club culture and discotheque culture and also just the concept of pop music. And I realized that this was a mythical story that had never been given the mythical context, if that makes sense.

Warner Bros. Pictures’ ‘Sinners,’ a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures. Copyright: © 2025 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.

What is the plot of ‘Sinners’?

Two brothers (Michael B. Jordan) return to Clarksdale, Mississippi, in 1932, now wealthy and intent on opening a juke joint in their hometown. But as they open the doors of their new establishment, sinister forces begin to converge upon them and their community.

Who is in the cast of ‘Sinners’?
- Michael B. Jordan as Smoke and Stack Moore
- Hailee Steinfeld as Mary
- Miles Caton as Sam Moore
- Jack O’Connell as Remmick
- Wunmi Mosaku as Annie
- Jayme Lawson as Pearline
- Omar Benson Miller as Cornbread
- Li Jun Li as Grace Chow
- Delroy Lindo as Delta Slim
(L to R) Michael B. Jordan and director Ryan Coogler in Warner Bros. Pictures’ ‘Sinners’ a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Eli Adé. Copyright: © 2025 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.

List of Ryan Coogler Movies:
- ‘Fruitvale Station‘ (2013)
- ‘Creed‘ (2015)
- ‘Black Panther‘ (2018)
- ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever‘ (2022)
- ‘Sinners‘ (2025)
Buy Ryan Coogler Movies On Amazon
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November 30, 2025
‘Sinners’ Interview: Ryan Coogler and Michael B. Jordan
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Currently available to watch on HBO Max and a serious contender in this upcoming awards season is the box office smash hit ‘Sinners’ which was written and directed by Ryan Coogler (‘Black Panther’) and stars Michael B. Jordan (‘Creed’) playing the dual roles of twin brothers Smoke and Stack.
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Moviefone recently had the pleasure of sitting down in-person with director Ryan Coogler and Michael B. Jordan to talk about their work on ‘Sinners’, why Coogler was passionate about making this movie and the themes he wanted to explore, while Jordan discussed his approach to playing the Moore brothers and how he made the two roles distinctively different.

(L to R) Director Ryan Coogler and Michael B. Jordan talk ‘Sinners’.

You can watch the full interview below or click on the video player above to watch our interviews.

Related Article: Movie Review: ‘Sinners’

(L to R) Delroy Lindo, Michael B. Jordan and director Ryan Coogler in Warner Bros. Pictures’ Sinners’ a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Courtesy Warner Bros. Pictures. Copyright: © 2025 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Moviefone: To begin with, Ryan, can you talk about why you were so passionate about making this movie and the themes you wanted to explore as a filmmaker?

Ryan Coogler: It started with my relationship with my uncle James, who was born in Mississippi, lived there until he was 20, and then moved to Oakland and married my great-aunt, Sammy Lee, who the character Sammy is named after. It was important for me to explore blues music, Mississippi, the Delta Blues and juke joint culture because it was so important to my uncle. It’s kind of passed down to me, and I wanted to do a deep dive on why that music was so important really to a global popular culture. But I also wanted to infuse it with everything in cinema that I loved that I hadn’t had a chance to do yet in my previous films. That’s where the supernatural and the genre elements come to play. As far as the themes, the biggest theme was freedom. You know what I mean? This idea of it, how elusive it can be, how sometimes it can’t be bought. That was the central concept of freedom in these people that are under such great oppression and having to be able to affirm that humanity in a place and a time when it was very difficult.

Michael B. Jordan as Smoke and Stack in Warner Bros. Pictures’ ‘Sinners,’ a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures. Copyright: © 2025 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.

MF: Finally, Michael, can you talk about the challenges of playing twin brothers and how you were able to make those two characters so distinctively different?

Michael B. Jordan: There were so many challenges. There’s been versions of twins that have been done, and some better than others, and trying to figure out how to make this one a memorable one or just make it work and feel honest. I remember as a kid watching movies like ‘The Parent Trap’, you know what I’m saying? Just as a kid, your imagination, whether you’re pretending you got superpowers or pretending this or whatever, the idea of like, man, if I had a twin, what would I do? Or how would that be? I think being able to imagine that because Smoke and Stack are the same, but they’re completely different. They make up one person. Having Smoke and how he handles his childhood trauma was important and Stack and how he handles his childhood trauma. They had the same experiences, but they have two different perspectives on it. For Smoke, he internalizes a lot of his. He doesn’t talk a lot. He doesn’t want to talk about his pain. He wants to bury it deep and kind of hold onto to that. I know people like that. So, to be able to tap into that in a real way. But Stack is different. He smiles and uses his charm, and he talks his way through his pain because he can’t dwell on it for too long. So, to tap into your childhood trauma and building those characters from the ground up was crucial to build that foundation for me to do the rest of the work and the other things, the layers on top of that like wearing a shoe that is too small for Stack because he’s always moving around. He just never really standing still. As a performer, as an actor, it’s something that I didn’t have to think about, but it helped me be agitated in times and physically be not still. But also, I wore a size too big when it came to Smoke because I wanted him to feel like he couldn’t move a lot and he wanted to be rooted and implanted into the ground. So those were layers to it. The different grill caps that I wore, when I had a certain gold front in, it changed the way I would hold my mouth and speak and my cadence. Smoke spoke few words and slow. Stack was a fast talker, so he was always smiling, always wheeling and always dealing. He’s always selling something. Those are some of the things that I tapped into to kind of help make them a bit different. Just the storytelling, the other characters around Smoke and Stack that allowed me to play off of with Annie and Mary and those dynamics and just a rich world that was created for these characters to blend into.

Warner Bros. Pictures’ ‘Sinners,’ a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures. Copyright: © 2025 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.

What is the plot of ‘Sinners’?

Two brothers (Michael B. Jordan) return to Clarksdale, Mississippi, in 1932, now wealthy and intent on opening a juke joint in their hometown. But as they open the doors of their new establishment, sinister forces begin to converge upon them and their community.

Who is in the cast of ‘Sinners’?
- Michael B. Jordan as Smoke and Stack Moore
- Hailee Steinfeld as Mary
- Miles Caton as Sam Moore
- Jack O’Connell as Remmick
- Wunmi Mosaku as Annie
- Jayme Lawson as Pearline
- Omar Benson Miller as Cornbread
- Li Jun Li as Grace Chow
- Delroy Lindo as Delta Slim
(L to R) Michael B. Jordan and director Ryan Coogler in Warner Bros. Pictures’ ‘Sinners’ a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Eli Adé. Copyright: © 2025 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Ryan Coogler Movies:
- ‘Fruitvale Station‘ (2013)
- ‘Creed‘ (2015)
- ‘Black Panther‘ (2018)
- ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever‘ (2022)
- ‘Sinners‘ (2025)
Buy Tickets: ‘Sinners’ Movie Showtimes

Buy Ryan Coogler Movies On Amazon
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November 24, 2025
Reggae Icon Jimmy Cliff Dies Ages 81
Jimmy Cliff in ‘The Harder They Come.’

Jimmy Cliff, the Jamaican singer, songwriter, and actor whose voice carried the promise of hope, resistance, and spiritual solace, has died at the age of 81, his wife Latifa Chambers announced.

For movie fans, he was perhaps best known for his role in 1972’s ‘The Harder They Come.’
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Chambers’ message was a heartfelt one:

“It’s with profound sadness that I share that my husband, Jimmy Cliff, has crossed over due to a seizure followed by pneumonia. I am thankful for his family, friends, fellow artists and coworkers who have shared his journey with him. To all his fans around the world, please know that your support was his strength throughout his whole career… Jimmy, my darling, may you rest in peace. I will follow your wishes.”

Related Article: Sally Kirkland, Oscar-Nominated Actress & Maverick Spirit, Dies at 84

Jimmy Cliff: early life and career

Jimmy Cliff in ‘The Harder They Come.’

Born James Chambers on July 30, 1944 in St. James Parish, Jamaica, Cliff rose from humble roots to become one of reggae’s most luminous stars.

He first gained local acclaim as a teenager with his song “Hurricane Hattie,” and he soon moved to Kingston, where he immersed himself in the growing ska and rocksteady scenes of the 1960s.

With a smooth yet urgent tenor, Cliff crafted songs that transcended mere entertainment — they carried messages of justice, love, and endurance. Hits like “Many Rivers to Cross,” “You Can Get It If You Really Want,” and “Vietnam” became anthems not just for Jamaicans, but for people around the world.

Jimmy Cliff: movies and more

Jimmy Cliff and Ras Daniel Hartman in ‘The Harder They Come.’

Cliff’s impact was not confined to music. In 1972, he starred in ‘The Harder They Come,’ playing Ivanhoe “Ivan” Martin — a role that would cement his place in cinema history.

The film and its soundtrack introduced reggae to a global audience, and Cliff’s performance became a symbol of both defiance and longing.

His artistry earned him international recognition. He worked with a wide range of artists across genres — the Rolling Stones, Paul Simon, Annie Lennox, and more.

Over his career, he released more than 30 albums.

Jimmy Cliff: legacy

A still from ‘Jimmy Cliff: Moving On.’

Cliff was awarded two Grammy Awards: one for “Cliff Hanger” in 1985, and another for “Rebirth” in 2012.

His global influence was recognized in 2010 when he was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

He also received Jamaica’s Order of Merit, one of the country’s highest honors.

Even as he aged, Cliff remained a force in music. His final albums addressed humanitarian themes, and he continued to inspire through both his voice and his spirit.

His death marks the end of an era — but his music, his message, and his spirit will continue to ripple through generations.

Jimmy Cliff appearing on ‘Austin City Limits.’

Movies and Documentaries Featuring Jimmy Cliff:
- ‘The Harder They Come’ (1972)
- ‘Club Paradise’ (1986)
- ‘Jimmy Cliff – Moving On’ (2003)
- ‘Rude Boy: The Jamaican Don’ (2003)
- ‘Marley’ (2012)
- ‘Muscle Shoals’ (2013)
Buy Jimmy Cliff Movies, TV and Music on Amazon
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November 24, 2025
Best Jeffrey Wright Movies

Jeffrey Wright in ‘Highest 2 Lowest’. Photo Credit: David Lee.

For over 30 years Jeffrey Wright has been delivering complex and compelling performances on screen.

The actor first gained attention for his title role in ‘Basquiat,’ and since has appeared in such popular movies as ‘Shaft,’ ‘Ali,’ ‘Syriana,’ ‘The French Dispatch,’ ‘The Batman,’ Daniel Craig‘s James Bond series, and ‘The Hunger Games‘ franchise.

Recently he has appeared in Wes Anderson‘s ‘Asteroid City,’ Netflix‘s ‘Rustin,’ and ‘American Fiction,’ for which he has received an Oscar-nomination for Best Actor.

His latest film, ‘Highest 2 Lowest‘, which pairs him with Denzel Washington and director Spike Lee, opens in theaters on August 15th before being available to stream on Apple TV+ on September 5th.
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In honor of his new film, Moviefone is counting down the 25 best movies of Jeffrey Wright’s long and impressive career, including ‘Highest 2 Lowest’.

Let’s begin!

25. ‘Quantum of Solace‘ (2008)

(L to R) David Harbour and Jeffrey Wright in ‘Quantum of Solace’. Photo: Sony Pictures Releasing.

Quantum of Solace continues the adventures of James Bond (Daniel Craig) after ‘Casino Royale.’ Betrayed by Vesper, the woman he loved, 007 fights the urge to make his latest mission personal. Pursuing his determination to uncover the truth, Bond and M (Judy Dench) interrogate Mr. White, who reveals that the organization that blackmailed Vesper is far more complex and dangerous than anyone had imagined.
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24. ‘The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1‘ (2014)

Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence) reluctantly becomes the symbol of a mass rebellion against the autocratic Capitol.
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23. ‘The Manchurian Candidate‘ (2004)

Years after his squad was ambushed during the Gulf War, Major Ben Marco (Denzel Washington) finds himself having terrible nightmares. He begins to doubt that his fellow squad-mate Sergeant Raymond Shaw (Liev Schreiber), now a vice-presidential candidate, is the hero he remembers him being. As Marco’s doubts deepen, Shaw’s political power grows, and, when Marco finds a mysterious implant embedded in his back, the memory of what really happened begins to return.
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22. ‘Lady in the Water‘ (2006)

Apartment building superintendent Cleveland Heep (Paul Giamatti) rescues what he thinks is a young woman (Bryce Dallas Howard) from the pool he maintains. When he discovers that she is actually a character from a bedtime story who is trying to make the journey back to her home, he works with his tenants to protect his new friend from the creatures that are determined to keep her in our world.
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21. ‘W.‘ (2008)

The story of the eventful life of George W. Bush (Josh Brolin), his struggles and triumphs, how he found both his wife and his faith—and the critical days leading up to his decision to invade Iraq.
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20. ‘Source Code‘ (2011)

Jeffrey Wright as Dr. Rutledge in ‘Source Code.’ Photo: Summit Entertainment.

When decorated soldier Captain Colter Stevens (Jake Gyllenhaal) wakes up in the body of an unknown man, he discovers he’s part of a mission to find the bomber of a Chicago commuter train.
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19. ‘Broken City‘ (2013)

In a broken city rife with injustice, ex-cop Billy Taggart (Mark Wahlberg) seeks redemption and revenge after being double-crossed and then framed by its most powerful figure, the mayor (Russell Crowe). Billy’s relentless pursuit of justice, matched only by his streetwise toughness, makes him an unstoppable force – and the mayor’s worst nightmare.
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18. ‘The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 2‘ (2015)

With the nation of Panem in a full scale war, Katniss (Jennifer Lawrence) confronts President Snow (Donald Sutherland) in the final showdown. Teamed with a group of her closest friends – including Gale (Liam Hemsworth), Finnick (Sam Claflin), and Peeta (Josh Hutcherson) – Katniss goes off on a mission with the unit from District 13 as they risk their lives to stage an assassination attempt on President Snow who has become increasingly obsessed with destroying her. The mortal traps, enemies, and moral choices that await Katniss will challenge her more than any arena she faced in The Hunger Games.
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17. ‘The Laundromat‘ (2019)

When her idyllic vacation takes an unthinkable turn, Ellen Martin (Meryl Streep) begins investigating a fake insurance policy, only to find herself down a rabbit hole of questionable dealings that can be linked to a Panama City law firm and its vested interest in helping the world’s wealthiest citizens amass larger fortunes.
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16. ‘The Hunger Games: Catching Fire‘ (2013)

Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence) has returned home safe after winning the 74th Annual Hunger Games along with fellow tribute Peeta Mellark. Winning means that they must turn around and leave their family and close friends, embarking on a “Victor’s Tour” of the districts. Along the way Katniss senses that a rebellion is simmering, but the Capitol is still very much in control as President Snow (Donald Sutherland) prepares the 75th Annual Hunger Games (The Quarter Quell) – a competition that could change Panem forever.
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15. ‘Asteroid City‘ (2023)

(L to R) Fisher Stevens, Jeffrey Wright, Tony Revolori, and Bob Balaban in director Wes Anderson’s ‘Asteroid City,’ a Focus Features release. Credit: Courtesy of Pop. 87 Productions/Focus Features.

The itinerary of a Junior Stargazer/Space Cadet convention (organized to bring together students and parents from across the country for fellowship and scholarly competition) is spectacularly disrupted by world-changing events.
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14. ‘Syriana‘ (2005)

The Middle Eastern oil industry is the backdrop of this tense drama, which weaves together numerous story lines. Bennett Holiday (Wright) is an American lawyer in charge of facilitating a dubious merger of oil companies, while Bryan Woodman (Matt Damon), a Switzerland-based energy analyst, experiences both personal tragedy and opportunity during a visit with Arabian royalty. Meanwhile, veteran CIA agent Bob Barnes (George Clooney) uncovers an assassination plot with unsettling origins.
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13. ‘O.G.‘ (2018)

Louis Menkins (Wright) is five weeks away from being released after 26 years in prison. He is faced with the decision to put his own release at risk in order to protect a young man named Beecher from growing gang controversies.
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12. ‘The Ides of March‘ (2011)

Dirty tricks stand to soil an ambitious young press spokesman’s (Ryan Gosling) idealism in a cutthroat presidential campaign where ‘victory’ is relative.
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11. ‘No Time to Die‘ (2021)

Bond (Daniel Craig) has left active service and is enjoying a tranquil life in Jamaica. His peace is short-lived when his old friend Felix Leiter (Wright) from the CIA turns up asking for help. The mission to rescue a kidnapped scientist turns out to be far more treacherous than expected, leading Bond onto the trail of a mysterious villain armed with dangerous new technology.
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10. ‘Shaft‘ (2000)

(L to R) Samuel L. Jackson and Jeffrey Wright in 2000’s ‘Shaft’. Photo: Paramount Pictures.

New York police detective John Shaft (Samuel L. Jackson) arrests Walter Wade Jr. (Christian Bale) for a racially motivated slaying. But the only eyewitness disappears, and Wade jumps bail for Switzerland. Two years later Wade returns to face trial, confident his money and influence will get him acquitted — especially since he’s paid a drug kingpin (Wright) to kill the witness.
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9. ‘Ali‘ (2001)

In 1964, a brash, new pro boxer, fresh from his Olympic gold medal victory, explodes onto the scene: Cassius Clay (Will Smith). Bold and outspoken, he cuts an entirely new image for African Americans in sport with his proud public self-confidence and his unapologetic belief that he is the greatest boxer of all time. Yet at the top of his game, both Ali’s personal and professional lives face the ultimate test.
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8. ‘Only Lovers Left Alive‘ (2014)

A depressed musician (Tom Hiddleston) reunites with his lover (Tilda Swinton) in the desolate streets of Detroit. Though their romance has endured several centuries, it is tested by the arrival of her capricious and unpredictable younger sister (Mia Wasikowska).
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7. ‘The French Dispatch‘ (2021)

The staff of an American magazine based in France puts out its last issue, with stories featuring an artist sentenced to life imprisonment, student riots, and a kidnapping resolved by a chef.
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6. ‘Rustin‘ (2023)

Activist Bayard Rustin (Colman Domingo) faces racism and homophobia as he helps change the course of Civil Rights history by orchestrating the 1963 March on Washington.
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5. ‘Highest 2 Lowest‘ (2025)

Denzel Washington in ‘Highest 2 Lowest’. Photo Credit: David Lee.

When a titan music mogul (Denzel Washington), widely known as having the “best ears in the business”, is targeted with a ransom plot, he is jammed up in a life-or-death moral dilemma.
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4. ‘Basquiat‘ (1996)

The brief life of Jean Michel Basquiat (Wright), a world renowned New York street artist struggling with fame, drugs and his identity.
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3. ‘Casino Royale‘ (2006)

Le Chiffre (Mads Mikkelsen), a banker to the world’s terrorists, is scheduled to participate in a high-stakes poker game in Montenegro, where he intends to use his winnings to establish his financial grip on the terrorist market. M (Judi Dench) sends Bond (Daniel Craig) on his maiden mission as a 00 Agent—to attend this game and prevent Le Chiffre from winning. With the help of Vesper Lynd (Eva Green) and Felix Leiter (Wright), Bond enters the most important poker game in his already dangerous career.
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2. ‘The Batman‘ (2022)

From Warner Bros. Pictures comes Matt Reeves’ ‘The Batman,’ starring Robert Pattinson in the dual role of Gotham City’s vigilante detective and his alter ego, reclusive billionaire Bruce Wayne.
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1. ‘American Fiction‘ (2023)

Jeffrey Wright stars as Thelonious “Monk” Ellison in writer/director Cord Jefferson’s ‘American Fiction,’ an Orion Pictures Release. Photo credit: Claire Folger. © 2023 Orion Releasing LLC. All Rights Reserved.

‘American Fiction’ is Cord Jefferson’s hilarious directorial debut, which confronts our culture’s obsession with reducing people to outrageous stereotypes. Jeffrey Wright stars as Monk, a frustrated novelist who’s fed up with the establishment profiting from “Black” entertainment that relies on tired and offensive tropes. To prove his point, Monk uses a pen name to write an outlandish “Black” book of his own, a book that propels him to the heart of hypocrisy and the madness he claims to disdain.
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October 5, 2025