Denzel Washington Admits ‘I Don’t Go to the Movies’ While Promoting His New Film “Highest 2 Lowest”

Denzel Washington’s Aversion to Watching Movies Despite Starring in Them

Renowned actor Denzel Washington recently sat down with his co-star A$AP Rocky and director Spike Lee, during which he made a surprising revelation about his movie-watching habits. In an interview with GQ, Washington confessed, “I don’t watch movies, man. I really don’t.” Despite appearing in around 50 films, the Oscar winner bluntly admitted that he does not have a habit of watching movies, which sparked laughter from his colleagues.

During the conversation, A$AP Rocky and Spike Lee probed further into Washington’s reasoning behind his choice not to watch movies. Washington jokingly pondered that it might be because he is tired of them, especially considering his extensive filmography. He noted, “Probably. You know, I’m tired of movies, man,” when asked if his involvement in making films contributed to his disinterest in watching them. Washington estimated that he has made approximately 50 films, with “Highest 2 Lowest” being his fifth collaboration with director Spike Lee.

“Highest 2 Lowest” presents Washington in the role of a music mogul entangled in a ransom plot that challenges his moral integrity. Inspired by Japanese filmmaker Akira Kurosawa’s 1963 crime thriller “High and Low”, the movie transplants the storyline to the bustling backdrop of New York City. Premiering at the Cannes Film Festival, where Washington was honoured with the prestigious Palme d’Or, the film hit select theaters on August 15 and is set to debut on Apple TV+ on September 5.

Despite his immense success and two Academy Award wins for “Glory” and “Training Day”, Washington remains nonchalant about accolades like the Oscars. In a recent interview, the actor expressed his indifference, stating, “I don’t do it for Oscars. I really don’t care about that kind of stuff.” Washington humbly emphasised that awards do not define his craft, and that ultimately, his work is not motivated by the pursuit of prestigious trophies.

Washington’s candid approach towards his career and the film industry resonates with his grounded perspective on recognition and validation. In a media landscape obsessed with awards and accolades, the actor’s humility and focus on the craft of storytelling stand out as a testament to his unwavering dedication to his art. His upcoming film, “Highest 2 Lowest”, serves as a reminder of his versatility and enduring impact on the entertainment industry, showcasing his ability to captivate audiences across diverse genres and narratives.

As “Highest 2 Lowest” continues to captivate audiences in cinemas and on streaming platforms, Denzel Washington’s choice not to watch movies despite being a prominent figure in Hollywood offers a fresh insight into his artistic process and values. By prioritising his commitment to authentic storytelling over industry accolades, Washington sets a compelling example for aspiring actors and filmmakers, encouraging them to stay true to their creative vision and purpose amidst the glamour and recognition of the film industry.