Esteban A. Smith is one of the most prominent sports commentators today. “ESPN’s “First Take” and “The Stephen A. Smith Show,” he is known for speaking his mind firmly (and often loudly). Whether he hates the Dallas Cowboys or expresses his thoughts, “SpongeBob’s” greatest jock isn’t afraid to say exactly what he thinks. As for the movies? Smith recently demonstrated good taste by naming two Denzel Washington classics and listing his favorite films. Mailbox.
Smith was asked to name four of his favorite films, and after some hesitation, Smith first mentioned “Gladiator” and demonstrated it by reciting commentator Russell Crowe's famous “My name is Maximus Decimus Meritius” speech. He took that particular exam very seriously. Smith then scored his Denzel Washington favorites, including 2001's “Training Day” at No. 2. Finally, a long-awaited Oscar for Washington, “Training Day” is one of Denzel's most rewatchable films. A good choice, by the way.
Before Smith listed 1996's “Jerry Maguire” as one of his all-time favorites, he wanted to boldly declare that he had “no bigger Tom Cruise fan.” Given Smith's ties to the NFL, the choice makes a lot of sense. But then he changed his mind and opted for the 1992 courtroom drama “A Few Good Men,” an unquestionable classic.
Eventually, Smith returned to Washington, citing 1992's “Malcolm X,” directed by Spike Lee. Although widely considered one of Washington's best performances, “Malcolm X” did not earn him an Oscar that year. Be that as it may, Smith once again demonstrated good taste with this selection.
Esteban A. Smith calls Denzel Washington a great actor
The interesting thing about Smith's selections is that they are varied. “Gladiator” is a Best Picture winner and one of Ridley Scott's best films. It's a historical epic and unlike anything else on your list. Interestingly, it has been linked to Washington, as the actor will be making an appearance. “Gladiator II” has received critical acclaim since its initial screening.
also Looking specifically at his Washington choices, “Training Day” and “Malcolm X” are among his best performances, but they are very different films.. “Training Day” is a gritty police drama directed by Antoine Fuqua and a popcorn movie. “Malcolm X” is a biography of Spike Lee through a unique filter. Both excellent films, both with Washington at the top of his game.
Speaking further, Smith even went so far as to call Denzel Washington the greatest actor, something Jeremy Smith once argued. The master of the sport shared his reasoning and cited some other acting legends for comparison:
“Denzel, I think I'm the greatest actor of all time. He is the best actor I have ever seen in my life. It is unique on many levels. There are many great ones. The Meryl Streeps of the world. The list of Morgan Freemans in the world goes on and on, but Denzel is my love.”
“Training Day” is available to rent or buy on Amazon. As for “Malcolm X,” the Criterion Collection Blu-ray is currently on sale through Amazon.
