Highlights

Here are some notable movies starring Will Smith;

• In the movie "Independence Day" (1996) Captain Steven Hiller, an skilled fighter pilot plays a role, in defending Earth against an alien invasion.
• "Men in Black" (1997) features Agent J, a street police officer who joins an organization tasked with monitoring extraterrestrial activity on our planet.
• In the film "Ali" (2001) Will Smith showcases his acting range. Undergoes a physical transformation to portray the legendary boxer Muhammad Ali.
• "The Pursuit of Happyness" (2006) tells the story of Chris Gardner, an ambitious salesman facing numerous challenges as he strives to provide a better life for his son even when he becomes homeless.
• In "I Am Legend" (2007) Smith portrays Dr. Robert Neville, a scientist who fights to survive in a post apocalyptic world overrun by mutants.
• The movie "Hancock" (2008) introduces us to John Hancock, a sarcastic and reluctant superhero grappling with personal and public image issues.
• In "The Karate Kid" (2010) Smiths character Mr. Han takes on the role of mentor as he teaches martial arts skills and imparts life lessons to a boy.
• Finally in "Men, in Black 3" (2012) Agent J reprises his role for an exhilarating time traveling adventure where he must save his partner and protect the world again.

Over the past few decades, Will Smith has solidified his status as one of Hollywood's most bankable and charismatic stars. From his early days as a rapper and TV personality to his current position as a bona fide movie icon, Smith's journey in the entertainment industry has been nothing short of remarkable. Throughout his career, he has taken on a diverse range of roles that have showcased his incredible acting range and captivating screen presence. Let's take a closer look at some of Will Smith's most memorable movie roles that have left an indelible mark on both the film industry and audiences around the world.

1. "Men in Black" (1997)

One of Smith's breakout roles came in the science fiction comedy "Men in Black." In this film, he starred as Agent J, a quick-witted and street-smart New York City cop who is recruited by a top-secret government agency that monitors and regulates extraterrestrial activity  on Earth. Paired with the seasoned Agent K, played by Tommy Lee Jones, Smith's comedic timing and effortless chemistry with his co-star made for a winning combination. The film's success not only solidified Smith's position as a leading man but also launched a popular franchise that spanned several sequels.

2. "Independence Day" (1996)

In the epic disaster film "Independence Day," Smith portrayed Captain Steven Hiller, a skilled fighter pilot who becomes one of humanity's last hopes in the face of a global alien invasion. Smith's charismatic presence and his character's iconic catchphrase, "Welcome to Earth," have made this role one of his most iconic. The film's thrilling action sequences and Smith's relatable portrayal of a hero fighting for his family and the survival of the planet contributed to its massive box office success.

3. "The Pursuit of Happyness" (2006)

Switching gears from his usual charismatic and action-packed roles, Smith delivered a powerful and moving performance in "The Pursuit of Happyness ." Based on the true story of Chris Gardner, the film follows Gardner's struggle with homelessness while trying to secure a better future for himself and his young son. Smith's portrayal of Gardner's determination, resilience, and unwavering love for his child earned him critical acclaim and an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. The role showcased Smith's versatility and ability to tackle emotionally charged characters with depth and sincerity.

4. "Ali" (2001)

Taking on the role of legendary boxer Muhammad Ali was a daring move for Smith, and he rose to the challenge admirably in the biographical drama "Ali." The film chronicles Ali's rise from a young and brash Cassius Clay to becoming one of the most iconic and influential athletes in history. Smith's physical transformation, coupled with his intense dedication to capturing Ali's distinctive voice and mannerisms, demonstrated his commitment to bringing authenticity to the role. While the film itself received mixed reviews, Smith's portrayal was widely praised and earned him his first Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.

5. "I Am Legend" (2007)

Smith's ability to command the screen even when he's the sole actor present is showcased in the post-apocalyptic thriller "I Am Legend." He played Dr. Robert Neville, a brilliant scientist who appears to be the last human survivor in a world ravaged by a deadly virus. The film's eerie atmosphere and Smith's emotionally charged performance as a man struggling with isolation and the weight of being humanity's last hope make this role one of his most memorable. Smith's ability to convey both vulnerability and strength in a desolate setting added depth to the character and elevated the film's impact.

6. "Hitch" (2005)

In the romantic comedy "Hitch," Smith demonstrated his knack for delivering charm and humor in equal measure. He portrayed Alex "Hitch" Hitchens, a professional dating consultant who helps hapless men win over the women of their dreams. Smith's charismatic portrayal of a man who excels at bringing people together while struggling with his own romantic pursuits made for a heartwarming and entertaining film. "Hitch" showcased Smith's ability to carry a lighthearted yet meaningful story, proving that his versatility extends to various genres.

7. "Bad Boys" Franchise (1995, 2003, 2020)

Smith's collaboration with Martin Lawrence in the "Bad Boys" franchise has yielded a trio of action-packed, buddy-cop films that are a testament to his enduring star power. Playing Detective Mike Lowrey, Smith exudes charisma, wit, and a larger-than-life personality that complements Lawrence's comedic timing. The franchise's mix of high-octane action and humorous banter between the two leads has resonated with audiences for decades, turning the "Bad Boys" series into a cornerstone of Smith's filmography.

8. "Seven Pounds" (2008)

In this emotionally charged drama, Smith took on the role of Ben Thomas, a man with a mysterious past who embarks on a journey to redeem himself by helping seven strangers. The film delves into themes of guilt, redemption, and human connection, and Smith's nuanced portrayal of a complex character struggling with his own demons added depth to the narrative. Despite mixed critical reception, Smith's performance was widely praised for its emotional weight and introspective depth.

9. "Concussion" (2015)

In "Concussion," Smith took on the role of Dr. Bennet Omalu, a Nigerian forensic pathologist who discovers a link between repeated head trauma in football players and a degenerative brain disease. The film explores the uphill battle Omalu faces in trying to bring this critical issue to light while facing pushback from powerful institutions. Smith's portrayal showcased his ability to embody real-life figures with conviction and empathy, shedding light on a pressing social issue and highlighting his dedication to meaningful storytelling .

10. "Enemy of the State" (1998)

In this high-stakes thriller, Smith played lawyer Robert Clayton Dean, who becomes unwittingly embroiled in a conspiracy involving government surveillance and corruption. "Enemy of the State" allowed Smith to showcase his action prowess while also delivering a compelling performance as an ordinary man caught up in extraordinary circumstances. The film's exploration of privacy and surveillance issues remains relevant, and Smith's portrayal contributes to its lasting impact.

Will Smith's filmography is a testament to his versatility, charisma, and dedication to his craft. From sci-fi blockbusters to heartfelt dramas, he has consistently delivered memorable performances that resonate with audiences on both emotional and entertainment levels. Whether he's fighting aliens, embodying real-life heroes, or exploring complex human emotions, Smith's roles have left an indelible mark on the cinematic landscape, solidifying his place as a true icon in the world of movies. As he continues to take on new challenges and expand his horizons, audiences can undoubtedly look forward to more unforgettable performances from this exceptional actor.