10 Best Kerry Washington Movies

Kerry Washington’s 25-year career in Hollywood is a testament to her extraordinary range, resilience, and ability to carve out space in an industry that rarely rewards subtlety or sustained brilliance. While her iconic role as Olivia Pope in Scandal made her a household name—a high-powered “fixer” who redefined what it meant to be a Black woman leading a network television drama—her work on the silver screen reveals an even broader spectrum of her talent. Washington has mastered roles that traverse genres, from deeply empathetic portraits of grief and struggle to sharp, nuanced performances in thrillers, dramas, and historical epics.

Kerry Washington’s Quiet, Compelling Reign Over the Silver Screen

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/5

The Six Triple Eight

Release Date

December 6, 2024

Runtime

72 minutes

What makes Washington’s career so singular is her ability to bring authenticity to every role, even when she’s not the center of the narrative. Whether playing a single mother trying to survive in a world stacked against her in Save the Last Dance, a wife tethered to the unraveling genius of Ray Charles in Ray, or a victim of the brutal reign of Idi Amin in The Last King of Scotland, Washington imbues her characters with layers that elevate them beyond the script. She doesn’t just inhabit her roles; she excavates them, pulling out truths about love, loss, and resilience that often go unsaid.

Most recently, Washington stars in The Six Triple Eight, a historical drama about the first all-Black women’s battalion in World War II, where she plays Charity Adams with the gravitas and quiet power we’ve come to expect from her. But even as she continues to take on bold, new challenges, her past work deserves just as much celebration. These 10 films showcase the breadth of Kerry Washington’s artistry, proving she’s a force as enduring as she is versatile.

10

‘Save the Last Dance’ (2001)

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Release Date

January 12, 2001

Runtime

112

Sara (Julia Stiles), a white aspiring ballerina, moves to a predominantly Black neighborhood after her mother’s death and befriends Chenille (Kerry Washington), who introduces her to hip-hop culture and a new way of dancing. As Sara navigates her grief and a new romance, Chenille provides crucial support while dealing with her own challenges as a young single mother.

Kerry Washington’s Breakout Role as a Grounded, Nuanced Best Friend

In one of her earliest standout roles, Kerry Washington delivers a deeply empathetic performance that elevates what could have been a one-note “best friend” character. As Chenille, she anchors the film with a sense of reality, highlighting issues like single motherhood and systemic inequality, which are often sidelined in mainstream teen dramas. Her presence adds emotional depth to a story about cultural exchange and personal growth, making her a standout in a film that’s otherwise defined by its dance sequences and romance.

9

‘The United States of Leland’ (2003)

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Release Date

January 18, 2003

Runtime

104

In this quiet indie drama, Washington plays Ayesha, a grieving young woman whose life is upended when her boyfriend’s brother, Leland (Ryan Gosling), commits a shocking crime. Through her interactions with Leland, Ayesha grapples with questions of forgiveness and the hidden fractures in their community.

A Subtle Performance in a Haunting, Underrated Indie

Washington brings a quiet intensity to Ayesha, navigating grief and confusion with restraint and emotional depth. While The United States of Leland focuses on larger existential themes, Washington’s grounded performance ensures that the human cost of the film’s central tragedy is never forgotten. Her chemistry with the ensemble cast, including Gosling and Don Cheadle, underscores her ability to command attention in complex, understated narratives.

8

‘Ray’ (2004)

In this biographical drama about the life and career of Ray Charles (Jamie Foxx), Washington plays Della Bea Robinson, Ray’s devoted yet long-suffering wife. As Ray grapples with fame, addiction, and infidelity, Della Bea provides a moral compass and enduring emotional support.

A Poignant Portrait of Strength and Loyalty

Washington’s portrayal of Della Bea Robinson brings warmth and complexity to a role that could have been reduced to a supportive spouse archetype. Her chemistry with Foxx is electric, grounding the film’s exploration of Ray Charles’ genius with the personal sacrifices that fueled it. Her performance highlights the quiet resilience of a woman who remains steadfast in the face of betrayal and heartbreak, making Della Bea a crucial emotional anchor in this Oscar-winning biopic.

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7

‘The Last King of Scotland’ (2006)

Set during the brutal regime of Ugandan dictator Idi Amin (Forest Whitaker), the film follows a fictional Scottish doctor, Nicholas Garrigan (James McAvoy), who becomes entangled in Amin’s inner circle. Washington plays Kay, Amin’s youngest wife, whose tragic arc exposes the cost of power and tyranny.

A Haunting Role in a Brutal Historical Drama

As Kay, Washington infuses vulnerability and humanity into a character caught in the crosshairs of political and personal exploitation. Her performance adds a layer of emotional depth to the film’s depiction of Idi Amin’s violence, highlighting the unseen toll on women trapped in oppressive regimes. Washington’s portrayal ensures that Kay’s story lingers long after the film’s harrowing climax.

6

‘Miracle at St. Anna’ (2008)

In Spike Lee’s war drama, Washington plays Zana Wilder, a journalist investigating the legacy of four Black soldiers who were part of a segregated unit during World War II. Her role connects the historical narrative to contemporary questions of memory and racial justice.

A Critical Bridge Between Past and Present

Although her screen time is limited, Washington’s performance as Zana Wilder underscores the importance of remembering forgotten histories. Her character brings urgency to the film’s exploration of Black soldiers’ sacrifices, re-framing the story within the context of ongoing struggles for recognition and equity. Washington’s quiet intensity ensures that her scenes resonate, tying the sprawling narrative to a contemporary moral reckoning.

5

‘Lakeview Terrace’ (2008)

In Lakeview Terrace, Kerry Washington plays Lisa Mattson, a newlywed who moves into a suburban neighborhood with her husband, Chris (Patrick Wilson). Their lives are turned upside down when their neighbor, Abel Turner (Samuel L. Jackson), a volatile and morally rigid LAPD officer, begins to harass them, escalating into dangerous conflict fueled by racial tensions.

A Layered Role in a Tense, Provocative Thriller

As Lisa, Washington brings depth to a character caught between love, fear, and a struggle to maintain peace in an increasingly volatile situation. Her chemistry with Patrick Wilson portrays a believable and complex marital dynamic, while her interactions with Samuel L. Jackson highlight the film’s examination of power, race, and control. Lakeview Terrace critiques systemic abuse of authority and the fragility of the suburban ideal, with Washington’s performance providing the emotional core amidst the tension. Her nuanced portrayal of Lisa’s vulnerability and strength grounds the film’s provocative premise, making it a compelling reflection of contemporary social anxieties.

4

‘For Colored Girls’ (2010)

Based on Ntozake Shange’s acclaimed play, this ensemble drama weaves together the stories of several women, each dealing with trauma, love, and survival. Washington plays Kelly, a social worker grappling with the moral and emotional weight of her job.

A Poignant Performance in a Challenging Ensemble

In a film brimming with powerhouse performances, Washington shines with her understated portrayal of Kelly, whose compassion and inner conflict bring balance to the film’s heavier moments. Her role as a mediator—both professionally and emotionally—provides a lens into the systemic failures that perpetuate cycles of trauma, making her performance one of the film’s emotional cornerstones.

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3

‘Django Unchained’ (2012)

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Release Date

December 25, 2012

Runtime

165 Minutes

Washington stars as Broomhilda von Shaft, Django’s (Jamie Foxx) enslaved wife, whose rescue drives the narrative of Quentin Tarantino’s violent revenge Western. Held captive by the sadistic Calvin Candie (Leonardo DiCaprio), Broomhilda becomes the emotional heart of Django’s quest for justice.

A Role Defined by Silent Strength

Though much of the film centers on Django’s journey, Washington’s portrayal of Broomhilda carries the weight of the story’s emotional stakes. Her ability to convey vulnerability and defiance with minimal dialogue makes Broomhilda a compelling symbol of resilience and love amidst brutality. Washington’s performance grounds Tarantino’s stylized excess, ensuring the humanity of the story remains intact.

2

‘She Hate Me’ (2004)

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She Hate Me

Release Date

July 30, 2004

Runtime

139 minutes

Cast

Kerry Washington
, Anthony Mackie
, Ellen Barkin
, Monica Bellucci
, Jim Brown
, Ossie Davis
, Jamel Debbouze
, Brian Dennehy
, Woody Harrelson
, Bai Ling
, Lonette McKee
, Paula Jai Parker
, Q-Tip
, Dania Ramirez
, John Turturro
, Chiwetel Ejiofor
, David Bennent
, Isiah Whitlock Jr.
, Michole Briana White
, Sarita Choudhury
, Savannah Haske
, Joie Lee
, Michael Genet
, Chicava Honeychild
, Aura Grimolyte

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In Spike Lee’s satirical drama, Washington plays Fatima, the ex-girlfriend of Jack (Anthony Mackie), who enlists his help as a sperm donor for her and her partner. The film explores themes of sexuality, capitalism, and personal agency through its provocative narrative.

A Dynamic and Versatile Performance

Washington brings charm and wit to a complex role, navigating Fatima’s personal evolution with humor and emotional depth. While the film’s satire is often uneven, Washington’s performance stands out for its authenticity, anchoring the narrative’s more far-fetched elements with a sense of grounded humanity. Her chemistry with Mackie adds an additional layer of nuance to a story that pushes societal boundaries.

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1

‘The Dead Girl’ (2006)

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The Dead Girl

Release Date

November 7, 2006

Runtime

85 minutes

Cast

Brittany Murphy
, Toni Collette
, Rose Byrne
, Josh Brolin
, James Franco
, Bruce Davison
, Marcia Gay Harden
, Piper Laurie
, Giovanni Ribisi
, Mary Steenburgen
, Kerry Washington
, Mary Beth Hurt
, Nick Searcy
, Carla Jimenez

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This dark ensemble drama directed by Karen Moncrieff examines the ripple effects of a young woman’s murder on various strangers connected to the crime. Washington plays Rosetta, a woman grappling with her own grief and guilt as the truth comes to light.

A Subtle Yet Devastating Turn

In a film marked by its fragmented storytelling, Washington delivers a performance that is raw and haunting. Her portrayal of Rosetta highlights the quiet devastation of unresolved trauma, adding emotional weight to a narrative that explores the unseen connections between violence and vulnerability. Washington’s ability to convey complex emotions with understated grace makes her one of the film’s standout performers.