Denzel Washington’s Only Movie With 100% on Rotten Tomatoes Is This 2020 Documentary
Documentary may not be the first genre that comes to mind when you think of the legendary actor, but it's still his highest-rated.
There's no denying that Denzel Washington is a household name when it comes to action-packed roles and breath-taking performances. His iconic films such as Training Day, Malcolm X, and The Equalizer franchise have created an image for the actor that is hard to shake.
Washington has long dominated Hollywood's action genre, becoming one of the most iconic actors of his generation. But while many of his films are still considered masterpieces and are highly acclaimed, there's one film with a perfect score that falls outside of the genre we're used to seeing the actor in.
In Giving Voice, Washington takes a surprising and refreshing turn, stepping away from the high-stakes drama and instead diving into a deeply personal and inspiring documentary. The film had its world premiere at the 2020 Sundance Film Festival, where it won the Festival Favorite Award.
What Is Giving Voice About?
The documentary offers a unique glimpse into the world of real-life drama. It focuses on young people participating in the August Wilson Monologue Competition, a nationwide event that honors the late playwright's legacy by encouraging young people to perform his works.
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This time, Washington's usual role as an action hero is replaced by a much quieter, more introspective one of mentor and narrator. Giving Voice finally allows Washington to explore a more intimate side of another powerful story. He is practically given a chance to explore his own inner voice as well.
Here in the movie, he serves as a hero of sorts, but not the one waiting for praise. He pushes the next generation of actors to follow their dreams, helping them find and use their voices, not only to deliver powerful monologues, but to preserve them for the future.
The documentary highlights the diverse, talented students in the competition, many of whom come from underprivileged communities.
In the official trailer for the documentary, Washington (alongside Viola Davis and Stephen McKinley Henderson) emphasizes the importance of representation and how Wilson's work speaks to the common human experience, especially for Black Americans.
Washington's involvement in this movie feels like a genuine tribute to Wilson, whose work he has long admired.
The documentary Giving Voice is available to stream on Netflix.
