No doubt, Samuel L. Jackson remains one of the greatest and outstanding actors in Hollywood. He has spent many years in the spotlight with his incredible acting abilities and over-the-top personality, appearing in numerous films. He has demonstrated his great adaptability and skill as an actor in a variety of genres including action thrillers and thought provoking dramas. This paper will examine the world of Samuel L. Jackson and his best movies that made him one of the greatest film legends.
1. Pulp Fiction (1994)
Any discussion about Samuel L. Jackson’s best movies would not be complete without «Pulp Fiction» directed by Quentin Tarrantino, one of the greatest, if not the best, crime films of all times. In the movie, Jackson plays the role of Jules Winnfield, a contract killer who often quotes philosophers. When it comes to his electrifying performance in «Pulp Fiction», it is hard to forget that he simply owned the screen with his presence and quoted the most memorable lines ever in a movie. From his iconic recitation of Ezekiel 25: Jackson imbues his 17 to his intense monologues with an undeniable presence that makes Julius Winnfield an unmistakable character.
2. Django Unchained (2012)
Yet another outstanding portrayal from Samuel L. Jackson as Stephen, the trusted and astute slave of a heartless landowner in Quentin Tarantino’s «Django Unchained». The chilling and captivating interpretation of Stephen by Jackson as a multi-dimensional morally ambiguous character. Jackson’s screen presence is powerful and effective. He makes Tarantino’s sharp dialogue come alive as it adds depth and nuance to Stephen which makes it a performance one will never forget. This characterization garnered him a high praise and secured him the place in one of the greatest acting generation.
3. A Time to Kill (1996)
The film «A time to Kill» is a courtroom drama based on John Grisham’s novel and explores issues of race, justice, and morality. The movie features Samuel L. Jackson playing as Carl Lee Hailey, a father who embarks on a mission to avenge the death of his only child who was murdered by two racist whites. Carl Lee portrayed by Jackson is painful and full of anger. He depicts how one feels when pushed to a point of no return. It is heartbreaking and moving that his performance in «A Time to Kill» is one of the standout films during his career.
4. Jackie Brown (1997)
Quentin Tarantino directed «Jackie Brown» wherein Samuel L. Jackson demonstrates the capacity for portraying diverse and ethically gray figures. In the movie, Jackson played Ordell Robbie, a gunrunner possessing a quiet and collected personality. Jackson with his soft voice and magnetic nature gives the layers to his character which makes him not only a unique but also an interesting character. «Jackie Brown» proved to be a breakthrough in Jack Nicholson’s career, and he gained recognition as one of the finest actors of his time.
5. Die Hard with a Vengeance (1995)
Samuel L. Jackson joins hands with Bruce Willis to deliver a roller-coaster ride in «Die Hard with a Vengeance» In the movie, Jackson plays Zeus Carver, a Harlem vendor who is forced to join a deadly game. Jackson has an ability to be funny, street-smart, and gives a great deal of energy and chemistry to his screen collaboration with Willis. His portrayal in «Die Hard with a Vengeance» displays how he can combine two seemingly contrasting genres – comedy and action – and become an actor of multi-faceted qualities.
6. Jungle Fever (1991)
Samuel L. Jackson plays Gator Purify, a crack addict in Spike Lee’s «Jungle Fever». Jackson’s performance in the film is real and emotional, portraying a person’s suffering from the addiction at its highest level. Gator is very well portrayed hauntingly but powerful from inside the complex and multifaceted character. The authenticity of his performance in «Jungle Fever» exemplifies Jackson’s talent and his dedication to ensuring truthfulness to this role.
7. The Incredibles (2004)
Though he is popularly known in live-action films, Samuel L. Jackson’s contribution to «The Incredibles» should not be ignored. In the film, Jackson plays the role of Frozone, a superhero who has powers based on ice. Jackson’s smooth and charming delivery adds coolness and humor to Frozone, the most loved character. Notably, he shines in «The Incredibles», where he remains the voice and nothing more.
8. The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU)
The role of Colonel Nick Fury in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has been personified by Samuel L. Jackson. The most important character of the movie is Fury, who is the head of S.H.I.E.L.D and helps them all come together as Earth’s Mightiest Heroes. As a stern and determined Fury protector himself, Jackson presents the same image with authority and mystery. His performance as Nick Fury in «Iron Man» and The «Avengers» has been a significant trademark of the MCU since his debut in «Iron Man»
Conclusion
His filmography speaks volumes of the range of his acting prowess. He has been outstanding in his performances in crime dramas and also in action thrillers all over the world. His monologues have the power to move you, his comedy timing is spot-on and when he plays an ambiguous character you want to watch him until the end of an actor’s performance. For over years, his career and performances have been phenomenal and he has not lost touch with his fans’ admiration towards him. Surely, an icon indeed Samuel L. Jackson is in the cinematic world.