6 best Will Smith movies you must watch before 'Bad Boys: Ride or Die' drops
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: 'Bad Boys: Ride or Die,' starring Will Smith and Martin Lawrence, hit screens on Friday, June 7, with the duo reprising their iconic lead roles.
Will Smith has excelled as a musical artist, TV icon, and an Oscar-winning actor. Throughout three decades, he's taken on blockbuster hits and smaller passion projects, demonstrating his versatility and enduring success.
Rising to prominence in the 90s with 'The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,' Will Smith has since garnered critical acclaim for his performances in 'The Pursuit of Happyness' and 'King Richard'. Beyond acting, Smith is a notable producer and co-founder of his own production company.
Smith's versatility shines as he seamlessly transitions between comedy, drama, family films, and action. While he's had a mix of hits and misses, including some 'so bad they're good' movies, he remains a reliable action star.
Here are the 6 best Will Smith movies you must watch before 'Bad Boys: Ride or Die'.
Hancock (2008)
Long before Amazon's 'The Boys' changed the superhero genre, Will Smith's action film 'Hancock' challenged the typical glamorous image of superheroes.
In the film, Smith portrays the titular character, whose superpowers inadvertently lead to considerable damage despite his efforts to do good.
He remains indifferent to public perception until he encounters Ray (Jason Bateman), a PR executive who devises a plan to improve Hancock's image.
Audiences were drawn to Smith's charisma and captivated by his comedic talent and impressive action scenes. Although the story may have left something to be desired, particularly by the end, the film still delivers an action-packed experience.
Smith shines in his portrayal of a reluctant hero who struggles to do the right thing. Despite its success at the box office, a sequel never materialized in the years that followed.
'Hancock' is available to stream on Netflix and Prime Video.
I, Robot (2004)
Continuing his reign as a summer blockbuster king, Will Smith took on the role of Detective Del Spooner in 'I, Robot.' Set in a robot-dominated 2035, the film follows Spooner's investigation into the suspicious death of the U.S. Robotics founder, suspecting foul play by a robot.
This action-packed thriller explores the tension between humans and artificial intelligence.
The star-studded cast includes Bridget Moynahan, Bruce Greenwood, Alan Tudyk, and James Cromwell. 'I, Robot' adds to Smith's repertoire of compelling law enforcement roles, showcasing his versatility as an actor in this futuristic setting.
I, Robot is available to stream on Prime Video.
Independence Day (1996)
Considered a quintessential summer blockbuster and a standout in Will Smith's filmography, 'Independence Day' is not only beloved for its action but also its sci-fi elements.
Smith portrays Captain Steve Hiller, a fighter pilot tasked with defending Earth against an alien invasion on the Fourth of July. Bill Pullman co-stars as President Thomas J Whitmore.
With two Oscar nominations and a technical win, 'Independence Day' masterfully combines 90s action with comedic moments. One of the film's most memorable scenes features Smith's character delivering the now-iconic line, "Welcome to Earth," as he punches an alien.
Despite a 2016 sequel failing to impress critics and audiences, Smith's absence ensured that his character's enduring legacy remains intact as one of his most iconic action roles.
'Independence Day' is available to stream on Prime Video.
Bad Boys (1995)
In a breakout film for him, 'Bad Boys' marked a significant role for the action star. Will Smith and Martin Lawrence play Miami-Dade detectives Mike Lowrey and Marcus Burnett, investigating the disappearance of $100 million worth of heroin stolen from police custody. They suspect it was an inside job and dive into the investigation.
Director Michael Bay delivers his trademark action-packed scenes. While critics found the storyline lacking, audiences still appreciate the comedic chemistry between Smith and Lawrence.
Nearly three decades later, 'Bad Boys' remains relevant, with modern-day sequels keeping the franchise alive and appreciated.
'Bad Boys' is available to stream on Netflix and Prime Video.
I Am Legend (2007)
In the aftermath of a viral outbreak turning people into bloodthirsty creatures, Robert Neville (Smith) finds himself seemingly alone in New York City. As a brilliant scientist, Neville, accompanied by his dog Sam, studies his immunity in hopes of finding a cure.
The infected, still intelligent, pose a constant threat, turning survival into a dangerous game of cat and mouse.
'I Am Legend' is a beloved film closely associated with Will Smith's name. While it's not solely reliant on action and fight scenes, it enhances the emotionally charged and psychologically taxing performance delivered by Smith.
Portraying the sole character for much of the film, Smith showcases his talents as both an actor and an action star.
'I Am Legend' is available to stream on Netflix and Prime Video.
Men in Black (1997)
In one of the top multi-genre sci-fi films of the 90s, Will Smith provides the perfect comedic balance to the no-nonsense Tommy Lee Jones.
They star as Men in Black agents Jay (Smith) and Kay (Jones), part of a secretive government agency overseeing alien immigration to Earth. When they uncover a plot of cosmic proportions, they set out to stop it.
'Men in Black' received three Oscar nominations for technical achievements, winning Best Makeup. It was a blockbuster hit that pleased both critics and audiences, earning its place as the standout installment of the franchise and one of Smith's best action films.
The chemistry between the lead actors and the fresh take on a saturated genre have helped the film endure over time, despite the less successful sequel.
'Men in Black' is available to stream on Netflix and Prime Video.
'Bad Boys: Ride or Die' trailer
'Bad Boys: Ride or Die' releases worldwide on Friday, June 7.