With a distinguished career spanning nearly five decades, Denzel Washington has teamed up with some of Hollywood’s finest directors, shaping his legacy as one of the most compelling actors of his generation. As Washington approaches retirement, the idea of future director collaborations is generating excitement, especially considering his resolve to explore new creative opportunities before stepping back.
Throughout his extensive filmography, Washington has worked with acclaimed filmmakers such as Ridley Scott, Tony Scott, Penny Marshall, and Robert Zemeckis, along with frequent collaborations with Antoine Fuqua and Spike Lee. Now 70 years old, Washington aims to challenge himself in uncharted territories, leaving fans curious about which directors he might partner with going forward. Here are ten directors who could craft unforgettable films alongside Washington in the final chapters of his career.
Ryan Coogler’s Dynamic Storytelling and Marvel Connection
Ryan Coogler has risen as one of Hollywood’s most influential directors, earning acclaim with works like Fruitvale Station, Creed, and the blockbuster Black Panther. Known for eliciting powerful performances from his actors within rich ensemble casts, Coogler’s directing style offers a perfect match for Washington’s talent.
In a 2024 interview, Washington indicated he is set to star in Black Panther 3, marking a significant collaboration with Coogler. Though Marvel has yet to confirm the film officially, Coogler affirmed discussions with Washington have been ongoing for some time. This project represents an opportunity for Washington’s first foray into the superhero genre, where Coogler’s ability to balance dramatic depth and spectacle may allow Washington to shine in a new light.
Steven Spielberg’s Smaller-Scale Dramatic Films
While Steven Spielberg is celebrated for his blockbuster hits like Jaws, Jurassic Park, and the Indiana Jones series, his quieter, more intimate dramas such as Amistad, The Fabelmans, and The Post are equally powerful showcases of his storytelling prowess. These films focus on emotional narratives that prioritize character development over action, aligning well with Washington’s strong suit.
Spielberg is currently developing a UFO-themed movie, but Washington is not involved in this project. Nonetheless, Washington remains a highly suitable choice for Spielberg’s future work, especially films that lean into nuanced, meaningful drama. His adaptability and experience could provide the gravitas needed for Spielberg’s upcoming smaller-profile films.
Ava DuVernay’s Socially Conscious and Impactful Narratives
Washington’s filmography includes several landmark projects that address significant societal issues affecting the Black community, such as Malcolm X, Glory, and Remember the Titans. Ava DuVernay is similarly recognized for crafting thought-provoking films that highlight injustice and systemic issues, including Selma, Origin, and the miniseries When They See Us.
With no announced project yet, DuVernay’s next film is highly anticipated, and Washington would be a fitting presence in such a film due to his history with impactful narratives. His involvement would undoubtedly intensify the emotional and cultural weight of her storytelling.
Martin Scorsese’s Mastery of Crime Drama
Denzel Washington excelled in roles featured in crime films like American Gangster and Training Day, the latter earning him an Academy Award. Martin Scorsese is globally known for his acclaimed crime dramas including Goodfellas, The Departed, The Irishman, and Gangs of New York. The filmmaker’s interest in complex, morally ambiguous characters aligns well with Washington’s ability to portray charismatic yet flawed individuals.
Though Scorsese has yet to collaborate with Washington, their styles and strengths suggest a perfect professional fit. Upcoming Scorsese projects like Devil in the White City, and films exploring the lives of Jesus Christ and Frank Sinatra, typically incorporating stars like Leonardo DiCaprio and Robert De Niro, could offer opportunities where Washington’s talent and presence would be invaluable.
Quentin Tarantino as a Potential Collaboration for Their Final Chapters
Despite never formally working together, Denzel Washington and Quentin Tarantino share an indirect connection. Tarantino contributed uncredited script work to Crimson Tide, starring Washington, although their professional relationship had some tension over the script’s content. Their association was later smoothed when Washington’s daughter collaborated with Tarantino on Django Unchained.
With Tarantino reportedly planning just one more film prior to his retirement—although the original project was abandoned—Washington’s involvement would create a memorable closing chapter for both iconic figures in cinema, offering a unique pairing of two of the industry’s greatest influences.
Barry Jenkins and the Power of Award-Winning Storytelling
Barry Jenkins gained widespread recognition with Moonlight, which won Best Picture at the 89th Academy Awards and earned accolades for its powerful performances. His subsequent film, If Beale Street Could Talk, further cemented his reputation for crafting emotionally profound stories. Jenkins has also produced projects like Aftersun and Sorry, Baby.
Following his direction of Mufasa: The Lion King in 2024, Jenkins appears poised to return to intimate narratives centered on the Black experience. Pairing Washington with Jenkins could lead to critically acclaimed projects and further awards recognition for the veteran actor.
Christopher Nolan’s Epic and Visually Driven Films
Christopher Nolan remains one of the most influential directors working today, with recent films like Oppenheimer achieving critical and box office success. His upcoming project, The Odyssey, continues his tradition of highly anticipated, large-scale movies.
While Washington has yet to appear in a Nolan film, his son, John David Washington, played a lead role in Nolan’s Tenet. Considering Washington’s powerful role in Gladiator II, he is well-equipped to meet Nolan’s demands for actors who can perform within sprawling narratives. A future collaboration could be mutually enriching, blending Washington’s commanding presence with Nolan’s distinctive storytelling.
David Fincher’s Psychological Thrillers and Earlier Missed Opportunity
David Fincher, known for dark and intricate films such as Se7en, might have nearly worked with Washington years ago. The actor initially declined the lead part in Se7en, feeling it was too dark, but later expressed regret after witnessing the film’s success. Washington has been effective in other thrillers like The Bone Collector, making him a strong fit for Fincher’s psychological style.
Fincher remains active, working on projects including an English Squid Game spinoff and The Adventures of Cliff Booth. Although Washington is not slated for these films, the possibility of future collaboration remains open, especially given Fincher’s interest in complex storytelling and Washington’s proven versatility.
Denis Villeneuve’s Vision for Sci-Fi and Beyond
Denis Villeneuve has a reputation for extracting transformative performances, demonstrated by Hugh Jackman’s role in Prisoners and Timothée Chalamet’s compelling work in the Dune series. Villeneuve is developing several projects, including Dune: Part Three, the next James Bond film, a Cleopatra biopic, an adaptation of Arthur C. Clarke’s Rendezvous with Rama, and a science fiction story based on works by South Korean author Kim Bo-young.
Though Washington’s versatility is undeniable, he has expressed a desire to explore new creative paths before retiring. Villeneuve’s broad slate offers multiple possibilities for Washington to assume new roles and reach new artistic heights.
Jordan Peele’s Innovative Approach to Horror
Washington’s exposure to the horror genre is limited, with only his 1998 film Fallen, portraying a detective facing supernatural dangers. Jordan Peele, noted for redefining horror with a mix of social commentary, humor, and suspense, represents an ideal partner for bringing Washington back to this genre. Peele’s films, like Nope, blend various styles and themes, offering depth and complexity beyond typical horror.
A collaboration with Peele would allow Washington to explore a new genre facet, while contributing his notable dramatic strengths to elevate the storytelling and engage audiences in fresh, compelling ways.
As Washington contemplates his remaining career moves, these ten directors symbolize exciting possibilities for memorable collaborations that could add new chapters to his legacy. Whether entering new genres, revisiting familiar ones with fresh perspectives, or partnering with visionary storytellers, Denzel Washington’s future director collaborations hold the promise of remarkable cinematic achievements.
