Denzel Washington Sparks Debate Over Awkward Interview on Stanley Kubrick’s Films
Hollywood icon Denzel Washington found himself at the centre of an online debate following an interview with Collider’s Steve Weintraub, during which the two-time Oscar winner revealed he was unfamiliar with legendary filmmaker Stanley Kubrick’s works. The interview quickly went viral, dividing fans and cinephiles alike.
The Viral Exchange: Washington’s Candid Response
The 69-year-old actor, currently promoting his role in Gladiator II, was asked about his favourite Kubrick film. His response? A surprising admission:
“I wasn’t really into movies back when he was making them. I wasn’t a big movie buff—I was out on the street when he was making films,” Washington said.
He added, “I’d be the guy outside trying to mug you when you came out of a Kubrick film, alright? I didn’t even start acting until I was in my 20s.”
Washington clarified that his teenage moviegoing experience was rooted in Black cinema, referencing films like Shaft (1971) and SuperFly (1972) by celebrated Black directors Gordon Parks Sr. and Gordon Parks Jr.
Fans Divided Over the Interview
The actor’s candid comments sparked a social media firestorm, with users taking sides on whether the question—or Washington’s response—was appropriate.
Criticism of the Question
Some fans accused Weintraub of projecting a Eurocentric lens onto the conversation by expecting Washington to share the same reverence for Kubrick.
One user wrote: “I love that Denzel clapped back. Why would you ask a Black icon who has celebrated Black filmmakers throughout his career about a white director like Kubrick?”
Others found fault in the tone of the question, calling it “pretentious” and “assuming everyone must worship Kubrick.”
Another user argued: “The arrogance of white film critics is unbearable. The man’s wearing a Kubrick shirt while interviewing Denzel for Gladiator II and then tries to force a Kubrick conversation? Ridiculous.”
Defending Denzel’s Perspective
Fans of the Training Day star praised his ability to stay grounded, noting that his career has been largely shaped by working with diverse filmmakers.
One tweet read: “Denzel doesn’t pander to anyone. His career speaks for itself. Why should he entertain a conversation he doesn’t connect with?”
Another fan joked: “Denzel’s reaction was like slamming a door on someone—and I loved every second of it.”
Pushback Against Washington’s Remarks
Not everyone sided with the actor. Critics argued that Washington’s dismissal of Kubrick felt unnecessary, given the director’s enduring influence on cinema.
One user noted: “So, in 40 years, he’s never watched The Shining or A Clockwork Orange? That feels disingenuous.”
Another added: “The question wasn’t condescending—it’s reasonable to ask an acclaimed actor about one of the greatest filmmakers of all time.”
Some called Washington’s response “deliberately evasive,” while others expressed disappointment in his lack of familiarity with Kubrick’s work.
A Broader Conversation About Film Appreciation
Washington’s comments also reignited discussions about whether being a great actor requires being a cinephile.
One user offered a balanced take: “Just because Denzel’s a phenomenal actor doesn’t mean he has to be obsessed with movies or directors. Talent doesn’t equal fandom.”
Another agreed: “Denzel’s point is simple—his experiences as a Black man and artist shaped the films he connected with. That doesn’t diminish Kubrick’s greatness; it just highlights different cultural perspectives.”
The clash between Hollywood’s cultural gatekeeping and Denzel Washington’s unapologetic authenticity underscores the nuances of art and personal experience. Whether you side with Washington’s candidness or Weintraub’s intentions, the viral moment has sparked a deeper conversation about cinema’s evolving narratives—and who gets to shape them.
As Washington approaches his 70th birthday on December 28, one thing remains clear: the actor’s legacy in both Hollywood and culture at large continues to inspire debate and admiration alike.
