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Don Cheadle has been an illustrious actor since the 1980s, beginning with numerous TV roles before transitioning to film. His turn as Best Supporting Actor alongside Denzel Washington in Devil in a Blue Dress (1995) earned him acclaim from the Los Angeles Film Critics. Since then, he has starred in various acclaimed and Oscar-nominated films throughout the 2000s. He has also become a household name for his role as War Machine in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and his comedic works. From established Hollywood favorite to all-around entertainer, here are the best Don Cheadle films.

Hotel Rwanda (2004)

A calamity tragically forgotten, the 1994 Rwandan genocide is one of the darkest moments of modern history. Terry George’s 2004 biopic Hotel Rwanda brings this tragedy to life with its story of Paul Rusesabagina (Cheadle). The actor’s career-defining role in 2004’s Hotel Rwanda demanded his best. He earned an Oscar nomination for his portrayal of a hotel manager who bravely opened its doors to shelter thousands of refugees from the Rwandan Genocide of 1994. Not just important culturally, but his performance makes this film enthralling. An absolute must-see.

Crash (2004)

Crash is a powerful and fateful film centering around racism, class division, and power struggles. It garnered the 2006 Academy Award for Best Picture. Its galvanizing performances from Don Cheadle, Matt Dillon, Thandiwe Newton, and Terrence Howard make it a timeless classic. It exposes prejudices in a stark fashion. The film further implores us to understand the intricate web of emotions and experiences that lives beyond racial or economic distinctions.

Miles Ahead (2016)

Starring Don Cheadle as the legendary Miles Davis, this dramedy is a captivating exploration of the artist’s life and legacy. It takes an unconventional approach to tell its story, with witty humor and breathtaking drama. Cheadle’s performance is flawless in depicting Miles Davis at his artistic peak. The film also chronicled the musician’s personal struggles. Cheadle’s precise understanding of Davis brings out the depth of his character and his vibrant youth. This is one of Cheadle’s most impressive pieces of work yet—a dazzling testament to the power of art and creativity.

Flight (2012)

Will Whitaker Sr. (Denzel Washington) was an alcoholic flying a plane. Despite his condition, he miraculously saved the lives of those on board when it crashed. An investigation uncovered that he had been inebriated on the flight, leading people to question If he deserved praise or criticism. In order to provide viewers with clarity, Cheadle stepped into the role of attorney Hugh Lang. He defends Whitaker’s case and shines a light on the possible ramifications of racial bias. While depicting a character torn between both sides, Lang presents an intricate conflict. It prompts audiences to pause before making their final decision.

Boogie Nights (1997)

The unparalleled expertise of Paul Thomas Anderson as a film producer is his capacity to evoke feelings of sympathy for his characters. Boogie Nights captures the harsh truth of sex work and the struggles of its stars. Cheadle captivates with one of the most compassionate performances in the movie. Although Buck Swope is one of Horner’s key players, he wishes for a more typical life away from the limelight. Cheadle portrays maturity beyond his age when discussing forming a family with his flame, Jessie St. Vincent (Melora Walters). Still, Cheadle also illustrates how Buck became a linchpin in Horner’s flicks. Even when directing a goofy ad for his equipment store, Buck flourishes as a performer.

Out of Sight (1998)

It’s not difficult to comprehend why Soderbergh and Cheadle often work together. As a filmmaker, Soderbergh is renowned for his ability to blend genres. This was evident in Out of Sight, an amusing homage to caper movies channeling humor and genuine emotion. Such a unique flick necessitated a protagonist with a flair for comedy, and Cheadle fit the bill as the criminal Maurice Miller. 

Miller and Jack Foley (George Clooney) work in tandem early on in the movie, despite their lack of trust. Their playful verbal jabs also conceal an underlying tension. This fully manifests itself when Maurice starts suspecting the latter’s motives. Cheadle demonstrates remarkable versatility, maneuvering caustically from humorous to intimidating at the drop of a hat. It is a shame he rarely plays antagonists anymore.

Captain America: Civil War (2016)

As the conclusion of Captain America’s MCU trilogy, Civil War has achieved remarkable recognition. After Age of Ultron, public opinion and government regulations turned against the Avengers, leading to the Sokovia Accords. This document is meant to curb the authority of superhuman forces to avert future disasters. Iron Man and Captain America diverge to take opposing sides in this disagreement, causing tensions within the group. This affects Don Cheadle’s War Machine, Rhodey. In a gripping climax with Vision, he almost makes the ultimate sacrifice until finally being paralyzed from an aerial impact. This event marks a significant turning point in the movie, showing how disputed opinions can rip apart even the closest of allies. Overall, Cheadle’s outstanding performance is acclaimed as the best since his debut in the Iron Man series.

No Sudden Move (2021)

Curt Goynes (Cheadle) is the focal point of Steven Soderbergh’s 2021 neo-noir classic No Sudden Move, a social commentary on Detroit during the 1950s. Goynes is intimidating, but he has a line he won’t cross in hurting innocent people. Cheadle’s performance captures his character’s calculating choices, such as when gangster Charley (Kieran Culkin) threatens to execute Matt Wertz’s (David Harbor) family. His chemistry with Benicio del Toro, who plays Ronald Russo, is captivating, even if their relationship isn’t full of flashy exchanges. Russo and Goynes understand each other through small gestures, similar to Gordon and Catro in Traffic.

Hamburger Hill (1987)

Washburn, a Private First Class in the 3rd Battalion, 187th Infantry, 101st Airborne Division, faces a dilemma as a Black soldier in the Vietnam War. Fight for a country that won’t guarantee his rights? Cheadle embodies this struggle in silence. Though visibly affected by fellow soldiers’ hateful remarks, he knows the consequences he could incur if he speaks up. 

A strong bond forms between Washburn and other African American soldiers, notably when the young soldier helps to soothe an overwhelmed Doc Johnson (Courtney B. Vance). Cheadle’s portrayal of Washburn conveying an emotional maturity beyond his years shows him as the film’s center. In just a few short months, Washburn will be a battle-worn veteran instead of the spirited recruit we first meet.

Traitor (2008)

Don Cheadle exudes an empathetic quality, perfect for characters seeking pity. In 2008’s Traitor, he stars as Samir Horn, a former U.S. soldier whose family was tragically killed in a car bombing while he was still young. Presently, he works as an arms dealer in Yemen, yet he is arrested upon suspicion of terrorist ties. However, it turns out that Samir is a dedicated Muslim, and Cheadle presents him earnestly without shame or remorse. When confronted by FBI Special Agent Roy Clayton (Guy Pearce), Samir calls out the hypocrisy of his interrogator. He speaks with esteem, nonetheless highlighting the deplorable war crimes conducted by the US military.