Denzel Washington and Spike Lee have created several acclaimed films together, but none of their collaborations have secured an Academy Award so far, marking a persistent Denzel Washington Oscar snub collaboration. Their partnership, launched in 1990 with Mo’ Better Blues, stands out among Hollywood’s most dynamic actor-director duos, yet their collective efforts continue to miss out on Oscar gold.
The two artists first joined forces with Mo’ Better Blues, where Washington played trumpeter Bleek Gilliam. Although often considered underrated, the film set the tone for what would become a legacy of collaboration between Washington and Lee. The movie delivered a strong performance from Washington, complemented by Lee’s distinctive direction, drawing audiences into an engaging narrative with striking artistry.
Over the course of 16 years, Washington and Lee worked together on four more films. Each release further solidified their reputation, but notably, none have managed to claim the Academy’s highest honor. Later this year, the duo reunites for their fifth feature, Highest 2 Lowest, which premiered at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival and has already sparked positive critical reactions. Despite this glowing track record, the absence of an Oscar win remains a lingering talking point around their joint body of work.
Critical and Popular Success Without Academy Validation
Although Oscar recognition has evaded them, Denzel Washington and Spike Lee have received widespread acclaim from critics and audiences alike. Both men have individually accumulated nominations and wins at the Academy Awards for different projects—Washington for acting and Lee for screenwriting and directing. Nevertheless, their combined efforts in collaborative films have yet to be honored by the Academy, a situation that surprises many given the quality and impact of their productions.
Beginning with Mo’ Better Blues and continuing through each subsequent title, their movies consistently rated highly among critics, with each earning more than 80% on Rotten Tomatoes. The collaborative projects between Washington and Lee are diverse, spanning various genres and thematic explorations, yet each is marked by memorable performances and Lee’s energetic, stylish direction.
The successful combination of Washington’s compelling character work and Lee’s visionary storytelling has built anticipation for every project they undertake. Their films have been praised for their intricate narratives, the strength of Washington’s screen presence, and Lee’s signature directorial style. Despite their accolades, none have managed to turn that universal praise into an Oscar, though Malcolm X came close.
Malcolm X: Recognition and Controversy at the Oscars
Malcolm X stands as the only movie from the Washington-Lee collaboration to secure Academy Award nominations. The 1992 film was nominated in two categories: Best Actor for Denzel Washington and Best Costume Design for Ruth E. Carter. Ultimately, Carter lost to Eiko Ishioka (Bram Stoker’s Dracula), and Washington was edged out by Al Pacino (Scent of a Woman). Both losses, particularly Washington’s, have remained subjects of debate and disappointment for fans and critics.
Malcolm X chronicled the life and legacy of the prominent human rights activist at the core of the civil rights movement. Washington’s transformative performance in the titular role has been frequently cited as one of his most compelling; his ability to embody real-life figures and deliver layered, resonant portrayals distinguished this turn as especially noteworthy. Washington has played several historical icons, but his interpretation of Malcolm X continues to be hailed as powerful and memorable, deepening the film‘s lasting cultural impact.
The significance of Washington’s performance has not been lost on those close to the project. The Academy’s decision not to bestow the award on Washington has been described as controversial, with many, including Spike Lee, continuing to express disappointment with the result and to argue in Washington’s favor at numerous public appearances, including a recent Cannes press conference according to Variety.
The Five Washington-Lee Films: A Showcase of Range and Talent
Denzel Washington and Spike Lee’s creative partnership has resulted in five key films, each exploring distinct genres and themes while leaving a unique mark on audiences and critics:
1. Mo’ Better Blues (1990): Washington stars as Bleek Gilliam, a jazz trumpeter navigating personal and professional turmoil. The film is admired for its musicality, vibrant visuals, and nuanced storytelling, introducing the creative synergy between actor and director.
2. Malcolm X (1992): This biographical drama features Washington’s career-defining performance as the civil rights activist, offering a sweeping and powerful account of Malcolm X’s transformation and legacy. The film is often cited as one of the most important collaborations in American cinema.
3. He Got Game (1998): Washington plays Jake Shuttlesworth, the estranged father of a promising basketball star. The story tackles family, ambition, and redemption, drawing praise for its complex characters and social commentary.
4. Inside Man (2006): Shifting into the crime thriller genre, Washington takes on the role of detective Keith Frazier. The film is celebrated for its suspenseful plot, sharp dialogue, and Lee’s masterful handling of genre conventions.
5. Highest 2 Lowest (2025): The latest entry in their ongoing collaborative saga, which premiered at Cannes earlier this year. Early reviews highlight Washington’s magnetic performance and hint at increased awards potential, raising hopes for overdue Oscar recognition.
Anticipation for “Highest 2 Lowest” and the Prospect of Change
With the release of Highest 2 Lowest on the horizon, there is renewed speculation that this might finally be the work to end the Oscar drought for the Washington-Lee partnership. Early reviews from critics, following its debut at Cannes, have noted that while the film may not redefine either man’s already illustrious career, it showcases Washington in a performance that captures audience interest and critical admiration. Some reviewers suggest that Washington could well be in line for another Best Actor nomination, and possibly more.
The field for Oscar competition is expected to be strong in the upcoming awards season, and a nomination is far from guaranteed at this stage. Nonetheless, the possibility of seeing the fifth Washington-Lee film finally earn recognition from the Academy is an exciting prospect. The pair has already achieved extraordinary success outside the Academy’s endorsement, but a shared Oscar would add a new distinction to their shared history.
Legacy of the Washington-Lee Collaboration Continues
Denzel Washington’s talent for immersing himself in diverse and challenging roles has continually raised the bar, while Spike Lee’s creative vision has shaped each film into an event. Audiences and critics alike have praised the emotional depth and thematic resonance of their movies, making their partnership one of Hollywood’s most important despite the lack of official Academy validation to date.
Over the years, the consistent excellence of the Denzel Washington and Spike Lee collaboration has helped push boundaries in storytelling, representation, and filmmaking. As Highest 2 Lowest prepares for general release, all eyes will be on how the Academy responds, and whether history will finally be made for this celebrated actor-director team.
