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Look, we all grew up with Will Smith. Whether he was rapping as the Fresh Prince or fighting off aliens, he’s been a permanent fixture in our lives for decades. Seriously, the man doesn’t age! We’ve seen him go from comedy gold to Oscar-winning drama and everything in between. If you’re looking to binge-watch some Big Willie energy this weekend, I’ve got you covered. Here are the absolute essentials you need to watch, ranked by pure nostalgia.
1. The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air
This isn’t just a show; it’s a cultural cornerstone. We all know the theme song by heart, no cap. Watching Will navigate life with the Banks family in Bel-Air was pure magic. The fashion alone? Iconic. It’s streaming on Max, and honestly, the humor holds up way better than you’d think. If you haven’t seen the emotional scene with his dad, keep some tissues handy. It’s a total mood, from the laughs to the feels.
2. Bad Boys (The Entire Franchise)
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Mike Lowrey and Marcus Burnett are the ultimate duo. Period. The chemistry between Will and Martin Lawrence is unmatched. I’m still not over the action sequences in Bad Boys: Ride or Die. It’s loud, it’s fast, and it’s peak blockbuster fun. Watching them bicker while dodging explosions is basically my love language. If you want a high-octane weekend, just start at the beginning and go until the latest one. You won’t regret it.
3. The Pursuit of Happyness
Okay, real talk: this one will absolutely destroy you. I remember watching this in theaters and being a sobbing mess. Will’s performance as Chris Gardner is arguably his best work. It’s raw, it’s heartbreaking, and it’s incredibly inspiring. If you need a reminder that hard work pays off, put this on your list. Just don’t blame me when you’re crying at 2 a.m. It’s a classic for a reason.
4. Men in Black
Who didn’t want to be an MIB agent back in the day? The black suits, the sunglasses, the neuralyzer—it was everything. Will Smith as Agent J was the perfect foil to Tommy Lee Jones’s grumpy Agent K. It’s sci-fi comedy perfection. The 1997 original currently sits at a 92% on Rotten Tomatoes, and honestly, it’s still the most fun I’ve had watching an alien flick. We need more movies like this, for real.
5. Hitch
We have to talk about romantic comedy Will. He is smooth, he is charming, and he gives the best dating advice ever. I’ve watched this movie at least ten times, and I still get a kick out of the ‘date doctor’ antics. It’s the perfect comfort watch for a rainy Sunday. Plus, the chemistry with Eva Mendes? Perfection. If you haven’t seen this in a while, do yourself a favor and hit play immediately.
6. Independence Day
Welcome to Earth! That line alone is legendary. This is the ultimate disaster movie. Watching Will punch an alien in the face? Iconic. It’s big, it’s bold, and it’s the definition of a summer blockbuster. Box office gold back in ’96, and it still packs a punch today. If you want to feel patriotic and excited about space lasers, this is the one. It’s pure, unadulterated popcorn cinema fun.
7. King Richard
This is the movie that finally got him that Oscar, and honestly? Deserved. He completely transformed into Richard Williams. It’s not just a sports movie; it’s a story about family and obsession. I was lowkey impressed by how much heart he put into this role. It’s available on Max and it’s a must-watch if you haven’t seen it yet. It shows a completely different, more grounded side of his acting range.
8. I Am Legend
Terrifying. Absolutely terrifying. Watching Will roam a post-apocalyptic New York with just his dog for company is hauntingly beautiful. It’s a masterclass in acting because, for most of the film, he’s basically by himself. It’s tense, it’s scary, and that ending? Still hits different. If you like your movies with a side of existential dread and incredible set design, this is the one. Just keep the lights on.
9. Aladdin (2019)
Look, I know people were skeptical when they heard Will was playing the Genie, but he absolutely owned that role. He brought his own flavor to it, and the musical numbers were actually super fun. It’s bright, colorful, and a great watch if you’re feeling nostalgic for Disney classics. It made over a billion dollars for a reason, guys! Don’t listen to the haters—it’s a blast and a half.
10. Enemy of the State
If you love a good 90s conspiracy thriller, this is the peak. It’s fast-paced, paranoid, and honestly kind of prescient about technology and surveillance. Will is amazing as the everyman caught in over his head. It’s one of those movies that you can’t look away from once it starts. It’s sleek, stylish, and perfect for when you want a thrill that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
11. Ali
This isn’t your average sports biopic. Will put in so much work to capture the essence of Muhammad Ali. You can tell he really studied the man. It’s intense, it’s gritty, and it’s honestly one of his most underrated performances. If you want to see Will really push his physical and dramatic boundaries, start here. It’s a heavy watch, but it’s so rewarding. He really became the Greatest.
12. Seven Pounds
Okay, be warned: this movie will wreck you. I’m talking ugly crying. It’s a heavy, emotional rollercoaster about redemption and sacrifice. It’s not the easiest watch, but it’s definitely one of his most powerful performances. If you’re in a mood where you just need to let it all out, this is the movie. It stays with you long after the credits roll. Truly, Will at his most vulnerable.
FAQs
What is Will Smith’s best movie?
That’s a tough one! Most fans would argue ‘The Pursuit of Happyness’ for his acting range, or ‘Bad Boys’ for pure entertainment value. It really depends on if you want to cry or laugh!
Is The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air still streaming?
Yes, you can watch all seasons of ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’ on Max. It is honestly the perfect comfort binge for when you just want to relax and laugh.
Has Will Smith won an Oscar?
Yes, he won the Academy Award for Best Actor in 2022 for his role as Richard Williams in the film ‘King Richard’. It was a massive moment for his career.
So, there you have it—a trip down memory lane with the one and only Will Smith. Whether you’re feeling like a 90s action hero or need a good cry, there’s literally a Will Smith movie for every vibe. Did I miss your favorite? Tell me in the comments below! Don’t forget to share this with your bestie who needs a movie night recommendation.
