Denzel Washington’s $4M Comedy Flopped So Hard it Made Him Abandon the Genre for 23 Years, Even the Director Hated It: “The movie definitely didn’t help him”

Denzel Washington's $4M Comedy Flopped So Hard it Made Him Abandon the Genre for 23 Years, Even the Director Hated It
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Amidst a sea of dreams and ambitions, Denzel Washington once yearned for the spotlight of comedy as an aspiring actor. Yet, fate, with its penchant for surprises, wove a different thread into his story. Though facing a dull phase, Washington navigated towards an unforeseen stage, where his brilliance illuminated the cinematic world. 

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Transforming into a versatile performer, he since started captivating hearts and carved his name as an icon. Life’s plot twists only sharpened the allure of Washington’s journey, proving that Destiny’s script has a flair for the extraordinary.

Denzel Washington’s Ill-Fated Dance with Comedy

Denzel Washington
Denzel Washington

Among the luminous figures stands Denzel Washington, a true virtuoso of dramatic roles, leaving an indelible mark on the silver screen. Yet, as the age-old adage goes, every hero’s path is adorned with challenges, and for Washington, one of those trials manifested in the form of a $4 million comedy film titled Heart Condition.

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Also read: “That seems to be a good place to stop”: Denzel Washington Has a Disheartening News For ‘The Equalizer’ Fans

In 1990, Heart Condition brought Denzel Washington’s comedic brilliance to the forefront. Paired with Bob Hoskins, they formed a dynamic duo in this buddy comedy filled with laughter, drama, and romance. Washington’s smooth-talking lawyer, Napoleon Stone, and Hoskins’ no-nonsense cop, Jack Moony, delivered a delightful blend of humor and heartwarming moments. The film’s unexpected twists and undeniable charm was expected to make it an instant hit, showcasing Washington’s versatility and leaving a lasting impression on audiences’ hearts.

Denzel Washington
Denzel Washington

Alas, what looked like a promising endeavor quickly descended into a whirlpool of misfortune. Heart Condition stumbled out of the gate, met with resounding disapproval from both critics and audiences alike. Like a fallen star plummeting from the heavens, the film crashed and burned, leaving behind a trail of disappointment and shattered expectations. Some called it one of Washington’s worst movies ever, an unfortunate blemish on his otherwise illustrious career.

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Also read: “I’d have done it”: Denzel Washington Almost Kicked Will Smith Out of His Iconic $353M Sci-Fi Masterpiece

From Comedy Catastrophe to Dramatic Win: Denzel Washington’s Story

Denzel Washington
Denzel Washington

The director, James D. Parriott, candidly acknowledged the chaotic spectacle, labeling it “crazy to watch.” He recognized that the film’s failure had not been a boon to Washington, who faced the harsh reality of commercial and critical rejection. In the context of Washington, Parriott mentioned: 

“The movie definitely didn’t help him, It didn’t encourage him to do other comedies, for sure.”

In the aftermath of Heart Condition, Washington fearlessly bid farewell to the world of comedy, setting forth on a mesmerizing 23-year odyssey of emotions. Surrendering to his heart’s true calling, he delved deep into the realm of drama, where his talent knew no bounds. With each new role, Washington’s artistry soared, etching an indelible mark among the legends of Hollywood. A celestial constellation of accolades, including Oscars, Golden Globes, and Screen Actors Guild trophies, showered upon him, a testament to his unwavering dedication and awe-inspiring brilliance that continues to shine bright.

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Also read: “I was having pizzas delivered to him”: Denzel Washington Tortured Tom Hanks in $206M Movie That Made Actor Thank Equalizer Star in His Oscar Acceptance Speech

Source: The Ringer

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Written by Chandni Arora

Articles Published: 104

Chandni, an English Honours student, is always ready to explore new things, listen to podcasts, engage with quirky articles, and read poetry. She's a writer with a zest for life and insatiable curiosity about the world around her. You will likely find her wandering with a cup of coffee in one hand and a book or paintbrushes and canvas in the other.