The One Movie Denzel Washington Wishes He Could Go Back in Time and Do

Denzel Washington, a two-time Academy Award-winning actor renowned for his powerful performances in films such as Glory (1989) and Training Day (2001), is celebrated for a career filled with critically acclaimed roles across a wide range of genres. Despite his legendary status, Washington has spoken candidly about one particular regret in his career—the film he turned down: Se7en (1995).

A Missed Opportunity: Se7en and the Detective Mills Role

The 1995 psychological thriller Se7en, directed by David Fincher, became a commercial success and is regarded as one of the most iconic films of the 1990s. It starred Brad Pitt and Morgan Freeman as detectives hunting down a serial killer who uses the seven deadly sins as inspiration for his crimes. However, the role of Detective Mills, which ultimately went to Pitt, was initially offered to Denzel Washington. Washington turned it down, citing concerns about the script being “too demonic.”

In an interview with Jamie Foxx for Grey Goose Vodka, Washington confessed, “I thought the script was too demonic, then I saw the movie, and I was like, ‘Oh, I blew it.’ But, you know, it worked out alright.” This regret was further echoed in The Digital Fix, where he elaborated on how missing out on Se7en haunted him, especially considering the film’s success both commercially (grossing over $327 million worldwide) and critically.

The Regret That Stands Out

Washington’s regret for turning down Se7en is widely discussed in interviews and public statements. While he has had a remarkable career with no shortage of standout roles—such as in Crimson Tide (1995), Remember the Titans (2000), and The Equalizer series (2014–2023)—the missed opportunity in Se7en remains the one that he reflects on most frequently. The film’s massive impact, from its dark atmosphere to its chilling portrayal of morality and sin, left Washington wishing he had taken the role.

Despite the success of his career, he has made it clear that Se7en is the film he most regrets not being part of. Washington admitted in a 2012 GQ interview that he turned down Michael Clayton (2007), which ultimately went to George Clooney, due to hesitation about working with a first-time director. However, he also acknowledged that he was wrong in that instance. Still, Se7en stands out as the film that continues to bother him, as it combines critical acclaim and box office success with a role that seemed tailor-made for his talents.

Washington’s Filmography: No Regrets About His Roles

Interestingly, despite his occasional regrets about turning down certain roles, Washington has not publicly expressed dissatisfaction with any of the films he has actually starred in. His filmography includes landmark performances, such as his portrayal of a fierce civil rights lawyer in The Hurricane (1999), a commanding military officer in Crimson Tide (1995), and a charismatic coach in Remember the Titans (2000). These roles, among many others, have solidified his place as one of Hollywood’s finest actors.

Even in the more recent Equalizer series, Washington has continued to bring his signature intensity to every role, earning both critical praise and a loyal fanbase. There is no indication that he wishes to erase any of these iconic performances from history, as each has been integral to shaping his career and public persona.

“Delete from History”: A Colloquial Misunderstanding

The phrase “the movie Denzel Washington wanted to delete from history” might be a misinterpretation of what he regrets, as it relates more to the roles he passed on rather than films he participated in. Washington’s statement about Se7en aligns with a common theme in many actors’ careers: the missed opportunity. For Washington, Se7en was the film that got away, and in hindsight, he sees it as the role he most regrets not accepting.

Conclusion: The One That Got Away

In conclusion, while Denzel Washington has enjoyed a career filled with monumental roles and critical acclaim, it is clear that Se7en (1995) remains the film he regrets not being a part of. His decision to turn down the role of Detective Mills in favor of other projects has haunted him, especially considering the film’s cultural significance and commercial success. Despite this, Washington’s filmography stands as a testament to his unparalleled talent, and his career remains a celebrated one, free from any significant regrets about the roles he has taken on. But when it comes to the movie that still lingers in his mind, Se7en is the one that got away.