Samantha Kerr · Follow
19 min read · Mar 18, 2024
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Dive into the world of Bill Duke’s movie career with our comprehensive roundup! From his iconic roles to his notable collaborations, we uncover the amazing films and performances of this talented actor. Get ready to explore and appreciate a range of movies curated by none other than the versatile Bill Duke.
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1. Car Wash (1976)
Car Wash” is a lively and heartwarming 1976 comedy-drama that offers an amusing and unforgettable glimpse into the daily life of car-wash employees. The film follows a group of hardworking individuals as they navigate their hopes, fears, joys, and dreams, all the while dealing with the strange and eccentric clientele who frequent their workplace.
2. Love Is Not Enough (1978)
In the 1978 drama “Love Is Not Enough, “ directed by Ivan Dixon, a black family journeys from the concrete jungles of Detroit in search of a more hopeful life in the glimmering streets of Los Angeles. The film unfolds a compelling tale of struggle, humor, and the unrelenting quest for a better tomorrow. With a powerful lineup of stars, including Bernie Casey, Stuart K.
3. Sergeant Matlovich vs. the U.S. Air Force (1978)
Sergeant Matlovich vs. the U. S. Air Force is a compelling and honest portrayal of a true event. It delves into the life of Leonard Matlovich, an airman who became a pioneering symbol in the fight for gay rights. The film follows the U. S. Air Force sergeant’s story, where he faces dismissal from the service due to his sexual orientation.
4. American Gigolo (1980)
In the thrilling crime drama “American Gigolo, “ released in 1980, Richard Gere stars as Julian, a male escort catering predominantly to an older female clientele in the vibrant city of Los Angeles. His life takes a dark turn as he faces accusations for a murder he did not commit.
5. Commando (1985)
Commando, “ a 1985 action-packed thriller, stars Arnold Schwarzenegger as a legendary one-man army on a daring mission to save his daughter from a former subordinate gone rogue. This intense adventure film follows the retired Special Forces colonel as he must use his unmatched combat skills and stealthy tactics to break into a heavily guarded fortress and rescue his daughter from the clutches of a ruthless dictator.
6. Dallas: The Early Years (1986)
Dallas: The Early Years” is a captivating drama and romantic film released in 1986, which serves as a prequel to the popular television series Dallas. The film, directed by Larry Elikann, delves into the early lives of the iconic characters, highlighting the passionate love story between Digger Barnes and Ellie Southworth, and the simmering animosity between them, due to Jock Ewing’s potential infidelity.
7. Predator (1987)
Predator” is an exhilarating 1987 action-adventure film directed by John McTiernan and written by Jim Thomas and John Thomas. Set in the dense and treacherous terrain of the Central American jungle, the film follows a team of commandos on a high-stakes mission gone awry. As they navigate a guerrilla base and attempt to carry out their orders, the team faces a terrifying new foe: an extraterrestrial warrior hell-bent on hunting them down.
8. No Man’s Land (1987)
No Man’s Land is a gripping police drama that follows the journey of a rookie cop who finds himself in the midst of a dangerous car theft ring. As he goes undercover to infiltrate the group, he soon discovers a web of corruption that puts his own life and career on the line. Directed by Peter Werner and written by Dick Wolf, the film stars Charlie Sheen, D. B.
9. Action Jackson (1988)
In the gritty streets of Detroit, an unyielding cop named Jackson (Carl Weathers) sets out to bring down a ruthless businessman, Jonathan Sharp (Craig T. Nelson), who will stop at nothing to gain power in the auto industry.
10. Bird on a Wire (1990)
In the action-packed comedy “Bird on a Wire, “ Mel Gibson plays an undercover FBI informant named Rick Lardner, tasked with stopping a dangerous criminal organization. But when he discovers that his ex-girlfriend, played by Goldie Hawn, is witnessing the crime, he must protect her from the bad guys and bring them to justice.
11. A Rage in Harlem (1991)
A Rage in Harlem, released in 1991, is a comedy-crime film set in the heart of Harlem, Manhattan. Directed by Bill Duke, the film was inspired by Chester Himes’ novel and written by John Toles-Bey and Bobby Crawford.
12. Ax ’Em (1992)
A weekend retreat in the woods turns into a chilling game of cat and mouse in “Ax ’Em, “ also known as “The Weekend It Lives. “ A group of childhood friends reunites at a remote cabin, only to be haunted by a former friend seeking revenge for the tragic loss of his family years ago. What was meant to be a fun and nostalgic getaway quickly turns into a terrifying fight for survival as the friends must band together to fend off the relentless attacker.
13. Deep Cover (1992)
Deep Cover” is a gritty crime thriller featuring Laurence Fishburne and Jeff Goldblum as two unlikely partners. The film, released in 1992, centers around a uniformed police officer who finds himself recruited by the DEA to infiltrate a dangerous and expanding drug smuggling ring.
14. The Cemetery Club (1993)
The Cemetery Club is a heartwarming 1993 comedy film directed by Bill Duke, written by Ivan Menchell, and starring Ellen Burstyn, Olympia Dukakis, and Diane Ladd. The movie revolves around three lifelong friends who, despite their advanced age, maintain a close bond by meeting weekly to celebrate the past and present. The story unfolds as they navigate through the challenges of life and friendship, while also dealing with the Jewish shiva and other related customs.
15. Menace II Society (1993)
Menace II Society, “ a 1993 movie directed by the Hughes brothers (Albert and Allen Hughes), delves into the reality of an African American family navigating the dangers and struggles of the ‘hood. The film’s main character, a street hustler, pushes for a better life amidst gang violence and violent situations. With a runtime of 1 hour and 37 minutes, the movie doesn’t shy away from showcasing the blood-soaked, gritty underworld of the ghetto.
16. Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit (1993)
In “Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit, “ released in 1993, Hollywood legend Whoopi Goldberg reprises her role as the loveable Sister Mary Clarence. After a stint in Las Vegas as a showgirl, Deloris Van Cartier returns to her spiritual roots, where she now faces the challenge of saving a rundown Catholic school from closure.
17. America’s Dream (1996)
America’s Dream” is a collection of three powerful tales that intertwine African-American characters and their struggles in the face of adversity. Set amidst the backdrop of a rural farming community, a school principal grapples with defending a young student’s provocative work, and a jazz singer grapples with her past, each story stands as compelling commentaries on the African-American experience. Rife with emotion and deep-seated pain, this independent film offers a raw and captivating perspective on life in 1990s America.
18. Frank Capra’s American Dream (1997)
Frank Capra’s American Dream” is a captivating documentary film that explores the life and remarkable career of legendary filmmaker, Frank Capra. The film is hosted by none other than renowned director Ron Howard, who leads the audience through a journey filled with interviews, reminiscences, and insights from Capra’s close friends, colleagues, and admirers.
19. Hoodlum (1997)
Hoodlum” is a thrilling crime drama that unfolds in the heart of 1930s Harlem. Set against the backdrop of the Great Depression, this intense film follows the brutal struggle between a group of black gangsters and the notorious Dutch Schultz, an Irish American gangster attempting to infiltrate their lucrative numbers racket.
20. Susan’s Plan (1998)
Susan’s Plan” (1998) is a quirky comedy-crime film directed by John Landis and starring Nastassja Kinski, Billy Zane, and Michael Biehn. The movie follows Susan, played by Kinski, who wants nothing more than to rid herself of her detestable ex-husband. In a series of increasingly chaotic and comedic attempts, she enlists the help of her boyfriend and a former biker boyfriend to do the deed. As the story unfolds, Susan’s devious plot becomes ever more complicated and dangerous, leading to a darkly humorous tale of revenge and deception.
21. Always Outnumbered (1998)
In the gritty streets of Los Angeles, “Always Outnumbered” tells the compelling story of a former prisoner seeking redemption by helping a young neighbor avoid the wrong path. Directed by Michael Apted and written by the talented Walter Mosley, this gripping drama explores themes of gang involvement, cancer, and employment discrimination. Starring Laurence Fishburne, Daniel Williams, and Bill Cobbs, “Always Outnumbered” is a riveting look at the challenges faced in urban communities, as one man strives to make a difference.
22. Payback (1999)
Payback” is a 1999 neo-noir action crime drama, based on a novel, and follows Porter, an anti-hero played by Mel Gibson, in his relentless pursuit of revenge and his rightful share of the money after surviving a successful heist. Directed by Brian Helgeland, the movie boasts an engaging script penned by Donald E. Westlake, Brian Helgeland, and Terry Hayes.
23. The Limey (1999)
The Limey, “ directed by Steven Soderbergh, is a gripping crime drama set in the heart of Los Angeles. When an explosive Englishman, played by Terence Stamp, hears about the death of his daughter, he makes an extremely volatile journey to California to find the man he believes is responsible.
24. Who Killed Atlanta’s Children? (2000)
In the mid-80s, a series of chilling murders shook the city of Atlanta to its core, with children becoming the heartbreaking victims. While the case seemed to be closed with the capture and conviction of a single man, the dark truth came to light for two determined reporters some years later.
25. The Golden Spiders: A Nero Wolfe Mystery (2000)
The Golden Spiders: A Nero Wolfe Mystery” is a gritty crime drama that brings the legendary detective, Nero Wolfe, to life in a riveting 2000 TV movie based on a beloved novel. Bill Duke directs the thrilling adventure, while Rex Stout’s and Paul Monash’s powerful script unfolds the intricate storyline.
26. Exit Wounds (2001)
In the inner-city precinct of Los Angeles, a relentless and tough cop named Orin Boyd (Steven Seagal) encounters a complex web of corruption and deceit. When he discovers evidence of a drug dealer named Patterson (DMX) orchestrating the city’s violent underworld, Orin is pulled into life-threatening consequences. As he delves deeper into the conspiracy, Orin uncovers a corrupt network of cops who exploit their positions for power and profit.
27. Red Dragon (2002)
Red Dragon” is a gripping crime thriller that showcases the dark genius of a legendary serial killer and the relentless pursuit of justice by an FBI agent. Set in 2002, the film stars Edward Norton as a retired FBI agent, Will Graham, who teams up with the infamous forensic psychiatrist, Dr. Hannibal “The Cannibal” Lecter, played by Anthony Hopkins, to capture a terrifying new adversary known as “The Tooth Fairy”.
28. Deacons for Defense (2003)
In 1964 Louisiana, a group of determined African-American men unite to safeguard themselves from the sinister forces plaguing their town — both the KKK and local law enforcement. Based on true events, “Deacons for Defense” is an enthralling docudrama that recounts the invaluable role played by ordinary people in the civil rights movement.
29. National Security (2003)
National Security” is a 2003 action-packed comedy that follows the story of an unlikely pair, two mismatched security guards, thrown together to tackle a serious smuggling operation. Amid the Los Angeles Police Department’s high-stakes world, the race relations play out in a refreshingly humorous way. As their mission progresses, they discover a corrupt cop involved, leading to a dramatic firefight.
30. Get Rich or Die Tryin’ (2005)
Get Rich or Die Tryin’ (2005) is a gripping crime drama that follows the life of a young inner-city drug dealer who yearns to escape the world of crime and pursue his true passion — rap music. Written by Terence Winter, the movie features a star-studded cast led by 50 Cent, Joy Bryant, and Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje, and is directed by Jim Sheridan. The film, which boasts six awards and three nominations, explores themes of ambition, survival, and the harsh realities that come with success in a dangerous city.
31. Payback: Straight Up (2006)
Payback: Straight Up” (2006) throws viewers into the dark and unforgiving world of revenge, betrayal, and neo-noir drama. Starring Mel Gibson as the reluctant anti-hero, this film is not for the faint-hearted.
32. X-Men: The Last Stand (2006)
In “X-Men: The Last Stand, “ the world is on the brink of chaos as the human government develops a cure for mutations. As tensions rise between humans and mutants, Jean Grey transforms into the Phoenix, an uncontrollable, dark persona. Joining forces with Magneto, Phoenix engages in a deadly conflict with the X-Men, resulting in an all-out war for survival.
33. The Go-Getter (2007)
The Go-Getter” is a road trip comedy-drama that follows the story of a teenager who sets off on an adventure to find his long-lost brother. The journey takes a surprising turn when the teen discovers a strong emotional connection with the car’s owner.
34. Finishing the Game (2007)
Finishing the Game: The Search for a New Bruce Lee” is a comedy film released in 2007, directed by Justin Lin and written by Josh Diamond and Lin himself. The movie stars Roger Fan, Dustin Nguyen, and Sung Kang, and is produced by Barnstorm Pictures, Cherry Sky Films, and Trailing Johnson Productions.
35. Not Easily Broken (2009)
Not Easily Broken” is a heartwarming and emotionally charged drama-romance film that explores the unbreakable bond of love between a married couple. Directed by Bill Duke and written by Brian Bird and T. D. Jakes, the film stars Morris Chestnut and Taraji P. Henson as a devoted couple navigating the challenges of life.
36. The Big Bang (2010)
The Big Bang” is a thrilling crime drama directed by Tony Krantz, starring Antonio Banderas, Thomas Kretschmann, and William Fichtner. With a runtime of 1 hour and 41 minutes, the film follows the story of a private detective hired to find a missing stripper in a notorious strip club. As he delves deeper into the case, he begins to question everyone connected to the club and witnesses a series of gruesome murders.
37. Henry’s Crime (2010)
Henry’s Crime” is an engaging crime-comedy-drama film that premiered in 2011. Keanu Reeves, Vera Farmiga, and James Caan star in this captivating 1h 48min runtime movie. The story revolves around an ex-con, played by Reeves, who is released from prison after being wrongfully convicted. Instead of seeking justice for his wrongful imprisonment, he decides to target the same bank he was sent away for robbing.
38. Dark Girls (2011)
Dark Girls”, a powerful and enlightening documentary, premiered in 2011. It delves into the deeply ingrained biases and stereotypes surrounding skin color, with a particular focus on dark-skinned women within and outside the Black American community. This film, directed by D.
39. Reel Black Love (2011)
Delve into the world of Black romantic films with Reel Black Love, a riveting documentary that celebrates the impact and evolution of these films on society. Featuring interviews with over 70 actors, directors, and producers, the film offers an insightful look at the history and cultural significance of Black romantic cinema. Boasting an impressive lineup of stars including Michael Beach, Tisha Campbell, and Diahann Carroll, Reel Black Love is a compelling exploration of the power of love on screen and its influence on the Black community as a whole.
40. Iceberg Slim: Portrait of a Pimp (2012)
Iceberg Slim: Portrait of a Pimp, “ a riveting 2012 documentary, delves into the life of the legendary Chicago pimp, Iceberg Slim, who lived from 1918 to 1992. The film explores the transformative journey of this notorious figure as he transitions from a notorious pimp to an influential author, writing seven groundbreaking books that birthed the genre of Street Lit. These books, renowned for their gritty depiction of life in the ghetto, cemented Iceberg Slim’s status as a cultural icon.
41. Freaky Deaky (2012)
Freaky Deaky” tells the tale of two ’60s radicals who find themselves using their explosive skills to transition into the world of capitalism in 1974. This quirky blend of comedy, crime, and thriller will keep you on the edge of your seat as you witness the exploits of these unlikely protagonists.
42. A Fuller Life (2013)
A Fuller Life” is a fascinating 2013 documentary that delves into the life and mind of iconoclastic film director Sam Fuller, blending biography with crime. Directed and co-written by Samantha Fuller, the film features friends and admirers reading from the director’s memoirs. With a runtime of 1 hour and 20 minutes, it is a unique exploration of a life marked by the thrill of filmmaking and the shadows of crime.
43. Battledogs (2013)
In the heart of New York, a werewolf virus takes hold as the city becomes a battleground between humans and werewolves. As chaos ensues, Major Hoffman frantically searches for a cure while Lt.
44. Bad Country (2014)
Bad Country: A gritty 1980s crime drama set in the swampy depths of Louisiana, where a seasoned detective faces a personal dilemma. After arresting a notorious contract killer, he must choose between reclaiming his freedom to be with his family or becoming an informant to bring down the criminal mastermind haunting his city. As FBI agents and dangerous revenge trails follow, they are forced on a dangerous journey, navigating the unforgiving deep south and blood-soaked streets.
45. Restored Me (2016)
In a captivating 2016 drama, “Restored Me, “ a once-troubled ex-convict finds new purpose and solace by joining the vibrant staff of a once-forgotten movie theater. The old venue, now the protagonist’s sanctuary, tests his faith in God’s presence as he unravels startling secrets lurking in the heart of this beloved theater.
46. American Satan (2017)
American Satan, “ a 2017 film directed by Ash Avildsen and written by Avildsen and Matty Beckerman, follows a young rock band as they drop out of college and move to the Sunset Strip in pursuit of their dreams. The band, half English and half American, soon finds themselves entangled in a dark deal and the sinister world of manipulation.
47. Mandy (2018)
Embark on a terrifying journey with the cult-centric thriller, Mandy (2018). Set in a serene forest, the blissful life of a charmed couple takes a dark turn when a sinister hippie cult and their demon bikers descend upon them. The couple’s peaceful existence becomes a twisted nightmare as the cult engulfs their life, leading the man to unravel within a spiraling, surreal quest for vengeance.
48. High Flying Bird (2019)
High Flying Bird” is a captivating drama set amidst a pro basketball lockout, where a resourceful sports agent presents an intriguing and questionable business proposition to a promising young basketball client. Directed by the versatile Steven Soderbergh, this 90-minute masterpiece offers a unique blend of drama and sports.
49. In Search of the Last Action Heroes (2019)
In Search of the Last Action Heroes” is an enthralling documentary that takes a deep dive into the fascinating world of 80’s and 90’s action films. The film’s comprehensive retrospective explores the thrilling genre, showcasing iconic movies from these timeframes that captivated audiences with their high-octane action sequences, gripping storylines, and unforgettable characters.
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