Wesley Snipes’ Top 10 Iconic Movie Roles

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First things first, Wesley Snipes is an action movie icon. In the 90’s when Black America was looking for their Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sylvester Stallone, Snipes had us “Betting on Black.” Snipes has been a towering figure in Hollywood for decades, delivering unforgettable performances in various roles. However, his recent appearance (spoiler alert!!) in the box-office hit Deadpool & Wolverine has us buzzing again. Wesley reprises his role as the Vampire “Blade,” a character in the Marvel Universe that he made famous in a trilogy of films in the late 90s and early 2000s. How did Snipes end up in this newest Marvel hit, it took a message from Deadpool star Ryan Reynolds to get things going. Reynolds sent Snipes a text that simply read “I want to talk to you,” and the rest is Marvel history.

Snipes told People Magazine, “I thought it didn’t make sense to me, but [when] you get a call from Ryan Reynolds out of the blue after 20 years, you go, ‘Okay, I got to take this call. Let’s see what this is about,”

While Marvel is working on a new version of the movie “Blade” starring Oscar-Winning Actor Mahershala Ali, it was great to see the OG in action and hopefully, we see more from Snipes soon. It’s the perfect time to revisit some of his most iconic characters. Wesley Snipes’ filmography is a treasure trove of unforgettable performances that span genres and decades. Whether he’s battling vampires, outwitting villains, or winning hearts, Snipes brings a unique blend of intensity, charisma, and talent to each role.

From martial arts masterpieces to gripping dramas, we highlight the top 10 roles that define Wesley Snipes’ illustrious career.

1. Blade in “Blade” (1998)

Wesley Snipes’ portrayal of the half-vampire, half-human vampire hunter Blade remains one of his most iconic roles. The film was a trailblazer for superhero movies, offering a dark, gritty tone long before the Marvel Cinematic Universe was even a concept. Snipes’ physicality and charisma brought Blade to life in a way few actors could, making him a fan favorite and a key figure in the resurgence of comic book films.

2. Nino Brown in “New Jack City” (1991)

In “New Jack City,” Snipes played Nino Brown, a ruthless drug lord who takes over the New York City drug trade. His performance was chilling yet compelling, capturing the complexities of a man who is both a villain and a product of his environment. The film not only solidified Snipes’ status as a leading man but also became a cultural touchstone, influencing hip-hop and pop culture for years to come

3. Sidney Deane in “White Men Can’t Jump” (1992)

Snipes showcased his comedic chops alongside Woody Harrelson in this classic sports comedy. Playing Sidney Deane, a streetball hustler with dreams of making it big, Snipes delivered a performance full of charm, wit, and athleticism. The chemistry between Snipes and Harrelson was electric, making “White Men Can’t Jump” a beloved film that remains a favorite among sports and comedy fans alike.

4. Simon Phoenix in “Demolition Man” (1993)

In “Demolition Man,” Snipes takes on the role of Simon Phoenix, a psychopathic criminal who wreaks havoc in a futuristic society. His over-the-top performance, complete with bleach-blond hair and wild antics, perfectly contrasted with Sylvester Stallone’s stoic hero. The film was a box office hit and has since become a cult classic, with Phoenix standing out as one of the most memorable action movie villains of the ’90s.

5. John Cutter in “Passenger 57” (1992)

Snipes starred as John Cutter, a security expert who must thwart a terrorist hijacking in “Passenger 57.” The film was a high-octane thriller that solidified Snipes’ reputation as an action star. With memorable lines like “Always bet on black,” Snipes’ performance was both intense and charismatic, making “Passenger 57” a must-watch for action movie aficionados.

6. Raymond J. “Ray” Tango in “Money Train” (1995)

Teaming up again with Woody Harrelson, Snipes played Ray Tango, a New York City transit cop tangled in a heist plot. The film combined action, comedy, and drama, allowing Snipes to showcase his versatility as an actor. His chemistry with Harrelson was once again a highlight, making “Money Train” an enjoyable ride for fans of buddy cop films.

7. Bobby Rayburn in “The Fan” (1996)

In “The Fan,” Snipes played Bobby Rayburn, a baseball superstar who becomes the obsession of a deranged fan, played by Robert De Niro. The psychological thriller allowed Snipes to explore the darker aspects of fame and obsession, delivering a nuanced performance that balanced vulnerability and strength. The film may not have been a commercial hit, but Snipes’ portrayal of Rayburn was undeniably gripping.

8. Dean Keaton in “The Art of War” (2000)

Snipes starred as Neil Shaw, a covert operative entangled in international espionage, in “The Art of War.” The film featured intricate plot twists, intense action sequences, and Snipes’ signature charisma. His portrayal of Shaw was both calculated and dynamic, making “The Art of War” a standout in the spy thriller genre.

9. Pete Nessip in “Drop Zone” (1994)

In “Drop Zone,” Snipes played Pete Nessip, a U.S. Marshal who must infiltrate a gang of skydiving criminals. The film combined breathtaking aerial stunts with a gripping storyline, showcasing Snipes’ versatility and physical prowess. His performance as Nessip was a testament to his ability to lead an action-packed film with ease and style.

10. Winston in “Waiting to Exhale” (1995)

In the romantic drama “Waiting to Exhale,” Snipes plays Winston, a charming and compassionate lover who brings solace to Angela Bassett’s character, Bernadine. Though his role was relatively smaller, Snipes’ performance was heartfelt and memorable, adding depth to the film’s exploration of love and relationships.