Will Smith at 50: The Fresh Prince of Bel Air’s greatest film roles ranked

The charismatic actor is now half a century old, but just which of his many films are the best?

Having shot to fame in the early 1990s with The Fresh Prince of Bel Air, it wasn’t long before Will Smith became a movie star.

And over the last three decades he’s played characters across the genres.

But which of them is his best performance?

7. I Am Legend

Smith took on the job of being pretty much the only character in this sci-fi post-apocalyptic story.

As Robert Neville he portrayed a man in desperate loneliness as the last man alive, all the while taking on vampires. So what’s not to like?

6. I, Robot

The actor played Del Spooner in the adaption of Isaac Asimov’s classic novel.

A sci-fi mystery, Smith showed off his skills once again as an action star in this blockbuster.

5. The Pursuit of Happiness

Titled The Pursuit of Happyness in the US, Smith earned his second Oscar nomination for Best Actor.

Playing Chris Gardner, a homeless salesman opposite his real-life son Jaden Smith, the star showed an emotional side to his acting talent in his tear-jerker.

4. Bad Boys I & II

Combining action with comedy, Smith starred opposite Martin Lawrence as Detective Mike Lowrey in these buddy cop movies.

In fact the pair are still trying to get the third film made right now, Bad Boys For Life.

3. Ali

Smith’s first Best Actor Oscar nomination came at the turn of the century with his portrayal of Muhammad Ali.

In terms of a classic drama, this is probably his greatest performance, however there are a couple of all-round Will Smith roles that just beat it.

2. Men in Black trilogy

The star’s turn as Agent Jay in the sci-fi comedy series remains some of his finest work.

Sure the second film took a bit of a dip, but the third outing showed audiences are still in love with Smith at his most Smithiest – the funny, charming comedy action lead we all know too well.

1. Independence Day

But where did he first win moviegoers hearts but a year earlier in 1996’s alien blockbuster.

Playing Captain Steven Hiller, the film launched the TV stars’ Hollywood career after this epic performance.

Notable mention – Wild Wild West

It’s considered one of his worst films, but there’s just something so bad it’s good about Wild Wild West. But the less said about the single the better…

What’s next?

In 2019 Smith stars in Guy Richie’s live action remake of Aladdin.

He’ll be playing The Genie, a role that’s some huge shoes to fill after the late Robin Williams, but we’re sure Smith can pull it off.