Samuel L. Jackson Movies by Year

Samuel L. Jackson is one of the most recognizable and prolific actors in modern cinema, with a career spanning more than five decades. He began appearing in films in the early 1970s before becoming a major presence in Hollywood during the 1990s. His breakthrough performances in movies such as Jungle Fever, Pulp Fiction, Die Hard with a Vengeance, and A Time to Kill established him as a versatile performer capable of handling crime dramas, thrillers, action films, comedies, and serious character roles. Jackson later became closely associated with major franchises, most notably as Mace Windu in Star Wars and Nick Fury in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. His film career also includes acclaimed collaborations with directors such as Spike Lee, Quentin Tarantino, Steven Spielberg, and M. Night Shyamalan. The following Samuel L. Jackson movies by year covers his officially released feature-film appearances chronologically, while identifying voice work, cameos, documentaries, and other non-standard appearances where relevant.

1972 — Together for Days

Together for Days marked Samuel L. Jackson’s first credited feature-film appearance, with the actor playing Stan. Directed by Michael Schultz, the independent romantic drama explores an interracial relationship and the social tensions surrounding it. Jackson’s part was relatively small compared with the major roles that would define his later career, but the film represents the beginning of his long journey in cinema. It is therefore an important starting point for any list of Samuel L. Jackson movies by year.

1980 — The Exterminator

Jackson appeared in James Glickenhaus’s The Exterminator, an action-thriller centered on a Vietnam veteran who turns to violent revenge after his friend is attacked. Jackson’s appearance was a small, uncredited role. Although it was far removed from the star-making performances of his later career, the movie forms part of his early screen work. It is included here because it was an officially released feature film in which Jackson appeared.

1981 — Ragtime

Miloš Forman directed Ragtime, a historical drama adapted from E. L. Doctorow’s novel. Jackson appeared as a gang member in the ensemble cast, alongside performers including James Cagney, Elizabeth McGovern, and Howard E. Rollins Jr. The film examines race, class, immigration, and social change in early 20th-century America. Jackson’s role was supporting, but Ragtime gave him an opportunity to work within a prestigious large-scale production.

1987 — Magic Sticks

Magic Sticks is a fantasy-comedy directed by Peter Keglevic, featuring a young performer who becomes involved with a mysterious pair of magical sticks. Jackson played a character credited as Bum and was billed as Sam Jackson. The film is one of the lesser-known entries in his early filmography. Its inclusion demonstrates how varied Jackson’s work was before his career reached mainstream recognition.

1987 — Eddie Murphy Raw

Jackson also appeared in Eddie Murphy Raw, the concert film and comedy showcase built around Eddie Murphy’s hugely successful stand-up performance. His appearance came in a comedic sketch rather than a conventional dramatic role. Because this is a performance/concert feature rather than a standard narrative movie, it is best regarded as a non-standard film appearance. It nevertheless belongs among the officially released movies connected to Jackson’s early screen career.

1988 — School Daze

Spike Lee directed School Daze, a musical comedy-drama about student life, race, identity, and tensions at a fictional historically Black college. Jackson played Leeds, one of the supporting characters in Lee’s energetic ensemble. The film was one of Lee’s early major features and became notable for its examination of divisions within Black college culture. Jackson’s collaboration with Lee would become an important part of his early career.

1988 — Coming to America

Jackson had a brief appearance as the Hold-Up Man in John Landis’s Coming to America. The Eddie Murphy comedy follows an African prince who travels to Queens, New York, in search of love and independence. Jackson’s robbery scene is short but memorable and has become one of the recognizable early appearances in his filmography. The movie itself became a major comedy hit and remains a beloved 1980s Hollywood film.

1989 — Do the Right Thing

Jackson reunited with Spike Lee for Do the Right Thing, playing radio personality Mister Señor Love Daddy. Set during a hot summer day in a Brooklyn neighborhood, the acclaimed drama examines racial tension, community relationships, and escalating conflict. Jackson’s character acts as an observant voice throughout the film, linking many of its events through his radio broadcasts. The movie became one of Lee’s defining works and an important landmark in American cinema.

1989 — Sea of Love

In Harold Becker’s crime thriller Sea of Love, Jackson appeared as a Black Guy in a supporting role. Al Pacino stars as a New York detective investigating a series of murders connected to personal advertisements. The film combines police procedural elements with mystery and suspense. Jackson’s part was small, but the appearance added another crime-focused credit to his increasingly busy filmography.

1990 — Def by Temptation

Def by Temptation is a supernatural horror film written and directed by James Bond III. Jackson played Minister Garth, appearing in a story involving a seductive supernatural creature and a struggle between good and evil. The film blends horror, drama, and elements of Black urban cinema. It is one of the cult titles from Jackson’s early 1990s period.

1990 — A Shock to the System

Directed by Jan Egleson, A Shock to the System is a dark comedy-thriller starring Michael Caine as a frustrated executive whose ambitions lead him toward murder. Jackson played Ulysses, a supporting character associated with the film’s criminal underworld. The movie mixes corporate satire with suspense and black comedy. It is another example of Jackson building experience across different genres before his major breakthrough.

1990 — Betsy’s Wedding

Alan Alda’s romantic comedy Betsy’s Wedding follows the complicated preparations for a wedding and the clashing personalities surrounding it. Jackson appeared as a taxi dispatcher in the ensemble cast. The role was brief, placing him among a large group of established and emerging performers. It nevertheless forms part of the steady stream of supporting film appearances that characterized this stage of his career.

1990 — Mo’ Better Blues

Spike Lee’s Mo’ Better Blues follows a talented jazz trumpeter struggling with ambition, relationships, friendship, and artistic responsibility. Jackson played Madlock, a member of the story’s wider jazz-world ensemble. The film reunited him with Lee and gave him another opportunity to work in a character-driven drama. It also came during a period when Jackson was increasingly appearing in significant Black American films.

1990 — The Exorcist III

William Peter Blatty wrote and directed The Exorcist III, a supernatural horror mystery that continues the mythology of the original The Exorcist. Jackson made a brief appearance as the Dream Blind Man. The film became known for its unsettling atmosphere, psychological tension, and distinctive horror sequences. Jackson’s role was minor but remains part of his early genre work.

1990 — Goodfellas

Martin Scorsese’s Goodfellas is widely regarded as one of the greatest crime films ever made. Jackson played Parnell “Stacks” Edwards, a small-time criminal involved with the mob’s dangerous world. The film stars Ray Liotta, Robert De Niro, and Joe Pesci and chronicles the rise and fall of a New York gangster. Jackson’s appearance is brief, but being part of such an influential crime classic is a notable credit in his filmography.

1990 — The Return of Superfly

The Return of Superfly is a crime film that continues the story of the character Youngblood Priest. Jackson appeared as Nate Cabot in the action-oriented crime narrative. The movie belongs to the tradition of urban crime films that influenced many Black filmmakers and performers. Jackson’s appearance came just before the major breakthrough that would transform his career in the following decade.

1991 — Jungle Fever

Spike Lee’s Jungle Fever gave Jackson one of his earliest major dramatic opportunities as Gator Purify. Gator is a troubled man whose drug addiction places severe pressure on his family, particularly his brother Flipper, played by Wesley Snipes. Jackson’s intense performance became one of the most important turning points in his career. The role earned him the Best Supporting Actor award at the Cannes Film Festival and helped establish him as a serious dramatic performer.

1991 — Johnny Suede

Johnny Suede, directed by Tom DiCillo, is a quirky comedy-drama about an aspiring rockabilly musician played by Brad Pitt. Jackson appeared as B-Bop, one of the supporting characters surrounding the eccentric musician. The film combines romance, independent comedy, and music-focused storytelling. It is notable today as an early Brad Pitt vehicle as well as another less widely seen Jackson performance.

1991 — Jumpin’ at the Boneyard

Jumpin’ at the Boneyard is an independent drama centered on two troubled brothers attempting to reconnect after years of personal difficulties. Jackson played Mr. Simpson in the film. The movie reflects the character-focused independent cinema that provided Jackson with many opportunities before he became a mainstream star. Its release is generally associated with the early 1990s, with some databases listing 1992 for its wider release.

1991 — Strictly Business

In the comedy Strictly Business, Jackson played Monroe, appearing in a story about friendship, ambition, romance, and corporate life. The movie stars Tommy Davidson, Halle Berry, and Joseph C. Phillips. Jackson’s part is supporting rather than central, but it shows his continued movement between serious dramas and lighter commercial films. The role arrived during the period immediately preceding his major Hollywood breakthrough.

1992 — Juice

Juice, directed by Ernest R. Dickerson, follows four Harlem friends whose lives change as they become involved with crime and violence. Jackson played Trip, a local figure connected to the group’s increasingly dangerous environment. The film starred Tupac Shakur in one of his most important acting performances. Juice remains a significant early 1990s urban crime drama and an important entry in Jackson’s rise to prominence.

1992 — Patriot Games

Jackson appeared as Lieutenant Commander Robby Jackson in Patriot Games, the action thriller starring Harrison Ford as CIA analyst Jack Ryan. Directed by Phillip Noyce, the film adapts Tom Clancy’s novel and follows Ryan as he becomes involved in an international terrorist conflict. Jackson’s military character is part of the wider intelligence and security world surrounding the protagonist. The role helped connect him with larger mainstream productions.

1992 — White Sands

White Sands is a crime thriller directed by Roger Donaldson, with Willem Dafoe playing a sheriff pulled into a dangerous investigation involving a mysterious dead man. Jackson portrayed Greg Meeker, one of the figures connected to the film’s criminal conspiracy. The movie combines mystery, action, and neo-noir elements. It gave Jackson another opportunity to work alongside major Hollywood performers in a suspense-driven feature.

1992 — Fathers & Sons

Fathers & Sons is a drama focusing on relationships between fathers and their children. Jackson appeared as Marshall in the ensemble cast. Although the film is much less famous than Jackson’s later work, it forms part of his early feature-film output. It illustrates how frequently he worked in independent and character-driven productions during this period.

1993 — Menace II Society

Jackson appeared as Tat Lawson in the Hughes brothers’ acclaimed crime drama Menace II Society. The film follows a young man growing up amid violence, poverty, drugs, and crime in South Central Los Angeles. Jackson’s appearance is relatively brief, but the movie became an influential portrait of urban life in early 1990s America. It remains one of the most discussed films from that era’s wave of socially conscious Black cinema.

1993 — National Lampoon’s Loaded Weapon 1

This comedy parody of police-action movies stars Emilio Estevez and Samuel L. Jackson as mismatched detectives Wes Luger and Jack Colt. Jackson’s performance allowed him to demonstrate his comic timing while spoofing conventions associated with films such as Lethal Weapon. The movie also features cameos from numerous well-known actors. It showed that Jackson could move comfortably from intense dramas into broad comedy.

1993 — Amos & Andrew

In Amos & Andrew, Jackson played Andrew Sterling, a successful Black playwright who becomes caught in a bizarre misunderstanding involving the police. Nicolas Cage co-stars as a criminal whose actions trigger much of the confusion. The comedy deals with race, class, mistaken identity, and police assumptions. Jackson’s lead performance gave him one of his more substantial comic roles of the period.

1993 — Jurassic Park

Steven Spielberg’s Jurassic Park became one of the defining blockbusters of the 1990s. Jackson played computer systems engineer Ray Arnold, a member of the team responsible for operating the dinosaur park. The science-fiction adventure stars Sam Neill, Laura Dern, Jeff Goldblum, and Richard Attenborough and revolutionized visual effects with its convincing dinosaurs. Jackson’s brief but memorable role places him in one of cinema’s most successful franchises.

1993 — True Romance

Written by Quentin Tarantino and directed by Tony Scott, True Romance is a stylish crime-romance film starring Christian Slater and Patricia Arquette. Jackson appeared as Big Don, a small but memorable criminal figure. The film combines violent crime, romance, dark comedy, and Tarantino’s distinctive dialogue. It also marked an early connection between Jackson and Tarantino before their much more famous collaboration on Pulp Fiction.

1994 — Fresh

Fresh is a crime drama about a young boy who uses intelligence and strategy to survive the drug trade in Brooklyn. Jackson played Sam, a supporting character in the story’s complex network of relationships. The film received strong critical attention for its realistic portrayal of youth, crime, and poverty. It is one of the quieter but highly regarded titles in Jackson’s 1990s filmography.

1994 — Pulp Fiction

Quentin Tarantino’s Pulp Fiction transformed Jackson’s career and remains one of his defining films. He played Jules Winnfield, a philosophical and intimidating hitman whose conversations with Vincent Vega became some of the movie’s most memorable scenes. The crime film also stars John Travolta, Uma Thurman, Bruce Willis, and Harvey Keitel. Jackson received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor, making the film a landmark achievement in his career.

1994 — The New Age

The New Age, directed by Michael Tolkin, is a dark comedy-drama about a wealthy Los Angeles couple whose financial and personal lives begin to unravel. Jackson played Dale Deveaux, one of the characters encountered within the couple’s increasingly chaotic world. The film takes a satirical look at consumerism, relationships, and 1990s Los Angeles culture. It provided Jackson with another opportunity to work in a more independent adult drama.

1994 — The Search for One-eye Jimmy

In the comedy The Search for One-eye Jimmy, Jackson played Colonel Ron. The film follows residents of a Brooklyn neighborhood as they search for a missing local filmmaker and become caught up in an unusual chain of events. It features an ensemble cast and a distinctly independent-comedy tone. Jackson’s appearance is one of many supporting performances in this unconventional film.

1995 — Losing Isaiah

Jackson starred opposite Jessica Lange and Halle Berry in the drama Losing Isaiah. He played Kadar Lewis, the biological father of a child whose custody becomes the center of a difficult legal and emotional conflict. The film explores adoption, addiction, motherhood, race, and family identity. Jackson’s dramatic performance demonstrated the range that had become increasingly visible after Pulp Fiction.

1995 — Kiss of Death

​​Kiss of Death is a crime thriller directed by Barbet Schroeder and starring David Caruso, Nicolas Cage, and Samuel L. Jackson. Jackson played Calvin Hart, a dangerous criminal connected to the movie’s underworld. The film is a modern remake of the 1947 noir classic of the same name. Jackson’s role allowed him to return to the intimidating crime characters that were becoming a recurring part of his screen persona.

1995 — Die Hard with a Vengeance

Jackson became a major action star with Die Hard with a Vengeance, in which he played electrician and reluctant hero Zeus Carver opposite Bruce Willis. Directed by John McTiernan, the film follows John McClane and Zeus as they race through New York to stop a terrorist plot. Jackson brings humor, skepticism, and urgency to the partnership. The movie was a major commercial success and established him as a leading presence in Hollywood action cinema.

1995 — Fluke

Fluke is a fantasy drama based on James Herbert’s novel about a man who dies and is reincarnated as a dog. Jackson provided the voice of Rumbo, a dog who becomes part of the protagonist’s unusual journey. The film blends family drama, fantasy, and animal-centered storytelling. His voice role demonstrates the variety of performance work included in Samuel L. Jackson movies by year.

1996 — The Great White Hype

In Reginald Hudlin’s boxing satire The Great White Hype, Jackson played Reverend Fred Sultan, a promoter searching for a white challenger who could revive interest in heavyweight boxing. The comedy stars Damon Wayans, Peter Berg, Jeff Goldblum, and Jamie Foxx. Jackson’s performance plays against the serious intensity associated with many of his crime and action roles. The film remains a notable example of his work in sports comedy.

1996 — Trees Lounge

Trees Lounge, written and directed by Steve Buscemi, is an independent drama about a troubled man spending much of his life around a neighborhood bar. Jackson played Wendell in the ensemble. The film has a low-key, character-driven style that contrasts sharply with Jackson’s later blockbuster roles. It is representative of the independent cinema that continued to feature him throughout the 1990s.

1996 — A Time to Kill

Jackson delivered a powerful lead performance as Carl Lee Hailey in A Time to Kill, adapted from John Grisham’s legal thriller. The story follows Hailey after he kills two men who attacked his young daughter and the courtroom battle that follows. Matthew McConaughey, Sandra Bullock, and Kevin Spacey also star in the Joel Schumacher-directed drama. The role gave Jackson a serious, emotionally demanding character at the center of a major studio production.

1996 — The Long Kiss Goodnight

In Renny Harlin’s action thriller The Long Kiss Goodnight, Jackson played private investigator Mitch Henessey opposite Geena Davis. Henessey becomes involved with a woman who discovers that her seemingly ordinary life hides a violent past. The film combines espionage, action, mystery, and dark humor. Jackson’s performance provided the movie with much of its comic energy while keeping pace with its intense action sequences.

1997 — Hard Eight

Paul Thomas Anderson’s Hard Eight featured Jackson as Jimmy, a volatile criminal involved with the gambling world. The neo-noir crime drama stars Philip Baker Hall, John C. Reilly, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Jackson. It was Anderson’s feature directorial debut and became known for its restrained, character-focused storytelling. Jackson’s supporting performance helped reinforce his reputation for playing unpredictable and forceful characters.

1997 — One Eight Seven

Jackson starred as Trevor Garfield in One Eight Seven, a drama about a teacher who returns to the classroom after surviving a violent attack. The film, directed by Kevin Reynolds, explores violence in schools and the pressures faced by teachers working in difficult environments. Jackson gives the central character a determined but wounded quality. The movie arrived during a period when he was increasingly taking leading dramatic roles.

1997 — Eve’s Bayou

In Kasi Lemmons’s acclaimed Southern Gothic drama Eve’s Bayou, Jackson played Louis Batiste, a charismatic doctor whose family life becomes increasingly complicated. The film explores family secrets, betrayal, memory, race, and childhood perception in 1960s Louisiana. Jackson also served as one of the film’s producers. Eve’s Bayou is widely regarded as an important independent American film and one of the strongest dramatic works of this period.

1997 — Jackie Brown

Jackson reunited with Quentin Tarantino for Jackie Brown, playing arms dealer Ordell Robbie. The crime drama stars Pam Grier, Robert Forster, Robert De Niro, Bridget Fonda, and Michael Keaton. Ordell is charming, calculating, and dangerous, making the role a natural showcase for Jackson’s commanding screen presence. The movie remains one of his most celebrated collaborations with Tarantino after Pulp Fiction.

1998 — Sphere

Barry Levinson directed Sphere, a science-fiction mystery based on Michael Crichton’s novel. Jackson played mathematician Dr. Harry Adams, who joins a team investigating a mysterious object discovered deep beneath the Pacific Ocean. Dustin Hoffman and Sharon Stone co-star in the psychological thriller. The film combines science fiction, suspense, and questions about humanity’s reaction to an unknown intelligence.

1998 — Out of Sight

Jackson had an uncredited appearance as Hejira Henry in Steven Soderbergh’s crime-romance Out of Sight. George Clooney and Jennifer Lopez star as a criminal and federal marshal whose relationship develops during a complicated chase. Jackson’s appearance is brief and not a conventional starring role. It is included as a clearly identified uncredited feature-film appearance rather than being presented as a standard lead performance.

1998 — The Negotiator

Jackson took the lead as Danny Roman in The Negotiator, a tense crime thriller directed by F. Gary Gray. Roman is a skilled police hostage negotiator who becomes a hostage himself after being framed for corruption and murder. Kevin Spacey co-stars as another negotiator who becomes involved in the standoff. The movie is one of Jackson’s strongest 1990s action-thriller vehicles.

1998 — The Red Violin

François Girard’s The Red Violin follows the centuries-long journey of a mysterious violin and the people who encounter it. Jackson played Charles Morritz, a Canadian auction specialist involved in the instrument’s modern-day story. The film combines historical drama, mystery, and romance across several time periods and countries. It later won the Academy Award for Best Original Score.

1999 — Star Wars: Episode I — The Phantom Menace

Jackson entered the Star Wars universe as Jedi Master Mace Windu in George Lucas’s The Phantom Menace. Windu is a senior member of the Jedi Council and one of the Republic’s most powerful Jedi. The science-fiction adventure stars Liam Neeson, Ewan McGregor, Natalie Portman, and Jake Lloyd alongside Jackson. The role became one of Jackson’s most recognizable franchise characters and led to appearances in the next two prequel films.

1999 — Deep Blue Sea

In Renny Harlin’s science-fiction thriller Deep Blue Sea, Jackson played Russell Franklin, an executive overseeing a research facility where genetically enhanced sharks become uncontrollable. The movie blends action, horror, and science fiction and features LL Cool J, Thomas Jane, and Saffron Burrows. Jackson’s role is central to the film’s early dramatic setup. The movie became a memorable late-1990s creature feature.

2000 — Rules of Engagement

William Friedkin directed Rules of Engagement, a military courtroom drama starring Jackson as Marine Colonel Terry L. Childers. The story centers on Childers after a controversial operation leads to accusations and a military trial. Tommy Lee Jones co-stars as the lawyer defending him. The film gave Jackson a serious military role and continued his transition into major studio leading roles.

2000 — Shaft

Jackson became the new John Shaft in John Singleton’s contemporary remake of the classic blaxploitation detective series. His Shaft is a tough New York police detective investigating a racially charged murder. The cast includes Christian Bale, Jeffrey Wright, Vanessa Williams, and Richard Roundtree, who returns as the original Shaft. Jackson’s performance established the character as another signature role in his career.

2000 — Unbreakable

M. Night Shyamalan directed Unbreakable, a supernatural thriller in which Jackson played Elijah Price, a mysterious comic-book enthusiast with a rare condition. Bruce Willis stars as David Dunn, a man who begins questioning whether he possesses extraordinary abilities. Jackson’s restrained performance contrasts with the more explosive characters he often played in action movies. The role later became the foundation for his return as Mr. Glass in Glass.

2001 — The Caveman’s Valentine

Jackson starred as Romulus Ledbetter in Kasi Lemmons’s psychological mystery The Caveman’s Valentine. Romulus is a homeless musician whose investigation into a murder forces him to confront both his past and his troubled mental state. The film is a dark character drama rather than a conventional crime thriller. Jackson also served as an executive producer, making the project an especially personal entry in his filmography.

2001 — The 51st State

In The 51st State, Jackson played American chemist and drug dealer Elmo McElroy, who travels to Liverpool and becomes involved with local criminals. Directed by Ronny Yu, the action-comedy combines crime, humor, and British gangster-film elements. Robert Carlyle co-stars as Felix DeSouza. Jackson also received producer credit, making the film both a starring and behind-the-scenes contribution.

2002 — Changing Lanes

Roger Michell’s Changing Lanes stars Jackson as Doyle Gipson, a recovering alcoholic attempting to maintain custody of his children. A seemingly minor traffic accident with Ben Affleck’s character develops into an escalating conflict that exposes the moral weaknesses of both men. The film is a tense drama about revenge, responsibility, and personal redemption. Jackson’s performance provides the movie with much of its emotional weight.

2002 — Star Wars: Episode II — Attack of the Clones

Jackson returned as Mace Windu in George Lucas’s Attack of the Clones. Windu has a more prominent role as the Jedi Order becomes increasingly concerned about the Separatist movement and the growing threat of war. The cast includes Ewan McGregor, Natalie Portman, Hayden Christensen, and Christopher Lee. The film further established Mace Windu as one of the most recognizable Jedi characters of the prequel trilogy.

2002 — xXx

Jackson played NSA agent Augustus Gibbons in Rob Cohen’s action film xXx. Gibbons recruits extreme-sports athlete Xander Cage, played by Vin Diesel, for an undercover mission involving international criminals. The movie combines espionage, stunts, action, and extreme sports. Jackson’s authoritative performance helped make Gibbons an important supporting figure in the franchise.

2002 — No Good Deed

No Good Deed is a crime thriller directed by Bob Rafelson, with Jackson playing police detective Jack Friar. Friar becomes involved in a dangerous situation after stopping to investigate what initially appears to be a simple domestic disturbance. Milla Jovovich and Stellan Skarsgård also feature in the cast. The film gave Jackson another opportunity to headline a darker, character-driven thriller.

2003 — Basic

John McTiernan’s Basic is a military mystery thriller starring Jackson as Sergeant Nathan West. The story revolves around the disappearance of soldiers during a training exercise and the conflicting accounts given by survivors. John Travolta plays the investigator trying to determine what really happened. The film relies heavily on twists, shifting perspectives, and Jackson’s authoritative military presence.

2003 — S.W.A.T.

Jackson led the action film S.W.A.T. as Sergeant Dan “Hondo” Harrelson, a veteran officer assigned to build a new special weapons and tactics team. Colin Farrell, Michelle Rodriguez, LL Cool J, and Jeremy Renner co-star. The movie combines police action, hostage situations, and team-based military-style operations. Jackson’s performance gave the film a strong central commander and helped turn it into a successful franchise starter.

2004 — Twisted

In Philip Kaufman’s psychological thriller Twisted, Jackson played police medical examiner John Mills. Ashley Judd stars as a homicide detective who begins to suspect that her own past may be connected to a series of murders. The movie combines police investigation with psychological suspense. Jackson serves as one of the experienced figures surrounding Judd’s increasingly unstable character.

2004 — Kill Bill: Volume 2

Jackson made a brief but memorable appearance as Rufus, the pianist at the wedding in Quentin Tarantino’s Kill Bill: Volume 2. The martial-arts revenge film stars Uma Thurman as The Bride, who continues her pursuit of the assassins who betrayed her. Jackson’s appearance is a cameo rather than a conventional supporting role. It is nevertheless a notable Tarantino collaboration and a distinctive non-standard entry in his filmography.

2004 — The Incredibles

Jackson provided the voice of Lucius Best, better known as Frozone, in Pixar’s animated superhero film The Incredibles. Directed by Brad Bird, the movie follows the Parr family as they attempt to balance ordinary life with their superhuman abilities. Frozone is Mr. Incredible’s best friend and an important ally during the film’s final battle. Jackson’s energetic voice performance became one of the most recognizable parts of his family-film work.

2004 — In My Country

In My Country is a political drama directed by John Boorman and based on Antjie Krog’s writings about South Africa’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission. Jackson played Langston Whitfield, an American journalist covering the hearings. Juliette Binoche co-stars as a South African poet and journalist. The film combines political history, journalism, and personal reconciliation, giving Jackson another serious dramatic role.

2005 — Coach Carter

Jackson played the title character in Coach Carter, a sports drama based on the true story of high-school basketball coach Ken Carter. Carter famously suspended his undefeated team from competition because of concerns about their academic performance. Directed by Thomas Carter, the film combines basketball, education, discipline, and personal responsibility. It became one of Jackson’s most popular inspirational sports films.

2005 — xXx: State of the Union

Jackson returned as Augustus Gibbons in xXx: State of the Union. The action sequel replaces Vin Diesel’s Xander Cage with Ice Cube’s character, Darius Stone, while Gibbons remains involved in the covert operation. The film was directed by Lee Tamahori and expands the franchise’s military and political storyline. Jackson’s role provides continuity with the original xXx.

2005 — Star Wars: Episode III — Revenge of the Sith

Jackson’s final major appearance as Mace Windu in the original Star Wars prequel trilogy came in Revenge of the Sith. The film depicts the collapse of the Jedi Order and Anakin Skywalker’s transformation into Darth Vader. Windu confronts Chancellor Palpatine in one of the trilogy’s most important sequences. The role remains one of the defining franchise characters in Jackson’s career.

2005 — The Man

Jackson starred opposite Eugene Levy in the comedy The Man. He played federal agent Derrick Vann, who is forced to work with a mild-mannered dentist after a criminal operation goes wrong. The film combines buddy-comedy conventions with undercover action. Jackson’s straight-faced performance provides a contrast to Levy’s more nervous comedic style.

2006 — Freedomland

In Joe Roth’s mystery drama Freedomland, Jackson played Detective Lorenzo Council. The story centers on the disappearance of a child and the investigation that follows, while racial tensions and community distrust complicate the case. Julianne Moore co-stars as the child’s mother. Jackson’s performance anchors the film’s police-investigation storyline and gives the character a determined but conflicted edge.

2006 — Snakes on a Plane

Jackson became the central figure of the cult action thriller Snakes on a Plane, playing FBI agent Neville Flynn. Flynn must protect passengers after hundreds of venomous snakes are deliberately released aboard a commercial flight. Directed by David R. Ellis, the movie blends horror, action, and dark comedy. It became particularly famous for its title, internet-driven publicity, and Jackson’s forceful performance.

2006 — Black Snake Moan

Craig Brewer’s Black Snake Moan gave Jackson one of his most intense dramatic roles as Lazarus Redd, a troubled blues musician who attempts to help a young woman in crisis. Christina Ricci and Justin Timberlake co-star in the Southern Gothic drama. Jackson’s performance combines music, anger, faith, and vulnerability. The role showcased the actor’s ability to carry a darker independent film outside mainstream franchise cinema.

2006 — Home of the Brave

Home of the Brave is a war drama directed by Irwin Winkler. Jackson played Dr. Will Marsh, a soldier returning home from Iraq who struggles with psychological and emotional consequences of combat. The ensemble cast includes Jessica Biel, 50 Cent, Chad Michael Murray, and Christina Ricci. The film focuses on the difficult transition from military service back to civilian life.

2007 — Farce of the Penguins

Farce of the Penguins is a comedy parody of nature documentaries, inspired in part by March of the Penguins. Jackson served as narrator, providing voice-over commentary rather than appearing as a conventional on-screen character. The movie uses intentionally crude and absurd humor to spoof wildlife documentaries. It is therefore best classified as a non-standard voice/narration appearance in his filmography.

2007 — Black Snake Moan

Black Snake Moan is sometimes listed under its 2006 festival and production history, with its wider release occurring in 2007. Jackson plays Lazarus Redd, a blues musician whose troubled life becomes intertwined with Rae, played by Christina Ricci. Craig Brewer directed the provocative Southern Gothic drama. The film is notable for Jackson’s musical performance and emotionally demanding lead role.

2007 — 1408

In Mikael Håfström’s supernatural horror film 1408, Jackson played hotel manager Gerald Olin. He warns writer Mike Enslin, played by John Cusack, about the terrifying history of the titular hotel room. The movie is based on Stephen King’s short story and combines psychological horror with supernatural suspense. Jackson’s supporting performance establishes much of the film’s ominous atmosphere before Cusack enters the room.

2007 — Resurrecting the Champ

Jackson played former boxer Bob “Champ” Satterfield in Resurrecting the Champ. Josh Hartnett stars as a young sportswriter who believes he has discovered a forgotten boxing legend. The drama explores identity, journalism, redemption, and the consequences of creating a compelling story. Jackson’s performance gives the film its emotional center and adds a quieter dimension to his screen persona.

2007 — Cleaner

In Cleaner, Jackson played Tom Cutler, a former police officer who runs a crime-scene cleaning business. The thriller follows Cutler after he unknowingly becomes involved in a dangerous cover-up. Renny Harlin directed the film, which mixes crime, mystery, and action. Jackson also served as a producer, making it another project in which he had responsibilities beyond acting.

2008 — Jumper

Doug Liman’s science-fiction action film Jumper stars Hayden Christensen as a young man who can teleport anywhere in the world. Jackson played Roland Cox, a relentless Paladin determined to hunt people with the teleportation ability. The movie combines superhero-like abilities with global action and adventure. Jackson’s antagonist gives the story much of its danger and momentum.

2008 — Iron Man

Jackson made his first appearance as Nick Fury in Iron Man, appearing in an uncredited post-credits scene. The brief cameo introduced his version of the Marvel character and hinted at the larger interconnected Marvel universe. Jon Favreau directed the superhero film, starring Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark. Although Jackson’s screen time was minimal, the appearance ultimately became one of the most consequential cameos of his career.

2008 — Star Wars: The Clone Wars

Jackson returned as Mace Windu through voice performance in the animated feature Star Wars: The Clone Wars. Directed by Dave Filoni, the film expands the story between Attack of the Clones and Revenge of the Sith. Jackson’s involvement helped connect the animated project to the live-action prequel trilogy. This is a voice role rather than a conventional live-action appearance.

2008 — Lakeview Terrace

In Neil LaBute’s thriller Lakeview Terrace, Jackson played Abel Turner, a Los Angeles police officer whose hostility toward an interracial couple creates an increasingly dangerous situation. Patrick Wilson and Kerry Washington star as the couple targeted by Turner’s harassment. Jackson’s performance is deliberately unsettling and confrontational. The film explores race, prejudice, power, and the abuse of authority.

2008 — Soul Men

Jackson starred with Bernie Mac in Soul Men, a comedy about two former soul singers who reunite for a tribute concert. Jackson played Louis Hinds, one half of the estranged musical duo. The movie mixes road comedy, music, friendship, and unresolved personal conflicts. It became particularly notable as one of Jackson’s final films with Bernie Mac, who died in 2008.

2008 — The Spirit

Frank Miller’s The Spirit is a comic-book crime film in which Jackson played the villainous Octopus. Gabriel Macht stars as the masked hero who battles the Octopus and his criminal schemes. The film uses stylized visuals inspired by comic-book art and film noir. Jackson’s theatrical villain was one of the movie’s most prominent performances.

2008 — Gospel Hill

Jackson had an uncredited appearance as Paul Malcolm in Gospel Hill, an independent drama centered on racial history and unresolved tensions in a Southern community. The film explores the consequences of past violence across generations. Jackson’s involvement is supporting and uncredited rather than a standard starring role. It is nevertheless an officially released feature-film credit.

2009 — Astro Boy

Jackson provided the voice of Zog in Astro Boy, David Bowers’s animated science-fiction adventure. The story follows a young robot with extraordinary powers as he searches for his place in the world. Jackson’s voice work contributes to the film’s large ensemble of human and robotic characters. It is one of several animated features that expanded his filmography beyond live-action roles.

2009 — Inglourious Basterds

Jackson served as the narrator of several scenes in Quentin Tarantino’s Inglourious Basterds. His contribution is a voice appearance rather than a conventional on-screen acting role. The World War II alternate-history film stars Brad Pitt, Christoph Waltz, Mélanie Laurent, and Michael Fassbender. Jackson’s narration adds another connection between his filmography and Tarantino’s distinctive cinematic style.

2009 — Mother and Child

Rodrigo García’s drama Mother and Child follows several women whose lives intersect through adoption, motherhood, and complicated family relationships. Jackson played Paul, a supporting character connected to one of the central stories. Annette Bening, Naomi Watts, and Kerry Washington lead the ensemble. The film allowed Jackson to return to intimate character drama after a run of action and franchise projects.

2009 — Afro Samurai: Resurrection

Jackson provided multiple voices in Afro Samurai: Resurrection, the animated continuation of the Afro Samurai story. He voiced Afro and Ninja-Ninja, reprising characters from the earlier animated project. The feature combines martial arts, revenge, science fiction, and stylized animation. This is a voice-performance role rather than a live-action appearance.

2010 — Quantum Quest: A Cassini Space Odyssey

Quantum Quest: A Cassini Space Odyssey is an animated science-fiction adventure inspired by NASA’s Cassini mission. Jackson voiced Fear, one of the film’s central characters. The project features an unusually large roster of famous voice performers. Jackson’s contribution is therefore best identified as an animated voice role.

2010 — Unthinkable

In the psychological thriller Unthinkable, Jackson played Henry Harold “H” Humphries, an interrogator brought in to obtain information about potential nuclear attacks. Carrie-Anne Moss and Michael Sheen co-star in the film. Jackson’s performance is deliberately severe and morally unsettling as the story examines the limits of interrogation and national security. The movie was released directly to video in some markets.

2010 — Iron Man 2

Jackson returned as Nick Fury in Iron Man 2, expanding the Marvel character beyond his original post-credits cameo. Directed by Jon Favreau, the film stars Robert Downey Jr., Gwyneth Paltrow, Don Cheadle, Scarlett Johansson, and Mickey Rourke. Fury begins assembling the wider group of heroes that would become the Avengers. Jackson’s role helped establish the interconnected franchise structure that would dominate superhero cinema.

2010 — The Other Guys

Jackson appeared alongside Dwayne Johnson in Adam McKay’s action comedy The Other Guys. He played Detective P. K. Highsmith, an overconfident police officer whose dramatic exploits provide much of the film’s opening comedy. Will Ferrell and Mark Wahlberg star as the less celebrated detectives who become unexpectedly involved in a major financial investigation. Jackson’s performance is intentionally exaggerated and comedic.

2011 — Thor

Jackson made an uncredited post-credits appearance as Nick Fury in Thor. Directed by Kenneth Branagh, the Marvel film introduces Chris Hemsworth’s Thor and expands the cinematic universe established by Iron Man. Fury’s appearance connects Thor’s story to the growing Avengers narrative. Because Jackson’s role is a brief post-credits cameo, it should not be treated as a conventional supporting performance.

2011 — Captain America: The First Avenger

Jackson played Nick Fury in Captain America: The First Avenger, directed by Joe Johnston. Although Fury appears only briefly, his presence links Steve Rogers’ World War II story to the modern Marvel timeline. Chris Evans stars as Captain America, with Hugo Weaving and Hayley Atwell among the principal cast. Jackson’s appearance helped establish Fury as the connective figure across Marvel’s expanding film universe.

2011 — Arena

In the action thriller Arena, Jackson played Logan, a powerful figure involved in an underground combat operation. The film focuses on a man forced into brutal fights staged for an online audience. Jackson’s character operates within the criminal organization behind the spectacle. The movie is a darker, lower-budget action entry compared with his major studio blockbusters.

2012 — The Samaritan

The Samaritan stars Jackson as Foley, a former con artist attempting to live a quieter life after prison. His plans change when an old associate draws him back into the criminal world. The crime drama focuses on redemption, trust, and the difficulty of escaping a criminal past. Jackson also served as an executive producer on the project.

2012 — Meeting Evil

In Meeting Evil, Jackson played Richie, a mysterious stranger who draws a suburban real-estate agent into a dangerous night of violence. Luke Wilson stars opposite Jackson in the psychological crime thriller. The film uses an unsettling road-movie structure to explore how ordinary people can become caught in extraordinary circumstances. Jackson’s unpredictable performance drives much of its tension.

2012 — The Avengers

Jackson’s Nick Fury became a central figure in The Avengers, Joss Whedon’s landmark superhero ensemble. Fury brings Iron Man, Captain America, Thor, Hulk, Black Widow, and Hawkeye together to fight Loki and an alien invasion. The film united several previously separate Marvel franchises and became a major global blockbuster. It remains one of the most commercially important entries in Jackson’s career.

2012 — Zambezia

Jackson provided the voice of Tendai in the animated family adventure Zambezia. The film follows a young falcon who travels to a bird city and discovers a larger world beyond his home. Jackson’s voice role forms part of an international ensemble cast. As with The Incredibles and Astro Boy, this is an animated voice performance rather than a live-action role.

2012 — Django Unchained

Jackson delivered a memorable performance as Stephen in Quentin Tarantino’s Django Unchained. Stephen is the highly intelligent but deeply complicit house slave of Leonardo DiCaprio’s plantation owner Calvin Candie. Jamie Foxx, Christoph Waltz, and DiCaprio lead the revisionist Western, while Jackson’s character becomes increasingly important as the story develops. The role is one of Jackson’s most complex collaborations with Tarantino.

2013 — Turbo

Jackson voiced Whiplash in DreamWorks Animation’s Turbo, a family comedy about a garden snail determined to become a racing champion. Ryan Reynolds voices the title character, while Jackson’s Whiplash is the leader of a racing snail team. The movie combines comedy, sports, and family adventure. Jackson’s performance adds a confident, competitive personality to the animated cast.

2013 — Oldboy

Spike Lee directed the American remake of Oldboy, with Jackson playing Chaney. Josh Brolin stars as a man mysteriously imprisoned for years before being released and given a limited time to discover who was responsible. The violent mystery blends revenge, psychological thriller elements, and neo-noir storytelling. Jackson’s supporting role places him within the film’s brutal criminal world.

2014 — Reasonable Doubt

In the legal thriller Reasonable Doubt, Jackson played Clinton Davis, a man accused of murder who becomes connected to a prosecutor facing his own moral crisis. Dominic Cooper co-stars in the film directed by Peter Howitt. The story revolves around questions of guilt, justice, and whether appearances can be trusted. Jackson’s performance keeps the character deliberately difficult to read.

2014 — RoboCop

Jackson played television personality Pat Novak in José Padilha’s remake of RoboCop. Joel Kinnaman stars as Alex Murphy, a critically injured police officer transformed into a powerful cybernetic law-enforcement machine. Jackson’s character represents the media and corporate messaging surrounding the new RoboCop program. His role is supporting but adds a satirical commentary on modern news and commercial influence.

2014 — Captain America: The Winter Soldier

Jackson’s Nick Fury takes a much more substantial role in Captain America: The Winter Soldier. Directed by Anthony and Joe Russo, the Marvel thriller follows Steve Rogers as he uncovers a conspiracy inside S.H.I.E.L.D. Jackson’s Fury becomes a target and must rely on Captain America and Black Widow to survive. The film is widely regarded as one of the strongest entries in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

2014 — Kite

Kite is a live-action adaptation of the Japanese animated film, directed by Ralph Ziman. Jackson played Lieutenant Karl Aker, a detective involved in a violent revenge story. The movie combines action, crime, and science-fiction elements. Jackson’s role places him in a darker, more stylized project outside his major franchise work.

2014 — Big Game

In Big Game, Jackson played U.S. President William Alan Moore. Directed by Jalmari Helander, the action adventure follows the president after Air Force One is shot down over Finland. A young boy becomes an unlikely ally as they try to survive in the wilderness. Jackson’s performance balances presidential authority with the movie’s pulpy survival-action tone.

2015 — Kingsman: The Secret Service

Jackson played eccentric villain Richmond Valentine in Matthew Vaughn’s spy comedy Kingsman: The Secret Service. Taron Egerton stars as Eggsy, a young man recruited into a secret British intelligence organization. Valentine develops a scheme involving global communications and population control. Jackson’s playful, exaggerated villain became one of the most memorable elements of the film.

2015 — Avengers: Age of Ultron

Jackson returned as Nick Fury in Avengers: Age of Ultron, directed by Joss Whedon. Fury helps the Avengers when their team begins to collapse under the threat posed by the artificial intelligence Ultron. Robert Downey Jr., Chris Evans, Scarlett Johansson, Chris Hemsworth, Mark Ruffalo, and Jeremy Renner headline the ensemble. Jackson’s appearance reinforces Fury’s role as a mentor and strategic figure in the Marvel universe.

2015 — Barely Lethal

In the action comedy Barely Lethal, Jackson played Hardman, an instructor at a secret school training teenage assassins. Hailee Steinfeld stars as a young operative who wants to experience ordinary teenage life. The movie mixes spy action with high-school comedy. Jackson plays the authority figure with the sternness and dry humor familiar from many of his action roles.

2015 — Chi-Raq

Spike Lee’s Chi-Raq is a musical satire inspired by the ancient Greek play Lysistrata. Jackson played Dolmedes, serving as the film’s narrator and helping guide audiences through its stylized story about violence in Chicago. The ensemble includes Nick Cannon, Teyonah Parris, Wesley Snipes, and John Cusack. The film combines social commentary, music, comedy, and drama.

2015 — The Hateful Eight

Jackson played Major Marquis Warren in Quentin Tarantino’s western mystery The Hateful Eight. Warren is a former Union cavalry officer traveling through a snowy Wyoming landscape when he becomes trapped with several suspicious strangers. Kurt Russell, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Walton Goggins, Tim Roth, and Bruce Dern also star. Jackson’s performance is central to the film’s long-form tension, mystery, and verbal confrontations.

2016 — Cell

Based on Stephen King’s novel, Cell stars Jackson as Tom McCourt, a man trying to survive a mysterious phenomenon that turns mobile-phone users into violent creatures. John Cusack co-stars, reuniting with Jackson after 1408. The film blends science-fiction horror, survival thriller, and apocalyptic themes. Jackson provides a steady presence as the characters attempt to understand the rapidly changing world.

2016 — The Legend of Tarzan

In David Yates’s The Legend of Tarzan, Jackson played George Washington Williams, an American envoy who joins Tarzan in a mission involving the Congo. Alexander Skarsgård stars as Tarzan, with Margot Robbie and Christoph Waltz also in the cast. The adventure combines action, historical themes, and classic jungle mythology. Jackson’s Williams is based on a real historical figure and serves as an important human perspective within the story.

2016 — Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children

Tim Burton directed this fantasy adventure, with Jackson playing the villainous Mr. Barron. The film follows a teenager who discovers a hidden world populated by children with unusual abilities. Eva Green, Asa Butterfield, and Ella Purnell lead the ensemble. Jackson’s performance gives the antagonist a theatrical and shape-shifting quality suited to Burton’s fantastical style.

2017 — xXx: Return of Xander Cage

Jackson returned as Augustus Gibbons in xXx: Return of Xander Cage. Vin Diesel reprises the title role as Xander Cage, who returns to the world of extreme espionage after being presumed dead. Directed by D. J. Caruso, the sequel expands the franchise with a large international action cast. Jackson’s Gibbons provides a direct connection to the earlier xXx films.

2017 — Kong: Skull Island

Jackson played Lieutenant Colonel Preston Packard in Jordan Vogt-Roberts’s Kong: Skull Island. The monster adventure follows a military expedition to a mysterious island where the team encounters giant creatures, including Kong. Tom Hiddleston, Brie Larson, John C. Reilly, and John Goodman also star. Jackson’s character is a hardened military leader whose obsession with defeating Kong drives much of the conflict.

2017 — The Hitman’s Bodyguard

Jackson starred as notorious hitman Darius Kincaid opposite Ryan Reynolds in The Hitman’s Bodyguard. Directed by Patrick Hughes, the action comedy follows an elite bodyguard forced to protect a criminal he would rather see arrested. The two leads develop a chaotic partnership while attempting to survive an international criminal operation. Jackson’s comedic timing and energetic delivery are central to the movie’s buddy-action formula.

2017 — Unicorn Store

Unicorn Store is Brie Larson’s directorial debut, with Jackson appearing as the mysterious Salesman. Larson plays an artist whose life changes when she receives an unusual opportunity to own a unicorn. The film blends comedy, fantasy, and coming-of-age themes. Jackson’s brief appearance is deliberately whimsical and different from many of his tougher action roles.

2018 — Avengers: Infinity War

Jackson made an uncredited post-credits appearance as Nick Fury in Avengers: Infinity War. The film, directed by Anthony and Joe Russo, brings together Marvel heroes as Thanos attempts to collect the Infinity Stones. Fury’s appearance is extremely brief but directly sets up Captain Marvel. Because it is a post-credits cameo, it should be identified separately from Jackson’s larger Marvel roles.

2018 — Incredibles 2

Jackson returned as the voice of Frozone in Brad Bird’s Incredibles 2. The animated sequel focuses on Helen Parr’s public superhero work while Bob manages the family and their children. Frozone again joins the Parr family during the escalating superhero crisis. Jackson’s voice performance helped preserve one of the most popular supporting characters from the original film.

2018 — Life Itself

Life Itself, directed by Dan Fogelman, is a multi-generational drama about love, loss, family, and the unexpected connections between people’s lives. Jackson appears as himself and contributes to the film’s framing and narration. The ensemble includes Oscar Isaac, Olivia Wilde, Antonio Banderas, and Annette Bening. His appearance is therefore best described as a non-standard/self-performance rather than a conventional fictional character.

2019 — Glass

Jackson reprised his role as Elijah Price, also known as Mr. Glass, in M. Night Shyamalan’s Glass. The film brings together characters from Unbreakable and Split for a psychological superhero thriller involving Bruce Willis’s David Dunn and James McAvoy’s Kevin Wendell Crumb. Jackson’s restrained performance is central to the movie’s exploration of comic-book mythology and identity. It completed the trilogy that began with Unbreakable.

2019 — Captain Marvel

Jackson played a younger version of Nick Fury in Captain Marvel, using digital de-aging technology for the 1990s-set superhero film. Brie Larson stars as Carol Danvers, while Fury becomes one of her key allies as an alien conflict reaches Earth. Directed by Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck, the film expands the origins of Fury and the Marvel Cinematic Universe. It also explains how Fury became connected to the larger superhero initiative.

2019 — Avengers: Endgame

Jackson appeared as Nick Fury in Avengers: Endgame, the climactic continuation of the Infinity Saga. The film follows the surviving Avengers as they attempt to reverse the catastrophic events caused by Thanos. Jackson’s role is a cameo within the enormous ensemble, rather than a central performance. The movie became one of the highest-grossing films in cinema history and a major milestone in Jackson’s career.

2019 — Shaft

Jackson returned as John Shaft II in the 2019 Shaft, linking the modern character to both the 2000 film and the original Shaft legacy. Directed by Tim Story, the action comedy also stars Jessie T. Usher and Richard Roundtree. The story centers on several generations of the Shaft family working together. Jackson’s return gives the franchise continuity while introducing the character to a new generation.

2019 — Spider-Man: Far From Home

Jackson returned as Nick Fury in Spider-Man: Far From Home, directed by Jon Watts. Tom Holland stars as Peter Parker, who becomes involved in an international mission after the events of Avengers: Endgame. Fury recruits Spider-Man to help confront a new threat involving mysterious elemental creatures. Jackson’s appearance also contributes to the film’s larger post-Endgame Marvel storyline.

2019 — Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker

Jackson’s voice was heard as Mace Windu in Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker. His appearance is a brief cameo/voice contribution rather than a conventional physical performance. J.J. Abrams directed the final installment of the sequel trilogy, which brings the Skywalker saga toward its conclusion. The inclusion of Windu’s voice adds another connection between Jackson and the wider Star Wars mythology.

2020 — The Last Full Measure

The Last Full Measure was released theatrically in the United States in January 2020 after a 2019 premiere. Jackson played Vietnam veteran Billy Takoda in Todd Robinson’s war drama about Airman William H. Pitsenbarger and the campaign to award him the Medal of Honor. Sebastian Stan, Christopher Plummer, Ed Harris, and William Hurt lead the ensemble. Jackson’s character is one of the veterans whose memories help uncover the truth about Pitsenbarger’s sacrifice.

2020 — The Banker

George Nolfi’s period drama The Banker stars Jackson as Joe Morris, a businessman and banker who works with Bernard Garrett, played by Anthony Mackie. The story is inspired by the real-life efforts of two Black entrepreneurs who challenged racial barriers in the American banking industry. Jackson also serves as one of the film’s prominent leads alongside Mackie, Nicholas Hoult, and Nia Long. The movie eventually received a limited theatrical release in March 2020 before moving to Apple TV+.

2020 — Death to 2020

Death to 2020 is a feature-length Netflix mockumentary created by Charlie Brooker and Annabel Jones. Jackson played fictional journalist Dash Bracket, delivering deliberately exaggerated commentary on the events of 2020. The project combines scripted interviews with real archival footage and satirical documentary conventions. Because it is a mockumentary rather than a conventional narrative drama, Jackson’s role is best identified as a comedic fictional interview subject.

2021 — Spiral: From the Book of Saw

Jackson appeared as police chief Marcus Banks in Spiral: From the Book of Saw. Chris Rock stars as his son, Detective Ezekiel “Zeke” Banks, who investigates a series of murders inspired by the notorious Jigsaw killings. Directed by Darren Lynn Bousman, the horror thriller expands the Saw universe while introducing a new cast of characters. Jackson’s presence gives the film an established dramatic anchor.

2021 — The Hitman’s Wife’s Bodyguard

Jackson returned as Darius Kincaid in The Hitman’s Wife’s Bodyguard, the sequel to The Hitman’s Bodyguard. Ryan Reynolds and Salma Hayek join Jackson in an increasingly chaotic European action-comedy adventure. Patrick Hughes again directed the film, which builds its humor around the three leads’ conflicting personalities. Jackson’s Darius remains the unpredictable center of many of the movie’s action sequences.

2021 — The Protégé

In Martin Campbell’s action thriller The Protégé, Jackson played Moody Dutton, a legendary assassin and mentor figure. Maggie Q stars as Anna, an assassin whose relationship with Moody is central to the story. The film combines international action, revenge, and espionage. Jackson brings warmth and experience to a character whose history shapes the protagonist’s choices.

2022 — Paws of Fury: The Legend of Hank

Jackson voiced Jimbo in the animated comedy Paws of Fury: The Legend of Hank. The film follows a dog who dreams of becoming a samurai and is tasked with protecting a village threatened by a powerful villain. Jackson’s character acts as a mentor figure within the story. The family film draws loosely on the classic Blazing Saddles while using a martial-arts and animal-adventure setting.

2023 — The Kill Room

In The Kill Room, Jackson played Gordon, a crime boss connected to an unusual money-laundering operation involving art. Uma Thurman and Joe Manganiello co-star in the dark crime comedy directed by Nicol Paone. The film satirizes the art world while combining criminal schemes with absurd humor. Jackson’s performance leans into the intimidating criminal persona that has become familiar throughout his career.

2023 — The Marvels

Jackson returned as Nick Fury in The Marvels, directed by Nia DaCosta. The superhero adventure brings Brie Larson’s Captain Marvel together with Iman Vellani’s Ms. Marvel and Teyonah Parris’s Monica Rambeau. Fury works from the S.A.B.E.R. space station as the heroes confront a threat connected to the Kree. Disney officially lists Jackson among the film’s principal cast and gives the theatrical release date as November 10, 2023.

2024 — Argylle

Matthew Vaughn directed Argylle, a spy-comedy thriller featuring Jackson as Alfred Solomon. Bryce Dallas Howard stars as a novelist whose fictional spy stories begin to resemble real-world events, while Henry Cavill appears as the fictional agent she imagines. Jackson’s character becomes an important part of the mystery surrounding the competing intelligence operations. The film combines espionage, comedy, action, and deliberately exaggerated spy-movie conventions.

2024 — Damaged

Damaged is a crime thriller directed by Terry McDonough, with Jackson playing Chicago detective Dan Lawson. He travels to Scotland to investigate murders that appear connected to an earlier case. Vincent Cassel and Gianni Capaldi also star in the dark international investigation. The movie gives Jackson another serious detective role within a murder mystery.

2024 — The Garfield Movie

Jackson provided the voice of Vic, Garfield’s father, in The Garfield Movie. Directed by Mark Dindal, the animated comedy follows Garfield as he is unexpectedly reunited with his long-lost father and becomes involved in an adventurous scheme. Chris Pratt voices Garfield, while Jackson’s Vic is a key character in the family story. This is a voice role rather than a live-action appearance.

2024 — The Unholy Trinity

Richard Gray directed The Unholy Trinity, a western starring Jackson alongside Pierce Brosnan and Brandon Lessard. Jackson plays St. Christopher, a mysterious figure connected to a violent conflict in 1870s Montana. The story follows a young man returning to reclaim his family’s legacy after his father’s wrongful execution. The film combines western action, crime, revenge, and frontier drama.

2024 — The Piano Lesson

Jackson played Doaker Charles in Malcolm Washington’s film adaptation of August Wilson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play The Piano Lesson. The family drama centers on a treasured piano and the argument over whether it should be sold or preserved. John David Washington and Danielle Deadwyler lead the ensemble, with Jackson bringing considerable stage and dramatic experience to the role. The film premiered at Telluride in August 2024, received a limited theatrical release in November, and then streamed on Netflix.

2025 — Afterburn

Afterburn is a post-apocalyptic action-adventure directed by J. J. Perry. Jackson plays August Valentine, a powerful figure who hires former soldier Jake, played by Dave Bautista, to recover the Mona Lisa in a world devastated by a solar flare. The film combines science fiction, action, adventure, and comedy, with Olga Kurylenko also starring. It was released in 2025 and represents the latest officially released feature film in this chronological Samuel L. Jackson movies by year list as of August 2026.

Conclusion

Samuel L. Jackson’s movie career is remarkable for its range, longevity, and sheer number of memorable performances. From early supporting appearances in films such as Ragtime and Do the Right Thing to defining performances in Pulp Fiction, Jackie Brown, A Time to Kill, and Die Hard with a Vengeance, he has repeatedly reinvented himself across genres. His Mace Windu and Nick Fury performances also made him a key figure in both the Star Wars and Marvel franchises. Alongside blockbusters, Jackson has continued to appear in independent dramas, thrillers, comedies, animated films, and character-driven projects. With Afterburn representing his latest released feature film as of August 2026, his filmography remains one of the most extensive and recognizable in modern Hollywood.