Samuel L. Jackson is a remarkable and captivating actor, known for his unique charm and extraordinary talent. He is not only vocal about his political beliefs but also speaks out against the systemic racism that still persists in our society today. Jackson’s journey in the Black Power movement has empowered him to bring about change. He often reflects on the progress we’ve made as a society, but also acknowledges the moral decay that accompanies it.

Despite a troubled childhood, Jackson overcame a stutter by using strong language on-screen, such as his famous catchphrase “motherf*****.” Mentored by the legendary Morgan Freeman, he received his breakthrough role in Martin Scorsese’s film, Goodfellas. Although it was a small part, it was significant for his career.

After battling addiction and emerging sober, Jackson took on the role of a severe crack addict in Jungle Fever. This role was cathartic for him, and it led to the creation of a special Supporting Actor award, solidifying his status as a Hollywood icon. Jackson’s trajectory took a significant turn when he caught Quentin Tarantino’s attention in True Romance, which eventually led to his iconic role as Jules Winnfield in Pulp Fiction. Their collaboration has resulted in many exceptional films, where Jackson feels overwhelmed, thankful, and even a little arrogant about the opportunities he has been given.

Now, let’s dive into the top five Samuel L. Jackson movies currently streaming on Netflix.

Snakes on a Plane (David R. Ellis, 2006)

This action-packed film created a massive pre-release buzz, with fans even contributing their theories and comments directly into the script. Samuel L. Jackson portrays a foul-mouthed FBI agent in this high-octane, lowbrow comedy. As the title suggests, the movie centers around a plane infested with snakes, making for an exhilarating and absurdly entertaining experience.

(Only available on Netflix UK)

The Hateful Eight (Quentin Tarantino, 2015)

Originally intended to be a sequel to Django Unchained, The Hateful Eight stands on its own as a captivating film with a unique set of characters. The story revolves around Major Marquis Warren, a bounty hunter who encounters The Hangman and his prisoner. When a blizzard traps them, four more strangers join the group, and they soon discover that their journey may not end as they originally anticipated.

Samuel L. Jackson takes on the role of Warren, a Civil War veteran. This collaboration marks his sixth film with Tarantino, and Jackson has spoken about the close relationship he shares with the director and the trust he has in his creative choices. Despite criticism, Jackson praises Tarantino for consistently crafting intelligent, driven characters for him to portray.

(Only available on Netflix US)

A Time to Kill (Joel Schumacher, 1996)

Based on John Grisham’s novel, A Time to Kill delves into the themes of racial discrimination and justice. Samuel L. Jackson plays Carl Lee Hailey, an African American father seeking justice for his young daughter who was brutally raped and murdered by two white men. Faced with the harsh reality of racial bias in the legal system, he takes matters into his own hands. The film follows the gripping courtroom drama led by white lawyer Jake Brigance, who fights relentlessly for justice.

(Only available on Netflix US)

Django Unchained (Quentin Tarantino, 2012)

In this powerful film, Samuel L. Jackson portrays Stephen, the chief slave of a malicious plantation owner named Calvin Candie. Django Freeman, played by Jamie Foxx, is a black slave who embarks on a quest to rescue his wife, Broomhilda, with the help of a German bounty hunter, Dr. King Schultz. Django and Dr. Schultz expose the cruel realities of slavery while seeking vengeance against the plantation owner. Jackson’s portrayal of Stephen is chilling and memorable, as he epitomizes the treacherous nature of a character who thrives on perpetuating the oppression of his fellow enslaved people.

(Only available on Netflix US)

Jackie Brown (Quentin Tarantino, 1997)

Quentin Tarantino’s Jackie Brown is a captivating adaptation of Elmore Leonard’s book Rum Punch. Samuel L. Jackson plays Ordell Robbie, a gun runner involved in a complex web of drugs and money smuggling. The film showcases Tarantino’s affinity for blaxploitation cinema from the 1970s and reinvigorated Pam Grier’s career, who plays the eponymous character, Jackie Brown. Jackson considers his role as Ordell Robbie one of his favorites. Despite criticism of Tarantino’s use of racial language, Jackson defends his friend’s artistic choices, emphasizing the importance of presenting the language of the time authentically.

(Only available on Netflix US)

These five films exemplify Samuel L. Jackson’s versatility, talent, and charisma. Whether he’s battling snakes on a plane or portraying complex and morally ambiguous characters, Jackson’s performances never fail to captivate audiences. So grab some popcorn, sit back, and enjoy these Samuel L. Jackson masterpieces, available for streaming on Netflix.

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