Will Smith's Top Films

The cassette tape went into the deck. I turned up the dial and assumed my position on my grandma's bedroom carpet. It was the one room where the sound from the boom box didn't interrupt polite conversation, and there was just enough room to do a back spin. The rug burns were a small price to pay for another sweet jam with D.J. Jazzy Jeff and the Fresh Prince. Their music was lighthearted and comedic. I grinned every time the Fresh Prince told his raptastic story about snagging his parents' Porsche for a quick cruise with a member of the opposite sex.

Today, though, the Fresh Prince is just a memory. He was replaced long ago by an incredible actor whose skill at drama far outdistances his comedy abilities. Will Smith has become an icon among Hollywood actors. He's in demand more than any other actor, and that means lots of films. To be sure, his name on the marquee sells tickets, but some of his work leaves a bit to be desired. There's the weird: Hancock and I Am Legend. There's the forgettable: Bad Boys II. But Smith also produces the occasional masterpiece. He thrives in emotional dramas, and that's why most of his best films come from that genre. Here they are in no particular order.

1. Seven Pounds: It's a tear-jerker to be sure, and it's all about Will Smith's incredible acting. There's something about his eyes. His eyelids get a heavy appearance when he's worried, and it's almost as if you can see into his soul through his stare. His portrayal earned him a best actor Image Award. The 2009 film is considered by some to be Smth's best performance.

2. The Pursuit of Happyness: Another tearjerker, the 2006 film is considered one of Smith's best performances. His performance earned a 2007 Oscar Awards nomination for best lead actor. Smith plays a struggling salesman who is attempting to provide for his young son. Based on a true story, the movie has a happy ending, and that's really all that one can ask.

3. Ali: The 2001 film about legendary boxer Muhammad Ali must have been a difficult one for Smith. After all, the film, which was released on Christmas Day, was about someone still living. No sweat for Smith. He received an Oscar nomination for his portrayal of Ali, and Jon Voight received a nomination for best supporting actor.

4. Men In Black: One comedy makes this list, and it's Smith's best. Who can forget him wearing the department's trademark black suit and having his memory wiped clean by a suave Tommy Lee Jones? The 1997 film brought a sequel, and won an Oscar for best makeup. Of course, Smith had nothing to do with the latter.

5. Fresh Prince of Bel Air: I'll take a pass at picking a fifth film. Sure, the original Bad Boys was funny, but it's tough to decide between it and some of Smith's other work. So I'll remind you that Smith had some incredible dramatic moments during his seven years starring as Will Smith on the TV comedy. Here's the best of them.