Jada Pinkett Smith is a multifaceted talent who has made a notable impact in the entertainment industry. Over the years, she has demonstrated her prowess as an actor in a diverse range of roles in both film and television. Smith and her power family have created a successful identity and are adored and watched closely around the world. Below are Smith’s most notable movies and TV shows, along with their IMDb and Rotten Tomatoes rankings.
The Nutty Professor (1996)
IMDb: 5.6/10
Rotten Tomatoes: 64%
In the 1996 comedy film The Nutty Professor, Jada Pinkett Smith played the character Carla Purty. Carla is a graduate student who becomes the love interest of the film’s protagonist, Sherman Klump, portrayed by Eddie Murphy. Jada’s role in the movie adds a romantic and humorous element as she becomes involved with Sherman, who undergoes a transformation into a more confident but obnoxious alter ego named Buddy Love. Her performance as Carla contributed to the film’s beloved hilarity.
Set It Off (1996)
IMDb: 6.9/10
Rotten Tomatoes: 64%
In the 1996 crime thriller Set It Off, Smith portrayed the character Lida “Stony” Newsom. Stony is one of four friends who, facing dire financial circumstances, turn to a life of crime by robbing banks. Smith’s performance in the film showcased her skills as an actor, as she portrayed a complex character grappling with desperate circumstances and the moral implications of her choices. Her role was pivotal to the film’s exploration of friendship, loyalty and the consequences of criminal actions.
The Matrix Reloaded (2003)
IMDb: 7.2/10
Rotten Tomatoes: 73%
In the 2003 science fiction blockbuster The Matrix Reloaded, Smith portrayed the character Niobe, a skilled pilot and freedom fighter. Niobe plays a crucial role in assisting the film’s protagonists, particularly Neo and Trinity, as they battle against the machine-controlled world of the Matrix. Jada’s performance as Niobe added depth and complexity to the Matrix universe, and her character’s expertise and leadership qualities made her a memorable part of the film’s ensemble cast.
Collateral (2004)
IMDb: 7.5/10
Rotten Tomatoes: 86%
In the 2004 thriller Collateral, Smith played the role of Annie Farrell, a hardworking prosecutor. Annie’s life takes a dangerous turn when she becomes a key witness to a murder committed by a contract killer, played by Tom Cruise. Smith’s character becomes entangled in a high-stakes game of cat and mouse as she tries to bring the killer to justice while facing life-threatening challenges. Her performance in the film was praised for adding depth and emotional resonance to the thrilling narrative.
Girls Trip (2017)
IMDb: 6.2/10
Rotten Tomatoes: 91%
Jada Pinkett Smith portrayed the character Lisa Cooper, one of four lifelong friends who embark on a wild and raucous adventure in New Orleans, in the 2017 comedy hit Girls Trip. Lisa is a conservative and responsible mother who is initially hesitant to embrace the wild antics of her friends. Smith’s performance in the film showcased her comedic timing and her ability to bring authenticity to the character. As the story unfolds, Lisa’s transformation from reserved to uninhibited adds humor and heart to the film, and her chemistry with the ensemble cast, which also included Regina Hall, Queen Latifa and Tiffany Haddish.
A Different World (1991-1993)
IMDb: 6.7/10
Jada Pinkett Smith had a recurring role as Lena James in this popular sitcom, which was a spin-off of The Cosby Show. Lena was a bright and motivated student at the fictional Hillman College, where she navigated the ups and downs of college life, academic challenges and personal growth. Smith’s role in A Different World contributed to the show’s exploration of the college experience and its impact on young adults in the show’s final two seasons.
Hawthorne (2009-2011)
IMDb: 6.0/10
Smith took on the lead role of Christina Hawthorne, a Chief Nursing Officer in this medical drama series. Christina is a dedicated and compassionate healthcare professional who juggles the demands of her high-stress job while also dealing with personal challenges, including the loss of her husband. Smith’s performance as Christina showcased her dramatic acting skills and her ability to portray a strong, empathetic character in the medical field.
Gotham (2014-2017)
IMDb: 7.8/10
Rotten Tomatoes: 78% (Tomatometer)
Jada Pinkett Smith portrayed Fish Mooney, a formidable character in the Batman universe in the crime drama series Gotham. She portrayed the nightclub owner and ruthless gangster with a sharp mind and a penchant for manipulation. Smith’s portrayal added a unique flavor to the show’s ensemble of villains.
Red Table Talk (2018-present)
Jada Pinkett Smith is not only an actress but also a host and producer of the popular talk show Red Table Talk. Smith hosts alongside her mother, Adrienne Banfield-Norris, and her daughter, Willow Smith. The show’s format, featuring three generations of women from the same family, provides a unique and relatable perspective on various subjects. Smith’s role in Red Table Talk is pivotal, as she helps facilitate meaningful conversations with guests and family members, encouraging them to share their personal experiences and perspectives.
Jada Pinkett Smith’s career has been marked by charisma and a willingness to take on challenging roles in both film and television. From comedic hits to dramatic performances, she has proven her place in the entertainment world. With as many years of success she’s had, it is evident that Jada Pinkett Smith will remain a prominent figure in Hollywood for years to come.
