3 Lesser-Known Will Smith Roles That Are Better Than "Men in Black" and "Hancock"

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Everyone knows Will Smith as the guy in the black suit with a neuralyzer in his hand or as the alien-fighting pilot from "Independence Day."

But how many times have you stopped to think that beyond the blockbusters, Smith has roles that almost nobody remembers?

On the actor's birthday (he turned 57 on September 25th), we decided to revisit three lesser-known Will Smith films that reveal a completely different side of him. Pure drama, cons, and street life.

"Six Degrees of Separation" (1993)

Cast: Donald Sutherland, Stockard Channing,

Long before Smith became a superstar, he appeared in this intimate yet piercing film based on John Guare's play.
Six Degrees of Separation trailer
His character is a charming stranger who claims to be Sidney Poitier's son. He shows up at the door of a wealthy New York home and turns a well-to-do couple's life completely upside down.

This isn't comedy—it's a subtle drama about trust, manipulation, and the emptiness of elite life. It's one of his most serious roles, and possibly one of his best.

"Where the Day Takes You" (1992)

Cast: Laura San Giacomo, Dermot Mulroney, Sean Astin, Will Smith

Even Will's fans probably won't remember this film. Yet it was his first step into major cinema.

A dark story about homeless teenagers living on the streets of Los Angeles, where Smith played Manny—one of those fighting daily for survival among drugs, violence, and despair. No jokes here, just the cold truth of street life.
Actor Will Smith in a large cap and white polo shirt looks at the camera
Scenes from Where the Day Takes You
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It's a small role, but an important one—and nothing like his usual image.

"The Legend of Bagger Vance" (2000)

Cast: Will Smith, Matt Damon, Charlize Theron

A film most viewers skipped—big mistake. Directed by Robert Redford, this isn't just a story about golf. It's almost a philosophical parable.
The Legend of Bagger Vance trailer
Will Smith plays the mysterious Bagger Vance—a mentor who appears in Matt Damon's disillusioned character's life and helps him rediscover meaning.

His character is part guardian angel, part Buddhist monk. It's a very subtle and beautiful role. So unusual that Smith was even nominated for a Saturn Award for it. Earlier on zoomboola.com, we covered three forgotten Tom Felton roles you didn't even know about.