Instantly recognizable by his large, somber presence, Whitaker first found fame in 1982's Fast Times at Ridgemont High. Since then, he's risen to acclaim as both an actor and director. His brutal portrayal of Idi Amin in The Last King of Scotland has seen him nominated for the Best Actor Oscar

He has appeared in over thirty films, including Jim Jarmusch's Night on Earth, Ghost Dog: The Way of the Samurai, Coffee and Cigarettes and The Limits of Control. He appeared in the movie Machetero, in the role of journalist interviewing an imprisoned Puerto Rican revolutionary, along with the members of the New York City based punk band Ricanstruction. He has also appeared in Lars von Trier's Manderlay. He recently portrayed Steven Obanno, a terrorist, in the 2006 James Bond film Casino Royale

Credits include: War of the Worlds, Captain Phillips, The A-Team, Russian Doll and Runner Runner

Credits include: Jack Reacher, Black Snake Moan, The Salvation, Lie to Me and Once Upon a Time

Credits include: Da Sweet Blood of Jesus, American Crime, Godfather of Harlem, Carved and American Crime: Episode One

Credits include: Bright, 11.22.63, Vampire Academy, Mr. Church and The Darkness

Credits include: We Are All Kings, All Roads Lead to Malcolm, Homeland or Death, The Negro in White America and Our Black Shining Prince

Credits include: Baywatch, Show Me a Hero, Godfather of Harlem, The Bricklayer and Werewolves

Credits include: Can You Ever Forgive Me?, Luke Cage, The United States vs. Billie Holiday, Proud Mary and Godfather of Harlem

Credits include: Passing, Godfather of Harlem, Masha Masha Masha, 4.4 and The French Connection

Credits include: Angel of Death and New Harlem