The Essential 10 Movies Featuring John Amos You Shouldn't Miss
1. Coming to America (1988)
An African prince decides it’s time for him to find a princess, leading him and his most loyal friend to Queens, New York. In disguise as an impoverished immigrant, the pampered prince quickly finds himself a new job, new friends, new digs, new enemies, and lots of trouble. John Amos plays Cleo McDowell, the proud owner of McDowell's restaurant, adding a delightful edge to the comedy. Watch here
2. Lock Up (1989)
Frank Leone is nearing the end of his prison term for a minor crime. Just before he is paroled, Warden Drumgoole takes charge to ensure Leone never sees the light of day. John Amos plays the character Captain Meissner, providing a compelling figure in this captivating prison drama. Watch here
3. The Beastmaster (1982)
Dar, the son of a king, is hunted by a priest after his birth and grows up in another family. As a grown man, he discovers his ability to communicate with animals, leading him on a revenge quest. John Amos stars as Seth, a formidable warrior and Dar's ally, in this cult classic fantasy film. Watch here
4. Dr. Dolittle 3 (2006)
Lisa Dolittle sends her daughter to a dude ranch to 'find herself'. There, she uses her talent to talk to animals to save Durango from being taken over by a neighboring ranch. John Amos plays Jud Jones, bringing a seasoned presence to this family-friendly film. Watch here
5. Bad Asses on the Bayou (2015)
The third installment in the successful Bad Ass action-comedy franchise. Frank Vega and Bernie Pope travel to Louisiana to attend a wedding, but madness and mayhem ensure they must serve justice again. Amos delivers a powerful performance as Earl, adding depth to this action-packed narrative. Watch here
6. Let's Do It Again (1975)
Clyde Williams and Billy Foster are blue-collar workers from Atlanta who travel to New Orleans to rig a boxing match for their fraternal order. John Amos stars as Kansas City Mack, bringing heaps of charisma to the screen alongside legends like Sidney Poitier and Bill Cosby. Watch here
7. Bonanza: The Next Generation (1988)
Following the legacy of the Cartwrights, this continuation bridges the gap from the original characters to their progeny. John Amos features as Charlie Poke, adding his gravitas to an ensemble cast. Watch here
8. Mary Tyler Moore: A Celebration (2015)
Celebrating Mary Tyler Moore's groundbreaking career in a one-hour special, this documentary includes tributes from co-stars and clips from iconic moments in her career. Amos' participation here serves as a testament to his significance in TV history. Watch here
9. TV in Black: The First Fifty Years (2004)
This documentary reflects on how television has depicted the African American experience over its first fifty years. John Amos, with his roles in TV staples like 'Good Times,' offers keen insights into the evolving portrayal of black America on television. His contributions are highlighted through interviews and historical clips. Watch here
10. The Rockford Files: Shoot-Out at the Golden Pagoda (1997)
In this chapter of 'The Rockford Files,' Rockford is tricked into taking over a fellow PI’s case, landing him in hot water. John Amos shines as Gandy Fitch, a role that encapsulates his versatility and long-standing presence in Hollywood. Watch here
John Amos has undoubtedly made a significant impact on both television and film. His roles, rich with authenticity and gravitas, have addressed themes like race and poverty while entertaining audiences across generations. Each movie in this list demonstrates his impressive range and dedication to portraying meaningful, dynamic characters. From comedy classics to profound dramas, John Amos' filmography is a treasure trove worth exploring in depth.
As we reflect on his contributions, it's clear that John Amos remains a cornerstone of American entertainment, leaving an enduring legacy that continues to inspire and resonate with audiences worldwide.