When Marlon Brando won the Oscar for Best Actor in The Godfather(1972), everyone thought, who’s going to top that? The audience felt the same way when Robert De Niro won Raging Bull (1980). Over the past century, outstanding performances have been admired by the audiences and Academy several times.
Today, we’ll look at some of the most acclaimed performances of the twenty-first century.
10. DENZEL WASHINGTON FOR TRAINING DAY (2001)
A former AFI Life Achievement Award recipient and a legend for over four decades in Hollywood, Denzel received this honor back in 2003 for playing Det. Sgt. Alonzo Harris in Training Day. The role shocked the audience as they never saw Mr. Washington in such a robust and a bit “unethical” character. Ethan Hawke, Eva Mendes, Dr. Dre, and Scott Glenn played pivotal roles besides the protagonist.
9. MATTHEW McCONAUGHEY FOR DALLAS BUYERS CLUB (2013)
“Alright, Alright, Alright” if you haven’t heard these words from Matthew McConaughey, you are missing out. Making his breakthrough in ‘93 with the coming-of-age comedy Dazed And Confused, Mr. McConaughey is one of the most admired actors in the industry. Dallas Buyers Club is one of the reasons proving it. The film was impactful because of its acting and message.
8. FRANCES McDormand FOR THREE BILLBOARDS OUTSIDE EBBING, MISSOURI (2017)
One of the few artists in the industry to receive the Triple Crown Of Acting, Frances McDormand is the recipient of four Academy Awards, two Prime Time Emmy Awards, and one Tony Award. The audience became emotional at the display of a mother’s pain and anger in such a way. The film includes big names like Woody Harrelson, Sam Rockwell, Peter Dinklage, and Caleb Landry Jones.
7. EDDIE REDMAYNE FOR THE THEORY OF EVERYTHING (2014)
The Biopic of one of the most outstanding scientists of this century, Stephen Hawking, was portrayed in film in the most profound way by Eddie Redmayne. The film swept four Academy nominations. The display of struggle, rise, and love in Mr. Hawking’s life was very moving for the audience. James Marsh directed this masterpiece with a supporting cast of Felicity Jones, Charlie Cox, and Emily Watson.
6. JAMIE FOXX FOR RAY (2004)
Known for breaking down the most complex characters with his natural humor, Jamie Foxx was an absolute killer playing Charles Ray. The role played a part in his career and brought him several major accolades and recognition. During the same year, Jamie Foxx got nominated for the Academy Award For Best Supporting Actor for Collateral. If things haven’t been pleasant lately and you need a getaway, this should be your go-to movie.
5. ANTHONY HOPKINS FOR THE FATHER (2020)
A Psychological Drama made into a delight by Anthony Hopkins. Ruling the entertainment industry with his charismatic performance for several decades now, this was his 2nd time holding the oscar on stage after Silence Of The Lambs. Made under acclaimed French Director Florian Zeller, this gripping story also includes a stellar cast consisting of Olivia Colman, Rufus Sewell, Imogen Poots, and Olivia Williams. The film describes the issue of how some parents are losing trust in their children nowadays and what are its side effects.
4. CASEY AFFLECK FOR MANCHESTER BY THE SEA(2016)
Regarded as one of the most accomplished actors of this generation, Casey Affleck was first put to the screen as a child artist in Lemon Sky(1988). After working in a renowned film series such as Ocean’s Eleven, he quickly worked his way to the top with his constant deliverance of excellent performances. After this project, Casey Affleck worked with Christian Bale on Out Of The Furnace, which was also a critical success.
3. JOAQUIN PHOENIX FOR JOKER (2019)
Joaquin Phoenix has been a persistent deliverer of good cinema from the start of his career. At the beginning of his career, during the ‘80s, he used the name Leaf Phoenix which he changed afterward. In the early 2000’s he was nominated for several awards, including the Academy Award For Best Supporting Actor for his portrayal of Commodus in Gladiator, besides Russell Crowe. Playing Joker on screen with such dedication and transformation brought limelight and recognition to this actor’s life in a magnificent way.
2. JESSICA CHASTAIN FOR THE EYES OF TAMMY FAYE (2021)
Despite having negative reviews for the screenplay and poor performance at the box office, the movie got praised for its cast and acting performances (especially Jessica Chastain). Miss Chastains’ has nothing been short of a miracle, starting her career as a guest star in Law And Order: Trial By Jury and making her film debut in 2008 with Jolene. The film depicts the story of Tammy Faye Bakker following her life’s ups and downs.
1. RAMI MALEK FOR BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY (2018)
A worthy tribute to one of the greatest entertainers to have ever lived on this planet. This biopic showcases the life of Freddie Mercury, the lead vocalist of the world-renowned band Queen. Rami Malek nailed the lead performance and gave the audience a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The film also gave us an insight into the lives of other band members and their relationships with Freddie. Other cast members include Gwilym Lee, Ben Hardy, Joseph Mazzello, and Lucy Boynton.
