In a recent article I wrote on “Robert Pattinson and the Enduring Appeal of Broody, Pale White Dudes“ I was totally bombarded by an irate swarm of “Twilight” fanatics out for my blood. In their minds, I had disparaged Robert Pattinson’s acting abilities and thereby should have the skin flayed from my bones, and my laptop permanently confiscated so as to prevent me from speaking ill of their beloved idol evermore. In point of fact, I had merely commented that from what I’d seen of his work, I found his abilities to be middling - not great, not horrible. Still, from the vitriolic reaction, I may as well have suffocated his puppy and eaten it for lunch. Most of the comments were your garden variety, “I hate you, you ugly doody head” epithets, but one question was interesting (if not overtly hostile and grammatically challenged) and it came from “IrishTwisisters”:
… Tell us what your idea of a great actor is…and please if you could find a dictionary somewhere to help you progress your somewhat limited vocabulary past ’still sucks’ the more intelligent of us would really appreciate it.
Well OK “IrishTwisisters,” here goes. I’ve got my dictionary out and will try to do right by ‘the more intelligent of you’. The following is a list of my all time favorite actors.
10) Dustin Hoffman
Hoffman re-defined the image of a leading man. His unconventional appearance, and brilliant technique (earned through years at the Actor’s Studio under the tutelage of Lee Strasberg) helped to usher in the era of the anti-hero which began in the late 60s with such films as “The Graduate” and “Easy Rider” and remained popular until the “Blockbuster” era took hold (”E.T.,” “Star Wars,” etc…) Over the years, Dustin Hoffman has played an incredibly broad range of characters from a 120 year old Indian to an autistic savant, but in my opinion he’s most successful when he’s breaking your heart.
For me, his greatest roles will always be: Ratso Rizzo in “Midnight Cowboy;” Ted Kramer in “Kramer vs Kramer,” Raymond Babbit in “Rain Man”… and of course his greatest masterpiece of all, Willy Lowman in “Death of Salesman.”
9) Dana Andrews
Dana Andrews always brought an intense vulnerability to each of his roles which was far ahead of its time. In fact you can see echoes of his distinctive style in actors like David Morse and Tom Hanks. He is known for portraying “Average Joe” types, yet he never played them broadly, choosing a far subtler approach. Although on the surface he may have appeared stolid, his eyes would always give him away, expressing the doubt, fear and pain that we all carry around inside us.
His greatest films are “The Best Years of Our Lives,” “A Walk In the Sun,” and “The Ox-Bow Incident” (which by the way are three of the greatest films EVER).
8) Bruce Dern
Generally regarded as a character actor, for me Dern’s passionate performances are amongst some of the greatest in film history. When he’s on the screen, it’s literally impossible to keep your eyes off of him. Bruce Dern was part of a large gang (Jack Nicholson, Peter Fonda, Peter Bogdanovich, and more) which got their start working with legendary producer Roger Corman. He rose to prominence in the 1970s, during the anti-hero movement but never quite achieved leading man status (although to me, he repeatedly stole the film from whomever was lead in billing). His wild eyed portrayals were always filled with such energy and bluster, yet there was a great sadness at the heart of it all.
His best films are: “The King Of Marvin Gardens,” “Silent Running,” “The Laughing Policeman,” and “Coming Home.”
For my money, he’s the greatest actor of my generation. When he commits to a role he goes ALL THE WAY. It’s sometimes excruciating to watch (”Synecdoche, New York” springs to mind), but it’s always a powerful experience nonetheless. There’s a beautiful ease in the way he portrays each of his characters, it’s a fascinating combination of confidence and insecurity which is so compelling.
His greatest films (to date) are: “Magnolia,” “The Savages,” “Charlie Wilson’s War,” and “Doubt.”
6) Paul Newman
Well to begin with, he was the greatest looking actor who ever lived. You can take your Brad Pitts, Johnny Depps and Jude Laws, wrap em’ all up in a ball and they still don’t compare to the astounding beauty that was Newman. Still, the fantastic part about him was that down the line, he played against his looks, taking on more complex roles like “The Hustler” and “Somebody up There Likes Me” instead of the usual shlock handsome leading men were expected to take. He was a versatile actor with the ability to play light comedy, drama, even slapstick and he excelled equally in all genres. Any movie he was in, he made better. Even a bad Newman film is still pretty good, ’cause it’s got him in it!
His greatest films are: “Hud,” “The Hustler,” “Cool Hand Luke,” “Harper,” “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid,” “The Sting,” ”The Drowning Pool,” ”Slap Shot,” ”The Verdict,” ”The Hudsucker Proxy”… and definitely check out a lesser known gem of a film called “Pocket Money!”
Bonus Read: Robert Pattinson vs. Top 10 Actors of All Time (Part 2)
More on these topics:
1940s cinema, 1960s cinema, 1970s cinema, bruce dern wonderful passionate actor, dana andrews ahead of his time actor, david morse, doubt greatest film by phillip seymour hoffman, dustin hoffman greatest actor of his time, greatest actor of a generation, hud greatest film by paul newman, midnight cowboy greatest film by dustin hoffman, paul newman greatest actor of all time, phillip seymour hoffman, raging bulls and easy riders, robert pattinson and twilight, robert pattinson fans, robert pattinson is a mediocre actor, roger corman, the king of marvin gardens greatest film by bruce dern, the ox-bow incident greatest film by dana andrews, the top ten greatest actors of all time, twilight fanatics
Schmeckle "Schmeky" Cullen says:
@sammip- they only refer to him as if they are bff's or lovers when they are wearing their aluminum foil hats & they can tune into "him".
Branwyn Lancourt says:
I hear the 'he's only starting out' argument a lot. That's fine. I was asked what I thought were 'great' actors, and I gave my list. To give a bit more back information...
Jack Lemmon won an oscar for his first major role
Dustin Hoffman was nominated for an oscar for his first major role, and then again 2 years later
Nicholson was nominated for an oscar for his first major role
Brando was nominated for an oscar for his first major role...
They all weren't much older than Pattinson.
It's one thing if you think the guy's got 'sex appeal and charisma'.. but it just backs up my INITIAL argument...and I will quote...
"As far as his acting skills are concerned, from what I’ve seen he’s kinda like the bassist in Spinal Tap - luke warm water. Neither here nor there, just egg shell white, wall paper mundane-ity. Still, this kid is the hottest tween sensation since Kirk Cameron and that’s fine by me. Hell I’m no party pooper, let the little chicklets enjoy their new found messiah to their hearts content. However, it does give me pause. If our heroes are a direct reflection on ourselves as a society, then what does it mean when they’re all surface and no substance? Robert Smith set a legion of disaffected young ladies hearts a twitter with his rats nest hair and smeared lipstick, but underneath the cultivated façade was a genuine artist. Robert Pattinson is just another pretty face, which I fear is all anyone wants to aspire to be anymore."
Twi-TrueB lover says:
It's not clear from your article whether you've seen Mr Pattinson's work prior to Twilight, but his albeit fledgling CV does not read like that of a "luke warm" actor. Of the 4 feature films he has done to date(I'm not counting his British TV film work, which was very competent) he has played leading roles in 3 of them, and won a bona fide Best Actor award for 1 of them at the Strasbourg Film Festival. Not bad for an actor with "all surface and no substance". His present popularity appears to generate a weird 'hate' reaction among some journalists, which I am cynical enough to think is only manufactured to generate hits on websites. Well I have succumbed, but I trust you will consider my response polite and rational.
On your two "top 10" lists of actors, I agree with some of your choices - these lists are always fun to debate - but 19 out of 20 of them are American film actors (I think - apologies if I have not researched the nationalities thoroughly enough). There appears to be no room for the aristocracy of actors, the likes of Sir Laurence Olivier, Sir John Gielgud, Sir Ralph Richardson, Sir John Mills, Peter O-Toole, Richard Burton... let alone all the amazing European and Asian actors who have graced stage and screen over the years.
Thank you for the opportunity to respond to your article.
Branwyn Lancourt says:
Point well taken, I suppose I could have said top 10 american actors of all time as I love all the actors you mentioned!
GRACIE WYNN says:
Mr. Lancourt,
In response to your article, I'm curious as to why you decided to write it. I mean, what was the point? Why Pattinson instead of Efron,Maguire,Gosling, or McConoughy...obviously, it is because he is the hottest ticket in town and a very easy target. All of the actors you mentioned in parts 1&2 are (and sadly in some cases were) remarkable. I don't think any serious lover of film could or would take issue with you. I do like Pattinson. I think he is serious about his work. Prior to writing this response, I made it a point to watch THE HAUNTED AIRMAN, HOW TO BE, and LITTLE ASHES. I think he's the real goods. Is it possible that the frenzy over the looks is getting in his way when it comes to being taken seriously as an actor? Are we so impatient and quick to ridicule in this day and age that we sum up one's total worth when measured against others who have already proven themselves? Can't we give someone a chance to grow and prove himself? I suppose what bothers me the most is that you seem to be rooting for him to fail and I simply can't understand that type of mean spiritedness. Why not take the high road...give the guy a chance. You may not agree with me, but, whew, I feel better...Gracie Wynn
PS As much as I like Paul Newman, check out THE SILVER CHALICE...but not after you have just eaten...the acting will turn your stomach! They weren't all good from the very beginning. Be nice, Branwyn...it is definately more becoming. G.
Branwyn Lancourt says:
I've seen Little Ashes, and I'm not sure you saw the same movie as I did... Unbelievable horrible. Of course, he wasn't the only thing bad about the film to be fair..
I've actually seen the silver chalice, and as you probably know it's well known for being one of the worst films of all time, a fact that Newman himself has stated on numerous occasions... The difference between Newman and Pattinson is that he followed it up with Somebody up there likes me, which was an Oscar winning picture, and one in which he garnered well deserved critical praise...
As to why I wrote about Pattinson, as you said the whole Twilight phenomenon is in the news, and this column is called Fame Hype after all...
GRACIE WYNN says:
Thanks so much for your prompt reply. I think the script and direction in LITTLE ASHES was the worst. I agree that the movie, (not Pattinson's performance) was awful. I was curious as to your opinion of Gregory Peck. I have seen many of his movies and think he was amazing...makes it look effortless kind of amazing! One question, and I promise not to bother you anymore. I go to the movies very often...totally love film...but find it very difficult to find really good,quality writing, good direction,superb acting kind of movies. A few seem to monopolize the Academy Awards, but on the whole...well, it's slim pickings. Do you agree?
Gracie Wynn
Branwyn Lancourt says:
yeah Gregory Peck could be really great... My favorite film of his is a somewhat obscure one called 'Mirage' if you're able to rent it, I highly recommend it.. It's a noir-ish mystery, and it's really excellent.
As for films today, I think culture across the board has suffered in the wake of the Bush years... The 90s had a burgeoning indie movement that was exciting with directors like Hal Hartley and whit STilman... But post 9/11 art and culture gave way to hysteria and reality tv... Hopefully it's not a permanent situation.
Gracie Wynn says:
Your comment about those Bush years would be funny, if it weren't so true...
what didn't suffer as a result of that administration...maybe the NRA. I'm going to get a copy of MIRAGE to watch this week-end...thanks for the tip. My favorite Peck movies are GENTLEMAN'S AGREEMENT and TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD...I have this thing about prejudice and intolerence...and he was very good in both...I hope my comments don't annoy you...I find your views very interesting and I find myself wanting to respond...Have a nice day...Gracie
Branwyn Lancourt says:
All comments are totally encouraged, ideally this column should be a symbiotic relationship between writer and reader... That dialogue is what makes an interesting column in my opinion..
I'd add Moby Dick and Spellbound to the classic Peck films as well... but like I said, Mirage is my favorite, cool that you're gonna check it out, hope you enjoy it!
Gracie Wynn says:
Hi Branwyn...You were right...MIRAGE was great. What a fabulous cast too. Maybe someday Hollywood will make a remake of this classic. Robert Pattinson might be cast as David Stilwell and he can sparkle to give off light as he walks down the stairs and...oops...I can sense that you are becoming slightly nauseated...before you vomit, I'll say so long. The Dolphins have won two games in a row, I saw a wonderful movie, it's 85 degrees in Miami, and maybe, just maybe I made you smile. Life is good. Take care...Gracie
Branwyn Lancourt says:
Very cool, you did! Glad to be able to turn anyone on to a good flick... enjoy the weather and the football!
Gracie Wynn says:
Hi B....Well, today is the last day of school...off to London for the holidays. No, I'm not on the hunt for Pattinson...I just love London this time of year. Anyway, I was thinking some more about movies and wanted to run these by you (if you haven't seen any of them, you should)...not that they needed it, but all have the Wynn seal of approval...PICNIC...IT HAPPENED ONE NIGHT...SOME LIKE IT HOT...12 ANGRY MEN (the original)...and URBAN COWBOY. I know that many people don't understand my love for U.C., but it shows a real slice of Americana lifestyle that exists for many people...not Gracie, of course! Happy holidays, Branwyn...try to be nice...I have a feeling you really are a good guy. Talk to you next year...Cheerio...Gracie
Branwyn Lancourt says:
I've seen them all, 12 angry men and It happened one night are definitely up there in my top 20 films of all time... Picnic, is ok although I think William Holden was a bit old to play the role (a fact that he himself has stated many times over the years).. Urban Cowboy is a good flick, there were a lot of those types of 'slices of americana' in the early 80s... If you liked that, you'd probably like Tender Mercies... Thanks for reading, and have a great trip - happy holidays!
Gracie Wynn says:
Hi B...I'm back from London...it was "brilliant!" It was so hard to get on that plane and return to this cultural desert, Miami. London was freezing and the cold weather seems to have followed me across the pond because it is in the forties. I did not see Pattinson or Prince William. Prince William seems to have spent a night sleeping on the streets to see what it is like to be homeless. I have nothing against the prince, but it seems to me that knowing one's chauffeur will be picking you up in the morning is...well, it reminds me of the time my friends and I went camping in the family screened-in room and pretended the pool was a lake, the dog was a bear, and the microwave on an extension cord was our campfire. Not exactly roughing it for us or the prince! Have you seen any of the new movies? I would love your comments on what to see and what to skip. I value your opinions...I can only think of one time that you were soooo wrong...well , maybe you weren't wrong about the movie, just incredibly tough on the leading man. Have you ever been to London? If not, you should go. You would love it...so much to do. I saw several shows, shopped, visited museums, churches,and other attractions, went clubbing, and shopped some more. I would love to spend an extended period of time there. Oh, I probably will regret telling you this,but if you google 'twas the night before christmas twilight style gracie wynn you will see a poem I wrote for my Twilight friends...oooh, I can actually here your stomach turning. Anyway, if you still care to respond (and have not lost all respect for me) I would love to hear about what movies to see or skip. I hope the holidays were good to you and that the new year brings you the best of everything. Take care...Gracie P.S. I returned home just in time to see the Dolphins humiliate themselves on national television, ugh!...G.
Branwyn Lancourt says:
Glad to hear you had fun, I've never been to England actually, but I've always wanted to. As for movies, I think I've seen a few semi-new ones here and there rented on cable... I gave a mini review of the inglourious basterds in my new years eve post...
http://thefastertimes.com/famehype/2010/01/02/jennifer-lopez-the-inglourious-basterds-and-the-twilight-zone-my-new-years-eve-recollections/
For sure nothing I've seen lately has really impressed me at all...