Staff Reports
A recent list compiled by The Ringer touts the best movie performances of the 21st century, giving fans and critics alike something to discuss, debate, and possibly disagree upon. The top ten includes a mix of iconic actors and celebrated films, but one question remains: Did they get it right? A closer analysis reveals both strong picks and glaring omissions that suggest the reigning champion of cinematic prowess might not be as secure as some believe.
Starting from the top, the list’s number one performance is Naomi Watts in “Mulholland Drive.” This choice may raise some eyebrows, as there are more prominent performances that have left lasting impressions on the audience. One striking recommendation spotlights Daniel Day-Lewis in “There Will Be Blood,” whose portrayal of the ruthless oilman Daniel Plainview is undoubtedly a towering artistic achievement. When it comes to acting mastery, Day-Lewis sets the bar high, showcasing a nuanced and layered performance that has echoes in the annals of film history. Claiming that his performance should be number one does not merely stem from preference; it’s a statement grounded in a strong recognition of cinematic greatness.
In the ensuing ranks, Philip Seymour Hoffman in “Capote” showcases the actor’s incredible versatility and emotional depth, perhaps solidifying a spot as the second-best performance of the century. Hoffman’s ability to embody the disarming charisma and tragic vulnerability of Truman Capote is a benchmark for dramatic performances. To juxtapose, while Javier Bardem in “No Country for Old Men” has become an iconic figure as the menacing Anton Chigurh, the argument can be made that his performance is somewhat one-note. This isn’t to diminish his skill but rather to highlight that his character was crafted to project a singular, foreboding presence, lacking the highs and lows that could elevate its depth.
Not far behind, Heath Ledger as the Joker in “The Dark Knight” merits consideration due purely to the psychological complexity he brings to the villain. However, cleanliness of execution can’t overshadow how overly lauded this film has become in popular culture, almost to the point of saturation. Some may argue the film itself has become overrated, but Ledger’s performance rightfully deserves recognition.
Then there’s Ryan Gosling, who appeared in “Blue Valentine,” a film that, while painful to watch, may not stand tall against the giants of the craft in the performance department. It seems that praising Gosling’s profoundly gloomy role is somewhat of a rite of passage in cinematic discussions, but it begs the question—does the painful experience of film translate to a great performance, or is it merely a reflection of quality storytelling?
Amidst the heated discourse, other contenders could have made their way into the top ranks. For example, J.K. Simmons in “Whiplash” and Tom Hardy in “Lock” echo through the halls of cinematic excellence with gripping portrayals that highlight true grit and raw talent. Their performances lock viewers into emotional intensities that linger long after the credits roll. Even comedic performances by Robert Downey Jr. in “Tropic Thunder” and Jim Carrey in “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind” deserve consideration for their complex, layered approaches to character, providing alternate flavors to the banquet of serious drama.
In closing, while lists like these are bound to ignite conversation, drawing lines between a work of artistry and mere popularity can be a tricky endeavor. The Ringer’s top ten brings to light several performances that provoke thought and admiration, but it also underscores how subjective the realm of acting truly is. Whether one agrees or disagrees with the list, it serves as a reminder that in film, opinions, like performances, are often a reflection of personal tastes and biases. The conversation about the best performances is far from over; in fact, it’s just beginning.
