Top 50 Defining Actors of the Last 50 Years

After starring in “Boomerang,” former Miss World contestant Halle Berry started to rise in Hollywood. She worked steadily through the 1990s in comedies, dramas, and even action films. In the early 2000s, the actress won Best Actress for her leading role in “Monster’s Ball.” Along with her groundbreaking Oscar win, she starred in successful franchises like “X-Men.” More opportunities for major projects included a “James Bond” movie, “Catwoman,” and even “John Wick: Chapter 3 - Parabellum.” From epic sci-fi like “Cloud Atlas” to her directorial work, the artist pushes the envelope in diverse narratives. All the while, Berry continues to bring her powerful presence to any type of movie.

She’s recognized most for her stunning beauty, but the incomparable Charlize Theron has demonstrated time and time again that she’s more than capable of carrying a film. In 2003, Theron landed her career-defining role as real-life serial killer Aileen Wuornos in “Monster.” Since then, she’s taken on iconic characters like Evil Queen Ravenna in “Snow White and the Huntsman,” and Imperator Furiosa in George Miller’s “Mad Max: Fury Road.” The actress has an innate ability to tap into the physical and emotional identity of a character. This is just one of the many reasons she’s constantly fascinating to watch.

When he was cast as Ben Braddock in “The Graduate,” Dustin Hoffman became a star. The role allowed him to play comedic and serious moments with equal skill. He then went on a multi-decade run of impressive parts. He broke our hearts as Rizzo in “Midnight Cowboy” and kept us guessing as Carl Bernstein in the classic “All the President’s Men.” In 1979, he starred in “Kramer vs. Kramer,” winning his first Oscar. He went on to several more nominations, winning another Academy Award for his incredible turn in “Rain Man.” Some comedies let him expand his palette like “The Meyerowitz Stories (New and Selected)” and “Wag the Dog.” The performer doesn’t skimp on his intense performances regardless of the project.

This Malaysian actress made a name for herself in Hong Kong films. In martial arts movies, Michelle Yeoh excited fans alongside Jackie Chan and Cynthia Rothrock. She then starred in international hits like the “James Bond” adventure “Tomorrow Never Dies.” By the start of the 2000s, she became even better known by audiences for the popular “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.” Yeoh kept experimenting with various genre films from Danny Boyle’s “Sunshine” to the popular rom-com “Crazy Rich Asians.” She later became the first Asian woman to win Best Actress, earning the Oscar for the awe-inducing “Everything Everywhere All at Once.”

Robbie came into the spotlight with “The Wolf of Wall Street.” Since then she’s taken on standout roles in “Bombshell,” “Mary Queen of Scots,” and “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.” One of her most recognized characters is, of course, Harley Quinn. It’s honestly hard for us to see anyone else as the psychiatrist turned villain. And since her debut in “Suicide Squad,” she’s let the world know that she is the Harley. She brought the lovably insane character back in “Birds of Prey” (which she also produced) as well as James Gunn’s “The Suicide Squad.” And let’s not forget about her award-worthy performance as the titular figure skater in “I, Tonya.” Truly iconic!

You know him for his incredible voiceovers, but Morgan Freeman is a welcome piece of cinema history. Following appearances on television and stage, the actor became a movie star in the late 1980s. He was Oscar-nominated for his roles in “Driving Miss Daisy” and one of his most iconic parts in “The Shawshank Redemption.” He finally won an Academy Award for “Million Dollar Baby,” reteaming him with his “Unforgiven” director and co-star Clint Eastwood. Whether he’s narrating “March of the Penguins” or playing God in “Bruce Almighty,” this performer brings a gravitas to everything.

Since his breakout role as Sid Vicious in 1986, Gary Oldman has proven he’s a true chameleon actor. He’s been a vampire, a Gotham police commissioner, a wizard, and Winston Churchill, just to name a few. He’s consistently morphed into compelling characters in several genres. But with his background in theater, drama is where he really thrives. Give him an emotional monologue or an eccentric personality and he’s at home. It’s a shame he didn’t get his Oscar until 2018, because he was clearly very deserving of the accolade. But we couldn’t be happier for him!

For many of her early roles, Amy Adams showed audiences that she had a bright and engaging presence. Some people might remember her opposite Leonardo DiCaprio in “Catch Me If You Can.” After impressive supporting roles, she made a major splash as the lead in “Enchanted.” Her bubbly character was popular enough to inspire a sequel. Adams also provided key roles in dramas such as “Doubt” and “American Hustle,” with the latter being one of two successful collaborations with David O. Russell. Her celebrated work in “Arrival” also allowed her to explore a sci-fi movie with an emotional center. On film and beyond, Adams manages to create densely packed characters.

As one of the youngest Oscar nominees for Best Actress in a leading role, Jennifer Lawrence first gained praise for “Winter’s Bone.” She soon became a household name as the heroic Katniss Everdeen in the widely successful “Hunger Games” franchise. At the same time, Lawrence also had a prominent role in the “X-Men” film franchise as Raven (aka Mystique). Her balance of vulnerability and strength made both characters cultural icons. Over the years, she’s earned numerous award nominations for acting, including four Oscar nods. And at just 22, she won Best Actress for her role as the young widow Tiffany Maxwell in “Silver Linings Playbook.”

After hitting the scene with his highly quotable character in “Dazed and Confused,” Matthew McConaughey became the go-to mainstream rom-com lead. However, the 2010s saw a McConaissance. The actor dove into dramatic roles like “The Lincoln Lawyer” and “Dallas Buyers Club,” the latter earning him an Oscar for Best Actor. McConaughey kicked off the HBO gritty anthology series “True Detective” with an Emmy-worthy role as Rust Cohle. He also portrayed an astronaut in the sci-fi drama “Interstellar.” The actor further proved his perfect comedic timing when he joined the star-studded voice cast of “Sing.”

Starting with supporting roles in the 1980s, Robert Downey Jr. had a promising start in Hollywood. His time in teen comedies like “Weird Science” gave way to dramatic work in “Chaplin.” With some personal setbacks in the 1990s, Downey Jr. spent the 2000s rebuilding his career with underrated gems like “Kiss Kiss Bang Bang.” He then got the role of a lifetime as Tony Stark in “Iron Man.” This started his run as the armored superhero, helping to navigate the MCU through many successful entries. He didn’t just become a major box-office star either. Teaming up with visionary filmmaker Christopher Nolan, the performer won an Oscar for his standout performance in “Oppenheimer.”

Some viewers might not remember Julianne Moore’s foray into soap operas, but they likely appreciate her film career. She’s been directed several times by Todd Haynes, with “Safe” being one of her early standouts. In 1997 alone, the actress appeared in Steven Spielberg’s sequel to “Jurassic Park” and earned an Oscar nomination for “Boogie Nights.” She then starred in stirring period pieces like “Far from Heaven” and “The Hours.” With diverse and emotionally intense performances, the actress became one of Hollywood’s most revered performers. Her role in “Still Alice” finally earned her a well-deserved Oscar. This doesn’t discount her great work in comedies like “The Big Lebowski” or “Crazy, Stupid, Love” either.

By the end of the 1970s, Paul had acted in many classics and spent the 1980s making a few more. This includes his revered performance in “The Verdict” and his Oscar-winning part in “The Color of Money.” The latter film allowed him to reprise his role from “The Hustler,” creating a complex look at an older pool player. Newman’s charisma never failed to elevate projects such as his Academy-Award-nominated role in “Nobody’s Fool.” His work started to slow down in the 2000s, but “Road to Perdition” and “Cars” gave audiences two more reasons to appreciate his star power.

After starting out in theater, and graduating from the prestigious Yale School of Drama, Lupita Nyong’o gave an award winning performance in “12 Years a Slave.” The actress continues to entertain moviegoers on the big screen, joining the expanding MCU in the groundbreaking “Black Panther.” Nyong’o had the opportunity to get into motion capture for “The Force Awakens” as wise tavern keeper Maz Kanata. She also lent her voice to Jon Favreau’s “The Jungle Book.” The director cast Nyong’o because of her “tremendous depth of emotion.” Her immense versatility inspired Jordan Peele to offer her a dual role in “Us.” So, that’s an Oscar, two big franchises, voice acting, and horror? Is there anything Lupita Nyong’o can’t do?

From “Excalibur” to British royalty, Helen Mirren’s career spans both mythic and modern subjects. She made her mark in numerous films from costume dramas to murder mysteries like “Gosford Park.” Her stellar work on stage prepared her for amazing parts like Queen Elizabeth II in “The Queen.” This performance earned her an Academy Award and led to many more interesting roles. By the 2010s, she further expanded her artistic reach into blockbuster filmmaking. In both the “Red” and “Fast” franchises, the performer gave macho action stars a run for their money. Mirren always dazzles on screen with poised and determined choices.

Known for musical theater, this actor made a huge leap into films with roles like Wolverine. Beginning with “X-Men,” Hugh Jackman assumed the iconic part that’s spanned multiple decades and spinoffs. He also appeared in romantic dramas and epics like “Australia,” but took a deeper look at mutant heroes with “Logan.” Jackman didn’t forget his musical roots either with his turn in “Les Misérables” or the popular “The Greatest Showman.” The artist even returned to play the funnier side of his former role in “Deadpool & Wolverine.” Through it all, the performer always shows up ready to play with a vibrant acting style.

Few actresses have conquered both movies and television as well as Nicole Kidman. The performer began her career in Australia, but reached a larger audience in the 1990s. These included American hits like “Days of Thunder” and “Batman Forever.” She also delivered complicated roles in “To Die For” and Stanley Kubrick’s final film “Eyes Wide Shut.” Winning an Oscar for “The Hours,” Kidman disappeared into her part as writer Virginia Woolf. She also appeared in Baz Luhrmann’s works like the beloved “Moulin Rouge!” No stranger to taking chances, the actress earned nominations for dramas like “Rabbit Hole” and “Being the Ricardos.” Her acting talents also translated to horror stories such as “The Others” and “The Killing of a Sacred Deer.”

Philip Seymour Hoffman was arguably as talented as any of his contemporaries. In the 1990s, he put his unique stamp on films like “Scent of a Woman” and “Twisters.” Hoffman notably brought some of his best instincts to Paul Thomas Anderson’s catalog. He played everyone from the heartbreaking Scotty in “Boogie Nights” to the manipulative cult leader in “The Master.” His transformative role in “Capote” won him an Oscar, while his ambiguous work in “Doubt” earned him another Academy Award nomination. He was a welcome presence in every project that died much too soon. As both a lead and supporting actor, there were very few people as fascinating to watch as him.

Starting as a child actress, Jodie Foster appeared in several classic films before adulthood. This includes the underrated musical “Bugsy Malone” and Martin Scorsese’s “Taxi Driver.” The Scorsese film earned her an Oscar nomination, but it was the harrowing drama “The Accused” that earned her the prized statue. At the start of the next decade, she won the same award for her spectacular turn in “The Silence of the Lambs.” She’s gone out of this world in “Contact” and helped a friend try to achieve the impossible in “Nyad,” delivering performances full of beautiful nuances. Foster also ventured into directing movies and television, enriching her already-cherished career.

If you love period dramas, you probably love Ralph Fiennes. He earned an Oscar nomination for his chilling performance as Amon Göth in “Schindler’s List.” A few years later, the actor starred in the Best Picture-winner “The English Patient.” Fiennes expanded his influence to rom-coms like “Maid in Manhattan” and dark comedies such as “In Bruges.” Starring in “The Grand Budapest Hotel,” the performer blended his talents into a scene-stealing role. He keeps you guessing in genre-bending films like “The Menu” or thrillers like “Conclave.” There’s also his storied time in the “Harry Potter” and “James Bond” series, further proving his greatness in long-running franchises. With all kinds of superb work, the Englishman is worthy of an Oscar.

Whether he’s wearing heavy makeup or not, Johnny Depp is one of the most influential shapeshifters in film. In the 1980s, his TV roles were a proving ground for his future stardom. Most famously, the actor started a long-standing partnership with Tim Burton. Their collaboration spanned decades and allowed Depp’s chameleon-like performances to flourish. He also showed off his range in more romantic films like “Benny & Joon” and dramas such as “Donnie Brasco.” His other roles include Jack Sparrow in the blockbuster franchise “Pirates of the Caribbean,” allowing him to mix comedy with swashbuckling action. While his personal life and legal battles draw scrutiny, the performer’s past work is hard to ignore.

The spectacular Angela Bassett has starred in biopics, rom-coms, and superhero movies without missing a beat. She earned a nomination for one of her most celebrated performances as Tina Turner. Her powerful role in “What’s Love Got to Do with It” still stands tall, but it’s far from her only acclaimed project. Bassett was later nominated for her compelling role in “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.” Her career also includes unique films like “Strange Days” and an appearance in the “Mission: Impossible” franchise, showing that she commands the screen regardless of the material. Her Honorary Oscar ultimately represents her greater impact on American film.

With almost 150 credits in his extensive filmography, Willem Dafoe is easily one of the greatest living actors. Younger audiences likely know him as Peter Parker’s sinister foe, Norman Osborn (aka Green Goblin). The skilled actor has always been a great villain. His chilling performance as Max Schreck/Count Orlok in “Shadow of the Vampire” earned him a Best Supporting Actor Oscar nomination. And 17 years later, he was nominated again for a very different role in “The Florida Project.” 2019 saw him embody a stranded lighthouse keeper alongside Robert Pattinson in “The Lighthouse.”

With roles in films like “Thelma & Louise,” Brad Pitt entered the Hollywood radar as an attractive star. He spent the 1990s challenging his pretty-boy status with “Legends of the Fall” and then darker mysteries like “Seven.” Pitt also starred in one of the biggest cult hits of its era, “Fight Club.” His high-profile relationships have also earned him plenty of attention and controversy. In his professional career, he can be a charismatic lead in “Moneyball” or deliver a wild transformation for “12 Monkeys.” For “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood,” the actor received an Oscar for his effective work as a stuntman. The performer shows no signs of stopping, leading bold acting projects as well as producing award-winning films.

With grit and determination, this everyman rose to fame in the 1970s. Sylvester Stallone achieved mainstream success with his underdog performance in “Rocky.” It would arguably become his defining role that spanned several fun sequels. Along with being a director, the actor charted a career of box-office hits, action staples, and comedies. He also starred as Rambo in another notable series starting with “First Blood.” Stallone was a competitor to fellow star Arnold Schwarzenegger, playing tough guys in movies like “Cobra” and “Demolition Man.” He was Oscar-nominated for his emotional return as Rocky Balboa in “Creed.” Even as he’s gotten older, the performer shows off his energy with projects like “The Expendables.”

Before she was the badass Annalise Keating we know and love, Viola Davis staked her claim in the film industry. She’s repeatedly delivered on the silver screen with projects like “Doubt” and “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom.” In 2021, Davis reprised her role as the no-nonsense (and sometimes scary) Amanda Waller in “The Suicide Squad,” a character we hope to see for years to come. On the television side, she’s perfected the art of courtroom monologues on the Shonda Rhimes legal thriller “How to Get Away with Murder.” Whether she’s starring in a TV series or film, or even on stage accepting an award, Viola Davis is a powerhouse.

In the sci-fi horror classic “Alien,” Sigourney Weaver entered cinema history as one of its toughest and most memorable heroines. She then returned for sequels that expanded Ellen Ripley’s character and brought her to more audiences around the world. The actress did much more than that franchise however, lending her talents to diverse projects such as “Working Girl” and “Ghostbusters.” Her success continued as she rejoined director James Cameron for the “Avatar” series. Weaver has a magnetic presence that transcends movie genres, giving even the slight glance or stare an added meaning. It’s no wonder she’s continued to excite viewers after all this time.

Keanu Reeves is known for being a great guy and a famous actor. Throughout the 1990s, Reeves grew as an action hero with major projects such as “Point Break” and “Speed.” At the end of the decade, he played one of his most iconic characters in “The Matrix.” The groundbreaking film allowed the performer to show off his knack for awesome action scenes. Years later, he starred in another notable franchise “John Wick.” The star once again showed off his ability to sell intricate gunplay and hand-to-hand combat. He’s also known for the occasional romantic drama and “Bram Stoker’s Dracula.” At this point, it’s easy to say that this legend lights up any screen with his physical performances.

She’s been honored as a theater actor, but some viewers know her better for her film roles. These include notable appearances in the ensemble drama “The Big Chill” and “The World According to Garp.” Close draws you in with her natural talents, with an ability to play to the audience’s emotions. This comes out especially with her frightening work in “Fatal Attraction.” That performance earned one of many Oscar nominations, with more greatness to follow in provocative films such as “The Wife” and “Hillbilly Elegy.” Whether she’s in “101 Dalmatians” or “Guardians of the Galaxy,” this performer never fails to achieve excellence.

This method actor is known for his intense transformations altering his appearance significantly. But Christian Bale’s serious acting ability doesn’t get enough praise on its own. The dedication he puts into his characters is as psychological as it is physical, and it always pays off. Bale has played everything from a fit Wall Street serial killer, to an emaciated insomniac, to an aging American Vice President. His portrayal of Dicky Eklund in “The Fighter” landed him an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor. He even became the Caped Crusader in Christopher Nolan’s widely successful “Dark Knight” trilogy. Bale later made his MCU debut in Taika Waititi's “Thor: Love and Thunder,” playing the villainous Gorr the God Butcher.

Hailing from Austria, this star went from a bodybuilder to a movie legend. Arnold Schwarzenegger ruled the 1980s as one of the biggest action stars. Starring in “The Terminator,” the actor began his work in the long-running sci-fi series. He also starred in hits like “Conan the Barbarian,” “Commando,” and “Predator” in the same decade. Many of his 1990s films were also successful as he starred in the “Terminator” sequel and comedies like “Kindergarten Cop.” His mastery of shootouts, fights, and even comedic set pieces can’t be overstated. After his time as the California governor, Schwarzenegger starred in more movies that capitalized on his macho persona.

Starting in the 1980s, Frances McDormand started a fruitful collaboration with Joel and Ethan Coen. McDormand then went on to win more than a couple of Oscars, including one for the 1996 classic “Fargo.” Throughout the 2000s and 2010s, her lead and supporting performances were notably strong. She later wowed Academy voters with her fierce presence in “Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri.” After exploring multiple genres, the actress tried something different with her subtle turn in “Nomadland.” Her three Best Actress trophies only tell part of the story, highlighting a career full of big risks and huge payoffs.

With his appearances in different franchises and blockbusters, Jackson is practically synonymous with Hollywood success. His engaging presence makes for the highlight of over a hundred movies. The prolific actor makes classics even more iconic, bringing entertaining performances to Quentin Tarantino films like “Pulp Fiction.” Jackson is also known for his incredible line readings that make for one of his greatest cinematic assets. He can even make a movie called “Snakes on a Plane” worth watching. From the Marvel Cinematic Universe to the “Star Wars” prequels, the legendary actor never gives less than one hundred percent.

For his roles in “Star Wars” and the “Indiana Jones” series, Harrison Ford starred in some of the highest-grossing and most beloved films of the 20th century. His role as Han Solo turned him into the scoundrel that you can’t help but love. As the famed archaeologist, Ford became a relatable and grounded hero. This doesn’t even count his work in “Blade Runner” or his roles as Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan. As a reliable leading man, the actor brings a self-assuredness to a noble hero in “Witness,” a desperate doctor “The Fugitive,” and even the secret menace of “What Lies Beneath.”

While Anthony Hopkins has given us too many great performances to count, his ability to embody completely different characters is encapsulated beautifully in his first two Oscar-nominated performances. First, as the highly intelligent and manipulative killer, Dr. Hannibal Lecter in “The Silence of the Lambs”. Second, as the quiet and reserved butler James Stevens in “The Remains of the Day”. His turn years later as Pope Benedict XVI earned him another Academy Award nomination and continued to prove his deserving of a spot on this list. We’d watch Hopkins act any day with, or without, some fava beans and a nice chianti.

From her earlier days “Superbad,” Emma Stone showed that she had a future in acting. Her reputation for comedic parts grew as films like “Zombieland” and “Easy A” let her get big laughs. As she navigated the 2010s, Stone transitioned into more dramatic fare with equal success. This included an Academy Award for her multifaceted work in “La La Land.” Not one to rest on her laurels, the actress pushed herself even further with complex roles in “The Favourite” and “Poor Things.” These dark comedies let her branch out with eclectic material. Her second collaboration with Yorgos Lanthimos earned her another Oscar, reminding audiences of her charismatic presence on screen.

Speaking of method acting and Batman, let’s talk about the scene-stealing clown in “The Dark Knight.” Heath Ledger’s Joker set a new standard for anyone taking on the character in the future. It’s a remarkable performance that earned him a posthumous Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, and garnered lasting praise. Given his previous work in films like “A Knight’s Tale,” fans didn’t believe he could tackle such a role. Boy, were they wrong! But let’s not forget his heartbreaking role as a closeted sheepherder in “Brokeback Mountain.” The late actor was a transcendent artist taken way too soon.

Forever reinventing himself, Joaquin Phoenix has transformed himself into a wide range of distinct characters. After his false retirement from acting, Phoenix returned to the screen in Paul Thomas Anderson’s psychological drama “The Master.” Unsurprisingly, the actor garnered massive praise for his performance as a World War II veteran trying to adjust to civilian life. He followed that up with films like sci-fi romance “Her,” and the biopic “Don't Worry, He Won't Get Far on Foot.” But it’s the box office hit “Joker” that really got everyone’s attention. He’s known for taking dark roles, but the traumatized failed comedian Arthur Fleck is one of his darkest.

It’s hard to imagine a time before Julia Roberts achieved stardom. From her early performances, the actress showed that she was a bright light in any project. “Pretty Woman” was a major breakthrough for her and signaled a decade of successful work. This included thrillers like “The Pelican Brief” and enjoyable rom-coms like “Notting Hill.” She also won an Academy Award for her stunning choices in “Erin Brockovich.” In the 2000s, she lent her talents to the “Ocean’s” series and continued her role as a leading actress in Hollywood. In both comedies and dramas, the performer shows her range and endless chemistry with her co-stars.

While everyone does a Jack Nicholson impression, when it comes to his ability as an actor, there are few who compare. Off screen he has a cool guy with sunglasses aura, on screen Nicholson has proved his ability to do pretty much anything. For some, his role in “The Shining” is the top. For others there’s no more iconic Nicholson than “One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest” or “Chinatown”. And we still haven't mentioned “A Few Good Men”, “As Good as It Gets” or “The Departed”. And if longevity means anything to you, allow us to point out the fact that Nicholson was nominated for an acting Oscar every decade from the ‘60s thru the 2000s.

He’s come a long way from his 23 episode stint as Luke Bower on “Growing Pains”. And sure he was a good-looking guy and he handled his own on screen, but that character wasn’t evidence of the amazing actor Leonardo DiCaprio was to become. It would first really show itself about a year later in DiCaprio’s Oscar-nominated turn in “What's Eating Gilbert Grape”, and the evidence kept mounting from there. In his early 20s his talent reigned in “The Basketball Diaries” and “Romeo + Juliet”. As he got older he matured, and so did his performances, whether it was playing Howard Hughes or J. Edgar Hoover, or winning his first Oscar for his brilliant turn in “The Revenant”.

There are very few people who would ever be on a list of the greatest comedians of all time and a list of the greatest actors. Robin Williams is one of those people. Some of his best performances relied on his brilliant comedic mind and manic personality, from “Good Morning, Vietnam” to “Aladdin”. But what makes Williams such a stand out actor was his ability to play the drama, the quiet and those moments of true depth and introspection. An ability highlighted in his Oscar-winning performance as Sean Maguire in “Good Will Hunting”. He really could do it all. We would stand on our desks any day for Robin Williams.

There’s no doubting Robert De Niro’s place on this list, as he is certainly one of the greatest actors of all time! His iconic roles in movies like “Taxi Driver”, “The King of Comedy” and “Cape Fear” have definitely cemented his name in film history. Beyond emotionally and mentally immersing himself in his roles, De Niro is known for physically committing completely to a character. He famously put on 60 pounds for a portion of his 1980 performance as Jake LaMotta in “Raging Bull”. And while he made his name in dramas and crime films, he’s proved in more recent decades, with films such as “Analyze This” and “Meet the Parents” that he can do comedy also.

For multiple decades and counting, Tom Cruise has built up a monolithic presence on film. His star power generates box-office success, pop culture phenomenons, and acclaimed dramas. His multi-genre work also spans several franchises such as “Top Gun” and “Mission: Impossible.” He’s teamed up with many of the greatest directors of the last half-century, including Martin Scorsese, Stanley Kubrick, and Paul Thomas Anderson. Cruise gives his all to many roles that put his body on the line. Famous for his action projects, the performer does many death-defying stunts. He’s continued to raise the bar as an actor dedicated to his craft.

You know how Classico pasta sauce bills itself as the second best compared to homemade? Well, Cate Blanchett is such a great actor that her portrayal of Queen Elizabeth I and Katharine Hepburn are second only to the actual women themselves. Blanchett’s range is so impressive she even earned one of her many Oscar nominations for playing a version of Bob Dylan in “I’m Not There”. And we can’t forget her portrayal of Galadriel in the “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy. A role that made such an impact, Guillermo del Toro and Peter Jackson wrote her into the “Hobbit” trilogy even though the character isn’t actually in the novel.

Daniel Day-Lewis is widely regarded as one of the finest thespians ever. In 2012 Time magazine proclaimed him the “World’s Greatest Actor”, and with his Oscar for “Lincoln” Day-Lewis became the first 3-time Best Actor winner. His career has been distinguished by thought-provoking performances in a range of critically acclaimed films and the time and energy he devotes to each role is legendary. For his role in “​​In the Name of the Father” Day-Lewis lost over 50 pounds and demanded the crew verbally abuse him. During the filming of “Gangs of New York” the crew had to convince him to get treated for pneumonia - he initially refused because it wasn’t true to the time period. When it comes to acting - Day-Lewis drinks all of our milkshakes!

When it comes to great actors, few have a magnetism that can compare to that of Denzel Washington. His charisma and talent are larger than life. Whether he’s doing Shakespeare or rockin’ an action movie, Washington’s presence fills the screen, grabs you and doesn’t allow you to look away. He doesn’t even have to say a single word - as he proved early on in one of the most powerful scenes of his career in the film “Glory”. Washington may not be as big as a giant gorilla, but when it comes to screen presence, King Kong really doesn’t have anything on this uber-talented actor.

While most associated with big, loud outbursts and moments of climactic exclamations, pigeon-holing Al Pacino in that way does a disservice to one of the greatest acting talents Hollywood has ever seen. Sure he’s great at being loud, but that is not where his greatness comes from. For all of the “you’re out of order” and “Attica, Attica, Attica”, there are also moments of quiet conversation, true studies in character that are just as riveting. He can be the head of a criminal family or an aging, paranoid mid-level mafioso. He can do Shakespeare and Mamet, and he does it all with a force and a deep connection with character and truth that continues to impress.

Comedy, drama, romance… Tom Hanks can do it all. Hanks can float from one genre to another and knock it out of the park each time like few other actors can. He made his name in ‘80s comedies and became a rom-com icon in the ‘90s. But while other actors could have easily been boxed into those types of movies, Hanks showed off his range, winning two consecutive Best Actor Oscars for “Philadelphia” and “Forrest Gump”. He also made us cry over a volleyball - how many actors can say that? Hanks might be the nicest guy in Hollywood, but he’s also one of the best actors.

Meryl Streep’s unparalleled acting ability, approachability and dynamism easily make her one of our greatest thespians of both stage and screen. From her heartbreaking turn in “Sophie’s Choice” to her spot-on performance as Margaret Thatcher in “The Iron Lady” Streep has consistently showcased her remarkable range as a performer. And while awards and nominations might not always be a perfect indicator of talent, Streep’s record 21 Oscar, and 33 Golden Globe nominations are crazy numbers that can’t be overlooked. Comedy, drama, musicals, accents… As an actor, Streep has proven that there’s nothing she can’t handle - and do so at a level we’ve rarely seen. Which defining movie star did we snub for this list? Let us know in the comments below.