5. John Ireland in All the King's Men- I will admit the character of Jack Burden's is not a great one, but Ireland stilted and uncharismatic performance does not help matters at all.
4. Dean Jagger in Twelve O'clock High- Jagger's character actually should have been the heart of his film, but Jagger is unable to really bring an authentic emotion, or life to his character.
3. Arthur Kennedy in Champion- Kennedy does not get a lot of time to develop his character but he does manage to find himself as a moral conscience and later contrast to Kirk Douglas' character quite well.
2. James Whitmore in Battleground- Whitmore's performance is realistic and always proper as the commanding sergeant of the men in Battleground, but the most impressive part of his performance is his expertly handled physical disintegration throughout the film.
1. Ralph Richardson in The Heiress- I do not blame anyone for not being interested in this year, since again this is another supporting year with a clear cut winner. Richardson performance is simply superb piece of acting. He is outstanding in creating a memorable, and incredibly effective character. He manages his character quiet and more obvious cruelty exceptionally well. Richardson also manages to make a fully realized and three dimensional character.
Deserving Performances:
Alec Guinness in Kind Hearts and Coronets
Edmond O'Brien in White Heat
