5. Tom Conti in Reuben, Reuben- Conti's first scene is absolutely brilliant 5 material in my book, he has the perfect charm, and intelligence in that scene, he is also great in his last scene, but between these two scenes his performance becomes a bit redundant, and just not all that interesting.
4. Micheal Caine in Educating Rita- I like Caine's performance and he realistically portrays the tired, disinterested nature of the character. He just is not given enough to do though, and the very nature of the character forces him to be almost an entirely reactive character.
3. Albert Finney in The Dresser- This was a somewhat difficult choice to make, as Finney is very good in portraying his domineering, as well as very much vulnerable actor, extremely well. It is a very challenging role especially in the constant pain of Sir only alleviated briefly by his duties for the show. but Finney meets the challenge well.
2. Tom Courtenay in The Dresser- Courtenay is flawed in a minor fashion, in that some of his physical movements seem planned, yet for me he still topped Finney because of the pure energy, and effectiveness of everything else he did in the role. He made the dresser a fascinating character, and made a lasting impression with his heartbreaking final speech showing how much Sir meant to Norman.
1. Robert Duvall in Tender Mercies- This was an extremely easy choice for me, He never strikes a single false note with Mac Sledge, he is always completely on the mark, without every seeming to act, which is an outstanding achievement. This is a brilliant performance by Duvall, that never comprises for a cheap trick, but always stays true and honest to his character, creating one of the best performances of this kind or any kind.
Deserving Performances:
Christopher Walken in The Dead Zone
