02 March 2014

In a Leading Role: Part II - The Gentlemen

by Kevin Powers

Now, this race is a good one. It really comes down to just two. Is it Leo, or is it Matthew?


I'm thinking the old weight-loss trick takes it!

Christian Bale in American Hustle


So, we were all wondering what happened to all that weight McConaughey lost. Well, it went into Christian Bale's gut. That thing is epic as is the hairpiece. This is one of Bale's best roles. He transformed himself into the oddly charismatic grifter, Irving Rosenfeld. The intensity of American Hustle's later scenes are where Bale really brings his A-game. Great role for a great actor.

Bruce Dern in Nebraska


I can't begin to tell you how happy it makes me that Bruce Dern got this role. He is an actor you just don't see much of anymore. His last good work was on HBO's Big Love, in which he played the fundamentalist father of the Bill Paxton character. His work here is stern and understated. He truly becomes the quiet, alcoholic old coot on a quest for his publisher's clearinghouse-style fortune. And in the beautiful last scenes of this movie, he was perfect.

Leonardo DiCaprio in The Wolf of Wall Street


Dear Leo,

Oh, Leo, when will you catch a break? You are forty, playing a man in his twenties (for the most part), and your energy is just astounding. I'm so glad you talked Marty into making this movie. It was the best time I had spending three hours since last baseball season. This is my favorite role of the year. I really, really want you take this one, Leo. It's your time...I hope!

Best of luck,

Kevin

Chiwetel Ejiofor in 12 Years a Slave


What a powerful performance from a great actor. 12 Years a Slave is a masterful historical drama, and Ejiofor's work matches Steve McQueen's vision to perfection. Playing such an emotional man in an even more emotional situation must have been challenging. I applaud this actor for that alone.

Matthew McConaughey in Dallas Buyers Club


Old McConaughey is doing things right now that are just perfrect. He is making small movies for little money and even jumping onto the HBO scene with the impeccable True Detective. His role as AIDS patient Ron Woodruff is without a doubt his best work to date. He will win tonight. I will be OK with that.

Powers' Favorite: Leonardo DiCaprio

Powers' Prediction: Matthew McConaughey


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