The Absolute Best Foreign Actors of the Last Five Years

The global film industry has seen a massive shift toward international storytelling, with actors from across the globe leading some of the most critically acclaimed projects of the decade. From the haunting performances in European arthouse cinema to the explosive energy of South Korean dramas, these male performers have redefined excellence in acting between 2021 and 2026. This list highlights the talent that has crossed borders and broken language barriers to captivate audiences worldwide. These actors have consistently delivered work that challenges conventions and showcases the depth of the human experience on screen.

Pilou Asbæk

Pilou Asbæk has remained a prominent figure in both European and Hollywood productions over the last few years. The Danish actor appeared in the high-profile sequel ‘Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom’ and the psychological thriller ‘Run Rabbit Run’. Known for his ability to portray both menacing villains and empathetic leads, he has maintained a steady presence in international cinema. His recent work continues to highlight his physical acting style and commanding voice. He remains one of Denmark’s most successful exports to the global stage.

Gilles Lellouche

Gilles Lellouche has solidified his status as one of France’s most versatile leading men through a series of intense dramatic roles. He delivered a powerful performance in the 2021 thriller ‘BAC Nord’, which explored the moral complexities of law enforcement in Marseille. Lellouche also starred in the romantic drama ‘Je verrai toujours vos visages’, further demonstrating his range. His ability to balance commercial appeal with critical depth has made him a staple of modern French cinema. He continues to be recognized for his naturalistic approach to complex characters.

Denis Ménochet

Denis Ménochet earned significant international attention for his role in the 2022 film ‘The Beasts’, for which he won the Goya Award for Best Actor. His performance in the tense rural thriller showcased his ability to convey deep-seated frustration and resilience. He also appeared in Peter Von Kant, a reimagining of a Fassbinder classic, where he played the titular flamboyant director. Ménochet is celebrated for his imposing physical presence and his capacity for great vulnerability. He has become a favorite among European directors for challenging, character-driven projects.

Paul Kircher

Paul Kircher emerged as a major breakout talent in French cinema with his leading role in ‘Winter Boy’ in 2022. His portrayal of a teenager grappling with sudden loss earned him a nomination for the César Award for Most Promising Actor. He followed this success with a central role in the 2023 sci-fi drama ‘The Animal Kingdom’, which further proved his ability to anchor high-concept films. Kircher is noted for his expressive features and the raw emotional honesty he brings to his roles. He represents the new generation of European performers making a significant impact.

Daryl McCormack

Irish actor Daryl McCormack rose to international prominence following his performance in the 2022 film ‘Good Luck to You, Leo Grande’. Starring opposite Emma Thompson, he received critical praise for his nuanced and sensitive portrayal of a sex worker. He also joined the cast of the acclaimed series ‘Peaky Blinders’ and starred in the gothic thriller ‘The Woman in the Wall’. McCormack has been recognized with BAFTA nominations, highlighting his rapid ascent in the industry. His work is characterized by a blend of charisma and quiet intensity.

Felix Kammerer

Felix Kammerer gained worldwide recognition for his debut film role in the 2022 adaptation of ‘All Quiet on the Western Front’. As the lead character Paul Bäumer, the Austrian actor provided a devastating look at the psychological toll of war. The film won four Academy Awards, and Kammerer’s performance was hailed as the emotional anchor of the production. His transition from the stage at the Burgtheater to major international cinema was met with significant critical acclaim. He is now considered one of the most promising young actors working in Europe today.

Jamie Dornan

Jamie Dornan has successfully moved beyond his early franchise roles to deliver some of the best work of his career in the past five years. He received critical acclaim for his performance in the 2021 semi-autobiographical film ‘Belfast’, directed by Kenneth Branagh. Dornan also led the mystery thriller series ‘The Tourist’, which became a global hit for its unique blend of humor and tension. His ability to play grounded, relatable characters has endeared him to both critics and general audiences. He continues to choose diverse projects that showcase his growth as a dramatic actor.

George MacKay

George MacKay has followed up his success in ‘1917’ with a series of daring and transformative roles in recent years. He starred in the 2021 historical drama ‘Munich – The Edge of War’ and the experimental 2023 film ‘The Beast’. MacKay is known for his immense physical commitment to his roles, often undergoing significant changes to fit his characters. His work in the past five years has demonstrated a preference for complex, often dark narratives that push his boundaries. He remains one of the most dedicated British actors of his generation.

Claes Bang

Danish actor Claes Bang has continued to impress international audiences with his sophisticated and often enigmatic performances. He appeared in the 2022 epic ‘The Northman’ and the 2023 psychological thriller series ‘The New Look’. Bang’s background in European theater informs his screen work, giving him a commanding and intellectual presence. He has a unique ability to play polished characters who harbor dark or complicated secrets. His recent projects showcase a talent for navigating both historical epics and modern character studies.

Nikolaj Coster-Waldau

Nikolaj Coster-Waldau has maintained a prolific career following the conclusion of his most famous television work. He starred in the 2022 survival drama ‘Against the Ice’, a project he also co-wrote, which showcased his physical and emotional endurance. The Danish actor also appeared in the 2023 action-thriller ‘God Is a Bullet’, proving his continued appeal in high-stakes roles. Coster-Waldau is respected for his versatility and his ability to transition seamlessly between Danish and international productions. He continues to be a major force in the global entertainment industry.

Wagner Moura

Brazilian actor Wagner Moura has expanded his influence as both an actor and director over the past five years. He delivered a chilling and complex performance in the 2022 Apple TV+ series ‘Shining Girls’. Moura also took on a significant role in the 2024 film ‘Civil War’, where his performance was noted for its intensity and realism. His ability to work across different languages and genres has made him a vital figure in international cinema. He remains dedicated to projects that explore social and political themes with nuance.

Vincent Cassel

Vincent Cassel continues to be one of France’s most iconic and daring exports to the global screen. In the past five years, he starred in the epic two-part adaptation of ‘The Three Musketeers’ as Athos. He also took on a leading role in the thriller series ‘Liaison’, showcasing his enduring appeal in international co-productions. Cassel’s performances are often marked by a kinetic energy and a willingness to explore the darker sides of his characters. He remains a high-demand actor for directors looking for magnetic and unpredictable talent.

Matthias Schoenaerts

Belgian actor Matthias Schoenaerts has spent the last five years taking on a variety of challenging roles in both film and television. He starred in the 2022 series ‘Amsterdam’ and the 2023 reimagining of the classic Western ‘Django’. Schoenaerts is highly regarded for his ability to convey deep emotion through subtle physical cues and silences. His work often explores themes of trauma, masculinity, and redemption. He remains a prominent figure in both European arthouse and major international streaming projects.

Simu Liu

Simu Liu transitioned from a popular television star to a global cinematic icon with his role in ‘Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings’. The Canadian actor’s performance in the 2021 Marvel film was praised for its physicality and charm. Since then, he has appeared in the massive 2023 hit ‘Barbie’, showcasing his comedic timing and versatility. Liu has used his platform to advocate for better representation of Asian actors in Western media. His career trajectory in the last five years has been one of the most rapid and successful in the industry.

Steven Yeun

Steven Yeun has consistently chosen provocative and artistically rewarding projects throughout the last five years. He received an Academy Award nomination for ‘Minari’ in 2021, a performance that highlighted his subtle and moving acting style. He followed this with a haunting role in Jordan Peele’s ‘Nope’ and a critically acclaimed performance in the 2023 series ‘Beef’. Yeun’s work is characterized by a deep intelligence and a willingness to take creative risks. He has established himself as one of the most exciting and reliable actors of his generation.

Dev Patel

Dev Patel has evolved into a formidable creative force, culminating in his directorial debut ‘Monkey Man’ in 2024. In the same film, he delivered a grueling physical performance that showcased his dedication to the action genre. Previously, he starred in the 2021 fantasy film ‘The Green Knight’, which was hailed for its visual splendor and Patel’s grounded performance. He has moved far beyond his early roles, establishing a screen presence that is both soulful and intense. Patel continues to be a champion for original, diverse storytelling on a global scale.

Kingsley Ben-Adir

Kingsley Ben-Adir has had a remarkable five-year run, taking on some of the most iconic figures in history and fiction. He portrayed Malcolm X in ‘One Night in Miami…’ and the title character in the 2024 biopic ‘Bob Marley: One Love’. He also demonstrated his range by playing a version of Ken in the 2023 blockbuster ‘Barbie’. Ben-Adir is praised for his meticulous research and his ability to capture the essence of the people he portrays. His rise to stardom is a testament to his transformative skills and charisma.

Harris Dickinson

British actor Harris Dickinson has become a fixture in both independent cinema and major studio releases. He starred in the 2022 Palme d’Or winner ‘Triangle of Sadness’, where he displayed excellent comedic and dramatic range. Dickinson also appeared in ‘Where the Crawdads Sing’ and the 2023 wrestling drama ‘The Iron Claw’. He is often noted for his ability to play characters who are both physically imposing and emotionally fragile. His career in the last five years has been marked by a series of bold and successful choices.

Josh O’Connor

Josh O’Connor has solidified his reputation as one of the most talented actors of his generation with a series of acclaimed performances. After winning an Emmy for ‘The Crown’, he moved into film with notable roles in ‘Challengers’ and ‘La Chimera’. In the 2024 film ‘Challengers’, his performance was praised for its complexity and chemistry with his co-stars. O’Connor is known for his ability to disappear into roles, often adopting completely different mannerisms and accents. He continues to be a favorite for directors seeking depth and authenticity.

Bill Skarsgård

Bill Skarsgård has moved beyond his famous role as Pennywise to explore a wide variety of dark and challenging characters. He delivered a terrifying performance in the 2022 horror hit ‘Barbarian’ and took on the lead in the 2024 reboot of ‘The Crow’. Skarsgård also appeared as the primary antagonist in ‘John Wick: Chapter 4’, holding his own against major action stars. His ability to use his physical stature and expressive face to create tension is nearly unmatched in modern cinema. He remains a key figure in both the horror and action genres.

Alexander Skarsgård

Alexander Skarsgård reached a career peak with his transformative role in the 2022 Viking epic ‘The Northman’. His physical dedication to the role was widely discussed and served as the backbone of the film’s gritty realism. He also delivered a compelling performance in the final seasons of the acclaimed series ‘Succession’. Skarsgård has a unique ability to play both brutal, primal characters and sophisticated, manipulative ones. His work over the past five years has demonstrated an impressive range that few of his peers can match.

Gary Oldman

Gary Oldman has continued to prove why he is considered one of the greatest actors of all time through his recent work. He has led the acclaimed espionage series ‘Slow Horses’ since 2022, playing the disheveled and brilliant Jackson Lamb. His performance in the series has been praised for its wit and layered complexity, earning him numerous award nominations. Oldman also appeared in the 2023 film ‘Oppenheimer’, making a brief but impactful appearance as Harry S. Truman. Even after decades in the industry, he remains a vital and transformative presence on screen.

Christian Bale

Christian Bale remains one of the most dedicated method actors in the world, a trait he has continued to display over the last five years. He played the villainous Gorr the God Butcher in the 2022 film ‘Thor: Love and Thunder’, bringing a sense of gravity to the superhero genre. Bale also starred in the 2022 period mystery ‘Amsterdam’ and the gothic thriller ‘The Pale Blue Eye’. His ability to undergo drastic physical transformations for his roles continues to fascinate audiences and critics alike. He remains a benchmark for commitment and intensity in modern acting.

Ryan Gosling

Ryan Gosling experienced a massive cultural moment with his performance as Ken in the 2023 film ‘Barbie’. The Canadian actor received an Academy Award nomination for the role, which showcased his comedic brilliance and musical talent. He followed this with the 2024 action-comedy ‘The Fall Guy’, further cementing his status as a versatile leading man. Gosling has a rare ability to balance deadpan humor with genuine emotional depth. His work in the last five years has reaffirmed his position as one of the most charismatic stars in global cinema.

Hugh Jackman

Hugh Jackman has had a diverse few years, ranging from intimate drama to massive blockbuster spectacles. He received critical acclaim for his performance in the 2022 film ‘The Son’, where he explored the complexities of fatherhood and mental health. In 2024, he made a highly anticipated return to his iconic role as Wolverine in ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’. Jackman continues to demonstrate his incredible range as a performer who can lead a musical, a drama, or an action film with equal skill. His enduring popularity is a result of his immense talent and professional longevity.

Jacob Elordi

Jacob Elordi has rapidly transitioned from a teen idol to a respected dramatic actor over the past five years. He received widespread praise for his role in the series ‘Euphoria’, which he followed with a breakout year in 2023. Elordi portrayed Elvis Presley in ‘Priscilla’ and starred in the provocative drama ‘Saltburn’, earning nominations for his work in both. He is noted for his screen presence and his ability to play characters with a dark, underlying complexity. His recent trajectory suggests he will be a major force in cinema for years to come.

Anders Danielsen Lie

Norwegian actor Anders Danielsen Lie gained significant international acclaim for his role in the 2021 film ‘The Worst Person in the World’. His performance was hailed as a masterpiece of subtlety and emotional resonance, earning him awards from various critics’ circles. Lie often balances his acting career with his work as a medical doctor, which adds a unique perspective to his roles. He also appeared in the 2021 film ‘Bergman Island’, further establishing his presence in high-end international cinema. He is considered one of the most thoughtful and precise actors working today.

Pierfrancesco Favino

Pierfrancesco Favino is arguably Italy’s most prominent male actor of the current era, known for his incredible versatility. In the past five years, he starred in ‘Nostalgia’ and ‘Comandante’, delivering powerful performances that anchored both films. Favino is a master of accents and physical transformation, often disappearing completely into his roles. His work has been recognized at the Venice Film Festival and the David di Donatello Awards. He continues to bridge the gap between Italian cinema and international audiences with his compelling screen work.

Tahar Rahim

Tahar Rahim has continued his ascent as a global star with several high-profile roles in the last five years. He received a Golden Globe nomination for his harrowing performance in the 2021 film ‘The Mauritanian’. Rahim also starred as the notorious serial killer Charles Sobhraj in the hit series ‘The Serpent’. In 2023, he appeared in the epic ‘Napoleon’, playing a key political figure in Revolutionary France. His ability to play magnetic yet dangerous characters has made him one of the most sought-after actors in international co-productions.

Park Hae-il

South Korean actor Park Hae-il delivered one of the most celebrated performances of 2022 in Park Chan-wook’s ‘Decision to Leave’. His portrayal of a meticulous detective who falls for a murder suspect was noted for its quiet intensity and romantic longing. The film was a major success on the international festival circuit, bringing Park’s talent to a wider global audience. He also starred in the 2022 historical war film ‘Hansan: Rising Dragon’, playing the legendary Admiral Yi Sun-sin. Park is respected for his intellectual approach to acting and his ability to convey complex emotions through minimal gestures.

Ricardo Darín

Ricardo Darín remains the face of Argentine cinema, and his work in the last five years has only added to his legendary status. He starred in the 2022 film ‘Argentina, 1985’, which won the Golden Globe for Best Foreign Language Film and received an Oscar nomination. Darín’s performance as prosecutor Julio César Strassera was praised for its humanity, humor, and moral weight. He has a unique ability to represent the “everyman” while navigating high-stakes political and social dramas. Darín remains a vital cultural icon and a master of his craft.

Tony Leung Chiu-wai

Tony Leung Chiu-wai made a significant impact on global audiences with his role as Wenwu in the 2021 film ‘Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings’. Often cited as one of the best villains in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, his performance brought a sense of tragic depth to the character. In 2023, he was awarded a Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement at the Venice Film Festival, a testament to his storied career. He also starred in the 2023 crime epic ‘The Goldfinger’, reuniting with Andy Lau. Leung remains a paragon of expressive acting, particularly through his famed “acting with his eyes.”

Hidetoshi Nishijima

Hidetoshi Nishijima became a global sensation following his lead role in the 2021 film ‘Drive My Car’. The film won the Academy Award for Best International Feature Film, and Nishijima’s understated, grieving performance was central to its success. He followed this with a lead role in the 2022 series ‘Shin Ultraman’, showcasing his ability to lead major franchise projects. Nishijima is known for his stoic yet deeply felt performances, which have made him a favorite of both Japanese and international directors. His work in the last five years has solidified his status as a major international talent.

Robert Pattinson

Robert Pattinson has successfully navigated the transition from blockbuster star to one of the most interesting actors in the industry. He took on the mantle of the Caped Crusader in the 2022 film ‘The Batman’, bringing a dark, detective-focused energy to the character. He also continued his work in auteur-driven cinema, collaborating with directors like Bong Joon-ho on the upcoming ‘Mickey 17’. Pattinson is praised for his fearless role choices and his ability to bring a strange, compelling energy to every character. He remains one of the most unpredictable and talented actors of his generation.

Daniel Kaluuya

Daniel Kaluuya won an Academy Award in 2021 for his powerful portrayal of Fred Hampton in ‘Judas and the Black Messiah’. He followed this success with a leading role in Jordan Peele’s 2022 sci-fi horror film ‘Nope’, where his quiet, observational style was highly effective. Kaluuya also lent his voice to ‘Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse’, playing the fan-favorite Spider-Punk. He is recognized for his immense screen presence and his ability to convey authority and vulnerability simultaneously. His career continues to be defined by high-quality, impactful projects.

Antonio Banderas

Antonio Banderas has enjoyed a career renaissance in the last five years, blending dramatic roles with high-energy voice acting. He returned to his iconic role in ‘Puss in Boots: The Last Wish’ in 2022, which was a massive critical and commercial success. Banderas also appeared in ‘Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny’ and the 2021 film ‘Official Competition’ alongside Penelope Cruz. His performance in ‘Official Competition’ was a masterclass in comedic timing and self-parody. He remains one of Spain’s most enduring and beloved international stars.

Franz Rogowski

German actor Franz Rogowski has become a darling of the international film festival circuit over the past five years. He received widespread acclaim for his role in the 2023 film ‘Passages’, where he played a narcissistic filmmaker caught in a love triangle. Rogowski is known for his unique physical presence and his ability to play characters who are both alienating and deeply sympathetic. He also starred in the 2021 film ‘Great Freedom’, delivering a heartbreaking performance as a man imprisoned for his sexuality. He is currently one of the most exciting and unconventional actors working in Europe.

Lee Jung-jae

Lee Jung-jae became a global household name following the massive success of the 2021 series ‘Squid Game’. His performance as Seong Gi-hun earned him an Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series, a historic win for a non-English performance. He expanded his career into directing with the 2022 action-thriller ‘Hunt’, which he also starred in. Lee furthered his international reach by joining the ‘Star Wars’ universe in the 2024 series ‘The Acolyte’. His transition from a veteran South Korean star to a global icon has been one of the biggest stories of the decade.

Benedict Cumberbatch

Benedict Cumberbatch delivered one of the finest performances of his career in the 2021 film ‘The Power of the Dog’. His portrayal of the repressed and cruel cowboy Phil Burbank earned him an Academy Award nomination and universal critical praise. He also continued his role as Doctor Strange in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, leading the 2022 sequel ‘Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness’. Cumberbatch’s ability to play highly intelligent, often socially difficult characters remains his greatest strength. He is a cornerstone of modern British acting and a major draw for audiences worldwide.

Colin Farrell

Colin Farrell has undergone a significant career transformation, leading to some of his most acclaimed work in recent years. He received his first Academy Award nomination for the 2022 film ‘The Banshees of Inisherin’, a performance noted for its profound sadness and simplicity. Farrell also disappeared into the role of The Penguin in ‘The Batman’ and its subsequent spin-off series. His work in the 2021 series ‘The North Water’ and the 2022 film ‘Thirteen Lives’ further showcased his impressive range. He has entered a new phase of his career where his talent is more recognized than ever.

Riz Ahmed

Riz Ahmed has spent the last five years pushing the boundaries of what a modern leading man can be. He received an Academy Award nomination for ‘Sound of Metal’ in 2021 and won an Oscar for his short film ‘The Long Goodbye’ in 2022. Ahmed also starred in the 2021 sci-fi thriller ‘Encounter’ and the animated documentary ‘Flee’. He is a vocal advocate for better representation in the industry and has used his platform to champion diverse stories. His performances are consistently characterized by a high level of emotional intelligence and technical skill.

Ke Huy Quan

Ke Huy Quan staged one of the most remarkable comebacks in Hollywood history with his role in ‘Everything Everywhere All at Once’. His performance in the 2022 film won him the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor and captured the hearts of audiences globally. Since his win, he has joined the ‘Loki’ series on Disney+ and appeared in ‘American Born Chinese’. Quan’s infectious energy and genuine talent have made him one of the most beloved figures in the industry today. His story remains an inspiring example of perseverance and late-career success.

Javier Bardem

Javier Bardem continues to be a force of nature on screen, delivering powerful performances in both English and Spanish. He received an Academy Award nomination for his portrayal of Desi Arnaz in the 2021 film ‘Being the Ricardos’. He also played the formidable Stilgar in ‘Dune’ (2021) and ‘Dune: Part Two’ (2024), bringing gravity to the science fiction epic. In the 2021 film ‘The Good Boss’, he showcased his incredible comedic and dramatic range as a manipulative factory owner. Bardem remains one of the most charismatic and technically proficient actors in the world.

Koji Yakusho

Koji Yakusho is a titan of Japanese cinema who gained immense international praise for his role in the 2023 film ‘Perfect Days’. His performance as a public toilet cleaner in Tokyo won him the Best Actor award at the Cannes Film Festival. The film, directed by Wim Wenders, relied heavily on Yakusho’s ability to convey deep emotion through everyday routines. He also appeared in the 2023 blockbuster ‘Shin Kamen Rider’, demonstrating his versatility across genres. Yakusho is celebrated for his naturalism and the quiet dignity he brings to every character he portrays.

Andrew Scott

Andrew Scott has reached new heights of critical acclaim over the past five years, particularly for his role in ‘All of Us Strangers’. His 2023 performance in the film was hailed as one of the best of the year, earning him numerous nominations and awards. Scott also led the 2024 series ‘Ripley’, where his cold and calculating portrayal of the title character was a stark departure from his previous work. He is known for his incredible versatility, moving easily between theater, television, and film. His ability to connect with audiences on a deep emotional level is a hallmark of his career.

Barry Keoghan

Barry Keoghan has become one of the most sought-after actors in the world due to his unique screen presence and fearlessness. He received an Academy Award nomination for his heart-wrenching role in ‘The Banshees of Inisherin’ in 2022. He followed this with a career-defining performance in the 2023 film ‘Saltburn’, which became a massive cultural talking point. Keoghan also joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe in ‘Eternals’ and made a brief, memorable appearance as the Joker in ‘The Batman’. His ability to play unpredictable and often unsettling characters has made him a standout talent.

Paul Mescal

Paul Mescal has ascended to superstardom in a remarkably short period, driven by his immense talent and thoughtful role choices. He received an Academy Award nomination for the 2022 indie hit ‘Aftersun’, a performance that was universally praised for its emotional depth. Mescal also starred in the 2023 drama ‘All of Us Strangers’ and took on the lead role in the 2024 epic ‘Gladiator II’. He is known for his ability to convey masculinity through a lens of vulnerability and sensitivity. He is widely considered the leading actor of his generation.

Mads Mikkelsen

Mads Mikkelsen has continued to dominate both international and Hollywood cinema with his magnetic presence. He delivered a masterful performance in the 2023 historical drama ‘The Promised Land’, which was Denmark’s official Oscar entry. Mikkelsen also appeared as the antagonist in ‘Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny’ and took over the role of Grindelwald in ‘Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore’. His ability to transition from high-budget blockbusters to intimate European dramas is unparalleled. He remains one of the most respected and recognizable actors in the world.

Song Kang-ho

Song Kang-ho is a legend of South Korean cinema who has achieved unprecedented international success in recent years. In 2022, he became the first South Korean male actor to win the Best Actor award at the Cannes Film Festival for his role in ‘Broker’. He also starred in the 2021 disaster film ‘Emergency Declaration’ and the 2023 black comedy ‘Cobweb’. Song is known for his incredible range, often blending humor, pathos, and intensity in a single performance. His work continues to be a primary driver of the global interest in South Korean storytelling.

Cillian Murphy

Cillian Murphy has reached the pinnacle of his career over the past five years, culminating in his historic Academy Award win. His portrayal of J. Robert Oppenheimer in the 2023 film ‘Oppenheimer’ was a monumental achievement in acting, capturing the complex inner life of a world-changing figure. He also concluded his iconic role as Tommy Shelby in ‘Peaky Blinders’, a performance that defined a decade of television. Murphy’s work is characterized by an intense focus and an ability to convey vast amounts of information through his eyes and silence. He is currently the most celebrated foreign actor in the global film industry.

Please share your thoughts on these incredible performances and let us know who your favorite foreign actor is in the comments.