The Absolute Best American Actors Of The Last 10 Years

The last decade of American cinema has been defined by a remarkable blend of veteran brilliance and the emergence of transformative new talents. These performers have navigated a rapidly changing industry, moving between expansive franchise universes and intimate, award-winning independent films. The standard of acting has reached new heights through immersive character studies and emotionally resonant portrayals that have captured global audiences. This list celebrates 50 American male actors who have demonstrated exceptional skill, versatility, and influence over the past ten years. Each entry highlights the significant roles and accomplishments that have secured their place in the modern pantheon of performance.

Chris Evans

Chris Evans is widely recognized for his portrayal of Steve Rogers in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, a role he concluded in ‘Avengers: Endgame’. Beyond the superhero genre, he has showcased his range in the mystery film ‘Knives Out’ as the antagonistic Ransom Drysdale. He also took on a lead role in the television miniseries ‘Defending Jacob’, playing a father whose son is accused of murder. Evans has also ventured into voice acting, providing the voice for Buzz Lightyear in the 2022 film ‘Lightyear’. He continues to transition between high-budget action films and character-driven dramas.

Miles Teller

Miles Teller gained critical acclaim for his intense performance in ‘Whiplash’ and has since become a fixture in major Hollywood productions. He starred in the ‘Divergent’ series before taking on the role of Rooster in the 2022 blockbuster ‘Top Gun: Maverick’. Teller also appeared in ‘Bleed for This’, portraying world champion boxer Vinny Pazienza in a biographical drama. Recently, he starred in the miniseries ‘The Offer’, which chronicles the development of the legendary film ‘The Godfather’. His career often highlights characters with high emotional stakes and physical demands.

J.K. Simmons

J.K. Simmons won an Academy Award for his terrifying portrayal of a music instructor in ‘Whiplash’, a performance that remains a career highlight. He has since appeared in a wide variety of roles, including Commissioner Gordon in ‘Justice League’ and a suburban father in ‘Palm Springs’. Simmons also stars in the science fiction thriller series ‘Counterpart’, where he plays two versions of the same character from parallel dimensions. He provides the voice for Omni-Man in the animated series ‘Invincible’, showcasing his vocal range and authority. His presence in both film and television continues to be marked by versatility and intensity.

Jeremy Renner

Jeremy Renner has spent much of the last decade portraying Clint Barton in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, eventually leading his own series ‘Hawkeye’. He received praise for his performance in the neo-Western thriller ‘Wind River’, where he played a veteran tracker helping an FBI agent. Renner also stars in the gritty crime drama series ‘Mayor of Kingstown’, a role that emphasizes his ability to play stoic, complex leaders. Despite a significant personal injury in 2023, he has remained a prominent figure in the industry. His body of work often explores themes of duty, survival, and moral ambiguity.

Jason Bateman

Jason Bateman successfully transitioned from comedic roles to heavy dramatic work with his lead role in ‘Ozark’. As Marty Byrde, he portrayed a financial advisor forced to launder money for a drug cartel, earning multiple award nominations for his performance. He also directed several episodes of the series, further establishing his creative influence behind the camera. Bateman continued his dramatic streak with the Stephen King adaptation ‘The Outsider’, where he played both an actor and a director. His ability to balance dry humor with chilling tension has made him one of the most respected figures in modern television.

Bill Hader

Bill Hader moved beyond his ‘Saturday Night Live’ origins to create and star in the critically acclaimed dark comedy ‘Barry’. His portrayal of a hitman trying to become an actor earned him several Emmy Awards and showcased a profound dramatic depth. Hader also appeared in the horror sequel ‘It Chapter Two’, delivering a performance that balanced comedic relief with genuine terror. He has voiced numerous characters in animated films, including ‘Inside Out’ and ‘The Addams Family 2’. His evolution into a multi-hyphenate talent has made him one of the most distinctive voices in the industry.

John David Washington

John David Washington rose to prominence with his lead role in the television series ‘Ballers’ before moving into major film projects. He earned a Golden Globe nomination for his performance as Ron Stallworth in Spike Lee’s ‘BlacKkKlansman’. Washington also starred in Christopher Nolan’s high-concept thriller ‘Tenet’, where he performed many of his own stunts as the Protagonist. He appeared alongside Zendaya in the intimate drama ‘Malcolm & Marie’, a film shot entirely during the pandemic. His career is characterized by a physical presence and an ability to anchor complex, large-scale narratives.

Ke Huy Quan

Ke Huy Quan made a historic return to acting with his performance as Waymond Wang in ‘Everything Everywhere All at Once’. His role earned him the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, marking a significant milestone after a decades-long hiatus from the screen. Following this success, he joined the cast of ‘Loki’ for its second season, playing the eccentric TVA technician Ouroboros. He also appeared in the television series ‘American Born Chinese’, further cementing his comeback. Quan’s resurgence has been one of the most celebrated stories in Hollywood in recent years.

Brendan Fraser

Brendan Fraser experienced a significant career resurgence, often referred to as the Brenaissance, following his lead role in ‘The Whale’. His portrayal of a reclusive English teacher seeking redemption earned him the Academy Award for Best Actor. Prior to this, he delivered a compelling performance in the television series ‘Doom Patrol’ as the voice and physical body of Cliff Steele. He also appeared in Martin Scorsese’s ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’ as a boisterous defense attorney. Fraser’s return to the forefront of cinema has been met with widespread critical and public support.

Colman Domingo

Colman Domingo has become one of the most sought-after character actors in the industry, culminating in an Oscar nomination for ‘Rustin’. He portrayed civil rights activist Bayard Rustin with a charisma and energy that anchored the entire film. Domingo is also well known for his role as Victor Strand in the long-running series ‘Fear the Walking Dead’. He delivered a haunting performance in the film ‘Zola’ and starred as the formidable Mister in the musical adaptation of ‘The Color Purple’. His stage background informs his powerful and commandingly articulate screen presence.

Lakeith Stanfield

Lakeith Stanfield first gained attention in ‘Short Term 12’ and has since become one of the most experimental actors of his generation. He received an Academy Award nomination for his role as William O’Neal in ‘Judas and the Black Messiah’. Stanfield is also a central figure in the surreal comedy-drama series ‘Atlanta’, where he played the enigmatic Darius. He led the cast of the satirical horror-comedy ‘Sorry to Bother You’, showcasing his ability to navigate bizarre and thought-provoking premises. His work frequently explores identity and social issues through a unique, often unconventional lens.

Steven Yeun

Steven Yeun transitioned from a fan-favorite role on ‘The Walking Dead’ to becoming a leading man in prestigious cinema. He made history as the first Asian American to be nominated for the Academy Award for Best Actor for his role in ‘Minari’. Yeun also starred in the psychological thriller ‘Burning’ and the high-concept horror film ‘Nope’. Most recently, he won an Emmy for his performance in the Netflix limited series ‘Beef’, where he played a struggling contractor involved in a road rage incident. His career is marked by a deliberate choice of challenging and culturally significant projects.

Brian Tyree Henry

Brian Tyree Henry emerged as a standout talent in the series ‘Atlanta’, playing the rising rapper Paper Boi. He earned an Academy Award nomination for his soulful performance in the drama ‘Causeway’ opposite Jennifer Lawrence. Henry has lent his voice to the ‘Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse’ franchise as Jefferson Davis and appeared in the blockbuster ‘Godzilla vs. Kong’. He also starred in the Marvel film ‘Eternals’ as Phastos, the MCU’s first openly gay superhero. His ability to convey deep emotion with subtlety has made him a favorite among critics and directors.

Jeremy Strong

Jeremy Strong became a household name through his transformative portrayal of Kendall Roy in the HBO series ‘Succession’. His commitment to the role and his use of immersive acting techniques earned him multiple Emmy and Golden Globe awards. Beyond television, he appeared in films such as ‘The Trial of the Chicago 7’, where he played activist Jerry Rubin. Strong also starred in the 2024 biographical film ‘The Apprentice’ as the influential lawyer Roy Cohn. His performances are often noted for their intense emotional vulnerability and meticulous attention to detail.

Sterling K. Brown

Sterling K. Brown reached a new level of stardom with his role as Randall Pearson in the long-running drama ‘This Is Us’. His performance earned him an Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor, making him the first Black actor to win the category in nearly 20 years. He also received acclaim for his portrayal of Christopher Darden in ‘The People v. O. J. Simpson: American Crime Story’. In film, he delivered a powerful supporting performance in ‘American Fiction’, which earned him an Academy Award nomination. Brown is celebrated for his incredible range and his ability to deliver deeply moving monologues.

Michael B. Jordan

Michael B. Jordan solidified his status as a leading man with his portrayal of Adonis Creed in the ‘Creed’ trilogy. He took his involvement a step further by making his directorial debut with ‘Creed III’, which was both a critical and commercial success. Jordan also delivered a memorable performance as Erik Killmonger in ‘Black Panther’, a character often cited as one of the best antagonists in the superhero genre. He starred in the legal drama ‘Just Mercy’ as civil rights defense attorney Bryan Stevenson. His career combines massive commercial appeal with a commitment to powerful, socially conscious storytelling.

Andrew Garfield

Andrew Garfield has spent the last decade proving his incredible versatility across film and theater. He received Oscar nominations for his roles in the war drama ‘Hacksaw Ridge’ and the musical ‘tick, tick… BOOM!’. Garfield also returned to his most famous role in ‘Spider-Man: No Way Home’, a performance that was highly praised by fans and critics alike. On television, he starred in the true-crime miniseries ‘Under the Banner of Heaven’, playing a detective questioning his faith. His dedication to his craft is evident in the physical and emotional transformation he brings to every project.

Oscar Isaac

Oscar Isaac has become a staple of modern cinema, moving seamlessly between indie darlings and massive franchises. He starred as Poe Dameron in the ‘Star Wars’ sequel trilogy and took on the lead role in the Marvel series ‘Moon Knight’. Isaac received significant praise for his performance in the miniseries ‘Scenes from a Marriage’ and the film ‘The Card Counter’. He also appeared as Duke Leto Atreides in the epic science fiction film ‘Dune’. His ability to project both intense gravitas and effortless charm has established him as a premier talent.

Jake Gyllenhaal

Jake Gyllenhaal has consistently chosen daring and unconventional roles over the past ten years. He delivered a chilling performance as a freelance cameraman in ‘Nightcrawler’, a role for which he underwent a significant physical transformation. Gyllenhaal also entered the superhero world as Mysterio in ‘Spider-Man: Far From Home’. He recently starred in the high-octane action film ‘Ambulance’ and the legal thriller series ‘Presumed Innocent’. His work is characterized by a high level of intensity and a willingness to explore the darker sides of the human psyche.

Ethan Hawke

Ethan Hawke has remained a prolific and respected figure in the industry, often balancing acting with writing and directing. He received critical acclaim for his role as a tormented priest in the 2017 drama ‘First Reformed’. Hawke also ventured into the horror genre with a terrifying performance as The Grabber in ‘The Black Phone’. He joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe as the antagonist Arthur Harrow in the series ‘Moon Knight’. His career continues to be defined by an intellectual curiosity and a refusal to be pigeonholed into a single genre.

Willem Dafoe

Willem Dafoe has experienced a remarkably active decade, appearing in both experimental films and major blockbusters. He received Academy Award nominations for his work in ‘The Florida Project’ and ‘At Eternity’s Gate’, where he played Vincent van Gogh. Dafoe reprised his iconic role as the Green Goblin in ‘Spider-Man: No Way Home’, delivering a performance that reminded audiences of his unique intensity. He also starred in the psychological horror film ‘The Lighthouse’ and the dark fantasy ‘Poor Things’. His distinctive face and fearless acting style make him one of the most recognizable and respected actors working today.

Samuel L. Jackson

Samuel L. Jackson has continued his reign as one of the most prolific actors in history throughout the last decade. He remains a central figure in the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Nick Fury, a role he recently explored in depth in the series ‘Secret Invasion’. Jackson also continued his long-standing collaboration with Quentin Tarantino in ‘The Hateful Eight’. He received an Honorary Academy Award in 2022 for his legendary contributions to cinema. Despite his massive fame, he still finds time for varied roles in films like ‘The Banker’ and ‘Glass’.

Matt Damon

Matt Damon has maintained his status as one of Hollywood’s most reliable leading men with several high-profile projects. He earned an Oscar nomination for his role as an astronaut stranded on Mars in the 2015 film ‘The Martian’. Damon also starred in the historical drama ‘Ford v Ferrari’ and the Ridley Scott epic ‘The Last Duel’, which he also co-wrote. Most recently, he portrayed Leslie Groves in the blockbuster ‘Oppenheimer’ and starred in the biographical drama ‘Air’. His career is a testament to his ability to anchor both intelligent dramas and massive commercial hits.

George Clooney

George Clooney has balanced his acting career with significant work as a director and producer over the last ten years. He starred in the science fiction film ‘The Midnight Sky’, which he also directed, playing a lonely scientist in the Arctic. Clooney returned to the romantic comedy genre alongside Julia Roberts in ‘Ticket to Paradise’. While he has been more selective with his roles recently, his presence remains a major draw in the industry. He continues to be a prominent figure in humanitarian efforts and high-level film production.

Brad Pitt

Brad Pitt remains one of the most influential actors and producers in Hollywood, winning an Oscar for his role in ‘Once Upon a Time in Hollywood’. His performance as stuntman Cliff Booth was widely praised for its cool charisma and physical presence. Pitt also starred in the space epic ‘Ad Astra’ and the action-comedy ‘Bullet Train’. Through his production company, Plan B, he has been instrumental in bringing several award-winning films to the screen. His transition from a young heartthrob to a seasoned, versatile veteran is now complete.

Rami Malek

Rami Malek achieved global stardom with his portrayal of Freddie Mercury in the biopic ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’, for which he won the Academy Award for Best Actor. Prior to this, he was best known for his lead role as Elliot Alderson in the psychological thriller series ‘Mr. Robot’. Malek also took on the role of the primary antagonist in the James Bond film ‘No Time to Die’. He appeared in the star-studded cast of ‘Oppenheimer’ as the scientist David Hill. His performances are often noted for their physical precision and internal intensity.

Mahershala Ali

Mahershala Ali made history by winning two Academy Awards for Best Supporting Actor within a three-year period. His first win came for his soulful performance in ‘Moonlight’, followed by a second win for his role as Don Shirley in ‘Green Book’. Ali also starred in the third season of ‘True Detective’, delivering a complex performance that spanned multiple timelines. He provided the voice for the Prowler in ‘Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse’ and has been cast as the lead in the upcoming ‘Blade’ film. His calm authority and immense screen presence have made him one of the premier actors of his generation.

Austin Butler

Austin Butler rose to international prominence with his transformative portrayal of the title character in the 2022 film ‘Elvis’. His dedicated performance earned him a Golden Globe win and an Academy Award nomination. Following this success, he starred in the epic miniseries ‘Masters of the Air’ and played the villainous Feyd-Rautha in ‘Dune: Part Two’. Butler also appeared in the drama ‘The Bikeriders’, further establishing his status as a leading man. His rise has been characterized by a deep commitment to character work and a commanding physical presence.

Timothée Chalamet

Timothée Chalamet has become the face of a new generation of Hollywood stars following his breakout role in ‘Call Me by Your Name’. He earned an Oscar nomination for the film and has since led several major productions, including ‘Dune’ and its sequel. Chalamet also starred as the title character in ‘Wonka’ and delivered acclaimed performances in ‘Beautiful Boy’ and ‘Lady Bird’. He is known for his unique fashion sense and his ability to portray sensitive, emotionally complex young men. His massive popularity and critical standing make him one of the most influential actors working today.

Adam Driver

Adam Driver has had an incredibly productive decade, moving from television success in ‘Girls’ to becoming a leading man in film. He became globally known as Kylo Ren in the ‘Star Wars’ sequel trilogy, a role that showcased his intense acting style. Driver received Academy Award nominations for his work in ‘BlacKkKlansman’ and the domestic drama ‘Marriage Story’. He has worked with legendary directors such as Martin Scorsese, Ridley Scott, and Francis Ford Coppola. His range allows him to play everything from historical figures like Enzo Ferrari to bizarre characters in independent comedies.

Matthew McConaughey

Matthew McConaughey started the last decade at the height of the McConaissance, winning an Oscar for ‘Dallas Buyers Club’. He followed this success with a legendary performance in the first season of ‘True Detective’ and the lead role in ‘Interstellar’. Since then, he has voiced characters in the ‘Sing’ franchise and starred in films like ‘The Gentlemen’. While he has shifted some focus toward his personal life and writing, his impact on the industry remains significant. His unique voice and laid-back yet intense energy continue to define his screen presence.

Paul Dano

Paul Dano has consistently delivered some of the most unsettling and nuanced performances in modern cinema. He received significant praise for his portrayal of a young Brian Wilson in the biopic ‘Love & Mercy’. Dano also took on the role of The Riddler in ‘The Batman’, bringing a terrifying, modern interpretation to the classic villain. He directed his first feature film, ‘Wildlife’, in 2018, showcasing his talents behind the camera. Most recently, he starred as a fictionalized version of Steven Spielberg’s father in ‘The Fabelmans’.

Jesse Plemons

Jesse Plemons has evolved from a dependable television actor to one of the most respected character actors in film. He received an Academy Award nomination for his role in ‘The Power of the Dog’, starring alongside his wife Kirsten Dunst. Plemons has appeared in several Martin Scorsese projects, including ‘The Irishman’ and ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’. He won the Best Actor award at the Cannes Film Festival for his work in ‘Kinds of Kindness’. His ability to play ordinary-looking men with a hidden, often dark depth has made him a favorite of top-tier directors.

Paul Giamatti

Paul Giamatti has enjoyed a sustained period of success in both television and film over the past decade. He starred in the long-running series ‘Billions’ as the tenacious U.S. Attorney Chuck Rhoades. In 2023, he received widespread acclaim and an Oscar nomination for his role as a cynical teacher in ‘The Holdovers’. Giamatti also appeared in the historical drama ’12 Years a Slave’ and the N.W.A biopic ‘Straight Outta Compton’. He is widely regarded as one of the finest character actors in the industry, capable of both high comedy and deep pathos.

Pedro Pascal

Pedro Pascal has become one of the most beloved figures in pop culture through a string of high-profile television roles. He gained initial fame in ‘Game of Thrones’ before leading the hit series ‘The Mandalorian’ as the title character. Pascal also stars as Joel Miller in the critically acclaimed adaptation of ‘The Last of Us’, a performance that earned him multiple award nominations. On the big screen, he appeared in ‘Wonder Woman 1984’ and ‘The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent’. His charisma and ability to convey emotion through minimal dialogue have made him a global star.

Bryan Cranston

Bryan Cranston ended his iconic run as Walter White in ‘Breaking Bad’ just over ten years ago and has since maintained a high level of work. He received an Academy Award nomination for his portrayal of Dalton Trumbo in the film ‘Trumbo’. Cranston also starred in the drama series ‘Your Honor’, playing a judge whose life unravels after his son is involved in a hit-and-run. He has won multiple Tony Awards for his work on Broadway, including his role as Howard Beale in ‘Network’. His ability to portray moral complexity and paternal desperation remains unparalleled.

Jon Hamm

Jon Hamm is forever associated with the role of Don Draper in ‘Mad Men’, a performance he concluded in 2015 with an Emmy win. Since then, he has successfully transitioned into a variety of film roles, including the villainous Buddy in ‘Baby Driver’. Hamm also appeared in ‘Top Gun: Maverick’ and joined the cast of ‘The Morning Show’ in its third season. He showcased his comedic timing in the film ‘Confess, Fletch’ and the series ‘Good Omens’. His career demonstrates a successful move from a career-defining television role into a versatile character actor in film and TV.

Edward Norton

Edward Norton has been more selective with his roles in the last decade but continues to deliver high-quality performances. He received an Academy Award nomination for his role as a volatile stage actor in the 2014 film ‘Birdman’. Norton wrote, directed, and starred in the period crime drama ‘Motherless Brooklyn’, a passion project he developed for years. He also joined the ensemble cast of the hit mystery sequel ‘Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery’ as a tech billionaire. His reputation for being an intellectual and meticulous actor remains firmly intact.

Nicolas Cage

Nicolas Cage has experienced a fascinating career revival, moving from direct-to-video projects back to critical acclaim. He delivered a career-best performance in the 2021 drama ‘Pig’, playing a reclusive truffle hunter. Cage also played a fictionalized version of himself in the meta-comedy ‘The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent’. He took on the role of Dracula in the horror-comedy ‘Renfield’ and starred in the surreal ‘Dream Scenario’. His fearless commitment to every role, no matter how eccentric, has solidified his status as a cult icon and a respected artist.

Jeffrey Wright

Jeffrey Wright has been a consistent presence in high-quality film and television projects for decades. He starred as Bernard Lowe in the science fiction series ‘Westworld’, a role that earned him several Emmy nominations. Wright joined the Batman franchise as Commissioner James Gordon in ‘The Batman’ and continued his role in the ‘James Bond’ series. He received his first Academy Award nomination for Best Actor for his lead role in the 2023 film ‘American Fiction’. His articulate delivery and gravitas make him one of the most reliable performers in Hollywood.

Mark Ruffalo

Mark Ruffalo has balanced his role as Bruce Banner in the Marvel Cinematic Universe with several prestigious dramatic projects. He received Oscar nominations for his roles in the investigative drama ‘Spotlight’ and the psychological thriller ‘Foxcatcher’. Ruffalo also won an Emmy for playing identical twins in the limited series ‘I Know This Much Is True’. Most recently, he delivered a comedic and eccentric performance in ‘Poor Things’, earning another Academy Award nomination. His career is marked by a deep commitment to social activism and a versatile acting range.

Bradley Cooper

Bradley Cooper has transitioned from a comedic lead into one of the industry’s most respected actors and directors. He has received numerous Oscar nominations for his roles in ‘American Sniper’, ‘A Star Is Born’, and ‘Maestro’. Cooper directed both ‘A Star Is Born’ and ‘Maestro’, establishing himself as a major creative force behind the camera. He also provides the voice for Rocket Raccoon in the ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ franchise. His dedication to his craft often involves intense physical transformations and learning new skills, such as professional conducting or guitar.

Robert Downey Jr.

Robert Downey Jr. spent the majority of the last decade as the face of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, concluding his role as Tony Stark in ‘Avengers: Endgame’. Following his departure from Marvel, he delivered a powerhouse performance as Lewis Strauss in Christopher Nolan’s ‘Oppenheimer’. This role earned him his first Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, marking a new chapter in his legendary career. He also starred in the multi-role television series ‘The Sympathizer’, showcasing his immense range. His journey from comeback kid to the industry’s highest-paid actor and Oscar winner is one of Hollywood’s greatest stories.

Tom Hanks

Tom Hanks has continued to be “America’s Dad” while delivering consistently strong performances in a variety of genres. He received an Oscar nomination for his portrayal of Fred Rogers in ‘A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood’. Hanks also starred in historical dramas like ‘Bridge of Spies’, ‘The Post’, and ‘Greyhound’, the latter of which he also wrote. He took on a more transformative role as Colonel Tom Parker in the ‘Elvis’ biopic. Even after decades in the spotlight, he remains one of the most trusted and respected figures in the entertainment industry.

Al Pacino

Al Pacino has remained active and relevant into his eighties, delivering several notable performances in the last ten years. He received an Academy Award nomination for his role as Jimmy Hoffa in Martin Scorsese’s ‘The Irishman’. Pacino also starred in the television series ‘Hunters’ and played a prominent role in Ridley Scott’s ‘House of Gucci’. He continues to choose projects that allow him to showcase his legendary intensity and theatrical flair. His presence in any film still brings an immediate sense of prestige and historical weight.

Robert De Niro

Robert De Niro has seen a significant resurgence in dramatic work over the past decade, specifically through his collaborations with Martin Scorsese. He starred in the lead role of Frank Sheeran in ‘The Irishman’ and received widespread acclaim for his villainous turn in ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’. De Niro also appeared in the 2019 film ‘Joker’ as a talk show host, a role that paid homage to his earlier work in ‘The King of Comedy’. He continues to be a central figure in the industry, both as an actor and as the co-founder of the Tribeca Film Festival. His recent work proves that he remains one of the greatest living actors.

Denzel Washington

Denzel Washington has maintained an unparalleled level of prestige and power in Hollywood throughout the last ten years. He received Oscar nominations for his roles in ‘Fences’, which he also directed, and ‘Roman J. Israel, Esq.’. Washington delivered a haunting performance in the titular role of ‘The Tragedy of Macbeth’, earning another Academy Award nomination. He also continued his successful action streak with ‘The Equalizer’ trilogy. His ability to command the screen with a single look or a powerful speech remains unmatched by almost any other performer.

Leonardo DiCaprio

Leonardo DiCaprio finally won his first Academy Award for his grueling performance in ‘The Revenant’, a film that defined the mid-2010s. Since then, he has continued to work exclusively with top-tier directors, including Quentin Tarantino in ‘Once Upon a Time in Hollywood’. He also starred in Adam McKay’s social satire ‘Don’t Look Up’ and Martin Scorsese’s ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’. DiCaprio is known for his selective nature, often going years between projects to focus on environmental activism and high-quality scripts. Every film he stars in is treated as a major cinematic event.

Christian Bale

Christian Bale has continued his reputation for extreme physical transformations and intense dedication to his roles. He received Academy Award nominations for his portrayals of Michael Burry in ‘The Big Short’ and Dick Cheney in ‘Vice’. Bale also starred as race car driver Ken Miles in ‘Ford v Ferrari’ and entered the Marvel universe as Gorr the God Butcher in ‘Thor: Love and Thunder’. He remains one of the most versatile actors in history, capable of vanishing completely into any character he plays. His work over the last decade has only further cemented his status as one of the best of all time.

Joaquin Phoenix

Joaquin Phoenix has spent the last decade delivering some of the most daring and acclaimed performances in cinema history. He won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his role in ‘Joker’, a film that became a cultural phenomenon and a massive box office success. Phoenix also delivered powerful performances in independent films like ‘You Were Never Really Here’ and ‘C’mon C’mon’. He portrayed the French Emperor in ‘Napoleon’ and is set to return for the ‘Joker’ sequel. His career is characterized by an uncompromising commitment to artistic integrity and a fearless exploration of the human condition.

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