Shakespeare once stated that "the entire world is a
stage" (a sentiment from an English chap, by the way). However, Britain
has long enjoyed the spotlight when it comes to the art of acting. The British
tongue and temperament, positioned between the romantic fervor of the southern
continent and the majestic stolidity of the northern European plains, seem to
lend themselves perfectly to the strange old skill of thespian art. British
actors have become a significant export, and their clipped yet languid tones
have become the basis for our only surviving empire - the influence they wield
on stages and screens worldwide is undeniable.
The old British actor adage, that they only ever portrayed
the villain, holds some truth but only because the villain was so frequently
multifaceted and rich - conflicted, messy, alluring, and profound. This degree
of nuance was often too much for a California hunk with a dimple and a
"howdy." However, in contemporary times, British actors are
unavoidable - they take home Oscars and marry Hollywood starlets. The British
accent has become the de facto language of contemporary fantasy, and the mere
presence of a British actor adds a touch of second-hand class to every rom-com,
dark drama, or splashy awards ceremony. Despite Britain's changing global
standing, it can always be confident that its actors are among the best in the
industry. Here are ten of the very best:
1. Peter O'Toole
Both on and off stage, Peter O'Toole was a mystery. The
seasoned actor, often described as "profligate with his talent" by
his lifelong colleague, Katharine Hepburn, could alternate between the sublime
and the absurd from night to night. His most iconic performance, as Lawrence of
Arabia in 1962, is a furious masterclass in the craft. With electrifying blue
eyes, gangly height, and haunted-but-childlike emotions, O'Toole was a force to
be reckoned with. His wild personal life mirrored his performances, and he
truly embodied the essence of theatricality.
2. Cary Grant
The English-American leading man, Cary Grant, was almost
unfathomably handsome, with a square-jawed, sparkly-eyed charm that exuded
tenderness. What set him apart was his ability to behave like an everyday guy
and use humor, rather than relying solely on his good looks and smoldering sex
appeal. Beloved by both men and women, Grant was a model for a perfect husband,
an ideal older brother, and a delightful drinking companion.
3. Richard Burton Richard
Burton's greatest strength lay in his voice, possessing a
"tympanic resonance so rich and overwhelming that it might give an air of
verse to a recipe for stewed hare," as described by John McPhee of Time
magazine. The Welsh actor, synonymous with Shakespearean grandeur, had a
six-decade career of remarkable distinction on both stage and screen.
4. Idris Elba
Is there anything Idris Elba cannot accomplish? From acting
to producing, songwriting to rapping, Elba's talent seems limitless. His role
as Stringer Bell in The Wire is still regarded as one of his most memorable
performances. Named one of the 100 Most Influential People in the World by Time
Magazine in 2016, Elba is a towering presence in the industry.
5. Laurence Olivier
Laurence Olivier, knighted in 1947 and given a life peerage
in 1970, was truly a royal on stage. With a career spanning six decades, he was
identified with the classical era of the stage and his brilliant performances
in Shakespearean roles.
6. Ian McKellen
With six decades in the industry, Ian McKellen's timeless
presence makes him an icon of the stage and screen. Known for his Shakespearean
training, he seamlessly transitioned from comedy to drama, and his portrayal of
Gandalf in Peter Jackson's Lord of the Rings series left an indelible mark on
audiences.
7. Ralph Fiennes
Ralph Fiennes' ability to bring characters to life with a
diverse range is nothing short of remarkable. From tragic to witty, elegant to
ridiculous, Fiennes imbues each role with his unique requirements, leaving an
unforgettable impression.
8. Daniel Day-Lewis
Daniel Day-Lewis is a man in control of his own destiny, a
true genius of Hollywood, and the only actor to have won three Academy Awards
for Best Actor. Known for his method acting and unwavering commitment to his
craft, Day-Lewis's performances are nothing short of brilliant.
9. Christian Bale
Christian Bale's remarkable physical transformations for
roles are a testament to his dedication to his art. But it is his psychological
depth and ability to portray complex characters that truly set him apart as an
exceptional actor.
10. Riz Ahmed
Riz Ahmed is Britain's best export of the modern era. With a
wealth of talent and a fearsome work ethic, he has made a mark in both local
and international productions. His performance in Sound of Metal solidifies his
place among the acting greats.
In conclusion, British actors have indeed mastered the craft
of acting, leaving an indelible mark on the world's stages and screens. Their
ability to portray multifaceted characters with nuance and depth sets them
apart as some of the finest actors in the industry. With their talent and
influence continuing to grow, there is no doubt that British actors will remain
a force to be reckoned with for generations to come.
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