From 'A History of Violence' to 'V For Vendetta,' here are some of the best Oscar-worthy performances in comic book movies.
Contrary to what people like Tom Holland may claim, the Oscars haven’t completely ignored the comic book genre.
Tom Hanks, Road to Perdition Sam Mendes’s gorgeous crime thriller earned five Oscar nominations, including a Best Cinematography win and a Best Supporting Actor nomination for one of Paul Newman’s last roles. However, it's Tom Hanks’ heartbreaking turn as the reformed gangster Michael Sullivan that was left out of the Best Actor race. Hanks played against type as a dark, violent man who is attempting to make amends by shielding his son from violence.
Choi Min-sik, Old Boy Old Boy is one of the most disturbing films ever made, and older Academy voters may have been put off by the graphic subject material. Regardless, Choi Min-sik’s heartbreaking performance as the vengeful Dae-su makes the film’s shocks even more effective. Not only did Choi appear in one of the greatest hallway fights of all time, but he captured the anguish of the film’s unforgettable ending.
Paul Giamatti, American Splendor Another Best Adapted Screenplay nominee, American Splendor tells the amazing story of the comic book writer Harvey Pekar. Both the real Pekar and Paul Giamatti interact on screen, and they work together to craft a compelling portrait of an everyman who just wants to tell stories. You can’t exactly nominate Pekar for playing himself, but Giamatti deserved a Best Actor nom for his understated work.
Warren Beatty, Dick Tracy Warren Beatty’s adaptation of the classic comic strip character is one of the few superhero movies to break through with the Academy. Dick Tracy won three Oscars and received three other nominations, including a Best Supporting Actor honor for Al Pacino’s eccentric gangster Big Boy Caprice. Beatty’s visual design still stands out today, but his lead performance as the titular character was just as impressive as his directorial efforts.