Academy Award for Best Actor — Full List & Top 20 Ranked

Casey Affleck's raw and vulnerable portrayal of grief in Manchester by the Sea is a cinematic experience that lingers long after the credits roll. His heart-wrenching performance as Lee Chandler, a man haunted by tragedy, showcases his ability to convey complex emotions with subtlety and depth. 

Affleck's nuanced acting allows viewers to empathize with his character's pain and struggle for redemption. This emotionally charged performance not only solidified Affleck's status as a leading actor but also captivated audiences and critics alike.

What does it take to embody the terrifying charisma of a brutal dictator? Forest Whitaker's chilling performance in The Last King of Scotland offers some insight. As the infamous Ugandan dictator Idi Amin, Whitaker strikes a delicate balance between charm and menace, pulling audiences into the unsettling world of political power and paranoia.

Amidst a dusty haze of heartache and redemption, Jeff Bridges delivers a soul-stirring performance in Crazy Heart. As the down-and-out country singer Bad Blake, Bridges embodies the raw emotion and vulnerability of a man grappling with his own demons. His portrayal of a fading star seeking solace in music and love captivates audiences, as he masterfully conveys both the despair and hope that define his character. 

Did you know that laughter can be contagious, yet haunting? Joaquin Phoenix's mesmerizing performance in Joker proves just that. His chilling portrayal of a character spiraling into madness is both heart-wrenching and terrifying, leaving audiences on the edge of their seats.

To prepare for his iconic role in Rain Man Dustin Hoffman spent considerable time with individuals on the autism spectrum. His portrayal of Raymond Babbitt, an autistic savant, is both sensitive and powerful, shedding light on a misunderstood condition. Through his exceptional acting, he brings understanding and awareness to a subject matter that was largely unknown at the time. 

Anthony Hopkins' chilling portrayal of Dr. Hannibal Lecter in The Silence of the Lambs was achieved with only 16 minutes of screen time, yet it left an indelible mark on cinema history. His masterful performance as the cannibalistic serial killer exudes both intelligence and menace, creating a character that is as fascinating as he is terrifying. Hopkins' ability to captivate audiences with his controlled intensity and piercing gaze is a testament to his exceptional acting prowess.

In preparation for his role in Capote, Philip Seymour Hoffman meticulously studied Truman Capote's mannerisms and voice, ultimately delivering a transformative performance. 

As the eccentric and brilliant writer, Hoffman immerses himself in the character, capturing the essence of Capote with remarkable authenticity. His portrayal delves into the complexities of Capote's psyche, as he develops an emotional connection with the subjects of his groundbreaking book, In Cold Blood.

In this high-octane crime thriller, Denzel Washington's Oscar-winning performance as the morally ambiguous narcotics officer, Alonzo Harris, is nothing short of phenomenal. 

His ability to embody the character's complexity and darkness elevates the film to new heights, making it an unforgettable cinematic experience. Washington's intense portrayal of a man struggling with corruption and power showcases his exceptional range and talent as an actor.

Marlon Brando's captivating performance as Vito Corleone in The Godfather not only earned him the prestigious Academy Award for Best Actor, but also redefined the portrayal of powerful mob bosses in cinema. Brando's nuanced acting, exemplified by the iconic scene where he tenderly holds a kitten while discussing sinister matters, demonstrated his ability to balance vulnerability with a chilling sense of authority. 

Despite his remarkable achievement, Brando famously declined the Oscar in protest against Hollywood's mistreatment of Native Americans, further cementing his status as a fiercely independent and socially conscious artist. His courageous stand continues to be remembered as a pivotal moment in both his career and the history of the Academy Awards.

Jack Nicholson's incredible performance as Randle McMurphy in One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest is a masterclass in embodying a character's spirit, bringing to life a rebellious and charismatic antihero. His defining traits and quirks, such as the mischievous grin and defiant attitude, showcase Nicholson's ability to fully inhabit a role, making his performance truly unforgettable. 

Did you know that Tom Hanks actually trained for months with a running coach to perfect Forrest Gump's distinct stride? In this iconic film, Hanks delivers a heartwarming and transformative performance as the lovable and simple-minded protagonist, Forrest Gump. 

His ability to capture the character's innocence, vulnerability, and unwavering optimism is nothing short of remarkable, demonstrating his incredible range as an actor.

Robert De Niro gained 60 pounds to authentically portray the physical transformation of boxer Jake LaMotta in Raging Bull. His unwavering commitment to method acting allowed De Niro to fully embody the character's volatile nature and undeniable talent, making his performance truly iconic. The raw intensity and emotional depth he brought to the role showcased his unparalleled ability to immerse himself in a character.

How can an actor consistently evoke powerful emotions, captivating audiences? Daniel Day-Lewis' portrayal of Daniel Plainview in There Will Be Blood exemplifies an actor's dedication and skill. Rooted in method acting, he fully immerses himself in the character, resulting in a complex, emotionally resonant performance that stands as a masterclass in acting.

Daniel Day-Lewis' performance in There Will Be Blood is a masterclass in acting, demonstrating the power of method acting in creating a complex and emotionally resonant character.

Marlon Brando's groundbreaking performance in On the Waterfront is widely regarded as the pinnacle of acting by an Oscar winner for Best Actor. His raw, visceral portrayal of Terry Malloy, a conflicted ex-boxer turned longshoreman, revolutionized the art of film acting with its emotional depth and authenticity. 

Brando's use of method acting and his ability to convey the internal struggle of a man grappling with moral dilemmas set a new standard for cinematic performances. This unforgettable portrayal continues to inspire actors worldwide, cementing Brando's legacy as a true icon in the history of cinema.