Best of 2025: Lead Actor

by

Here are some other notable performances and projects: Will Arnett in “Is This Thing On?”, Dwayne Johnson in “The Smashing Machine”, Ethan Hawke in “Blue Moon”, Michael Fassbender in “Black Bag”, Guillaume Marbeck in “Nouvelle Vague”, Wagner Moura in “The Secret Agent”, Oscar Isaac in “Frankenstein”, Jesse Plemons in “Bugonia”, Orlando Bloom in “The Cut”, Joaquin Phoenix in “Eddington”, Timothée Chalamet in “Marty Supreme”, Denzel Washington in “Highest 2 Lowest”, Hugh Jackman in “Song Sung Blue”, Benicio del Toro in “The Phoenician Scheme”, Paul Walter Hauser in “The Luckiest Man in America”, Matthew McConaughey in “The Lost Bus”, and Josh O’Connor in both “The Mastermind” and “Wake Up Dead Man”. Billy Magnusson also delivered a noteworthy performance in “Violent Ends”.

#5 – Russell Crowe (“Nuremberg”)

Russell Crowe delivers a standout performance in “Nuremberg,” arguably one of his strongest roles in recent years. He portrays Hermann Göring, the Nazi commander, during the historic 1946 Nuremberg trials. Crowe masterfully captures Göring’s complex personality, showcasing his charisma, arrogance, and intelligence. His nuanced portrayal and understanding of the character’s mind create some of the most compelling scenes seen on film last year.

#4 – Josh O’Connor (“Rebuilding”)

Josh O’Connor truly had a breakout year. He gave impressive performances in three projects, but his work in the moving rural drama “Rebuilding,” directed by Max Walker-Silverman, was particularly outstanding. O’Connor’s performance is subtle yet deeply emotional, beautifully portraying a character grappling with loss and trying to find meaning in life. This year cemented O’Connor’s status as a star, and “Rebuilding” was the film that really showcased his talent to me.

#3 – Michael B. Jordan (“Sinners”)

As a film fan, I’m already a huge Michael B. Jordan admirer – he’s quickly become one of the most captivating actors around. But even with high expectations, he still manages to blow me away, and his performance in “Sinners” is a perfect example. It’s a really atmospheric horror film set during the Jim Crow era, and while director Ryan Coogler has a fantastic eye, the movie truly lives and dies with Jordan. He plays two central characters, and he brings such unique energy and depth to both of them – honestly, it wouldn’t work nearly as well without him.

#2 – Joel Edgerton (“Train Dreams”)

Clint Bentley’s “Train Dreams” was the standout film of 2025. The movie boasts exceptional direction, a deeply touching script, and stunning visuals – all deserving of Academy Awards. However, it’s Joel Edgerton’s powerful yet subtle performance that truly anchors the story. He portrays a man of quiet strength and genuine emotion, conveying volumes without needing much dialogue. It’s a remarkable performance, and arguably Edgerton’s finest in a career filled with strong roles.

#1 – Daniel Day-Lewis (“Anemone”)

It’s a shame that the film “Anemone” didn’t receive the recognition it deserved, and the same goes for Daniel Day-Lewis’s incredible performance. The three-time Oscar winner completely transforms himself into a complex and deeply troubled character, portraying both past trauma and hidden anger. Despite the darkness, Day-Lewis beautifully captures the character’s humanity, delivering yet another masterful performance and solidifying his place as one of the greatest actors of his generation.

Read More

2026-01-08 18:58