10 Amazing Acting Performances To Watch On Netflix

Not the most obvious great role from the late PSH available on Netflix—that would be his Oscar winning turn in Capote—but the one that tells you the most about his once-in-a-generation talent. Picture the scene: Anthony Minghella is directing a gorgeous version of Patricia Highsmith’s novel, his follow-up to The English Patient. Jude Law is charming every character in the movie (and every viewer, too). Matt Damon is actually playing a weird, interesting person. Both are trying really hard and putting in great performances as a consequence; they will never be this good again.

Then Hoffman shows up, and within a few lines he’s the best thing on screen. Then, within a few more key scenes, Hoffman, as the ever-repellent Freddie Miles, steals the film outright. It’s a masterclass in how to play a supporting role, and Hoffman creates one of his most outstanding in the process. His line, ‘Dickie doesn’t play the piano’, should be rated higher as a classic of film lexicon, and Hoffman's sneering facial expressions are an eerie joy to behold.

Over a year gone and film still feels his loss. There is a Philip Seymour Hoffman sized hole blowing through cinema; it may never be filled.