8. Mark Strong
Known for playing primarily villains, Mark Strong has established one of the more interesting filmographies of any actor working today, starring in a mix of blockbusters, serious dramas, and independent films. Strong got his start in television and in BBC films before earning a role in 1997's Fever Pitch. He continued to play a variety of minor roles throughout the early 2000's. After a role as the villain in Danny Boyle's Sunshine, Strong embarked on a string of critical roles in acclaimed films including Body of Lies, Kick-Ass, The Guard, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, and Zero Dark Thirty among others. A chameleonic actor, Strong rarely looks the same in any two movies, enabling him to effectively disappear into the fabric of a film. When given a quality script to work with, few actors in Hollywood can give equally imposing performances, and it wouldn't be surprising if he picks up an iconic role in the near future.