2. Brendan Gleeson
Despite not beginning acting until he was 34, Brendan Gleeson has become one of the best actors working today, starring in both big blockbusters and small independent Irish films. Initially a school teacher, Gleeson eventually quit to pursue acting full time, gaining prominence in a 1991 television film about Michael Collins. His first role in a big film was when he portrayed Mel Gibson's best friend in Braveheart. Gleeson followed this up with minor, but critical, roles in Gangs of New York, 28 Days Later, Troy, and others. After another big role in the Harry Potter series, Gleeson's career went up a notch with a partnership with the McDonagh brothers. 2008's In Bruges, and 2011's The Guard, directed by Martin and Michael McDonagh respectively, gave Gleeson two of his best roles to date. Gleeson's natural likability makes him an asset to any film, and his ability to navigate through all sorts of material make him one of the best modern character actors.