9. Ben Affleck, Argo
![Argo](https://cdn3.whatculture.com/images/2012/10/argo4.jpg)
Few can argue with the general success of Argo as a film. Tautly constructed under the guidance of Afflecks direction, Argo is the true definition of an edge-of-your-seat thriller. However, the one obstacle that Affleck, The Director never manages to overcome is Affleck, The Actor. One of the few complaints critics have lobbed against this film is its lack of character development, and while Affleck does his best as the pillar of this rescue mission, his performance reveals little about the character underneath. At times, its as if his on-camera moments were afterthoughts to the rest of his work behind the scenes. As of now, this character is more of a surrogate. It works for the genre, as Argo is less about character and more about action and theme, but its hard to believe that Affleck was the best decision for the role.
8. Bella Heathcote, Not Fade Away
![not fade away](https://cdn3.whatculture.com/images/2012/12/not-fade-away.jpg)
Some have pegged 2012 as Ms. Heathcotes breakout year but I am less convinced. From her first frame to her last in David Chases feature directorial debut, Heathcote tries a little too hard. I will allow that there isnt much in the text for her to work with, but that doesnt excuse her Mischa Barton-esque line deliveries and empty expressions. She fails to make an impression so much so that one almost forgets she exists in the time between her scenes. This casting seems to be based more on her doe-eyed appearance than any potential substance underneath. Instead of the nuanced, troubled young woman Chase wants us to see, we get a cute girl who looks good when she smokes a cigarette.