10 Greatest Jack Nicholson Performances Of All Time
5. Col. Nathan Jessop - A Few Good Men
Jack Nicholson's role in the war/courtroom drama A Few Good Men has become so ingrained in our minds since its release that it can be easy to forget just how impressive his performance was in the film. Best remembered for the "You can't handle the truth!" speech, Nicholson's role as corrupt and immoral Colonel Nathan Jessop was yet another masterclass from the veteran actor.
The film primarily focuses on naval investigators Daniel Kaffee (Tom Cruise), Joanne Galloway (Demi Moore), and Sam Weinberg (Kevin Pollack) as they defend two soldiers accused of murdering a fellow marine at Guantanamo Bay. During their research into the case, the legal team come to suspect Base Commander Jessop is responsible for the deceased marine's murder.
As Jessop, Nicholson is both calculating, intelligent and refrained, and his intimidation of Kaffee mid-way through the movie deserves just as much praise as the famous courtroom speech. The build-up to said speech sees Nicholson reserved, measured and calm despite Jessop's guilt, and when Kaffee finally confronts him for his crimes the Colonel lets it all out - his anger at the system, his disdain for people questioning his patriotic duty, and his rage at being cornered.
It's a powerful scene, perfectly performed and expertly delivered, and shows in one scene just how formidable a performer Nicholson can be.