10 Phenomenally Talented Actors Who Have Never Won Oscars

2. Joaquin Phoenix

Remember way back to my introduction when I called the Oscars "a little bit silly"? That was almost entirely with Joaquin Phoenix in mind. His not receiving a nomination for his work in Her (he was nominated for a Golden Globe) is a perfect indication of just how petty and political the awards circuit can be. The actor, who openly hates the press circuit, seems to have a penchant for burning bridges. That might just be what's so darn likable about him, though. In 2001, he was nominated for his role in Gladiator (which won Best Film). Half a decade later, he was nominated for his portrayal of Johnny Cash in the biopic Walk the Line. That year, he lost to another masterful actor portraying a historical figure: Philip Seymour Hoffman in Capote. After the Oscars that year, amidst all the publicity of his success, Phoenix "quit" acting to start a new career as a rapper. The Andy Kaufman-esque performance was documented and released as the mockumentary I'm Still Here. Again, Phoenix was incredibly committed, but all it really proved is that most people don't like the idea of a film where the joke is on them (have we learned nothing from Eyes Wide Shut?). His first film back was PT Anderson's The Master, in which he appeared as Freddy Quell, an 'Id' incarnate. The performance had a new power that Phoenix hadn't really displayed before, going deep into the character of Freddy Quell and creating a feeling of uncertainty as to what was going to come next. Again, he found himself nominated, but called the Oscar not just a "carrot," but "the worst-tasting carrot I've ever had in my whole life...I don't want this carrot." They must have listened, because he lost out to another biopic: Daniel Day-Lewis in Lincoln. He still has, hopefully, a long career ahead of him and maybe he will be recognised for his work by the Academy once more, but their relationship seems strained at best.