Best: American Psycho (2000) Before the Hustle and even before the batfowl, Bale offered the most transformative of performances on a CV that is chock-full of chameleon like transformations. And yes, while he beefed up for the role, trimming his body fat to look impeccable chiselled, the performance is more about the essence that Bale brings to the character, rather than just his aesthetic. He saunters easily from cold and removed to explosive and maniacal, and allows the briefest of flashes that his still surface hides a fiery underbelly in a performance that is as complex as it is incredibly memorable. Worst: Newsies (1992) Given what has come since, it's hard not to look back at this musical affair as a low-point in Bale's formative years: since American Psycho, he has made a career as a cool leading man, even in the most grotesque roles, and the sight of him prancing not-quite gracefully across scene is particularly jarring. Not only that, the film is almost entirely devoid of character, and too openly attempts to go for the nostalgic market without backing it up with personality. Do you agree with these choices? Share your own Best and Worst Movie picks for each of these Oscar nominated talents below in the comments thread.
