Best: Stuart, A Life Backwards (2007) Long before his meteoric rise to the upper A-list (and before understanding him on screen required a translator), Hardy starred opposite a similarly pre-famous Benedict Cumberbatch for this exceptional, haunting TV movie. Adapted from Alexander Masters' powerful biography of his volatile, fractured friend, the film offers Hardy's richest and most provocative performance (narrowly beating the wild and colourful Bronson), and though it's probably his least seen film, it's his most affecting performance. Worst: This Means War (2012) As soon as you rise to the top of the A-list you're bound to be offered pay-check movies designed to capitalise on your profile and good-looks, and that's precisely why This Means War sits alongside Hardy's more interesting work. Playing a spy locked in a romantic triangle, he's unchallenged, uninspired and unrewarding to watch.
