20 Incredible Film Performances That Didn't Get The Credit They Deserved
19. Tom Cruise - The Last Samurai (2003)
Tom Cruise is more of a global brand than a mere actor, and the baggage that comes with it often means that his performances don't often receive the credit they deserve. If you ignore the billions in box office revenue and constant media frenzy that follows him everywhere, Cruise is an immensely talented actor who has proven himself over four decades in the movie business. Introduced as a drunken fallen hero, Cruise's role as Nathan Algren impressively covers the full emotional spectrum until he resigns himself to his fate in the closing moments. For a movie with a $140m budget and no shortage of action, the actor is also impressively reserved, keeping his larger-than-life persona in check and playing the smaller character moments perfectly. The Last Samurai grossed over $450m at the box office, but despite a Golden Globe nomination Cruise's performance didn't gain much momentum during awards season. Which is a shame, as it is easily one of the best lead performances of the actor's career.
I don't do social media, so like or follow me in person but please maintain a safe distance or the authorities will be notified. Don't snap me though, I'll probably break. I was once labelled a misogynist on this very site in a twenty paragraph-long rant for daring to speak ill of the Twilight franchise. I stand by what I said, it's crap.
