20 Incredible Film Performances That Didn't Get The Credit They Deserved
13. Viggo Mortensen - A History Of Violence (2005)
David Cronenberg's graphic novel adaptation sees Viggo Mortensen deliver what is arguably the best performance of his career as a family man whose past is in danger of catching up to him. Supporting players Maria Bello, Ed Harris and William Hurt scored several nominations during awards season, but Mortensen's understated turn was largely ignored. The brilliance in the performance comes from the quiet duality. As Tom Stall, Mortensen plays a husband and father that deals with all of the usual family problems including small-town struggles, marital strife and school bullies. When allegations are made that he is actually reformed gangster Joey Cusack, the character becomes more methodical and detached, with Mortensen keeping the audience guessing right up until the final act. Much like the movie itself, Mortensen's performance is measured and calculated, generating an increasing sense of foreboding as a seemingly straightforward narrative becomes something else entirely.
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