20 Most Controversial Film Performances Of All Time

14. Edward Norton (American History X)

This film creates a central performance that is both vile in character yet creative in the sympathy it provides as time goes on. A trait that is very hard to pull off in a performance which is brutally understood and realised with Edward Norton. His role as neo-Nazi Derek is one that makes you angry and disgusted with his ignorance and xenophobic attitude towards other races, yet sympathetic and forgiving when you see the effort and care as he attempts to go straight. The curb stomping scene (you know all about it if you have seen it) is something that you will never EVER forget and a moment that will create a hatred for a character who you will feel deserves EVERYTHING coming his way in jail. Somehow, by the time Derek is released and is trying to set his brother on the right path, you sympathise and care for Derek. It isn't the easiest performance to watch, but with the exception of number 1 on this list, Norton creates a well rounded likeable monster of man.