50 God-Tier Acting Moments Buried in Bad Movies

Legend is one of those deeply mediocre films that just so happens to contain a practically perfect performance. In this mostly bland true-crime drama, Tom Hardy plays the dual role of Ronnie and Reggie Kray, two infamous London gangsters and twin brothers, and this movie is essentially an acting showcase for him.

Hardy absolutely nails both brothers: Ronnie, who's volatile and mentally ill, and Reggie, who's more controlled yet just as violent and vicious, thus showing his range as a performer. The Londoner gives both brothers depth and vulnerability, allowing them to seem human, and yet he never shies away from what a terrible pair of human beings they are. Honestly, he's pretty terrifying in the part(s), and every outbreak of violence will have the audience holding their collective breath. 

It's likely that whenever the Kray Brothers are mentioned, many will immediately think of Tom Hardy's already iconic work. Were he in a better movie, Hardy might've courted some serious awards season buzz for this acting tour de force. Also worthy of a mention is Emily Browning, who gives another overqualified performance as Reggie's wife, Frances.