Every Best Actor Oscar Movie Winner Of The 21st Century Ranked

Who should have won: Benedict Cumberbatch - The Power of the Dog.

After years of bad luck at the Academy and several fantastic performances that really deserved more acclaim, Will Smith finally scooped his first Best Actor trophy for his staggering portrayal of troubled, inspiring tennis coach Richard Williams.

Shedding his movie star image in a brave but successful attempt to prove he could still bring the goods as a great actor, Smith's turn as the father of Venus and Serena is a remarkable exercise in balance: He fully embodies Richard's inconsistencies and flaws, but digs deep to make his vices feel understandable and painfully human.

It's a remarkable achievement from one of Hollywood's biggest stars, and better yet is the fact that Smith's victory went to the right role and doesn't feel like it happened out of pity. You love to see it.