Leonardo DiCaprio: 5 Awesome Performances And 5 That Sucked
5 Awesome Performances...
5. Howard Hughes - The Aviator (2004)
When everyone complains about DiCaprio never winning an Oscar, and the injustice of it all, this is the one that really stands out as a moment when he genuinely could have taken home the little gold statue. It's his most obviously Oscar-worthy role, but thankfully isn't one that veers into Academy baiting, instead offering a great portrayal of Howard Hughes, focusing on his aviation and his attempts to make movies. DiCaprio successfully charts his turn from a billionaire into something of a madman, yet manages to retain an air of sympathy that allows you to continue rooting for him. He brilliantly captures Hughes' obsessive-compulsive natures, as well as successfully conveying the fear, anger, and excitement that make up the different facets of the character. The film may have been a bit long, but his performance never drops.
NCTJ-qualified journalist. Most definitely not a racing driver. Drink too much tea; eat too much peanut butter; watch too much TV. Sadly only the latter paying off so far.
A mix of wise-old man in a young man's body with a child-like wonder about him and a great otherworldly sensibility.
