3. The Cider House Rules - Homer Wells
Though not as universally cherished or applauded as Wonder Boys, The Cider House Rules, is nevertheless a great, and deeply affecting movie, and as if that weren't enough, it is one of the few adaptations of supposedly "difficult" literature that actually achieves its goal to make a coherent and gripping film. For a film that has often been accused of lacking dramatic weight, it deals with a surprisingly controversial and incredibly provocative subject matter, in its portrayal of illegal abortions and decidedly pro-choice stance. Yes it avoids heavy-weighting the issues, but the more gentle exploration, and the framework of Maguire's exploratory relationship with Charlize Theron still offers an ultimately engaging backdrop for the moral choices that underpin the final act of the film. Here Maguire shows his everyman value once more - despite his character's strong moral beliefs - and he is the perfect choice for the character's personal journey, displaying a wounded vulnerability and quiet nobleness that announces his character as a hero without the fanfare and bluster of others.