During the 1890s film was introduced to the world with the help of new technology. It began with minute long features and eventually grew to movies lasting over an hour and a half. The film industry bred some of the most iconic and influential people of all time. Here are some of the actors I believe speak for generations.
1. Charlie Chaplin
The king of the silent film era, Charlie Chaplin, is perhaps one of the most prominent comedians in history. With lighthearted skits reflecting historical events to other comedic skits such as "The Fireman" (1916), Charlie never failed to entertain. If there is one thing we know for sure, it is that Charlie Chaplin is one remarkable man.
2. Anthony Perkins
Our beloved psycho. Anthony Perkins is well known for his role in "Psycho" (1960) as Norman Bates. In Perkins’ time working alongside Alfred Hitchcock, he was able to give audiences a close to perfect character portrayal. Anthony Perkins’ legendary role will continue to live on for decades to come.
3. Tom Hanks
Everyone knows who Tom Hanks is, but have you ever really taken the time to appreciate him? Over the past year I have had the chance to analyze multiple films he has acted in. From "Toy Story" (1995) to "Saving Private Ryan" (1998), Tom Hanks never fails to give an excellent performance. I am convinced Hanks is and will be one of the most influential actors of all time.
4. Leonardo DiCaprio
Blonde hair, blue eyes; need I say more? DiCaprio has been a well-known actor since he was a child. He was praised for his role in "What’s Eating Gilbert Grape?" (1993) where he played a mentally handicapped child. Since then, Leonardo DiCaprio has taken the acting world by storm and has been featured in films such as "Romeo and Juliet" (1996), "The Great Gatsby" (2013), "The Revenant" (2015) and so many more. The effort Leonardo DiCaprio puts into his films will be hard to forget as the film industry progresses.
5. Mark Ruffalo
I find Mark Ruffalo to be one of the most intriguing actors of his time. In each film Ruffalo has participated in, he has delivered great character depth. Some of my favorites include "Begin Again" (2014), "13 Going on 30" (2004) and "Thanks for Sharing" (2012). I encourage anyone and everyone to watch his movies because Mark Ruffalo is incredibly talented.
6. Joaquin Phoenix
Since watching "I Walk the Line" (2005), I have become a massive fan of Joaquin Phoenix. His near perfect representation of Johnny Cash was one to remember. Other films such as "I’m Still Here" (2010) and "Her" (2013) lead me to believe this man will, without a doubt, be remembered as one of the greatest actors of his time.
7. Nat Wolff
Nat Wolff has appeared in several films that I have watched and I have enjoyed all of his characters. Nat Wolff is a quirky and entertaining young actor who plays characters whose personality resonates with viewers. Films like "Palo Alto" (2013) and "Stuck in Love" (2012) make Nat Wolff a remarkable actor.
8. Jake Gyllenhaal
Jake Gyllenhaal is perhaps one of the most important actors in the film industry. Gyllenhaal chooses very diverse roles and is dedicated to making the character relatable and realistic. He works for knowledge rather than awards which is very admirable. Films such as "Nightcrawler" (2014), "Accidental Love" (2015) and "Love & Other Drugs" (2010), are the perfect blend of wit and seriousness that will leave you full of emotions.
