By alexpettyfersource 
1. Daniel Day-Lewis
Daniel Day-Lewis is widely regarded as one of the greatest actors of his generation. His performances are known for their intensity and depth, and he has won three Academy Awards for Best Actor. One of his most memorable roles was as Daniel Plainview in the film “There Will Be Blood.” Day-Lewis’s portrayal of the ruthless oil tycoon garnered critical acclaim and solidified his status as a cinematic powerhouse.
2. Meryl Streep
Meryl Streep is a legendary actress who has been nominated for a record-breaking 21 Academy Awards. She has won three Oscars for her performances in “Kramer vs. Kramer,” “Sophie’s Choice,” and “The Iron Lady.” Streep is known for her versatility and ability to completely inhabit a character. One of her must-see performances is as Miranda Priestly in “The Devil Wears Prada,” where she plays a formidable fashion editor with impeccable style and cutting wit.
3. Denzel Washington
Denzel Washington is a charismatic and talented actor who has won two Academy Awards for his performances in “Glory” and “Training Day.” He is known for his powerful screen presence and ability to command the audience’s attention. One of his standout performances is in the film “Malcolm X,” where he portrays the iconic civil rights leader with passion and conviction.
4. Cate Blanchett
Cate Blanchett is an Australian actress who has won two Academy Awards for her performances in “The Aviator” and “Blue Jasmine.” She is known for her elegance and grace on screen, as well as her ability to tackle a wide range of roles. One of her must-see performances is as Queen Elizabeth I in the film “Elizabeth,” where she brings the iconic monarch to life with depth and humanity.
5. Anthony Hopkins
Sir Anthony Hopkins is a Welsh actor who is widely regarded as one of the greatest actors of his generation. He has won an Academy Award for his performance as Dr. Hannibal Lecter in “The Silence of the Lambs.” Hopkins is known for his ability to portray complex and enigmatic characters with chilling precision. One of his standout performances is in the film “The Remains of the Day,” where he plays a reserved butler who struggles with his emotions.
6. Viola Davis
Viola Davis is an acclaimed actress who has won an Academy Award for her performance in “Fences.” She is known for her powerful and emotional performances, as well as her ability to bring authenticity and depth to every role. One of her must-see performances is in the film “Doubt,” where she plays a mother who confronts a priest about the abuse of her son. Davis’s performance is raw and gripping, and it showcases her incredible talent as an actress.
7. Leonardo DiCaprio
Leonardo DiCaprio is a versatile actor who has won an Academy Award for his performance in “The Revenant.” He is known for his dedication to his craft and his willingness to take on challenging roles. One of his standout performances is in the film “The Wolf of Wall Street,” where he plays a charismatic and unscrupulous stockbroker who becomes embroiled in a world of excess and corruption.
8. Frances McDormand
Frances McDormand is an actress known for her powerful and authentic performances. She has won two Academy Awards for her roles in “Fargo” and “Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri.” McDormand is known for her no-nonsense attitude and her ability to bring a sense of humor to her characters. One of her must-see performances is in the film “Nomadland,” where she plays a woman who embarks on a journey of self-discovery after losing everything in the Great Recession.
9. Tom Hanks
Tom Hanks is a beloved actor who has won two Academy Awards for his performances in “Philadelphia” and “Forrest Gump.” He is known for his everyman charm and his ability to portray characters with heart and humanity. One of his most memorable performances is in the film “Cast Away,” where he plays a FedEx executive stranded on a deserted island. Hanks delivers a captivating and emotional performance that showcases his versatility as an actor.
10. Saoirse Ronan
Saoirse Ronan is a young actress who has garnered critical acclaim for her performances in films such as “Brooklyn” and “Lady Bird.” She is known for her natural talent and ability to bring depth and nuance to her characters. One of her standout performances is in the film “Atonement,” where she plays a young woman who makes a devastating mistake that changes the course of her life. Ronan’s performance is haunting and heartbreaking, and it showcases her incredible range as an actress.
In conclusion, these ten actors have delivered must-see performances that showcase their incredible talent and versatility. Whether portraying iconic historical figures, complex characters, or everyday people facing extraordinary circumstances, these actors have left an indelible mark on the cinematic landscape. Their performances are a testament to the power of storytelling and the transformative nature of acting.