Dustin Hoffman, a versatile actor whose career spans more than seven decades, has played some of the most memorable characters in cinema history. In honor of his 85th birthday, we’re listing the 10 best performances from his illustrious career.
1. The Graduate (1967)
Release date: 1967
Dustin Hoffman played Benjamin Braddock, a young man seduced by an older woman (Anne Bancroft), in Mike Nichols’ film “The Graduate.” The film became the highest-grossing film of the year, earning more than $104 million worldwide (adjusted for inflation, $857 million). Hoffman received his first Oscar nomination for the role, which remains coveted to this day.
2. Midnight Cowboy (1969)
Release date: 1969
Hoffman played Enrico Salvatore “Ratso” Rizzo in John Schlesinger’s urban drama, which won the Academy Award for Best Picture. Playing a thug, Hoffman earned his second Oscar nomination for Best Actor, solidifying his place as a serious actor.
3. Lenny (1974)
Release date: 1974
Hoffman played controversial comedian Lenny Bruce in Bob Fosse’s monochrome biopic. His portrayal earned him another Oscar nomination and is often regarded as one of his finest performances, capturing the complexity and intensity of Bruce’s life and career.
4. Kramer vs. Kramer (1979)
Release date: 1979
Hoffman played Ted Kramer, a father fighting for custody of his son, for which he received his first Academy Award for Best Actor. The film also won Best Picture, showcasing Hoffman’s ability to convey deep emotional sensitivity.
5. Tootsie (1982)
Release date: 1982
Playing an unemployed actor named Michael Dorsey in Sydney Pollack’s comedy, Hoffman’s performance is both humorous and poignant. His work in “Tootsie” is a critical reflection of show business, earning him another Oscar nomination.
6. Rain Man (1988)
Release date: 1988
Hoffman played the autistic savant Raymond Babbitt, for which he received his second Academy Award for Best Actor. The film also won the Best Picture award, with Hoffman giving a delicate and subtle performance that cemented his legacy in Hollywood.
7. Marathon Man (1976)
Release date: 1976
In John Schlesinger’s thriller, Hoffman played Thomas Babington Levy, a marathon runner who becomes entangled with a Nazi war criminal. His performance alongside Laurence Olivier is a masterclass in acting, even if he was snubbed at the Oscars that year.
8. All the President’s Men (1976)
Release date: 1976
Hoffman played Carl Bernstein, one of the reporters who exposed the Watergate scandal. Along with Robert Redford, Hoffman’s restrained but compelling acting contributed to the film’s critical acclaim, even though he was not nominated for an Oscar.
9. Hook (1991)
Release date: 1991
Hoffman played the villainous Captain Hook in Steven Spielberg’s fantasy adventure. His brilliant performance alongside Robin Williams and Bob Hoskins showcased his versatility and his ability to bring larger-than-life characters to the screen.
10. The Meyerowitz Stories (New and Selected) (2017)
Release date: 2017
Hoffman’s role as Harold Meyerowitz, a stubborn sculptor and patriarch, in Noah Baumbach’s drama-comedy is one of his most recent performances. His interactions with his on-screen family, including Adam Sandler and Ben Stiller, are both heartwarming and hilarious.
Dustin Hoffman’s remarkable career has left an indelible mark on cinema. With many unforgettable roles, his acting continues to inspire and entertain audiences around the world. From his success in “The Graduate” to his award-winning performance in “Rain Man,” Hoffman’s contributions to film are nothing short of legendary.
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