When discussing actors with friends and family I often find everyone’s favorites are from another generation’s; established players. I can say the same about my favorites as well; some working today include: Jack Nicholson, Kate Winslet, Daniel Day-Lewis, Catherine Keener and Leonardo DiCaprio. The thing that draws me to most great actors is if they don’t just churn out movies for the sake of working or keeping up appearances. Sure we all have to pay the bills, so I don’t dismiss any actor doing their thing even when the movie might have a strong stank to it.
Emile Hirsch falls into line with this generation of great actors comfortably. His profile shows depth, and he seems to choose films that showcase his ability to act other than just be known. Looking at his box office return, some might say he isn’t a leading star just yet; I agree that he may not be enough to open a movie – but he can certainly deliver consistently great performances.
I would like to showcase some of his work in video compilations; some moments that stood out for me over the years viewing his movies. This is not a complete filmography; so please get on the hunt and I promise you won’t be disappointed.
Skills.
James Dean taught me not to speed, River Phoenix taught me not to DO speed, and Marlon Brando taught me to slow down on the cheeseburgers. – Emile Hirsch
The Girl Next Door took several viewings to really appreciate this teen flick; or “anti” depending on how you look at it.
The Dangerous Lives of Altar Boys (sorry about the subtitles – English audio though) I actually viewed during a marathon of movies my friend and I put together that we hadn’t seen yet. This one stole the show. Imaginary Heroes showcases some serious acting ont eh part of Mr. Hirsch and Jeff Daniels; a must see.
MILK might have the least amount of screen time for Emile, but no moment goes forgotten; like this clip – what a storyteller.
We now come to Into The Wild. This would be my favorite Emile Hirsch film and role. The movie is absolutely hypnotic thanks to this endless efforts as an actor. Watching it you begin to feel he put everything he had as a person into this role; physically and mentally.
Perhaps the greatest friendship to be formed on screen in my lifetime. Ron Franz and Christopher McCandless come together as polar opposites and unite as soul mates some might say. Moments like this don’t often touch you in a way that’s well…heartbreaking.
