Bruno Pugh
Hollywood is a land of second chances, where a single role can reignite a fading star’s career. Some actors face years of obscurity or a string of box office failures before landing the role that reminds audiences why they fell in love with them in the first place. So, here’s a look at 20 transformative performances that redefined careers and rewrote Hollywood history.
Robert Downey Jr. in Iron Man
In the early 2000s, Robert Downey Jr.’s career was marred by law troubles and a history of substance abuse. Many believed he was uninsurable and a risky hire. However, Jon Favreau, the director of “Iron Man,” saw potential in him. Downey Jr.’s charismatic portrayal of Tony Stark launched the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
John Travolta in Pulp Fiction
By the early ’90s, his career had dwindled after a series of flops following his earlier successes in “Grease” and “Saturday Night Fever.” Enter Quentin Tarantino, who cast Travolta as the smooth but bumbling hitman Vincent Vega in “Pulp Fiction.” The film was a commercial smash, earning Travolta an Academy Award nomination.
Matthew McConaughey in Dallas Buyers Club
Matthew McConaughey was known more for his romantic comedies than serious roles in the early 2000s. His “McConaissance” began with a string of dramatic roles, culminating in “Dallas Buyers Club.” Plus, his raw and transformative performance as Ron Woodroof, a man diagnosed with AIDS, earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor.
Mickey Rourke in The Wrestler
He was once one of Hollywood’s most promising stars, but his career declined after he left acting for professional boxing, which left him with injuries and a changed appearance. Darren Aronofsky gave Rourke a second shot with “The Wrestler.” The role paralleled Rourke’s own life, making his comeback even more poignant.
Winona Ryder in Stranger Things
After a shoplifting scandal in 2001, Ryder’s career cooled significantly. Her return as Joyce Byers in Netflix’s “Stranger Things” marked a stunning comeback. Notably, the role showcased her emotional range and reintroduced her to a new generation. This series became a pop culture phenomenon, cementing Ryder’s place back in the spotlight.
Keanu Reeves in John Wick
“John Wick,” a gritty, action-packed revenge film, changed everything for Keanu Reeves. Moreover, Reeves’ commitment to intense stunt training and his emotionally charged performance turned the movie into a sleeper hit. The franchise revitalized his career and established him as one of Hollywood’s most beloved stars.
Jennifer Lopez in Hustlers
Although Jennifer Lopez had a successful music career, her film roles often didn’t earn critical praise. That changed with “Hustlers,” where Lopez portrayed Ramona, a savvy and morally complex stripper. It reminded audiences and critics of her acting prowess and proved she could balance star power with nuanced performances.
Brendan Fraser in The Whale
Brendan Fraser’s career took a downturn in the late 2000s after a series of personal and professional setbacks. His triumphant return came with “The Whale,” where he played a reclusive and obese man grappling with personal tragedy. Fraser’s raw, heartfelt performance sparked an outpouring of love from fans and colleagues.
Michael Keaton in Birdman
“Birdman,” a satirical drama about an aging actor trying to reclaim relevance, was a case of life imitating art. Keaton’s layered and vulnerable performance received universal acclaim, earning him a Golden Globe as well as an Oscar nomination. This film reignited his career and led to major roles in projects like “Spotlight” and “Spider-Man: Homecoming.”
Drew Barrymore in Scream
Even though Drew Barrymore’s early life in Hollywood was tumultuous, with struggles including substance abuse as a teen, her small but pivotal role in “Scream” marked her return as a mature actress. Plus, her shocking passing in the opening scene defied the audience’s expectations and reinvigorated her career further.
Sylvester Stallone in Creed
After years of lackluster sequels and diminishing returns, Sylvester Stallone’s Rocky Balboa seemed destined for retirement. Enter Ryan Coogler, who reimagined the franchise with “Creed.” Stallone’s portrayal of an aging Rocky training Apollo Creed’s son was both tender and powerful. Critics and fans hailed his performance, earning Stallone an Academy Award nomination.
Ben Affleck in Argo
Ben Affleck’s career was in a slump after a string of critically panned films and publicized personal struggles. Then came “Argo,” a tense political thriller he directed and starred in. As CIA agent Tony Mendez, his role was understated yet gripping and proved his evolution from tabloid fodder to serious filmmaker and actor.
Kristen Stewart in Spencer
Once best known for her role as Bella Swan in “Twilight,” Kristen Stewart struggled to shake off criticism of her earlier performances. That all changed with “Spencer,” where she delivered a haunting and nuanced portrayal of Princess Diana. This performance was lauded by critics and anchored her as one of Hollywood’s most versatile actors.
Eddie Murphy in Dolemite Is My Name
After a quiet period in his career, Eddie Murphy made a spectacular return with “Dolemite Is My Name.” Playing Rudy Ray Moore, a down-and-out comedian who creates the larger-than-life character Dolemite, Murphy was in top form—hilarious, heartfelt, and magnetic. The film reminded fans of his genius and power to deliver.
Liam Neeson in Taken
Liam Neeson was better known for dramatic roles in films like Schindler’s List, but “Taken” transformed him into a late-career action star. His portrayal of Bryan Mills, a retired CIA operative with a “particular set of skills,” was gritty and commanding. This was a film that became an unexpected hit and spawned sequels.
Renee Zellweger in Judy
After stepping away from Hollywood for several years, Renee Zellweger made a triumphant return with her portrayal of Judy Garland in “Judy.” Her transformative performance captured the fragility and brilliance of the late singer and actress. Furthermore, the role earned her numerous accolades, including an Academy Award for Best Actress.
Joaquin Phoenix in Joker
Though Joaquin Phoenix had already established himself as a talented actor, his career experienced occasional lulls. “Joker” catapulted him to new heights. The deeply unsettling and vulnerable portrayal of the iconic villain won him an Oscar and sparked global conversations about mental health and societal breakdowns.
Nicolas Cage in Pig
After years of starring in low-budget and often bizarre films, Nicolas Cage stunned audiences with “Pig.” His restrained, emotionally charged performance as a truffle hunter searching for his stolen pig was a stark contrast to his usual over-the-top roles. Critics hailed it as one of the best performances of his career.
Sandra Bullock in The Blind Side
Though Sandra Bullock had always been a beloved star, she was better known for romantic comedies than serious roles. That changed with “The Blind Side,” where she portrayed Leigh Anne Tuohy, a determined woman who takes in a homeless boy and helps him succeed in football. With her powerful performance, she earned the Academy Award for Best Actress.
Marlon Brando in The Godfather
By the early ’70s, Marlon Brando’s career was in freefall, with his reputation as a difficult actor overshadowing his early successes. Francis Ford Coppola took a gamble by casting him as Don Vito in “The Godfather,” a role that would not only revitalize Brando’s career but also redefine his legacy. This iconic performance remains a cultural touchstone to this day.