There are thousands of movies made every year, with ten of thousands of actors playing out roles to the best of their ability. In every generation, there are a few actors who stand above the rest. Once every few generations, a cultural icon of international proportions is born. Actors like Humphrey Bogart, James Dean, Audrey Hepburn or Marilyn Monroe became larger than life, legends that live on long after they’re gone. Clint Eastwood already walks among them. An alpha male of enormous magnitude, for decades he has powerfully conveyed a no-nonsense, rugged individualism and made us feel safe in his presence. This almost regal masculinity provides him the ability to turn even the most mundane of dialogue into an intense exchange, making everything he does ooze with importance and purpose. Eastwood’s steely gaze and squinting blue eyes are not that of a man, but an icon. The fact that last year’s Gran Torino included some of the best work of his career, both as an actor and a film maker is a testament to this lofty status. We grew up watching him, our father’s grew up watching him, and our grandfather’s grew up along with him as his peer. It will be long time before we see the likes of Clint Eastwood again.
- 1. The Good, The Bad and the Ugly - 1968
- 2. Dirty Harry – 1971
- 3. The Outlaw Josey Wales – 1976
- 4. Heartbreak Ridge - 1986
- 5. Unforgiven – 1992
- 6. Gran Torino – 2008
- 7. Million Dollar Baby – 2004
- 8. Escape From Alcatraz – 1979
- 9. For a Few Dollars more – 1967
- 10. Any Which Way You Can – 1980
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