There is probably hardly another Hollywood actor who is as changeable as Gary Oldman. The British actor, director and producer left school at the early age of 16. Nevertheless, he received the chance to study drama at the Rose Bruford Drama College thanks to a scholarship.
“Gary Oldman? Never heard of him, but Leonardo DiCaprio is amazing.” Unfortunately that’s what I get to hear quite often. In fact, the passionate artist has already contributed to more than 50 movies, including “Leon The Professional“, “Book of Eli” and “Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy“. For the latter one, he was even nominated for an Oscar.
Although Gary Oldman has undoubtedly proven his acting talent in dozens of movies, a lot of people still have never heard of him. Why?
Gary Oldman is the chameleon of Hollywood, a status which can be considered a blessing and a curse at the same time. He often plays his role so remarkably well and convincing that the audience remains unaware that this is none other than Gary Oldman! Another essential reason is probably the fact that he’s often only offered supporting roles, while the main roles are filled with famous actors.
Nevertheless, to me, he remains a master of the art of acting and transformation. Recently, I noticed my jaw dropping again when I realized that Gary Oldman contributed to one of the most significant youth films ever: Harry Potter. Who did he play? The Prisoner of Azkaban, Sirius Black!
We therefore present 5 other roles in which it can only be said in retrospect that it is this master of transformation, Gary Oldman!
Gary Oldman as Commisioner Gordon
in Christopher Nolan’s “Batman Begins” (2005), “Batman The Dark Knight” (2008) and “Batman The Dark Knight Rises” (2012)
summarized role: commissioner in Gotham City and Batman’s helpers
Picture: © Warner Brothers
Gary Oldman as Jean-Baptiste Emanuel Zorg
in Luc Besson’s “The Fifth Element” (1997)
summarized role: eccentric and evil businessman
Picture: © Columbia Pictures
Gary Oldman as Dracula
in Bram Stoker’s “Dracula” (1992)
summarized role: the most famous bloodsucker of the world
Picture: © Mary Evans / Ronald Grant /
Gary Oldman as Drexl Spivey
in Quentin Tarantino’s “True Love” (1993)
summarized role: drug addict, crazy pimp
Picture: © Warner Brothers
Gary Oldman as DEA Agent Norman Stansfield
in Luc Besson’s “Leon The Professional” (1994)
summarized role: Beethoven devotee and one of the scariest villains ever
Picture: © Gaumont
By the way, today is Gary Oldman’s 58th birthday. We wish you all the best!
