Wednesday, June 19, 2013

Passing of an Acting Great

Today the information was released that James Gandolfini suffered a fatal heart attack while on vacation with his family in Rome. It is always so sad to see the passing of an icon such as this but this death is even more tragic given Mr. Gandolfini was only fifty one years old. Starring in such films as 8mm, Killing them Softly, The Last Castle, The Man Who Wasn't There, and The Mexican, Gandolfini was made a super star by bringing to life the character Tony Soprano. In HBO's smash crime drama Tony Soprano was an anxiety ridden Don who juggled life, family, and crime, in New Jersey. Gandolfini's performance of this character earned him several awards including 16 awards and 26 nominations.

A large man, with a large heart, James Gandolfini managed to hold his own against such power icons such as Rober Redford, Brad Pitt, and Denzel Washington. So in honor of the man, the artist, here are a list of movies that you must see!

The Mexican: a true powerhouse performance, the hit man with a heart.

The Last Castle: Standing toe to toe with Robert Redford is no easy task, but Gandolfini shines as the misguided warden of a military prison.

All the King's Men: May have been overshadowed by Sean Penn, but still an excellent example of his ability.

All 86 Episodes of The Sopranos: Tony Soprano, enough said!!

Where the Wild Things are: The softer and lesser seen side of Gandolfini's acting ability.

Killing them Softly: Mickey the conflicted killer, so awesome and yet again another great performance with Brad Pitt.

8mm: Another, smaller, role but still a twist on what you've come to expect from Gandolfini.

Get Shorty: Bear the stunt man, so calm with his little girl so hitting with Chili Palmer, a must see!

True Romance: Virgil the torturer, so hard hitting and physically demanding as he tortures Patricia Arquette.

So there are many many many nights of entertainment. Go forth and watch it, enjoy it, and remember the man for all the gifts he gave to film.

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