For men, my vote goes to Ewan McGregor. Of recent actors, he has had the most range of characters he has played, besides the ever lovable Johnny Depp. From Obi-wan Kenobi, to a clone in The Island, he also brings a real human element to whatever role he is playing.  I especially loved his portrayal of Edward Bloom in Tim Burton’s Big Fish, and months after hearing him belt out the first few chords of “Your Song” in Moulin Rouge, I still claim he sings it better than Elton John himself, and kept the song burned in my head for weeks. His performance there is the only reason I bought the movie to begin with. As well as being human, he is one of the actors who brings all of his heart to a part, and that makes the movie going experience better for all involved, as you actually feel the emotion he wants you to. When he screams to the dull as wood Hayden Christensen “You were supposed to be the Chosen One!” you can just feel the anguish of how Obi-Wan feels he has failed Anakin, both as a parent and friend, without George having to beat your face in with it. Plus, the clean trimmed goatee is just a good look for anyone to carry off .

Now, I nominated Natalie Portman for the same reason. Her role as Samantha in Garden State, one of the finest independent films ever made, shows a more human portrayal of romantic interests for guys. She expertly captures the kind girl next door persona. Sure, she lies sometimes, but who doesn’t tell a few fibs to protect themselves from others in life at some time or another. Her first role, as the little girl Matilda in The Professional with Jean Reno is one of the most unusual children’s roles I’ve ever seen, but even then, she was showing promise as an actress.

Let’s face it. She can act. I mean, watch her through Episodes II & III of the Star Wars series, when she has to do a scene with Hayden Christensen focusing on their budding romance, she maintains a face straighter than anyone I’ve watched the Prequels with can  (especially against Hayden’s stalker eyes and monotonous dialogue). She also looks good in the costumes of Padme Amidala. I’m not going to lie about that. Saying that, though, she is also one of the bravest actresses out there, cutting off all of her hair for her role in V for Vendetta. That is a brave move, that’s lost her a lot of male fans who were just into her looks. To me, that shows more strength than anyone I know, especially in a society that prides itself on looks like our own. It’s one of the reasons I nominated her, and still cast my vote for her.

PORTRAYS, DAGGIT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I would buy you a sandwich if you were homeless   I really mean that.