10 Horror Stars Who Should Have Won Best Actor at the Oscars
Jason Miller – The Exorcist
A priest on the verge of losing his faith is challenged in the most difficult way possible. Not only must he face a demonic possession but also one that sees fit to mock him, attempting to elicit feelings guilt over the recent passing of his mother. Miller’s performance as Father Karras showcases all of that and more, bringing to the screen a character that is richly layered and wonderfully complex. While The Exorcist won several Academy Awards, Miller’s performance was disappointingly not recognized.
Ralph Ineson – The Witch
How is a father supposed to react when he is ostracized from a community and must provide for his family in a seemingly desolate and unaccommodating land? Ineson bears all of these burdens and also must try to keep his family together after the tragic death of his youngest child. As tensions mount and frustrations boil over, Ineson’s performance only grows stronger, his intensity palpable. While the film was critically acclaimed, the Academy didn’t recognize it for any category. Ineson being snubbed is an insult to all horror fans, plain and simple.
Michael Keaton – Beetlejuice
There’s a reason that Tim Burton’s horror/comedy has endured for so many years, and it’s not due to Alec Baldwin or Geena Davis’ admittedly delightful performances. Nope, it’s all thanks to Michael Keaton as “The Ghost with the Most.” He threw himself into the role with such devilish glee that it’s nearly impossible to not get swept up in his frenzied charisma. He’s charming, sinister, disgusting, and never once dull. The moment Keaton is on the screen, you know you’re going to have a blast!
Anthony Perkins – Psycho
When it comes to fantastic performances in horror, no discussion can happen without at least mentioning Anthony Perkins in Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho. From starting out as a seemingly meek and mild motel clerk to becoming the villain of the film, Perkins played the role with sincerity, grace, and deceptive terror. This is a masterclass performance, one that will live on in infamy.
