Ok, I see everyone here praising Edward Norton (great actor, though), but I think Richard Gere was simply naturally perfect for the role, no need to force anything.
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Agreed - seems everyone goes for Norton purely because he played 2 roles but with no mention of how well he played them
Gere essentially played 2 roles as well [the egotist and the dethroned] and we should not forget that.
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Absolutely. Norton gets the praise (as he should) because his part is the showiest in the film. Gere's performance is very subtle and nuanced. And, also Laura Linney is almost never mentioned even though she is superb in it. It was her first major, leading role and yet she held her own against Gere every step of the way. Her natural intelligence clearly showing during her courtroom scenes. And, to the last poster: you said (about Norton) only getting praise for playing dual roles and not how well. I'm sorry, but Norton was brilliant in his every scene. Look back and try to remember the first time you saw this film and answer honestly: did you not believe, until the very end that Aaron Stampler was just as Norton played him: awkward, shy, simple-minded boy with some psychological problems (whether amnesia or later on a multiple personality disorder)? I sure did. And if you agree, it means that the actor did his job well. I happen to think he should have won his Oscar that year.
shareExactly. Gere had to react to Norton's more showy performance and he nailed every reaction. A very subtle performance by Gere. I'd rate it in his Top 3 performances, for sure.
shareThe chemistry between the two was phenomenal. Both were great.
shareGere was more invested in showing off his swag; being a charmer more than an actor.
share