In Contention's Top 10 Performances in Steven Soderbergh Films
With 'Magic Mike' on the way, a look at the actors who excelled in the director's work
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10. Catherine Zeta-Jones in "Traffic" (2000)
Catherine Zeta-Jones might have earned the Academy's approval in 2002 for "Chicago," but her first nomination really should have come two years earlier, for her brisk, on-edge turn as the oblivious wife of a Mexican drug lord in Soderbergh's sprawling drug-trafficking ensemble piece. This was the Welsh beauty's first substantial dramatic role after a long several years spent serving as high-end Hollywood decor, and if the pressure shows, they mesh effectively with the raggedness of the character. In a happy stroke of fate, the role was re-tailored to fit Zeta-Jones's real-life pregnancy -- a physical hindrance that lends further nerviness to an already tense performance.






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Login or create a HitFix account Login SignupLazarus
June 26, 2012 at 5:07PM EST Reply to CommentYour failure to include Clooney in Solaris (arguably among the Actor's best turns) in favor of McDowell, Roberts, and others, is not only surprising, but shameful.
What a waste of time.
Clara
July 2, 2012 at 12:02AM EST Reply to CommentI completely agree with the number one choice. King of the Hill is a phenomenal movie and Jesse Bradford's performance is heartbreaking and gut wrenching. It is unfortunate he has yet to find another role to showcase his talent. I too agree that it is a crime that this movie did not have a wider viewing.