18. Showcasing his comedic side as Irving Rosenfeld in American Hustle (2013)

Bale was Irving Rosenfeld, the con artist with a paunchy physique, an intricate comb-over, and a complicated emotional life, in American Hustle (2013). When it came to Bale's character work and comedic timing in the film, there was much to learn; he proved capable of balancing humor with depth to the character. In revamping Irving's insecurities and charm, there was more to come to this potentially one-note character. The performance earned him another Academy Award nomination, further proving his excellence in changing from intense drama into sharp comedy.
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Edited by Sangeeta Mathew