His interpretation of Billy Budd is one of the most astounding film acting performances ever. Right up there with Brando in"Streetcar"
Absolutely brilliant.
Obviously, he's absurdly beautiful, which may detract from people noticing his acting skill.
This performance is timeless.
Which is why he's still working 50 years later.
P.S. All the acting in this film was great.
I'm more familiar with Stamp's recent work, but I saw Billy Budd this past weekend and he was, as you say, absurdly beautiful. He looked like Sting circa 1981 in this film.
shareStamp is perfect as Billy in this film, both in his physical appearance and brilliant portrayal of the sweet young man. He deserved his Oscar nomination (though the case can be made that it should have been for a leading and not supporting role).
Stamp is wonderful in the role - a very subtle portrayal of innocence with just a hint of something deeper and darker seething below the surface. As mentioned already Billy was clearly the film's leading role, however, and I believe the supporting actor nomination should have been reserved for the astounding Robert Ryan. His is a GREAT performance.
shareMr. Stamp is excellent!
"A stitch in time, saves your embarrassment." (RIP Ms. Penny LoBello)
Stamp's Oscar-nominated performance in "Billy Budd" is masterful. I couldn't agree more with some of the other reviewers here...It's one of the finest acting jobs ever committed to celluloid. Pure and Simple. The beauty of it is Stamp never seems to be acting. The characterization is so complete and convincing that the actor disappears and Billy Budd - a very real and heartbreaking person - emerges. Bravo!
Bravo, Terence