Paul Scofield Has Died

See here. Rare is the stage actor, accustomed to the broader characterizations necessary for their venue, who is able to turn in first-rate film performances. Yet Scofield's portrayal of Sir Thomas More in A Man for All Seasons is among the greatest screen acting I've ever seen.

The character Scofield played in Robert Redford's 1999 film, Quiz Show, could, in the hands of lesser actors, have devolved into that of a shallow moralist. But Scofield managed to portray both rectitude and sympathy, a loving, if demanding, father who was repelled by the dishonesty he saw in his son even while trying to save him from himself.

His screen appearances were few. Scofield preferred the stage. But each movie performance was memorable without being overbearing. If anything, Scofield underacted.

Also see here and here.