Marlon Brando, who was considered by many the greatest character actor of all time has passed away Thursday. He has won two Oscars, created many unforgettable characters on the big screen, and in his awkward way, never sold out, never gave in to celebrity, fame and fortune. He just acted, and that he did in style.
The media didn’t favor Brando much, he was a private man. He was also an imperfect man in many ways – women, money problems, old scores. In fact just recently there’s been a surge of “reports” on his financial problems. Oh, the infamous celebrity problem announcements. Everyone flocks to the screens to tune in. But just wait until the same media starts the outpouring of sorrow next week … the jackals.
From early 1950s, Marlon Brando has graced the big screen with memorable roles, setting up acting standards that were impossible to top for decades (can you honestly picture another man playing Stanley Kowalski in A Streetcar Named Desire better than him). He has defined archetypes (a mafia boss Don Vito Corleone in The Godfather), and has appeared in films that today simply wouldn’t be made for political reasons (The Last Tango in Paris, Apocalypse Now).
Marlon, your credits far outweigh the occasional turkeys and PR stints. You were a contender … you were a somebody. Not only a gifted actor, but also a man of principles, and character. Rest in peace. We love you.