Buttmunker

Released in 1959, the film Al Capone featured Rod Steiger in the lead, and I thought he was great.

Some reviewers stated that Steiger was too over-the-top, and accused him of overacting. Other reviewers said he was terrific.

If you saw the film, which was recently released on DVD, what did you think of Rod?

Ash Ketchum

I don't think anyone who's yet played Capone has not overacted. It goes with the territory. With Rod, you have to expect it and compensate for it. His version is better than most.

Buttmunker

the actor, Stephen Graham protraying Capone in Boardwalk Empire, is fairly subdued, compared to films that have Capone as the lead character. In BE, they allow the character to grow. I believe, once the series has finally ended several years from now, we'll have ourselves the BEST Capone performance to reference.

Double_Oh_7

Has Rod Steiger even been in a movie where he DIDN'T ham it up?

Buttmunker

He was pretty restrained in 1956's On The Waterfront. Brando did all the hammin' in that one. ("I'm glad what I did to you!") Or was it "done" to you? Hmm. An excuse now to re-watch On The Waterfront.

islandclaws

That's what I was wondering. Sounds like someone needs to watch more Steiger. His performance in Amityville Horror should be sold by Honeybaked.

Meglos

I thought he was pretty subtle in Mars Attacks.

chuckd21

Rod Steiger is amazing and if you don't appreciate his overacting in nearly every role, well then SCREW YOU!

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Numanoid

Yep. I came in to post that the thread title be changed to "Rod Steiger in _______ - splended performance or overacting?"