I prefer Hackman's style and his movies overall.

These extraordinary characters that Dustin Hoffman has magnificently portrayed in the past, is what make his performances much comparatively challenging, and unique than Gene Hackman's stereotypical, machismo roles.

That was about as close to laughing out loud at work as I've come here! Trying to get me in trouble...!

I agree, though. Hackman all the way (though Hoffman made an amusing Mumbles).

Oooh, toughie... I'd have to give it to Hoffman, although Hackman makes a good semi-evil-but-grounded guy, like Crimson Tide.

I like both but I slightly prefer Hoffman since I worked with him. Before the camera rolls he's clowning around but the second the director yells action; he's totally in character. His whole demeanor changes and he looks at you as if your somebody else; someone he wasn't having a conversation with just a second ago. Really weird.

For a wide range of movie roles, I would take Hackman. But for individual performances of specific roles, I would take Hoffman. I think Hoffman is so believable in Rain Man, that is one of the greatest acting performances I have ever seen.

Usually when someone plays a mentally challenged character of some sort, it is always the same style, very broad. Hoffman was able make the audience laugh and feel sorry for him at the same time, outstanding movie. But Hackman is awesome in Hoosiers, though.

Hackman reminds me of a campy sort of B list actor and I don't really like Hoffman though I think he is at a higher level than Hackman. That said I guess I like Hackman more.

Huge Gene Hackman fan. Superman I-II, Hoosiers, The French Connection, Poseidon Adventure, No Way Out, Mississippi Burning, Crimson Tide, and Young Frankenstein are some of my favorite movies.

Dustin Hoffman? Meh. With the exception of Rain Man and All the President's Men, I can't really say I'm a big fan of his movies, nor his work. He very well may be the most overrated actor in Hollywood.

OVERRATED? This is absurd! Dustin Hoffman is one of the best, superb actors in the movie industry. According to his extensive credential repertoire, he deserved every critically acclaimed reviews he has ever received for his outstanding performances.

I like 'em both, and, although I can see where you Hackman voters are coming from, I gotta go with Hoffman.

They both are true professionals and bring a certain glow to whatever project they're involved with, but I have to go with Hackman. Probably because I met him while working on Company Business and he was such a class act.