Back when masculinity was praised and promoted in Hollywood films, the late Sean Connery was the king of manliness. The actor was best known for his portrayal of James Bond, in what is considered the last portrayal of the character. Although he has appeared in many other films, he will forever be remembered as Bond.
If you’re interested in having a movie night honoring Connery’s life and career, check out his five depictions of James Bond. He played 007 in “Dr. No” (1962), “From Russia With Love” (1963), “Goldfinger” (1964), “Thunderball” (1965), and “You Only Live Twice” (1967). He reprised his role a decade later, in “Diamonds Are Forever” (1971), and again in the next decade with “Never Say Never Again” (1983).
Jimmy Stewart
The beloved Jimmy Stewart first began his career as a Broadway theater actor, and transitioned into films in the mid ‘30s. He became a popular Hollywood star due to his image as the American every-day man. The actor has portrayed almost every popular profession there is, such as a lawyer, a cowboy, a military officer, a politician, a businessman, a reporter and more. He debuted as a film actor in 1936, alongside Spencer Tracy, in the the classic black and white crime film, "The Murder Man". His first Academy Award was earned just four years later, for his performance in George Cukor’s "The Philadelphia Story".
Stewart was considered the "American Ideal", and helped bring the nation together. Stewart’s greatest film is arguably the Christmas classic "It's a Wonderful Life". He also appeared in other classics, such as "The Man Who Knew too Much", "Anatomy of a Murder", and popular Western films like "The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance" (1962) and "Cheyenne Autumn" (1964), both directed by John Ford.
Clint Eastwood
Clint Eastwood is hailed as one of the most popular and beloved actors of all time. He also took up movie directing in his later years, and managed to release a few extremely successful films. His best directing work is clearly seen in 1992’s "Unforgiven" and the incredible boxing drama film, "Million Dollar Baby". Eastwood continues to appear in films today, even now at age 90.
Eastwood performed in some of the best spaghetti western films of all time, and is well known for his role in "The Good, The Bad and the Ugly", and as the anti cop Harry Callahan, in the five "Dirty Harry" films that were released during the ‘70s and ‘80s.
Will Smith
Arguably one of the top three most successful African-American actors of all time, Will Smith also happens to be one of the coolest actors in Hollywood. He first rose to prominence in his leading role in the 1990 sitcom, "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air". The show was a huge success and went on for six seasons and almost 150 episodes. When fans and studios saw some of the actor’s tear-jerking performances, they knew he was something special.
Will Smith has starred in many great films over the years, such as "I Am Legend", "Men in Black", and as Muhammad Ali in the film "Ali". But one of his best performances is in "The Pursuit of Happiness", the inspiring and emotional real-life story about a single father trying to make a life for him and his son. The movie is a must watch, and will excite even the most cynical person in the world. Smith shows his aptitude of masterfully combining inspiring monologues, lighthearted humor and tear-jerking drama.
Al Pacino
Known for acting in some of the world’s best films, Al Pacino had already made a name for himself back in the ‘70s, and continues to be one of the best actors in Hollywood. The actor truly cemented his legacy when he appeared in the "Godfather" trilogy. Since then, Pacino has starred in many incredible films, including "Scent of a Woman", where he played a blind lawyer, and "Scarface", his most violent role to date.
Al Pacino still appears in various films, and recently had a role in the 3.5 hour epic gangster film by Martin Scorsese, "The Irishman", where he starred along his old-time pals, Robert De Niro and Joe Pesci. It looks like the veteran actor still has a couple of moves in his bag. We might even get lucky enough to watch him in at least one last Oscar-winning performance before he retires.