Best Actor 2014

05. Eddie Redmayne in The Theory of Everything - For believing the gradual breakdown of his body on screen. For portraying not only the physical aspects but also showing the mental strength and never wavering sense of humor. For the drinking and celebrating with his friends scene.

04. Macon Blair in Blue Ruin - For playing the revenge minded every man with strengh, wit and determination. For arriving as a fully formed star who you can't take your eyes off of. For the diner scene.

03. David Oyelowo in Selma - For playing a heroic, larger than life historical figure as an intimate, struggling man trying to do the right thing. For finding the humanity and the flaws. For that final speech.

02. Michael Keaton in Birdman - For making a comeback by playing a has been superhero actor (ha!). For being complex, dynamic,  utterly engaging and finding the humor and tragedy in every scene. For trashing his dressing room.

01. Jake Gyllenhaal in Nightcrawler - For playing a sociopathic, somewhat charming, always smarmy opportunist with non-blinking glee. For the absence of morals but total immersion in salesmanship. For giving the absolute,  hands down best performance of the year. For smashing the mirror (although it's honestly hard to pick just one great scene.)