PHOTO Who is the best actor of the 21st century, nominated by the New York Times

Denzel Washington, who marked his final years with his roles in “Training Day” (2001), “Inside Man” (2006), “American Gangster” (2007) or “Flight” (2012), was named best actor. of the 21st century from the American newspaper.

“He is a giant, a subtle and sensitive craftsman, with a theatrical background and a brilliant presence,” said critic AO Scott, co-author of the chart. “Like all stars, Washington’s game seems inextricably linked to its charisma,” added Manohla Dargis.

Isabelle Huppert, who impressed critics and viewers in “La Pianiste” (2001), “Huit femmes” (2002) or “Elle” (2016), ranks second in the ranking. He is followed by Daniel Day-Lewis (“Gangs of New York”, “There Will Be Blood”, “Phantom Thread”) and Keanu Reeves. A choice that amazed the actor of “The Matrix” and “John Wick”, criticized for a long time for his rather transparent game.

PHOTO Getty Images

Top 10 among Nicole Kidman (“The Others”, “The Hours”, “Big Little Lies”), Song Kang-ho (“Parasite”), Toni Servillo (“The Great Beauty”), Zhao Tao (“A Touch of Sin “), Viola Davis (” How to Get Away with Murder “) and Saoirse Ronan (” Ladybird “).

Tilda Swinton (13), Oscar Isaac (14), Michael B. Jordan (15), Catherine Deneuve (21), Melissa McCarthy (22) and Gael García Bernal (25) complete this ranking. Joaquin Phoenix (“Joker”) is in 12th place.

Subjectively, like any ranking, the New York Times one surprises by omitting some expected names. Leonardo DiCaprio, often considered one of the best actors of our time, thanks to his impressive performances in “The Aviator”, “The Wolf of Wall Street” or “The Revenant”, is absent. Neither Meryl Streep nor Cate Blanchett were mentioned.