Tom Hanks Reveals The One Movie He Considers His Best Work Ever
Tom Hanks, an iconic figure in cinema, has had a remarkable career defined by his commitment to each role. Known for his humanity, Hanks has taken on diverse characters, from a stranded man in *Castaway* to the endearing protagonist in *Forrest Gump*. This dedication has earned him immense respect from both audiences and critics alike.
Tom Hanks’ Best Work: Reflections on *Punchline*
Amid his extensive filmography, Tom Hanks considers *Punchline* one of his finest performances. This 1988 film featured him as Steven Gold, a stand-up comedian navigating his way through the comedy circuit.
The Character’s Connection to Hanks
In *Punchline*, Hanks plays a character with traits he deeply identifies with. He described Gold as echoing his own competitive nature. Hanks stated, “The guy in *Punchline* probably has the worst aspects of my worst aspects.” This connection made the role challenging yet fulfilling for him.
Mixed Reception and Personal Insights
Despite its eventual failure at the box office and mixed reviews from critics, Hanks found great personal value in the film. He noted in a 1989 interview, “The movie didn’t do that well, which was really disappointing. But it’s the best work I’ve ever done.” This experience offered him insights into his characters and himself.
- Hanks played Steven Gold, a comedian navigating personal and professional challenges.
- The film also starred Sally Field as Lilah Krytsick, a housewife aspiring to enter comedy.
- While *Punchline* struggled at the box office, it remains significant to Hanks’ career development.
Impact on Hanks’ Career
The lessons learned from *Punchline* contributed to Hanks’s growth as an actor. Following this movie, he experienced a series of successful films that solidified his status, including *Philadelphia* and *Toy Story*.
In conclusion, although *Punchline* might not be among Hanks’s most acclaimed works, it holds a special place in his heart. The challenges of portraying Steven Gold reflect the complexities both Hanks and many actors face in balancing personal experiences and professional roles.
