An Appreciation of Kevin Kline

-For years Kevin Kline has been one of film's most solid actors. He has proven his range in many kinds of films and his unique presence has greatly contributed to some of the most revered cinematic offerings of the last century (i.e. Sophie's Choice, The Big Chill, A Fish Called Wanda and The Ice Storm.) Its difficult to pinpoint exactly what it is about Kline that has endeared him to audiences for decades. Some suggest its his ability to deliver any line with the appropriate amount of class or manic intensity. Some say its his ability to tower like an overpowering leading man while still exuding a down to earth feeling. And still others point to an undeniable ability to transform himself according to whatever role he is playing while still maintaining his own unique personality. An Oscar winner who has deserved much more acclaim than he's been given in the past, below are 5 of Kline's most revered, yet slightly underrated performances which showcase the actor at his best.

1. Soapdish (1991)
-Although the film clearly had Sally Field geared as its leading lady, Kline is able to match up to her comedic abilities admirably. The story of a soap opera star (Field) who must confront her past when a former castmate/lover (Kline) returns and the farce that ensues was one of the early 90s most beloved comedies. Kline is at hs best as an actor rescued from trenches of dinner theater and is given one more chance to redeem himself by the soap opera world. He's funny, likeable and inhabits the role like a fine glove. Production delays on this film may have cost him the lead in Steven Speilberg's Hook, but his fine work in Soapdish resulted in a well-deserved Golden Globe Nomination.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FwDSYbNSmss

2. Dave (1993)
-Kline plays Dave Covic, the owner of an employment agency who bears a striking resemblence to the current President. As a side job, Dave is hired out to make personal appearances as the commander-in-chief, but when the real leader has a stroke, Dave is recruited by the government to serve as the President full time. Dripping with Capra-esque ideals, the casting of Kline seems ideal as he so wonderfully embodies the spirit of Capra favoite Jimmy Stewart and infuses the role with his own charms. This smart political comedy has a humanistic feel thanks to its leading man who received a Golden Globe Nomination for his performance.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jt7TN_CKp9U&feature=related

3.Life as a House (2001)
-In a rare dramatic role, Kline portrays an archietect past him prime who has recently been let go from the firm he works at and as a result decides to build his dream home and bring along his estranged teenage son for the ride. Kline is absolutely pitch perfect as a man whose life has passed him by without knowing it and upon realizing it sets out to make things right. The premise of the film may seem simple, but story is still potent enough thanks to Kline's fully committed performance which never misses a beat. Its rare to see Kline in a role such as this for which he recevied a Screen Actors' Guild Nomination.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QlAXZclowmI

4. De-lovely (2004)
-The life story of legendary composer Cole Porter may not have been one of the most sought-after properties in Hollywood, but its an undenaible fascinating life story nonetheless. As the music man himself, Kline is at his most whimsical; brilliantly capturing the romantic and idealistic Porter in all his facets. Kline recognizes Porter as a man with an unshakable passion for life and plays him as such. Its one of his best times on screen and one of the most enjoyable real-life channellings in recent times. Had the film not been released the same year as Ray, Kline might have gotten an Oscar Nomination for his work, instead he had to settle for an equally deserving Golden Globe Nomination.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kxncdtqjs6g

5. A Prairie Home Companion (2006)
-The film adaptation of Garrison Kiellor's long-running radio show was beautifully translated to film by the legendary Robert Altman and featured many standout characters. Yet it was Kline as the film's narrator and house detective which proved the most humorous. As Guy Noir, Kline comically channeled Sam Spade, Philip Marlowe and Jake Gitties to great effect. What makes Kline's performance work in this film so well is the fact that he plays his charcter in a strightforward manner rather than the second-rate gumshoe he actually is. Its Kline at his most serious, but also his silliest.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CvOCeeCP6tY