Steven Spielberg, one of cinema’s most celebrated directors, has worked with some of the finest talents in Hollywood. Despite this, when asked to name his top five greatest actors, he didn’t include any from his own films, which might surprise some. Instead, Spielberg’s list highlights a deep admiration for the icons of classic cinema.
During a conversation with Stanley Kubrick, Spielberg named Spencer Tracy, Henry Fonda, Jimmy Stewart, Cary Grant, and Clark Gable as his all-time favourites.
A Debate Sparked by The Shining
The conversation came about when Spielberg critiqued Jack Nicholson’s performance in Kubrick’s The Shining. Spielberg initially found Nicholson’s portrayal “over the top,” comparing it to the exaggerated style of Japanese Kabuki theatre. Kubrick, ever the defender of his actors, pushed back, asking Spielberg to list his favourite actors.
Spielberg quickly rattled off his top five. Kubrick, however, challenged him, questioning why James Cagney didn’t make the list, hinting that Nicholson’s performance shared the same bold energy Cagney was known for.
A Love for Classic Cinema
Spielberg’s picks reflect his love for golden-age Hollywood. Spencer Tracy, known for Judgment at Nuremberg and Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner, was the first actor to win back-to-back Academy Awards for Best Actor. Henry Fonda’s work in films like 12 Angry Men and The Grapes of Wrath cemented his place as one of America’s greatest actors.
Jimmy Stewart, beloved for his role in It’s a Wonderful Life, and Hitchcock classics like Vertigo and Rear Window, also made the list. Alongside him was Cary Grant, known for his charm in films like North by Northwest and The Philadelphia Story. Lastly, Clark Gable, famous for Gone with the Wind, rounded out the group.
The Takeaway
Spielberg’s choices underline his reverence for acting legends who brought authenticity and gravity to their roles in a time when cinema was still growing as an art form. His conversation with Kubrick wasn’t just about defending Jack Nicholson—it became a lesson in understanding different styles of performance.
Kubrick’s admiration for James Cagney eventually helped Spielberg reconsider his original take on The Shining, recognizing that even when a performance doesn’t match personal taste, it can still hold undeniable greatness.
