Best Supporting Actor 1981: Results

5. James Coco in Only When I Laugh- James Coco gives an good enough comedic performance, but his moments of sadness, as well as happiness are particularly strong.

4. Howard Rollins in Ragtime- Rollins gives a good performance as a man who goes to great lengths to keep his dignity my only problem was that I though he could have given an amazing performance if he had pushed even harder with his performance during key moments.

3. Ian Holm in Chariots of Fire- Holm gives a great performance as a very particular athletics coach realizing the humanity, the humor and intelligence of the man extremely well.

2. John Gielgud in Arthur- Gielgud gives an impressive comedic performance as well as when needed a heartfelt performance. Gielgud takes every opportunity of his character an makes the most of it.

1. Jack Nicholson in Reds- Out of this great year Nicholson tops it. Nicholson gives an amazing supporting performance that rises far above his film. Nicholson despite his short screentime creates a fully realized portrait of Eugene O'Neil as a man.

Deserving Performances:
John Gielgud in Chariots of Fire

Posted in: 1981 Best Supporting Actor, Howard Rollins, Ian Holm, Jack Nicholson, James Coco, John Gielgud