Is Meryl Streeps Stellar Acting Universally Praiseworthy?
Is Meryl Streep's Stellar Acting Universally Praiseworthy?
Meryl Streep, hailed as one of the greatest actresses of her generation, is celebrated for her versatility and ability to portray a wide range of characters. However, despite her critical acclaim, some of her performances have been met with mixed reactions or less enthusiasm than her other roles. This article explores the debate around whether Meryl Streep has ever given a bad performance and analyzes some of her films where her acting might have been questioned.
Challenging the Golden Standard
The notion that Meryl Streep is a flawless actress is deeply engrained in popular cultura. Many fans and critics alike hold her in high regard, viewing her as an unerring talent. But is it entirely accurate to say that Streep has never given a bad performance?
Controversial Performances
Let's delve into some films where Streep's acting has been subject to criticism:
Postcards From the Edge (1990) - In this critically acclaimed film, Streep's performance received mixed reviews. While the movie itself was well-regarded, Streep was often praised for her supporting roles. Here, she was not given enough to do, which detracted from the overall impact of her performance.
Mamma Mia! (2008) - Streep's inclusion in this musical was seen as unnecessary, as the film was designed around the music. Critics noted that her early age costume and role were out of place, and she did not look or sound her best. Many found the character coarse and unappealing.
A Deep Dive into Performance Quality
While some performances might have been seen as less impactful or suited to the material, Streep's talent and dedication to her craft often shine through. Her reputation as an actress is so strong that these occasional critiques are overshadowed by her overall body of work.
However, the impact of her acting in several films has been questioned by even the staunchest admirers. Let's look at some examples:
Death Becomes Her (1992) - This film featured Streep alongside Christine Baranski and an ensemble cast. While Baranski and other actors delivered robust performances, Streep's involvement was seen as nothing more than a box office draw. Her character's expressions were perceived as limited, primarily consisting of smirking and looking serious.
Silkwood (1983) - Directed by Mike Nichols, this biographical film received critical acclaim, but Streep's portrayal faced criticism. Her opposite, Cher, delivered a performance that overshadowed her, hitting a high note with her portrayal of Karen Silkwood.
The French Lieutenant's Woman (1981) - In this film, Streep's role was portrayed as a limited character despite her critical acclaim. She was not given a substantial part, with Jeremy Irons receiving more screen time and praise for the role, leaving Streep's performance underwhelming.
Conclusion
While Meryl Streep is undoubtedly a masterful actress, it is fair to say that she has had performances that might not have received universal praise. Her talent and dedication often mean that these critiques are outweighed by her outstanding performances. As with any actor, some material might not suit her every time, but her legacy as one of the greatest actresses of her generation remains secure.