The Best Ever Best Actress Oscar Winners of the 2010s: A Deep Dive

When it comes to the most remarkable and groundbreaking performances in the past decade, the debate around the best ever Best Actress Oscar winner of the 2010s is often centered around two exceptional actresses: Frances McDormand and Olivia Colman. Their career-defining roles in Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri and The Favorite, respectively, have not only captured the hearts and minds of audiences but also secured their places in the history of cinema.

Frances McDormand: A Master Class in Nuance

Frances McDormand’s performance in Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri is a quintessential example of how a skilled actress can elevate a role to absolute perfection. McDormand, known for her versatility and raw talent, delivered a towering performance as Mildred Hayes, a mother on a relentless quest for justice. Her portrayal was a beacon of authenticity and ferocity, a performance that resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike.

The nuances in McDormand’s delivery were nothing short of mesmerizing. Her ability to convey a myriad of emotions—from agony and determination to bursts of uncontrolled rage—made her performance both powerful and heart-wrenching. McDormand’s win in 2018 was a testament to her enduring talent and the weight of her on-screen portrayal.

Olivia Colman: The Perfect Storm of Talent and Timeliness

Olivia Colman, a veteran actress, cemented her status as one of the most versatile and dynamic performers of her generation with her role in The Favorite. The film's plot, set in the tumultuous reign of Queen Anne, allowed Colman to dive into the intricacies of court politics and personal desires. Her performance was a masterstroke of subtle detail and impactful flair, making her character, Sarah Churchill, shine through with a delicate yet commanding presence.

Colman’s win in 2019 was a surprise for many, but it was a victory that felt long overdue. Despite stiff competition from Glenn Close’s critically acclaimed role in The Wife, Colman’s performance was a sheer delight to witness. Her ability to bring depth and complexity to the character of Sarah Churchill made her win a well-deserved accolade. The shock of her win was even more potent when one considers the consensus that the Oscar committee had previously failed to recognize her due to her vast performance history.

Experience and Nuance in Their Wins

The wins of Frances McDormand and Olivia Colman, both in their respective late 40s and late 50s, respectively, speak volumes about the value of experience in the craft of acting. These actresses bring a wealth of life experiences to their roles, which not only adds layers to their performances but also lends a certain gravitas that younger actors might struggle to achieve.

Both McDormand and Colman delivered career-best performances, showcasing a level of nuance and authenticity that is hard to replicate. Their wins serve as a reminder that the Oscars are not just about the performance itself, but also the impact it has on the characters and the stories they tell. Both actresses’ wins reflect a significant shift towards recognizing exceptional talent and performance over mere accolades.

Why Their Wins Were a Game-Changer

The wins of McDormand and Colman were not just about receiving an award; they were about revitalizing the Oscar committee's acknowledgment of groundbreaking and nuanced performances. McDormand’s win in 2018 marked a reinvigoration of the committee, demonstrating a willingness to recognize performances that go beyond the traditional applauded moment. Similarly, Colman’s win in 2019 brought a fresh perspective to the Oscar voting process, encouraging a more inclusive and forward-thinking approach to recognizing talent.

Both performances were celebrated not just for their excellence but also for the way they pushed the boundaries of what was expected from an award-winning performance. The unexpected nature of their wins added a layer of excitement and unpredictability to the Oscars, which is often missing in a more predictable honoring process.

Conclusion

In the grand history of cinema, the performances of Frances McDormand in Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri and Olivia Colman in The Favorite stand out as defining moments of the 2010s. Their wins were not just a celebration of their immense talent but a testament to the evolving landscape of acting and the increasing importance of nuance and experience in performance. As we look to the future, their performances act as a benchmark for the kind of acting that truly moves us and resonates with the times.