Ethan Hawke's Underrated Performance in "First Reformed"
Ethan Hawke gave a remarkable performance as Reverend Toller in Paul Schrader’s 2018 film First Reformed, a role that many believe deserved an Oscar nomination. With a career spanning over 30 years, Hawke has proven himself as a versatile actor capable of excelling in various genres and roles.
A Versatile and Consistent Actor
Hawke combines the qualities of a classic character actor with the charisma of a movie star. His 2025 roles in Black Phone 2 and Richard Linklater's Blue Moon showcase his ability to thrive both as a horror villain and a nuanced actor for auteur directors. Over the years, Hawke has evolved steadily, notably beyond his acclaimed work in Linklater's Before trilogy.
The Power of "First Reformed"
In First Reformed, Hawke plays a troubled church pastor in upstate New York. Directed by Paul Schrader, known for his intense psychological character studies, the film explores the deep anguish of its protagonist amid fears of global catastrophe caused by climate change.
"Despite setting the screen on fire with his simmering rage and haunted aura, Hawke was rudely snubbed of an Oscar nomination for this career-best turn."
Paul Schrader’s Milestone and the Film’s Recognition
While Hawke was overlooked, First Reformed earned Paul Schrader his first Oscar nomination—for Best Original Screenplay—highlighting the film’s critical acclaim despite the lack of recognition for its leading actor.
Conclusion
Ethan Hawke’s gripping and multifaceted performance in First Reformed remains one of the most impressive yet underappreciated roles of the 2010s.
"Arguably even more confounding than Ethan Hawke's snubbing was that Paul Schrader earned his first nomination ever for Best Original Screenplay, the film’s sole nod."
Summary: Ethan Hawke’s powerful portrayal in First Reformed remains unjustly overlooked, underscoring his status as a versatile actor whose 2018 performance was a career highlight ignored by the Oscars.
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