In tribute to Philip Seymour Hoffman

Yesterday the film world was rocked by the news of the sudden death of Philip Seymour Hoffman, at the age of 46.  Many of his contemporaries and key figures inthe film industry have spoken warmly in tribute.  I just wanted to add to that, as he was one of those rare actors - uniformly brilliant in anything he did, and as at home in a low key Indie-movie as he was in a start-studded blockbuster.  Not only that, his presence could often elevate anything he was in.  His death is so untimely, it seemed he surely had so many great roles, so many great films ahead of him.  And he was only just being introduced to a new generation of cinema goers in his role as Plutarch Heavensbee in The Hunger Games Saga; I particularly enjoyed his scenes with Donald Sutherland's President Snow in the latest of those films, 'Catching Fire'.

I just wanted to pay tribute to PSH by remembering two of my favourite roles from the many he played.  Firstly, in Todd Solondz's very, very black but impeccably observed comedy-drama 'Happiness'; in the midst of a great ensemble playing very flawed characters, struggling to overcome the problems they faced in their lives, PSH fits perfectly as the awkward, sweaty phone-sex pest.  It is a mark of that film that all the characters, despite their sometimes grotesque failings, are portrayed in a human and almost compassionate way - but PSH's role here shows his lack of fear and commitment to his role and material.  It's not always a comfortable watch, but 'Happiness' is an off-beat gem which is worth checking out - and a prime example of how good PSH was.

The other role I wanted to mention was from one of my favourite films, the under-rated and oft-overlooked 'Almost Famous'.  PSH plays a real-life figure, music journalist Lester Bangs; though it's a supporting role he makes an unforgettable impact on the film - both capturing the gonzo, rock and roll spirit of the legendary music journalist, but also as the mentor figure to Patrick Fugit's William Miller - delivering wisdom and truth about life, art and rock 'n' roll.

Those are just the tip of the iceberg, but anyone who has seen any of his many role with frequent collaborator PT Anderson, or enjoyed him as the villain in Mission Impossible 3, or in his Oscar-winning role as Capote, will tell you what a tremendous actor he was.  It still seems unreal to be writing about him in this way, and it still makes me sad to think of how many great performances film fans will never see now.

Philip Seymour Hoffman made a huge mark in his more-than 20 year career, and we can only be thankful to have seen such a great talent at work.  Sincerest condolences to his family and friends; may his work continue to be enjoyed for many, many, years to come. Rest in Peace Philip Seymour Hoffman.