Tribute: Bob Hoskins

We mourn the loss of actor Bob Hoskins, who died today at age 71.  He was an actor of remarkable versatility, appearing in drama, comedy, crime stories, animation, and even an occasional romantic lead.  His breakthrough was his Oscar-nominated performance in “Mona Lisa,” as a driver for a prostitute.

He is perhaps best remembered as the human star who held his own against the toon characters in “Who Framed Roger Rabbit?”  Director Robert Zemeckis said he could not have made that movie without Hoskins, who had an extraordinary ability to “see” the animated characters who would be filled in via special effects later on.  He so clearly believed he was looking at them that we did, too.

He was touching and tender in “Mermaids,” as Cher’s suitor.

He played Mario.

And J. Edgar Hoover.

He starred in the heartbreaking, brilliant British miniseries from Dennis Potter, “Pennies From Heaven.”

He appeared opposite the Spice Girls and Garfield the cat and played Fezziwig in “A Christmas Carol” and one of the dwarves in “Snow White and the Huntsman.”  He was always fully present and utterly committed to every role.  May his memory be a blessing.