This is a new column that will focus on little known films, directors, writers, and actors. The column does not exist to tell you what to watch, but to simply help raise interest in the great art and talent that goes unseen year by year. So let’s begin.

In honor of one of my favorite actors’ recent (and first) oscar win; I will be profiling “The Dude” himself… Jeff Bridges. The following films showcase some of Bridges’ greatest performances, that you may have missed.

Starman (1984)

Bridges was nominated for an Academy Award for his portrayal of the titular character, but for some reason John Carpenter’s film still goes unnoticed. Great Sci Fi and brilliant romance. A favorite of the Filmdogs Podcast.

8 Million Ways to Die (1986)

Hal Ashby’s last film, and the most difficult to find on this list. The film is not available on DVD, but I was lucky enough to catch it on cable a few years back. Part film noir; part 80’s crime saga. If you can get your hands on it; consider yourself lucky.

Fearless (1993)

Peter Weir’s underrated film, about a man named Max Klein(Bridges) who survives a plane crash and undergoes a complete transformation. Bridges is breathtaking as a man who dares to welcome danger into his life.

Blown Away (1994)

Definitely not high art, but if you are looking for some high octane action grounded with a great performance by Bridges; look no further. Arlington Road is far superior, but there is a lot to enjoy in this explosive film.

The Door in the Floor (2004)

A tragic film about loss and obsession. Bridges gives what I think is his best performance, as a children’s writer who is watching his marriage slowly crumble. Director Tod Williams really understands how to utilize Bridges’ talent.

His Pack:

Lloyd Bridges

Beau Bridges

Joel Coen

Ethan Coen

Terry Gilliam

Peter Bogdanovich

The Essentials:

The Last Picture Show (1971)

Tron (1982)

The Fabulous Baker Boys (1989)

The Fisher King (1991)

The Big Lebowski (1998)

Arlington Road (1999)

Crazy Heart (2009)

Upcoming Films:

Tron Legacy (2010)

True Grit (2010)

In His Own Words:

“As far as the lack of hits goes, I think perhaps it’s because I’ve played a lot of different roles and have not created a persona that the public can latch on to. I have played everything from psychopathic killers to romantic leading men, and in picking such diverse roles I have avoided typecasting.”

“Acting is tough some times. It can be a complicated case. A lot of ins, a lot of outs, a lot of what-have-yous, a lot of strands to keep in your head, man. But, you know, you manage.”

It is an amazing thing to find an actor who is constantly as daring and emotionally involved as Jeff Bridges. He always gives you a reason to care about the character he is presenting on screen, even if the character is doing questionable things. He is one of our greatest cinematic talents, and I look forward to seeing the amazing work we will bestow upon us in the near future.