Timothy Spall

If ever an actor made it to the top on sheer talent it's Timothy Spall. With no help from natural good looks, he dedicated himself to his craft with such resolve he proved undeniable, conscientiously building himself as a character actor in minor, often controversial productions until the big parts eventually, inevitably came his way. Many British actors have been described as a national treasure, but none comes as close as Spall to actually personifying his country. He's a plucky, skilful underdog, steeped in a rich past, who raised his game under extreme pressure and was ultimately triumphant.

-www.tiscali.co.uk