2008: 'Bronson'

After appearing as a gay hoodlum called Handsome Bob in Guy Ritchie's 2008 film 'RocknRolla', Tom Hardy completely transformed for his next role as 'the most violent prisoner in Britain', the notorious Charles Bronson. Hardy was almost unrecognizable as Bronson, with his chilling performance proving his commitment and discipline to the portrayal of his characters. In preparation for the film, Hardy met with the real Charles Bronson to learn his characteristics. Even hard man Hardy admitted to being nervous about meeting the infamous prisoner. Bronson caught the attention of Hollywood and in 2009, Hardy was named one of 10 actors to watch by Variety.