4. BEN KINGSLEY And MAHATMA GANDHI
Sir Ben Kingsley became Mahatma Gandhi in Richard Attenborough’s 1982 epic Gandhi. With the shaved head, round glasses, simple dhoti, and serene expression, Kingsley was virtually identical to the Indian independence leader. His Indian heritage helped, but the transformation was complete.
Kingsley immersed himself in Gandhi’s writings and philosophy. The role earned him an Oscar, and to this day, many people say they can’t picture Gandhi without seeing Kingsley’s face.