The “Flawless” Performance Tom Holland Wants Every Actor to See

Tom Holland may be one of the most recognizable actors of his generation, but the Spider-Man star still believes he’s chasing the kind of career-defining dramatic role that can change everything. While he’s fronted one of the most successful franchises in film history and amassed nearly 20 live-action credits, Holland’s post-Marvel résumé has been dotted with critical and commercial misfires — from Uncharted to Chaos Walking — leaving some wondering when he’ll deliver that undeniable, career-altering performance.

For inspiration, Holland points to a film he considers essential viewing for any actor: Primal Fear.

Edward Norton’s Career-Making Debut

Speaking to Backstage, Holland didn’t hesitate when asked to name the performance every actor should see. “Primal Fear,” he said. “Edward Norton. Richard Gere. He is so good in that film, and I’ve always sort of aspired to play a role like that. That performance in that film is flawless.”

Released in 1996, Gregory Hoblit’s legal thriller marked Norton’s feature debut as Aaron Stampler, a seemingly meek altar boy accused of murder. The role earned Norton an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor and instantly established him as one of Hollywood’s most formidable talents.

Holland’s admiration is well-placed — Primal Fear was a magnet for young actors at the time. Matt Damon, Pedro Pascal, James Van Der Beek, and James Marsden all auditioned for the part, knowing it could be a career-launcher. Damon later admitted he was jealous when Norton landed the role, though he worked alongside him soon after in Rounders.

Chasing His Own Defining Moment

Holland’s own debut in J.A. Bayona’s The Impossible drew praise when he was just a teenager, but the actor acknowledges that lightning-in-a-bottle roles like Norton’s are rare. While his Marvel tenure has secured his place in pop culture, Holland seems eager to prove he’s more than Peter Parker — a goal that might explain his interest in riskier, more dramatic work.

For now, the young star sees Primal Fear as a blueprint for what a breakout performance can do, both for the actor and for audiences. “That performance,” Holland reiterated, “is flawless.”

Whether his own “Edward Norton moment” is just around the corner remains to be seen, but Holland’s choice of inspiration suggests he’s aiming high — and ready to surprise those who think they already know what he can do.