Alison Steadman

Once or twice per year I watch Pride and Prejudice.  We have many versions of this film in our house.  In fact, all that I know of.  But the best is still the 1995 BBC version.  You know, this one:

I started it again yesterday and finished it today.  I am now fully convinced that this movie contains the single greatest acting role in the history of film.  Alison Steadman plays the part of Mrs. Bennet.  She is the mother of five daughters and the wife of Mr. Bennet, owner of Longbourne Manor.  If you have read the book you know that Mrs. Bennet is a tad--shall we say--eccentric.  To capture the right blend of stupidity, silliness, and charm must be quite difficult.  However, it was done by Alison Steadman.  Here is what she looks like in real life:

Here she is in character:

I despise Mrs. Bennet.  Because of this I must admit that this is the finest bit of acting I can ever remember seeing.  What do you think is the best acting in film?  I am not talking about a single scene.  It has to be the whole role.  Leave an answer in the comments.