An acclaimed actor and filmmaker, he transitioned seamlessly into directing, earning praise for his keen storytelling and character-driven narratives. His directorial debut came with the 2000 film "Pollock," in which he also starred, earning an Academy Award nomination for his portrayal of the abstract expressionist painter. He further showcased his directorial skills in "Appaloosa" (2008), a Western that he co-wrote and starred in, solidifying his reputation as a multifaceted talent in Hollywood.