When you see Dustin Hoffman in a movie, you know you're probably in for an emotional ride. Hoffman is what's known in the trade as a 'serious actor,' tending to take on roles that demand a real depth of performance, and great emotional range. That's why it was such a surprise and a delight when he played against type to take on the role of Captain Hook opposite Robin Williams' Peter Pan in 'Hook.' Hoffman is a special actor and a unique talent, and it makes us a little sad that he's essentially retired from the profession now.
He's not totally gone from the movie industry though. Every now and then he'll get behind the camera as a director, having directed his first film 'Quarter' comparatively late in his career in 2012. Whether in front of the camera or behind it, Hoffman's gigantic presence is all the more impressive for a guy who's only 5 foot 6.