The best photos of his career

Half a century has passed since Christian Bale was born. On his birthday we celebrate an exceptional talent who is capable of amazing transformations on the big screen.

The versatile Christian Bale

His acting career began as a child. He already made a name for himself with his leading role in Steven Spielberg’s 1987 war drama “Empire of the Sun”. But it was with his portrayal of Patrick Bateman in the 2000 film “American Psycho” and his brilliant performance four years later in the confused, manic “The Machinist” that cinephiles became acquainted with his acting versatility.

What Bale is also famous for: his ability to push himself physically to the limit for roles. After playing the flawless Bateman and shortly afterwards the emaciated factory worker (“The Machinist”), he became the muscle-bound Batman in Christopher Nolan’s trilogy from 2005. The British-American mime repeatedly shows his unconditional willingness to transform his body for art. With his performance in “Vice – The Second Man” from 2018, he was able to surprise again as Dick Cheney with a stomach, half-bald head and a disguised voice.

With an impressive list of awards, including an Oscar for his supporting role in The Fighter, Bale has impressed critics and captivated audiences. We wish Christian Bale all the best on his 50th birthday!