Both peaked in the 70s and were really never as good again. Ever since, both have had memorable performances, but have been accused of playing themselves in every role. But prime-for-prime, who was better?
Pacino obviously Nicholson is always the same character... it's a great character but it's the same character ... whether he's a 40s PI or a jaded pianist or a rabble rousing patient, his character is always a rebellious wisecracker Pacino, for example flawlessly inhabited the identities of both Michael Corleone and Sonny Wortzik ... two characters different from one another in every conceivable way, they don't even sound the same despite being played by the same guy
After reading a couple of biographies of both, I must say I appreciate both more than before. Both have studied plenty of stuff, philosophy and other science to perfect their art. What looks like mere shouting or grinning in the screen takes shitload of talent, work and studying to make it look good. That being said, I agree with cdogg. Neither guy portrays themselves, but Pacino has the greater range. Nicholson has only been great when he plays an intelligent if twisted, complex guy. I can't see him being vulnerable, or emotionless for example. Nicholson's charisma is nearly unmatched though
I'm a fair guy, but this fucking Finn is making me crazy. Who's gonna ban him? YOU??? YOU, Poster McDoggberg??
