This Valentine’s day, film decided to pay hommage to one of our most beloved on-screen lotharios; Emma Giles takes a look at the work of Leonardo DiCaprio.┬á

After being nominated for a total of 78 film associated awards, it is fair to say that Leonardo DiCaprio has made quite a mark on modern Hollywood. With his breakthrough performance as ill-fated Jack Dawson in Titanic (1997), DiCaprio established the idea that he would go on to be one of the generationÔÇÖs greatest heartthrobs with the classic scene accompanied by Kate Winslet still proving an iconic image in the realms of film.

California-born DiCaprio emerged from a relatively┬á humble background, being signed to a talent agent at a young age. After appearing in a number of adverts and TV shows, DiCaprio made his first film appearance in low-budget horror film Critters 3 (1991). From horror to romance, his diversity as an actor swiftly emerged with his performance as the notorious Romeo in Baz LuhrmannÔÇÖs adaptation of ShakespeareÔÇÖs classic Romeo and Juliet (1996).

DiCaprioÔÇÖs heartthrob/lothario status is cemented throughout the 21st century, even when venturing into more hard-hitting, gritty Hollywood blockbusters such as Blood Diamond (2006) and more recently, Christopher NolanÔÇÖs highly acclaimed Inception (2010). His diverse range of roles put DiCaprio on the map, earning him work alongside the likes of world renowned directors Martin Scorsese and Stephen Spielberg to produce blockbusters such as The Aviator (2004). His roles in the psychologically charged films Inception and Shutter Island (2010) have indicated the depth to which DiCaprio can go to successfully keep the audience engaged, despite the complexity of ideas included.

With DiCaprio also dabbling in production, working on films such as The Orphan (2009) and fantasy filled Red Riding Hood (2011), itÔÇÖs fair to say he has a firm grasp on the industry.┬á It is easy to see why DiCaprio is a modern heartthrob subject to many womenÔÇÖs desire as his sheer talent for acting and producing has many women sighing at even the mention of his name.

Emma Giles