Multiple choice general knowledge Oscar Winner for Best Actor 1996 Ralph Fiennes - The English Patient as Count Laszlo de Almásy Tom Cruise - Jerry Maguire as Jerry Maguire Geoffrey Rush - Shine as David Helfgott Billy Bob Thornton - Sling Blade as Karl Childers Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself C Correct answer Explanation Geoffrey Rush won the 1996 Best Actor Oscar for his portrayal of pianist David Helfgott in 'Shine'. This was his breakthrough film role, earning him widespread recognition and establishing him as a major international actor.