Alan Cumming is recognized for a wide array of roles, from portraying Nightcrawler in early 2000s “X-Men” films to hosting the popular reality show “The Traitors” on Peacock. Yet, only one of his projects boasts a flawless 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes: “Second Best,” a 1994 movie featuring William Hurt as a man attempting to adopt a child, which holds this distinction.

Cumming’s journey into acting began on television with a guest spot on the 1985 British TV series “Travelling Man.” He continued to grace the UK’s small screens, notably appearing in the soap “Take the High Road” and the children’s drama “Shadow of the Stone,” before his film debut in the 1991 TV movie “Bernard and the Genie.” Over the years, Cumming has taken the stage, played a significant role in the long-running CBS show “The Good Wife,” nearly joined the “Harry Potter” series, re-emerged with “The Traitors,” and is set to reprise his Nightcrawler role in Marvel’s “Avengers: Doomsday.”

In “Second Best,” Cumming plays a minor role as a character named Bernard, though he’s not the film’s central figure. The storyline revolves around Graham (played by William Hurt), who seeks to adopt despite his complex relationship with his own parents. He adopts James (portrayed by Chris Cleary Miles), a boy shuffled between foster homes, leading to his anger issues. Over time, Graham and James forge a deep connection that embodies the ideal father-son relationship as they navigate their personal struggles with familial bonds.

Renowned film critic Roger Ebert praised the film, describing William Hurt as “one of the most introspective actors,” and lauding the script for its “great precision” and moments of “authenticity of life.” While audiences were somewhat less enthusiastic, giving the film an 80% score, Ebert’s positive review stands as one of only five available. Nonetheless, it’s the single notable entry in Cumming’s film career to achieve an immaculate score.