Top 10 Most Picture-Perfect Castings of All Time

#10: Margot Robbie

Barbie (2023)

Surprisingly to some, Margot Robbie was not the original choice to play Barbie. She later took on the role and made it her own. Her look might be one part of the decision, but Robbie also gives the character some dynamic emotions. The titular role doesnt just pose or have fun. With the actress at the top of her game, she turns the doll from a cliche into a more well-rounded concept. The star makes Barbie much more existential, with plenty of room for black comedy and life lessons. She was also responsible for producing the movie and contributing to its box-office success. On multiple levels, she was the right person to bring this Mattel product to life.

#9: Matthew Lillard

Scooby-Doo franchise (2002-04)

As an underrated artist, Matthew Lillard makes the most of his many iconic parts. His turn as Shaggy more than does the cartoon justice. His entire voice, wardrobe, and hair all help to tell a story. Not only that, hes amazing at acting to a dog that isnt even there. You probably believe the early 2000s animation because of Lillards work. Casey Kasem mightve played the original version, but this actor brought a believable adaptation to the screen. Hes just as goofy, lovable, and friendly as youd want the real life guy to be. Part of that works because of the performers chameleon-like acting, giving audiences the right rendition for a new generation.

#8: Harrison Ford

Indiana Jones franchise (1981-2023)

With all of great roles, Harrison Ford is always Indiana Jones in our hearts. Only Han Solo can compete with this kind of classic part (xref). It might be the one that best exemplifies his star power. He brings a ruggedness and a swagger to this archaeologist. Thats not all though, because the character is also funny and human. You believe the performance even more as the hero gets beat up and doesnt win every time. Ford also sells the fear of snakes well, showing that weaknesses can make somebody more interesting. You dont even question the fact that hes wearing that hat or using a bullwhip. Even in his older years, the power of his initial casting remains.

#7: Christina Ricci

The Addams Family franchise (1991-93)

Its a performance that might not have been appreciated enough during its time. Christina Ricci played Wednesday with a perfect deadpan, never winking in a darkly humorous role. Not many child actors can be that good and so early in their career. Ricci had only started acting in movies in 1990, but she was talented enough to play every nuance. The sequel Addams Family Values gave her even more opportunities to stand out with the camp sequence. Her far-reaching influence here extended to the Netflix series focusing on the same character. Without this actress work in the original movies, you could argue that Jenna Ortegas version wouldnt have happened.

#6: Alan Rickman

Harry Potter franchise (2001-11)

He lit up the screen in Die Hard, but some might say Alan Rickman became more iconic for Severus Snape. Gruber was a straight up villain, while Snape was something much more unexpected. This speaks to Rickmans subdued and dry sensibilities. While he honed his craft on the stage, he made this character sing with its theatricality. The same could be said for other cast members like Imelda Staunton (xref). With his blunt assessments and sinister undertones, the potions expert jumped off the page with this actors help. He knew exactly how to play both the subtle humor and darkness within each line. By the end of the franchise, the performer proved he was one of the most essential parts of it.

#5: Robert Downey Jr.

Marvel Cinematic Universe (2008-19)

In the late 1990s and early 2000s, Robert Downey Jr. was in and out of various legal troubles. He then spent some years rehabilitating himself until Iron Man changed everything. As Tony Stark, he found a perfect way to mix his charm and sense of humor. He became a fan favorite in one of the most successful franchises ever. With all of the competing personalities in the MCU, Downey Jr. still rises above as one of the most entertaining. He offers up his sarcastic point of view right up until he tugs at your heartstrings. Reminding everyone of his movie star attributes, the performer makes you laugh, cry, and believe hes a billionaire playboy.

#4: Johnny Depp

Pirates of the Caribbean franchise (2003-17)

Whatever you think of him now, Johnny Depp ended up being the definitive casting choice for Pirates of the Caribbean. Hes known for disappearing into makeup, costumes, and whimsical personalities. The role of Captain Jack Sparrow checks all three boxes, but it also leaves room for more entertaining choices. Depps performance combines his wild screen personas with a hint of rockstar energy. With his connections to music, he channeled the likes of Keith Richards for this role. Theres also a goofiness to many of his scenes that seem to free him from any constraints. Over the course of several sequels, the actor managed to make even the most absurd plots more enjoyable.

#3: Reese Witherspoon

Legally Blonde (2001)

After films like Election, Reese Witherspoon became a rising star in the early 2000s. Her work in Legally Blonde heavily contributed to A-list status. Witherspoons bubbly performance as Elle might be her most iconic, turning the color pink into a human being. The character is much more than a stereotype too. Witherspoon capitalizes on this every woman persona, playing with preconceived notions about sorority girls and blonde cliches. The film lets the actress be funny, smart, and full of surprises. You could argue that many of her best roles use these same ingredients, but few are as perfect as this one.

#2: Robin Williams

Aladdin (1992)

Its nearly impossible to imagine anyone else in this role. Robin Williams is the only performer that can match the energy of an animated character. In some cases, the filmmakers even let the icon alter Genie with his own improvisation. He brought out his own quick comedic persona in this effort. This includes all kinds of impressions, voices, and wild non sequiturs. Its so well tuned to Williams and his comic personality, giving him plenty of opportunities to make it his own. The artist could also turn on the more dramatic faucet when he needed it. This whirlwind performance cant be contained within a few sentences, but it certainly jumps off the screen just like the actor does.

Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.

Anthony Hopkins, The Silence of the Lambs (1991)

Among the More Sinister Roles Ever Went to a Highly-Trained Thespian with Serious Skills

Gene Wilder, Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971)

Nobody Could Be Quite as Surprising, Goofy, or Serious as Wilder in This Role

Rami Malek, Bohemian Rhapsody (2018)

In an Oscar-Winning Performance, Malek Transforms into the Famed Frontman

Daniel Day-Lewis, Lincoln (2012)

One of the Great Method Actors Finds a Way to Embody the American President

Jamie Foxx, Ray (2004)

The Actor Shows That He Can Mimic the Very Essence of Ray Charles

#1: Ian McKellen

The Lord of the Rings franchise (2001-03)

Its hard to pick one actor to represent this series, but you cant do much better than Ian McKellen. His work as Gandalf provides the wise foundation for the franchise. He feels right at home with other amazing actors, while someone like Viggo Mortensen is another standout (xref). McKellen brings a gravitas to every scene and elevates his scene partners with every line reading. His British accent gives him an additional leg up, while his age and costume fit him well. Not to mention, the performer can play the older character in a believable way thats not just a fantasy caricature. The magical hero also fits perfectly into the mans eclectic career of powerful parts.

Did we forget another casting decision that was completely accurate? Let us know in the comments below.