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Top 10 Movie Side Characters Who Should Have Been the Main Character

Top 10 Movie Side Characters Who Should Have Been the Main Character
VOICE OVER: Samantha Clinch WRITTEN BY: Andy Hammersmith
These side characters stole the show. Welcome to MsMojo, and today we're counting down our picks for the secondary characters most deserving of a promotion. Our countdown includes "Superbad," "Harry Potter," "Game Night," and more!

#10: Gary
“Game Night” (2018)


Jesse Plemons plays the odd and lovable neighbor from “Game Night.” While the other people avoid him, he desperately wants to join their parties. The hilarious character also stands out because of his fantastic lines and reactions. Along with being a quotable figure, Gary proves to be a worthy member of the crew. Plemons plays many situations with a perfect mix of awkwardness and dry humor. Given his pedigree as an actor, he could easily carry the film with his own unique style. His offbeat sensibilities captivate the audience and make them hungry for more.

#9: Lumalee
“The Super Mario Bros. Movie” (2023)


Of all the classic characters in this film, Lumalee piques our interest the most. You might not have expected this answer, but it’s hard not to deny his spark. We first meet him as a prisoner of Bowser and immediately become obsessed by his dialogue. Constantly spouting lines that are both nihilistic and poetic, this childlike character deserves his own movie to explore his origins. It would also be fun to follow him around to hear more of his observations. He might not have the same kind of adventure as Mario, but he’d probably be able to carry his own comedy.

#8: Emily
“The Devil Wears Prada” (2006)


In one of her best roles, Emily Blunt immediately establishes herself as a tremendous talent. She plays Miranda Priestly’s assistant Emily Charlton. She’s sometimes sassy and always entertaining no matter the situation. Clearly shaken up by her time with Priestly’s demanding personality, it’s clear she has a story to tell. Charlton also ends up being a rival to Anne Hathaway’s heroine as the two compete for their boss’s attention. The part requires the actress to be effortlessly hilarious, but also hint at a more tragic side. It would be fascinating and probably even funnier to watch the movie from her perspective.

#7: Red
“The Shawshank Redemption” (1994)


While Morgan Freeman narrates this film, his role is not the main character. There could easily be a version of this movie that explores Red’s time in Shawshank before and after Andy Dufresne. The prisoner has a story that goes far beyond the events of the plot, giving filmmakers more than enough material to examine. Freeman also gives any part a leading man quality that strengthens the narrative as a whole. It’s hard to imagine anybody else alongside Dufresne during the hero’s rough and tumble sentence. His wisdom, loyalty, and genuine soul shine through in all of his scenes.

#6: Fat Amy
“Pitch Perfect” trilogy (2012-17)


Of all the characters in this series, Patricia Hobart might just be the greatest one. She’s better known by the nickname Fat Amy and she’s the perfect comic relief in “Pitch Perfect.” The Tasmanian singer proves herself by joining the Bellas, singing her heart out, and being a loyal friend. She’s also always herself no matter what. We could learn something from Amy, who always chooses comedy and positivity in the face of adversity. Rebel Wilson’s role steals every moment with a great punchline or an inspiring choice. In another universe, we could have followed her journey from Tasmania to a cappella stardom.

#5: Vanellope von Schweetz
“Wreck-It Ralph” (2012)


Despite being a glitch in a game, Vanellope is as much of a character as anyone in “Wreck-It Ralph.” She’s both a comedic presence and somebody with her own rich backstory. While some see her as an outcast, her relationship with Ralph brings out her three-dimensional qualities. Sarah Silverman’s vocal performance gives the animated part humanity that makes you laugh and cry. During the pivotal scene where she calls the hero a “bad guy,” the actress shows her range and gives you the feeling that she could take over the plot. Her triumphant transformation into a princess only reminds you of her potential as the real heroine.

#4: Luna Lovegood
“Harry Potter” franchise (2001-11)


Along with being a Ravenclaw, Luna is a free spirit. She’s also one of the more entertaining members of Dumbledore’s Army. The Hogwarts student isn’t afraid to speak her mind, providing some comic relief in her debut in “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix.” She’s such a unique presence that you can’t help but wonder what she’s doing off screen. While she does bring moments of humor to the series, she also proves to be good-hearted and a kind soul. Her version of a Potter movie might not be traditional, but we’re pretty sure it would be nothing short of enjoyable.

#3: Cameron
“Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” (1986)


While the title character carries the movie, his friend has the most important journey. Cameron is also among John Hughes’ greatest creations. The teenager deals with depression, family problems, and identity issues throughout this adventure. Alan Ruck’s performance runs the full range of emotions without being over-the-top. He makes you laugh during the phone call scene while also playing well off of Ferris’s more outgoing persona. There’s also the iconic trip to the museum that gives Cameron an emotional turning point. As a versatile and compelling character, he deserves even more screen time to explore his complexities.

#2: McLovin
“Superbad” (2007)


What do you remember most from the modern classic “Superbad”? Some of you might say McLovin, a character that’s endured in pop culture. His fake ID is legendary and provides the film with one of its best jokes. The role of Fogell might seem nerdy, but he also carries himself with confidence. Christopher Mintz-Plasse gives the teenager an unbridled energy that gets him into all kinds of wacky adventures. His side story with the two cops already works like its own movie, filled with twists and hilarious moments. The iconic part is an endless source of hilarity that deserves an extended cut entirely about him.

#1: Jules
“Pulp Fiction” (1994)


In a movie full of standout performances, Samuel L. Jackson might top them all. His ability to deliver Quentin Tarantino’s dialogue is second to none. As the hitman Jules Winnfield, the actor takes the character from a killer to a peaceful man in only a few scenes. Winnfield might be the most entertaining part of the film, particularly when he delivers his iconic Ezekiel 25:17 speech. You could easily see Tarantino tailoring the entire story around him. Jackson walks a fine line between terrifying and hilarious, stealing the movie by the end.

Did we forget another side character worthy of their own film? Let us know below.

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