Top 100 Greatest Movie Characters of All Time

Top 100 Greatest Movie Characters of All Time

Welcome to WatchMojo, and today we’re counting down our picks for the most compelling, iconic, entertaining, and unforgettable characters ever seen on film. Since we’ll be revealing some key details about the character, a spoiler alert is in effect.

#100: Tyler Durden/Narrator
“Fight Club” (1999)

This may be the only character on this list that is both the antagonist and protagonist of the same film, and both sides of the same coin are played perfectly by Brad Pitt and Edward Norton. While the Narrator is a tortured insomniac struggling with navigating assertion, relationships, and decision-making, Tyler Durden is the antithesis. He’s a master of destruction and he’s unapologetically anti-authority, teaching the Narrator to follow his path and live against the grain. The reveal that they are, in fact, the same person, is one of the most mind-blowing plot twists in history, and it cements this intricate character as one of the greats.

#99: Benoit Blanc
“Knives Out” franchise (2019-)

Benny is just getting started, as the “Knives Out” films are in their infancy with more on the horizon. We can’t resist his southern drawl and sleuthing skills. His introduction in “Knives Out” is mysterious, wasting no time showing his unorthodox and sophisticated detection skills while solving the murder of Harlan Thrombey. In “Glass Onion,” we already know who we’re dealing with, and we see him at his best as he unravels Miles Bron’s prowess. It’s been a minute since we’ve seen a good old-fashioned whodunnit, and Daniel Craig as Benoit Blanc is the perfect man to lead the charge of this franchise.

#98: Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III
“How to Train Your Dragon” franchise (2010-)

While there are endless loveable characters in the “How to Train Your Dragon” films and TV shows, Hiccup is the one who is always at the center of it all. Between his reluctant but eventually adorable bond with Toothless and his blooming relationship with Astrid, we watch him grow from a clueless teenager to a fierce chief of the tribe. He helps others see that dragons deserve to live, and it’s his kind nature that keeps him relatable throughout the franchise. His character is a great representation of a harmonious relationship between animals and humans. The films would be totally incomplete without him.

#97: Cher Horowitz
“Clueless” (1995)

Not including the it girl of this 90’s teen comedy on our list? As if! Cher was the style icon we all wish we could be in high school, with a heart of gold and just enough naivety for her to be charming rather than pitied. She’s optimistic to a fault, and throughout the film, we watch her clumsily navigate romantic relationships and her flailing popularity after helping new girl, Tai, with her makeover. But, Cher always looks flawless, she learns a lot about herself and those around her along the way, and she ends up getting the guy in the end. That guy is played by Paul Rudd. So, that’s definitely a big win.

#96: Sean Maguire
“Good Will Hunting” (1997)

Some of Robin Williams’ best roles were his more serious, gentle characters. In “Dead Poets Society,” he plays the loveable and inspiring teacher, Mr. John Keating. Yet, it’s his Academy Award-winning role as Will Hunting’s psychologist, Dr. Sean Maguire, alongside an up-and-coming Matt Damon, that we’re featuring here. His character has a light humor that helps Will open up, with a sternness and insightfulness that allow him to navigate his next steps in life. Who could forget the “it’s not your fault” scene shared between the two? Watching Williams as Dr. Maguire on screen is like watching wisdom personified. It’s a truly mesmerizing performance to watch time and time again.

#95: Alonzo Harris
“Training Day” (2001)

No movie character list would be complete without at least a few villains. Denzel Washington’s character is as noteworthy as he is complicated and terrifying. Harris is an LAPD detective who is about as corrupt as they come. Through his affiliations with the mob, we see his ruthless nature shine as he takes down anyone in his path. He finds ways to pin his actions on others, particularly Ethan Hawke as Jake Hoyt, through his psychological tactics and irresistible charisma. It’s a classic Denzel Washington role that he plays flawlessly, even earning himself the Academy Award for Best Actor. We can’t deny that this character is one of the greatest ever.

#94: It a.k.a. Pennywise the Dancing Clown
“It” franchise (1990-)

Speaking of terrifying, enter the clown that has generations of children afraid of drains. This isn’t any ordinary scary clown. Pennywise is capable of shapeshifting into any scary thing you can imagine, making It a true nightmare. Tim Curry’s portrayal in the “It” miniseries was spine-chilling enough, but Bill Skarsgård’s version is downright petrifying. Pennywise lures children in and shows them their biggest fears. We are always on the edge of our seats, thinking It may pop up at any time. If you didn’t already have a fear of clowns, Pennywise will have you running in the opposite direction from any children’s party.

#93: Alex DeLarge
“A Clockwork Orange” (1971)

Alex DeLarge, ingrained in our memories with his white jumpsuit, black hat, and one long eyelash, is a complex and horrifying person. He leads a gang of Droogs that share those same qualities, and it seems that try or not try as he might, he can’t kick these sick thrills. The crimes he commits are disturbing to say the least, and watching him attempt to be cured from these demons is unsettling. Malcolm McDowell’s portrayal is iconic, as he makes the audience feel uncomfortable and intrigued by this elusive character. It’s not a character anyone will be forgetting any time soon.

#92: Marge Gunderson
“Fargo” (1996)

When Frances McDormand gets together with the Coen brothers, you just know that you’re about to see some cinematic magic. Her role as Marge Gunderson, the extremely pregnant cop investigating murders in Fargo, is no exception. It’s arguably her most iconic role to date. Even though the subject matter of this dark comedy is a bit grim, Gunderson keeps things light and humorous as she interacts with the midwesterners in her town while working to solve this major crime. She keeps her cool and does her job well, infusing humor and empathy into every situation. We still love to rewatch this film, even if it’s just to see this iconic character.

#91: Cinderella
“Cinderella” (1950)

There have been countless Disney princesses in the last century, with most becoming more intricate, relatable, and memorable as the years go on. Cinderella may not have been the first Disney princess, but she is arguably the poster girl and the blueprint for the princesses who have come since. She’s a significant character for little girls everywhere, as she teaches them that resilience is essential in building a life you’ve always dreamed of. The fact that she does it all with kindness and grace is something to be admired. There have been sequels and remakes of the original, but nothing can beat the 1950 version with its mesmerizing soundtrack, fun animation, and endearing main character.

#90: Clark Kent a.k.a. Superman
“Superman” franchise (1948-)

Although we’ve seen him in countless comics, TV shows, and video games throughout the years, we’re looking exclusively at his role in films for this list. While “Superman” films were first released in the 1940s and 50s, it’s Christopher Reeve’s portrayal of the reporter by day, superhero by night through the 70s and 80s films that are truly unforgettable. Seeing him balance life as a death-defying superhero and as the mild-mannered Clark Kent is always a joy to watch. Watching his relationship bloom with Lois Lane always tugs at our heartstrings. You’d have a hard time finding someone who hasn’t heard of him, and that speaks to the true impact of Superman.

#89: WALL-E
“WALL-E” (2008)

#88: Annie Hall
“Annie Hall” (1977)

#87: Axel Foley
“Beverly Hills Cop” franchise (1984-)

#86: Maleficent
“Sleepy Beauty” (1959)

#85: Borat Sagdiyev
“Borat” franchise (2006-)

Sacha Baron Cohen’s most well-known role is also one born out of ingenuity in filmmaking, if not some controversy, all strung together with absolute hilarity. Cohen becomes Borat, a native of Kazakhstan who comes to America to learn more about their culture. His character satirically looks at and pokes fun at the bizarre things that we see in our society, like dinner etiquette training, obsession with celebrities, and even prejudice and stereotypes. He does all of this while those around him are unaware that he’s in fact an actor and not actually Mr. Sagdiyev. He does this again in the sequel film. We only hope that we haven’t seen the last of this mankini-wearing character.

#84: Philip Marlowe
“The Big Sleep” (1946)

#83: Kiki
“Kiki’s Delivery Service” (1989)

#82: Gordon Gekko
“Wall Street” (1987)

#81: Jack Skellington
“The Nightmare Before Christmas” (1993)

#80: Andy Dufresne
“The Shawshank Redemption” (1994)

Although every man in Shawshank prison claims to be innocent, it appears Andy Dufresne actually is. Serving two life sentences for a crime he likely didn’t commit, Andy leaves us feeling hopeful and appreciative of the simple things in life. Despite his circumstances, he manages to befriend Red, another classic film character. He also helps his fellow inmates get educated, brings a library to the prison, and even gets a guard to supply them with a few beers. Andy teaches the audience that some birds aren’t meant to be caged. His hopeful spirit and lovable nature are contagious enough to stick with us after the credits have rolled.

#79: Ron Burgundy
“Anchorman” franchise (2004-)

#78: Pinocchio
“Pinocchio” (1940) & “Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio” (2022)

#77: Private Leonard “Gomer Pyle” Lawrence
“Full Metal Jacket” (1987)

#76: Katniss Everdeen
“The Hunger Games” franchise (2012-)

#75: Nurse Ratched
“One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” (1975)

With a colorful cast of characters led by Jack Nicholson’s Randle McMurphy, you’d think it would be hard for any to stand out. It takes a very special villain to do so. Nurse Ratched is the nurse of everyone’s nightmares in this film, and it’s genuinely difficult to watch her be so cruel to her patients. She controls basically every aspect of their lives. They take the abuse until McMurphy changes that, defying her at every turn, and eventually diminishing her power. She’s the perfect antagonist for this story, and although she may look harmless, she’s solidified herself as one of the greatest villains in cinematic history.

#74: Jack Torrance
“The Shining” (1980)

#73: Kevin McCallister
“Home Alone” franchise (1990-)

#72: John Kramer [aka Jigsaw]
“Saw” franchise (2004-)

#71: Captain James Hook
“Peter Pan” franchise (1953-)

#70: E.T.
“E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” (1982)

While most aliens in films evoke terror in their viewers, this one always leaves us in awe. E.T. is an adorable, curious little alien who finds himself stranded on Earth with his new pal, Elliott. The moments shared between them are equal parts endearing, heartfelt, and humorous. From moments like E.T. trying beer and Reese’s Pieces, to Elliott fearing he’s lost his new best friend, we can’t help but fall in love with this other-wordly character. He’s part of one of the most iconic shots ever seen in film, as Elliott flies him through the sky past the moon on his bike. This alone ensures E.T. will never be forgotten.

#69: Inigo Montoya
“The Princess Bride” (1987)

#68: John Wick
“John Wick” franchise (2014-)

#67: Patrick Bateman
“American Psycho” (2000)

#66: Dr. Evil
“Austin Powers” franchise (1997-2002)

#65: Ip Man
“Ip Man” franchise (2008-)

Some of the best characters in the history of cinema are derived from real people, and that’s what we see with Ip Man. The film series honoring his contributions to Chinese martial arts are inspiring and informative, not to mention action-packed and emotional. We see him battle intricately personal battles while also fighting against racism and prejudice. He does it all while fighting mesmerizingly and staying true to himself. One of his students is the extremely talented and beloved Bruce Lee. So, it’s no wonder Ip has become a legend in his own right.

#64: Anton Chigurh
“No Country for Old Men” (2007)

#63: Regina George
“Mean Girls” (2004)

#62: Han Solo
“Star Wars” franchise (1977-)

#61: Scarlett O’Hara
“Gone with the Wind” (1939)

#60: Chihiro/Sen
“Spirited Away” (2001)

While some of the most memorable movie characters are epic heroes or particularly cruel villains, Chihiro stands out because of her compassionate nature and willingness to be daring despite her timid demeanor. When she finds herself alone and without her family, she has to adapt to be resilient and resourceful as she navigates new relationships, challenges, and sacrifices. The reason she’s considered one of the greatest movie characters ever is because of her influence as a role model to young women. Her growth throughout the film shows audience members that they don’t need to rely on others to grow and make an impact. For that, she is truly inspiring.

#59: Ferris Bueller
“Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” (1987)

#58: Harry Callahan
“Dirty Harry” franchise (1971-88)

#57: George Bailey
“It’s a Wonderful Life” (1946)

#56: Dr. Strangelove
“Dr. Strangelove” (1964)

#55: Rick Blaine
“Casablanca” (1942)

Here’s looking at you, Rick. One of Humphrey Bogart’s most famous roles, we aren’t surprised that his performance as Rick Blaine garnered him an Oscar nomination. He plays a troubled and heartbroken man who turns into a noble optimist, all while he operates his nightclub and deals with the turmoil of his past romance. This character arc occurs against the backdrop of World War II, making his every move that much more meaningful, as he battles with both himself and his political affiliations with the war. Watching him and Ingrid Bergman together is truly magical, and thanks to him, we know that we’ll always have Paris.

#54: Buddy Hobbs
“Elf” (2003)

#53: Marty McFly
“Back to the Future” franchise (1985-90)

#52: Tony Montana
“Scarface” (1983)

#51: Daniel Plainview
“There Will Be Blood” (2007)

#50: Jeffrey “The Dude” Lebowski
“The Big Lebowski” (1998)

Name a more laid-back hero, we dare you. It seems like wherever the Dude goes, chaos seems to follow. Watching him try to navigate several bizarre scenarios with the Big Lebowski, Walter, or any of the other memorable characters in this film is hilarious. He does it all with a laissez-faire attitude that is honestly admirable. The Dude makes his audience feel like they can do anything by letting the cards fall where they may. His outlook on life is an essential part of the film and his character development, or lack thereof. We’re not surprised this film and its main character have garnered a cult following over the years. Anyone feel like bowling all of a sudden?


#49: Woody
“Toy Story” franchise (1995-)

#48: Michael Myers
“Halloween” franchise (1978-)

#47: Maximus Decimus Meridius
“Gladiator” (2000)

#46: Holly Golightly
“Breakfast at Tiffany’s” (1961)

#45: Miranda Priestly
“The Devil Wears Prada” (2006)

Featuring Meryl Streep in a video about great movie characters? Groundbreaking. We’ve seen Meryl in tragic films like “Sophie’s Choice” and fun, uplifting ones like “Mamma Mia!” We think her villain era might just be our favorite. Streep plays Miranda Priestly, the ruthless editor-in-chief of a fashion magazine, and like most antagonists, she is as multifaceted as she is evil. She is ambitious to a fault, demanding the world of her employees in ways we would never hope to encounter in a workplace, but her work ethic and commitment are very much something to be admired. She’s a fashion icon, she’s endlessly quotable, she’s relentlessly cruel, and we truly can’t get enough of her.

#44: Ethan Hunt
“Mission: Impossible” franchise (1996-)

#43: Willy Wonka
“Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory” (1971)

#42: Elle Woods
“Legally Blonde” franchise (2001-)

#41: HAL 9000
“2001: A Space Odyssey” (1968)

#40: Caesar
“Planet of the Apes” franchise (1968-)

Caesar is a character that is synonymous with the “Planet of the Apes” reboot series. He’s a humanized and sympathetic character. We love seeing him progress into a caring and fierce leader of the apes. It’s hard to not be mesmerized by Caesar, who looks so life-like with visible emotions that are not unlike the ones we see in human beings. His struggle to remain kind in a world that forces him to battle is relatable for any viewer who’s ever struggled to remain true to their values. We think he’s a leader that people in the real world could learn from.

#39: Peter Parker [aka Spider-Man]
“Spider-Man” franchise (1977-)

#38: Yoda
“Star Wars” franchise (1977-)

#37: King Kong
“King Kong” franchise (1933-)

#36: Tetsuo Shima
“Akira” (1988)

#35: Cruella de Vil
“101 Dalmatians” franchise (1961-)

If she doesn’t scare you, no evil thing will. We’ve seen many versions of this character throughout the years, from the animated portrayal, to Glenn Close’s terrifying performance in the live-action film, to Emma Stone’s depiction in the chilling origin story. All of these iterations of the character stick with you after the credits roll, leaving us wondering how someone could be so cruel to these innocent dogs, yet be so enticing and intriguing as a character. It’s her fashion icon status that we can’t help but adore, even though this is also the reason for her cruel nature. Giving herself a name like Cruella de Vil left her with no choice but to be evil.

#34: Shrek
“Shrek” franchise (2001-)

#33: Jack Sparrow
“Pirates of the Caribbean” franchise (2003-)

#32: Jules Winnfield
“Pulp Fiction” (1994)

#31: Frankenstein’s Monster
“Frankenstein” franchise (1910-)

#30: Neo
“The Matrix” franchise (1999-)

Who doesn’t love Keanu Reeves? There’s a lot to love about one of his most famous roles, as he portrays this computer hacker turned bona fide superhero flawlessly. While the intricate and philosophical scenarios that Neo finds himself in might put some viewers' brains into a pretzel, Neo navigates these situations with curiosity and vulnerability. We see him fight against the machines, and although this was significant at the time of the film’s release, this fight is becoming more and more relevant by the day. He’s the one, he’s not going to be soon forgotten in the world of sci-fi, and we hope we haven’t seen the last of him.

#29: Wolverine
“X-Men” franchise (2000-)

#28: Harry Potter
“Harry Potter” franchise (2001-)

#27: Forrest Gump
“Forrest Gump” (1994)

#26: Hans Landa
“Inglourious Basterds” (2009)

#25: Godzilla
“Godzilla” franchise (1954-)

While first hitting the scene in 1954, Godzilla has left a mark for centuries as the original movie monster. Appearing in over 35 films so far, Godzilla is a complicated and significant character, despite being a grandiose amphibian. Since Godzilla’s introduction is considered a post-war statement, the character now ebbs and flows through many societal changes. Godzilla goes back and forth from hero to villain depending on the state of the world in real life and in film. Either way, we can expect some seriously epic battles on the screen. With a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Godzilla is cemented as an unforgettable character.

#24: Gandalf
“The Lord of the Rings” franchise (2001-)

#23: The Terminator
“The Terminator” franchise (1984-)

#22: Beatrix Kiddo [aka The Bride]
“Kill Bill” franchise (2003-04)

#21: John McClane
“Die Hard” franchise (1988-)

#20: Tony Stark [aka Iron Man]
MCU (2008-)

There are literally endless amounts of memorable and epic characters in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. From heroes like Captain America and Thor to villains like Loki and Thanos, we’ve seen some impactful character growth, intense battles, and extraordinary moments from all of them. We have to feature the man who started it all. Tony Stark as Iron Man was the first superhero introduced in this realm as he turns from a weapons manufacturer to a superhero playing for the good guys after seeing the destruction his weaponry causes. He evolves from a selfish genius, billionaire, playboy, philanthropist, to a selfless, self-sacrificing hero, and it’s a magical journey to watch. He truly is Iron Man.

#19: The Man with No Name
“Dollars” trilogy (1964-66)

You’d be hard pressed to find anyone who is unfamiliar with Clint Eastwood, and this is the role that launched him to stardom. This trilogy is the blueprint for spaghetti Westerns. Eastwood’s character, known as the Man With No Name, is also the man with no backstory, making him especially intriguing and memorable. We see him sporting a different name but the same look and demeanor throughout every film in the “Dollars” trilogy. He’s known for his survival mentality, showdown ability, and his elusiveness. Western films that followed would not be the same without the influence of this character and there is no one better to play him than king of the anti-heroes.

#18: Mary Poppins
“Mary Poppins” (1964) & “Mary Poppins Returns” (2018)

She’s practically perfect in every way. How could we not include her on this list? Mary Poppins is the nanny of our dreams. Despite her somewhat stern demeanor and high expectations, she’s the spoonful of sugar that helps the medicine go down. She takes Jane and Michael on magical adventures into drawings that come to life while cleaning the house with a snap of her fingers and singing like an angel. It’s impossible to watch this film without feeling nostalgic, and let’s not forget that this role introduced the world to the amazing Julie Andrews. She won the Oscar for Best Actress in her first feature film. It doesn’t get much more iconic than that.

#17: Freddy Krueger
“A Nightmare on Elm Street” franchise (1984-)

Freddy Krueger haunts our nightmares, and he’s got everything we look for in an antagonist. He has a dark backstory, an unrelenting thirst for evil, and hauntingly creative ways of carrying out his sinister missions as he preys on his victim’s vulnerabilities in their dreams. His signature sweater, terrifying face, and bladed glove are staples in the world of horror films. He’s one of the greatest characters ever seen in the genre. After watching any of the movies in which he’s been featured for the last few decades, we’ll be sleeping with the lights on… that’s if we’re able to fall asleep at all.

#16: Travis Bickle
“Taxi Driver” (1976)

It’s hard to pick Robert De Niro’s all-time best performance, but one of his most outstanding roles is easily this one. In one of his many collaborations with Martin Scorsese, he portrays the chillingly complicated character of Travis Bickle, a tortured taxi driver who combats his own mental health in ways that are both devastating and intriguing to watch. He tries to save a young Jodie Foster as Iris Steensma from life on the streets, and we see him go to extreme measures to fix the things he sees as wrong in society. The acting is outstanding, the film is unforgettable, and Travis Bickle will always be an anti-hero for the ages.

#15: Bruce Wayne [aka Batman]
“Batman” franchise (1943-)

Even though this character was created for the comic book world way back in 1939 and made his screen debut in 1943, he’s still as relevant as ever. Although he doesn’t have any inherit superpowers, he battles against some of the more well-known villains in the superhero realm, like the Penguin, the Riddler, and the Joker. Despite the fact that he’s fighting evil, he means no harm to anyone. His mission is to keep Gotham City safe, which he helps to do both as Batman and as his true identity, Bruce Wayne. Batman has been recognizable for generations, no matter who dons the cape and cowl.

#14: Genie
“Aladdin” (1992)

Robin Williams is renowned for his comedic performance. In this film, his voice acting is so outstanding, that his character is arguably more memorable than any of the others. He plays the Genie, who is discovered in his lamp by Aladdin, helping him become a prince and win Princess Jasmine’s heart. The Genie does this by giving sage if not hilarious advice, singing some seriously catchy tunes, and pulling at our heartstrings. He provides us with comic relief and is essential to Aladdin and Jasmine’s story. Watching the Genie in this film makes us miss the legendary Robin Williams, because we ain’t never had a friend like him.

#13: Ellen Ripley
“Alien” franchise (1979-)

For years, we’ve seen countless male protagonists who battle villains, monsters, and otherworldly characters. It’s not only iconic, but refreshing to see Sigourney Weaver in this role throughout the franchise. She plays Ellen Ripley, who was originally supposed to be a male character until the director, Ridley Scott, decided against it. She progresses through the film series, using her wits and resourcefulness to navigate everything that’s thrown at her, from Xenomorphs to protecting Newt all the way to her grappling with her own identity and grief. She is deeply complex, but she is still a badass sci-fi character who will be remembered in movie history for years to come.

#12: Charles Foster Kane
“Citizen Kane” (1941)

The main character of what’s widely considered one of the greatest films of all time, Kane is still celebrated nearly a century after his introduction. He’s mysterious and inviting, as we’re drawn to him right from the start when he utters his infamous line - “rosebud” - on his deathbed. When we’re taken through his life events, it’s clear that he’s fairly remarkable. He’s one of those characters who is wildly successful and lives an enviable lifestyle. Yet, behind closed doors, he doesn’t have the perfect life everyone thinks he does. For these reasons, he is surprisingly relatable with his lifelong struggle ingeniously summed up in one word.

#11: Count Dracula
“Dracula” franchise (1922-)

Before there was “Twilight” or “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” there was this unprecedented bloodsucking villain. He has all of the characteristics that we love to see in vampires, as he’s charming and alluring, but deeply evil and tormented. Bram Stoker’s book served as the inspiration for 1922’s “Nosferatu” while Bela Lugosi made Dracula an icon in 1931. Since then, he’s been in countless films, TV series, and video games. If you’re afraid of the dark, and those who may lurk in it, you can thank this character’s massive influence on the horror genre, as his enduring legacy has touched generation after generation.

#10: The Joker
“Batman” franchise (1943-)

Why so serious? As much as the protagonist of the franchise has made a mark in cinematic history, there’s just something unforgettable about this villain. The Joker has appeared in many different films, with or without Batman. It’s still very much up for debate whose portrayal of him is best. Jack Nicholson in the 1980s, Joaquin Phoenix’s recent depiction in the origin story, or of course, Heath Ledger’s haunting but enduring performance in “The Dark Knight” are a few that come to mind. His twisted mind, terrifying smile, and archaic actions are legendary. He’s bound to be forever remembered as one of the best on-screen villains ever.

#9: The Tramp
Various

No, not the one with the lady. It’s hard to make a mark in the silent film era, and it takes incredible physical acting to pull off amazing performances in these films. Charlie Chaplin is by far the most recognizable actor from this time period. His recurring character “The Tramp” set the stage for countless actors who would follow him. Named after one of Chaplin’s films, that he also wrote, directed, and starred in, “The Tramp” is a clumsy and naive man who frequently finds himself in humorous, complicated, and sometimes even dangerous situations. He’s got a distinct look and personality that only Chaplin can pull off. This character walked so that so many others could run.

#8: Hannibal Lecter
“Hannibal Lecter” franchise (1986-)

Hannibal Lecter has been a recognizable character since his first appearance in the film “Manhunter” to his most recent appearance on television in the show “Hannibal.” When we think of this character, though, our minds go to Anthony Hopkins in “Silence of the Lambs.” He played alongside Jodie Foster’s Clarice Starling, another character we won’t soon forget. His introduction when he first meets Clarice is bone chilling, and all of their interactions are a masterclass in mental manipulation. He’s incredible to watch and we’re happy Hannibal isn’t a real person because he’s terrifying beyond belief. This can be attributed to Hopkins’ incredible performance.

#7: Rocky Balboa
“Rocky” franchise (1976-)

He’s the ultimate underdog, and we’ve loved cheering him on for years. Sylvester Stallone has played Rocky since the late 70s, and his portrayal of him is not only inspirational, it’s legitimately fun to watch. He grows from a loan shark collector to a boxer who can go the distance with nearly every fighter he encounters. He teaches us to keep punching no matter how difficult things get, and this message is universal for audiences of all ages. Whether he’s fighting Apollo Creed, avenging him by fighting Ivan Drago, or teaching Adonis Creed to battle against the best, this kind-hearted and resilient Philadelphia native is impossible to hate.

#6: Norman Bates
“Psycho” (1960)

Everyone goes a little mad sometimes, but Norman Bates does it in such a terrifying way that he can still make any viewer’s skin crawl. When Marion Crane runs away and finds solace at the Bates Motel, she meets the mysterious Bates. It seems as though his mother is the one who kills her in the infamous shower stabbing scene, but at this motel, things are not as they seem. In one of the most seamlessly executed plot twists ever seen in film, we learn that quiet, seemingly harmless Norman doubles as his own mother and is the one committing the horrific acts. He’s an incredibly tormented character and one that we love watching in this classic film.

#5: Dorothy Gale
“The Wizard of Oz” (1939)

She inspires generations to explore what lies on the other side of the rainbow, and her adventures with the Scarecrow, Tin Man, and Cowardly Lion are still fun to watch. As she adventures through the land of Oz, she encounters witches of all kinds, munchkins, and flying monkeys. Dorothy helps make it all magical to watch. With her blue gingham dress, her braided pigtails, and her bright ruby slippers, she’s been a recognizable character for adults and children alike for decades. Between her songs, her optimism, and her realization that there’s no place like home, her character and values are timeless. We’re sure she will live on as a family favorite for years to come.

#4: Indiana Jones
“Indiana Jones” franchise (1981-)

Harrison Ford is no stranger to playing iconic characters. This one just might be his most well known. Armed with his fedora and whip, Indiana Jones is one of the greatest action heroes to ever grace our screens, with countless noteworthy moments that have become renowned in film history. Some that come to mind include the sword turned gun fight, determining which cup is the holy grail, and getting chased by the big round boulder. He has us on the edge of our seats throughout every film, becoming the gold standard for adventure. His charm and humor are just the icing on the cake of this beloved character.

#3: Vito Corleone
“The Godfather” franchise (1972-90)

Many would call “The Godfather” one of the best cinematic stories of all time, specifically the first two entries. So, it’s not surprising that one of the most well known characters in cinematic history comes from it. Vito is the titular character in this film who is the leader of his family and his slice of the mafia. Throughout the films, we get to see both his upbringing and his later years. Who hasn’t seen someone do an impression of him? Played by two of the most iconic actors of all time – Marlon Brando in the first and Robert De Niro in the second – it’s hard to argue his place as one of the greats.

#2: Darth Vader
“Star Wars” franchise (1977-)

Arguably no movie franchise has as many significant characters as “Star Wars.” Luke and Leia pair perfectly with Han Solo and Chewbacca as partners in celestial crime. Who could forget Yoda’s wisdom or C-3PO and R2D2 providing us comic relief? We are just scratching the surface of memorable personas in these films. But one prevails above all, and that’s Anakin Skywalker, better known as Darth Vader. We see him go from Jedi Knight to Sith Lord, from lovestruck boy to Luke and Leia’s father, and from tortured soul to an elaborate villain. There would be no “Star Wars” without the OG villain, that James Earl Jones voice, and his cryptic presence.

#1: James Bond
“James Bond” franchise (1962-)

Spanning over six decades so far and played by actors like Sean Connery, Pierce Brosnan, and Daniel Craig, to name a few, this beloved character has earned his top spot. Every Bond movie is wildly entertaining, full of memorable action sequences, and Bond girls. The movies would be nothing without 007 himself. He’s charming, can endure any life threatening challenge, and always keeps it classy. This franchise has not worn out its welcome, with audiences still anticipating every upcoming film, waiting to see what new adventures, legendary songs, and classic cars await. We can’t imagine this character slowing down any time soon.

Did your favorite movie character make the list? Let us know in the comments!