So, I decided to pick my five all-time favorite movie characters. NOTE: you can argue with me as much as you want, but I am not saying these are the five BEST characters of all time, just my favorites. So calm down.
5. Forrest Gump portrayed by Tom Hanks
Truly one of the most endearing characters of all time. There is an instant connection to Forrest that only grows throughout the film. When I asked my friends for input, I had a couple of people pick Forrest here, but I think Spenser said it best: “How many other people have fought in a war, met multiple presidents, watched Watergate unfold, held a major stock in Apple computers, ran across the US, developed the “Shit Happens” slogan, played college football under Bear Bryant, AND have Sally Fields as a mom?? :)” And it’s true. So much actually happens over the course of the movie, but it still somehow stays believable. And I always love Tom Hanks.
4. Geoffrey Chaucer portrayed by Paul Bettany in A Knight’s Tale
This is quite possibly my favorite movie. And I love Paul Bettany. So there you go. He is quick-witted and funny. And gave me the inspiration for my first monologue performed for an audition ever. So that has to count for something. “It’s a small target Will, but aim for his heart.” Mmm.
3. Penny Pingleton portrayed by Amanda Bynes in Hairspray
Really, this goes into favorite musical characters because I just love the character. Not that Amanda Bynes didn’t do a great job, she did. Penny is the best friend of the film’s heroine, Tracy. Penny has a racist, strict, church-goin’ mother who is crazy. And then Penny falls in love with a handsome black boy named Seaweed. And craziness ensues.
Best quote: “My mother says I’m not allowed to perspire!” I love her so much I even dressed up like her once.
2. Lloyd Dobler portrayed by John Cusack in Say Anything
If I could pick one man to spend the rest of my life with, it would be Lloyd. Nothing really happens in the movie, but it is still one of the best romances out there. Lloyd is sweet, honest and reliable. And the scene pictured above is one of the most iconic in all of movie history. And who could forget him saying “What I really want to do with my life – what I want to do for a living – is I want to be with your daughter. I’m good at it.” There are so many aww-worthy moments in the movie. I LOVE HIM.
1. John McClane portrayed by Bruce Willis in Die Hard
You really didn’t expect anything else, did you? You know how much I love John. So, so, so much. Of course, a strong honorable mention must be given to his nemesis, Hans Gruber, played by Alan Rickman. So epic. Yippie Kay Ey motherf*****! The best part about this character is he has somewhat believability. He is totally badass and he always kills all the bad guys BUT he gets pretty beat up doing it. He is always bloody/sweaty/dirty. And not many action heroes are. I salute you, Officer McClane!
HONORABLE MENTIONS:
Since, I asked for advice, I have to share what other people said. Two people voted for Han Solo, so it must be said that he’s pretty cool. But Jeff’s description of him as “dreamy” is really the best one. Ron Burgandy and Frodo Baggins also got mentions. As did Phil, of The Hangover. I think most of the people in that movie deserve a nod. Jimmy Neutron, Batman, King Leonides and Fox from Wanted got votes too.
Who else should be on here?