Top 10 Favorite Film Protagonists
#7. Logan/Wolverine – X-Men Franchise
Hugh Jackman as Wolverine
I simply love this character because the filmmakers took a heavily favored comic book character and made him human through empathy and character development. He’s honestly the best character and only reason to watch the recent “X-Men” films, even in the ones that are less than stellar. I enjoy watching Logan’s angry and violent side conflict with his sympathetic side. It makes him human and very relatable, and that’s my main reason for putting him on this list. I can relate to him. Not in a mutant or superhuman kind of way, but as a human, I can relate to many of the emotional obstacles he faces in the films. A relatable character like this makes me root for him throughout his journey. Once you feel yourself rooting for a character, then you know you’re immersed in the universe.
#6. Rose Da Silva – Silent Hill
Radha Mitchell as Rose Da Silva
Everyone loves watching a character lose something and then fight against antagonists in order to retrieve it. In one of the best video game to film adaptations, you get to watch Rose Da Silva literally fight through hell in search for her daughter. Rose’s struggles illuminate her strengths as a woman and mother, which mold well with the complexities of the universe. Demons, nightmares, and creatures do everything they can to stop Rose, but her love for her daughter keeps her progressing along her journey. It’s a depth not many horror films like to dig into, so it was especially rewarding here. At first, you might think Rose is s a generic horror film female lead, but she’s developed with strength and perseverance, making her a pleasure to watch.
#5. Randy ‘The Ram’ Robinson – The Wrestler
Mickey Rourke as Randy ‘The Ram’ Robinson
As a huge professional wrestling fan, I was a fan of this film before it was released. It’s one of the few examples that introduces people to the harrows and dangers of professional wrestling. Sure, the shows and matches are scripted, but the brutality and nature of the business tarnish these great athletes’ bodies and minds. Mickey Rourke, as Randy Robinson, perfectly portrays a professional wrestler. He’s someone who has a lot of demons, a lot of pain, and a lot of regrets, automatically making him relatable to many people across the world. After one viewing of this film, you’ll understand the difficulties this kind of lifestyle demands, like disconnection from your family and the never-ending medical bills. Add these facts to a deeply troubled character, and you get one of my favorite characters of all-time.
