The reason many of us love movies and TV shows so much, is because the idea that we can escape the boredom of everyday life to magical and mystical worlds is mesmerizing. But none are as intriguing, vast, or mystical, as the worlds found in the many fantasy movies and shows, like Harry Potter, The Lord of the Rings, Pirates of the Caribbean, and many more.
Perhaps one of the biggest reasons we love the worlds of fantasy movies so much is due to the brilliant characters that inhabit these movies. From Gandalf and Hermione, to Jack Sparrow and Ariel, here are the best fantasy movie characters of all time.
10 Shrek - Shrek Franchise
Brought to life by the fantastic Mike Myers, Shrek quickly became a fan-favorite character. His thick Scottish accent, discontent for others, and dry humor made Shrek an unforgettable character unlike anyone we have ever seen. The world of Shrek is full of hilarious and deep fairy tale characters, and this lovable green ogre still manages to stand out above the rest.
Shrek has been through a lot. He saved his Princess, fought a dragon, fought an all powerful Fairy Godmother, and saved the timeline he selfishly destroyed. Shrek is the hero we didn’t know we deserved.
9 Ariel - The Little Mermaid
The Little Mermaid is one of the most fascinating tales of all time. Sure, the original Disney movie is full of numerous problematic issues, but thankfully, the new live-action remake has since tried to ret-con all the wrongs that were committed so long ago. But one aspect that was always flawless, was Ariel’s characterization. Jodi Benson made us all fall in love with her angelic voice and fantastic performance, and now Halle Bailey brings her very own essence to the role that meets, and in some cases, exceeds that of Jodi Benson. Though, this depends on who you ask.
Ariel’s ambition to live among humans cost her a lot, namely her voice. However, without this sacrifice and longing for adventure, the mer-people and the humans would still be at war.
8 Jack Sparrow - Pirates of the Caribbean Franchise
Captain Jack Sparrow is a fascinating character. His campy, reckless nature makes for one of the most entertaining characters in pop culture. However, underneath his unserious persona, Sparrow is somehow one of the deadliest and smartest pirates to ever sail the seven seas. Besides, taking on both Davy Jones and Blackbeard is definitely worthy of a legend.
Johnny Depp is at his best as Captain Jack Sparrow, delivering an off-the-wall performance full of humor, heart, and badass stunts. Captain Jack Sparrow is a necessary character in pop culture history
7 Gollum - The Lord of the Rings Franchise
Recognized by almost everyone, Gollum is one of the most complex characters in fantasy movie history. His corruption was tragic, and seeing the former river folk slowly morph into the Gollum we know today was ghastly. But perhaps the most entertaining aspect of Gollum is his dual personality. Throughout the Lord of the Rings trilogy, Gollum occasionally speaks to himself, and it's gripping. Gollum wouldn't be as well renowned or as loved without the amazing Andy Serkis in the role, which led the actor to take home The Best British Actor Award at the Empire Awards and Best Virtual Performance at the MTV Movie and TV Awards.
6 Loki - The Marvel Cinematic Universe
Few characters in the MCU have had as much of a tragic journey as the "God of Mischief", Loki. He was responsible for the death of both his parents, attempted to kill his brother dozens of times and his selfishness led to the devastation of hundreds of Asgardians, by the hands of Thanos. Yet, through all this Loki always showed a sense of remorse and guilt, and deep down her truly loved his brother, Thor. Loki was a character that grabbed our hearts, and his sacrifice for the universe led to one of the most emotional and brutal deaths in the MCU.
Thankfully, with the MCU complex multiverse narrative, Loki has returned, more heroic and lovable than ever, and we can't wait to see where his journey goes in Lokiseason two, with the always brilliant Tom Hiddleston returning to his decade-long role.
5 Falkor - The Neverending Story (1984)
The Neverending Story is equally one of the most important fantasy movies of all time, as it is the most traumatic. This "kids'' movie is full of mesmerizing yet at times spooky imagery. But, what the movie is most known for is ripping out audiences' hearts, in that tragic and heart-shattering death scene. You know the one!
On a lighter note, the movie gave pop culture one of the wisest, most charismatic and optimistic characters ever, with Falkor the luck dragon. As previously mentioned, Falkor is incredibly wise, and almost every line he spouts out sounds like a beautiful poem that will stick in your mind for years. His first appearance sees him save young Atreyu from the Swamps of Sadness, which then saw the two develop a very endearing and cute friendship.
4 Inigo Montoya - The Princess Bride (1987)
There are few swordsmen as skilled with a blade as the great Inigo Montoya. After the death of his father, Inigo Montoya's thirst for vengeance fueled him to develop and hone his skills. Perhaps his character is most known for the quote "Hello. My name is Inigo Montoya. You killed my father. Prepare to die," but we believe his best moment is the epic duel between him and the Man in Black, as they both admire each other's swordsmanship in this over-the-top, well-choreographed and hilarious fight.
Played by the fantastic Mandy Patinkin, Inigo Montoya is as deadly to his enemies as he is loyal to his friends, making for a truly astonishing fantasy movie character.
3 Samwise Gamgee - The Lord of the Rings Franchise
We dare you to think of a more loyal and charismatic character than Samwise Gamgee. He risked his life for those he cared for, and helped Frodo destroy the ring and save Middle Earth. Although Sam lacks any combat skills or magical abilities, he is still a fantastic ally to have, and one of the best characters in the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Sam is a great cook and a lovable friend who will always put his companions first.
Sean Astin is sensational in the role, and his kind attitude and caring nature fully elevates Sam's character to the perfect fantasy character he is. If we want any character by our side on a perilous journey, it's Samwise Gamgee.
2 Gandalf - The Lord of the Rings Franchise
When asked to name a fantasy movie character, the character that would most likely come up is the legendary Lord of the Rings character, Gandalf the Grey. Gandalf is the wisest wizard of all time. He is insightful, smart, and all-so-powerful. After bellowing the iconic line, "You. Shall Not. Pass!" Gandalf sacrifices himself to ensure that the Fellowship live on and continue on their quest to save Middle Earth, proving how selfless this wise wizard is. Thankfully, it isn't long before Gandalf returns to Middle Earth more powerful than ever.
Sir Ian McKellen gives a Shakespearean performance as Gandalf, enhancing the character's wisdom and power.
1 Hermione Granger - Harry Potter
The Harry Potter franchise is full of many memorable fantasy characters. But few are as intelligent, powerful, or inspiring as the fantastic Hermione Granger. Hermione is without a doubt the most intelligent witch in the Wizarding World, and without Hermione, the Wizarding World wouldn't have stood a chance against Voldemort. Due to her infinite wisdom, Hermione knows a wide range of spells and even teaches Ron and Harry a thing or two.
Hermione is one of the most inspiring female characters in movie history. She is simply relentless, and no matter who or what gets in her way, Hermione will always come out on top. Emma Watson shined in her role as Hermione and brought all of her confidence, intelligence, and independence to the role.