Given the vastness that is the world of cinema, there are a few key roles that are beyond iconic and as a result there have been many a debate over which interpretation is the best. So for a bit of fun, I thought I would share with you my favourites of some of these iconic characters.
James Bond
I think there is a definite generational element that impacts our choices when it comes to some of these iconic characters, and for me, that definitely applies to my choice of the not-so-secret Secret Agent. The name’s Craig, Daniel Craig.
Apperances: Casino Royale (2006), Quantum of Solace (2008), Skyfall (2012), Spectre (2015), No Time To Die (2020)
The identity of the next Bond has been the topic of speculation for about 5 years, with many names being thrown into the pot including the likes of Richard Madden, Idris Elba, Tom Hiddlestone, Aiden Turner and Michael Fassbender.
So who is your favourite Bond, and who is your choice for the next 007?
Batman
Over the years, there have been seven live-action portrayals of the caped crusader (if you include David Mazouz’s turn in Gotham), with our eighth Batman hitting our screens next year, in the form of Robert Pattinson.
I actually found this one a little more difficult than I thought because I actually think Ben Affleck made a really good Batman, unfortunately for him, he was a terrible Bruce Wayne, and for that reason Christian Bale pips him to the post.
Appearances: Batman Begins (2005), The Dark Knight (2008) and The Dark Knight Rises (2012)
Joker
Arguably one of the most iconic villains in cinema, The Joker is a role that tends to garner more excitement, anticipation and expectation than the actual hero himself. For many people, there is only one answer: Heath Ledger. Whilst there is no denying that Ledger really immersed himself into the role, personally I preferred Joaquin Phoenix’s turn in the 2019 film, Joker.
Appearances: Joker (2019)
An honorary mention has to go to Mark Hamill, who has provided the voice of the Joker in animations, games and toys since 1992.
Alfred Pennyworth
While Robin may technically be his main sidekick, let’s face it, Batman wouldn’t be Batman without Alfred Pennyworth, Bruce Wayne’s butler and best friend. Originally Alfred was the comedic counterpart to Batman’s seriousness but now he serves more as Batman’s advisor and moral counterpart.
This was another tough one for me, although I love Michael Caine’s slightly sassy interpretation, Sean Pertwee’s strong and more youthful iteration of the character offered me the type of character development and background that I am a sucker for.
Appearances: Gotham (2014-2019)
Spider-Man
The debate over who is the better Spider-Man is one that has caused a fair bit of (light-hearted) tension in my office at work, particularly with regards to Tobey Maguire vs Andrew Garfield. FYI – I fall firmly on the side of Garfield, he just suffered from having slightly sub-par storylines.
That being said, I think it is fair to say that the best Spider-Man is Tom Holland.
Appearances: Captain America: Civil War (2016), Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017), Avengers: Infinity War (2018), Avengers: Endgame (2019), Spider-Man: Far From Home (2019)
Sherlock Holmes
Arguably the world’s most famous fictional detective, Sherlock Holmes has been part of popular culture since 1887 with countless actors donning the famous (yet inaccurate) deerstalker hat.
I do have a bit of a soft spot for Sir Ian McKellen’s aged performance in Mr Holmes (2015) but my vote goes to the eccentricity of Robert Downey Jr.
Appearances: Sherlock Holmes (2009), Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows (2011), Sherlock Holmes 3 (2021)
Do you agree with my picks? Who gave your favourite performances of these iconic characters.
