In the vast history of cinema, an array of characters has graced the silver screen, etching themselves in the hearts and minds of audiences. Some, the audiences abhor, some inspire admiration, and others, they simply cannot forget. This list is dedicated to those characters who remain unforgettable, even after their era is gone. There are, of course, countless lovable and iconic characters in the history of cinema. What one may consider as the greatest characters may not hold significance to another. However, there are certain names that when mentioned, they spark conversions and elicit admiration from viewers. It is those remarkable characters we pay homage to.
The greatness of these characters does not necessarily stem from their status as protagonists of the film or their embodiment of admirable qualities. Some of them are outright evil, yet their palpable presence on-screen has kept them alive in the hearts of viewers. How can Gandalf the Grey be forgotten? Or the Joker inTheDark Knightor even Regina George inMean Girls? Characters likeGladiator’s Maximus Decimus blew minds, captivating audiences with his bravery and leaving them eagerly anticipating the arrival of thefilm’s sequel in November 2024, after a span of 23 years. Spanning across various genres, here are some of the greatest movie characters of the2000s.
15Optimus Prime — Transformers
Optimus Primeis a fascinating character known for being an embodiment for heroism and hope. From his bravery and determination in epic battles, his inspiring leadership abilities, his transforming ability to his moral compass and loyalty to those who risk their lives for him, Optimus is undeniably a compelling character in theTransformersfranchise.
Just like many of the characters, Optimus Prime comes with a great deal of heart even though he may come off as bloodthirsty and psychopathic at times. For lovers of this sci-fiction franchise based on Hasbro’s toy line of the same the name,Optimus Prime’s striking designs, charming attributes and his commanding voice (Peter Cullen) make him an unforgettable character. As the ultimate leader and a formidable robot, Optimus Prime truly leaves an indelible mark.
14Jigsaw — Saw
Sawstands out as one of the first brillianthorror films of the 2000s, presenting a masked villain who consistently outsmarts the cops, his victims and every of his opponent in this horror mystery.Jigsaw, the mastermind behind it all, is a well-calculated psychopathic killer. Rather than outright killing his victims, he plays a twisted game on them, forcing them to choose how they die. To this creepy vigilante, capturing his victims is just a means of teaching them lessons about their sins, and if they can beat his nasty traps, then they are free.
Jigsaw carefully selects his victim and crafts the perfect death trap equivalent to their sins. The most astounding part is the victims do not know the identity of the killer behind the mask. Similar to iconic horror villains like Michael Meyers, Freddy Krueger, Hannibal Lectre, Leatherface and others, Jigsaw solidifies his status as one of the most terrifying villains in horror movie history.
13Lisbeth Salander — The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
Lisbeth Salanderis a brilliant but anti-social hacker with a troubled past, whose sole mission to hunt down abusive men and serial killers. Although she may be a secondary protagonist in David Fincher’s version ofThe Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, she is a fascinating and unforgettable character. Not only is she skilled hacking computers, but her martial arts skills also showcase her badass nature. Wherever she goes, haunting and hypnotic aura surrounds her, as she’s always dressed in all black attire adorned with tattoos and piercings.
Actress Rooney Mara, in her performance, truly becomes this wounded soul known for her exceptional skills of solving crimes and hacking computers. From her aggression, her hurt, her wide, expressionless eyes and everything that is a part of the character became part of this talented actress. Despite her violent tendencies, demanding and creepy nature, there’s no doubt Lisbeth is a genius and beloved heroine.
12Hermione Granger — Harry Potter
Harry Potteris the hero of this enchanting fantasy tale, but he wouldn’t have survived long enough without this bright and smart witch.Hermioneis an iconic character who saved Henry and Ron from the Devil’s Snare, solved Snape’s potions riddle, punched Malfoy in the face, and taught Harry and Ron the Leviosa spell, among many other achievements. Her valiant efforts also extend to fighting Death Eaters and so many other heroic actions.
What would Harry have done without Hermoine in the picture? Her pivotal role in saving the hero of the franchises makes her a hero in her own right. While Harry may be the main character, there’s no denying that Hermoine stands as one of the most formidable and impressive characters inHarry Potter, and this iconic role catapulted Emma Watson to stardom.
11Jason Bourne — The Bourne Identity
The 2000s gave birth to one of the most prominent characters in spy films,Jason Bourne. In the action classicThe Bourne Identity, this one-man army, played by Matt Damon, stands at the same level as legendary figures like James Bond and Ethan Hunt. He is a dedicated secret agent who cannot be stopped and who is always one step ahead of his enemies. He is like a shadow that is everywhere and nowhere, with no love interest to tie him down, which distinguishes him from other spy flicks protagonists.
Damon’s brilliant performance shines not only in the first film, but also throughout theBournetrilogy. He effortlessly embodies the character’s physical prowess and left many impressed by his exceptional fighting skills even against opponents who were taller and larger than him.
Related:The 10 Greatest Fantasy Movie Characters of All Time
10The Bride — Kill Bill Vol. 1 & Vol. 2
It is not just its well-executed fight choreography, breathtaking soundtrack, and Tarantino’s skillful directing that makesKill Billsuch a great movie of the 2000s. Uma Thurman’s energy and fighting prowess as the vengeful fighter,The Bride, is an outstanding aspect in this samurai film. The Bride is relentless in her quest to take down all those from her past who have wronged her and anyone who gets in her way.
Despite being outnumbered on several occasions and facing ruthless adversaries in her journey, she never backed down and or gave up until she got her revenge. Thurman’s performance goes beyond her excellence in action sequences. She flawlessly embodies the emotions and struggles of this beloved heroine, making it pretty obvious the role was tailor-made for her.
9Tony Stark — Iron Man
MCU Iron Man wasn’t as popular as he is today until Robert Downey Jr. came and blew many away with his fascinating blend of intelligence, vulnerability, and charm, making him a compelling and iconic superhero. DespiteTony Stark’s brilliance as an inventor and engineer, his larger-than-life persona doesn’t overshadow his human side, making him relatable to the audience.
Iron Man’s beginning was a crucialstarting point for the MCU, andIron Manoffered a perfect exploration into this superhero’s origin. Downey is undeniably perfect in his role as Tony Stark, and it is unlikely that anyone can play this billionaire genius as brilliantly as he does.
8Regina George — Mean Girls
The pretty, cool, intelligent and yet manipulativeRegina George(Rachel McAdams) is one of the iconic Queen Bees to have marched down the halls of high school films. Although this leader of the Plastics does not kill or physically attack her victims, she is undoubtedly the symbol of evil in high schools and one of the greatest movie villains of all time. Her pursuit of revenge on those who betrayed her, her iconic screams, and her craziest action of setting herself on fire at the end just to make Cady the meanest girl in school are some of her outrageous antics.
Even after more than 20 years,Mean Girlsremains a top-tier coming-of-age movie, thanks to the stellar performance of McAdams and others. McAdams certainly became Regina George, showcasing the perfect mean girl mannerisms and pretentious facial expressions, along with her iconic quotes, solidifying her ascinema’s meanest girl.
7Maximus Decimus Meridius — Gladiator
Russell Crowe is known for many roles, but his role inGladiatoris one of his most celebrated. In Ridley Scott’sGladiator, Crowe plays a skilled Roman general who is betrayed and forced to become a common gladiator. His performance earned him a well-deserved award. AsMaximumfights in the pit for his honor and to avenge his family, it’s hard not to root for him.
Crowe’s portrayal exhibits the relentless determination and unwavering confidence of this scorned and beloved general, drawing viewers into Maximus' world. Over time, Maximus has remained popular, symbolizing strength, honor, and resilience. Even now, his memorable lines can evoke strong emotions from viewers.
6Aragorn — Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring
In the brilliant ensemble cast ofThe Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, Viggo Mortensen’s portrayal of this beloved hero managed to be on a whole different level. It was truly inspiring to witnessAragorntransform from a mysterious ranger to a brave fighter and then the heroic King of Gondor. He was a true leader who understood the value of friendship, loyalty and compassion and he never forgot Frodo and Sam.
With these remarkable qualities, his impressive swordsmanship, and beyond, he became a favorite character among many viewers. Peter Jackson’sThe Lord of the RingsTrilogy remains undeniably a timeless masterpiece, and Aragorn, without a doubt, stands as an iconic figure celebrated for his bravery, leadership and selfless determination to protect Middle-Earth.
