10 Movie Characters With The Best Development Of All Time

April 26, 2024, 4:35 p.m.

Movies

10 Movie Characters With The Best Development Of All Time

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Summary Characters like Michael Corleone and Sarah Connor showcase the power of transformative character arcs in cinematic history.

From struggling salesmen to ruthless mafia bosses, these characters evolve through challenges and experiences that resonate with audiences.

The complexity of human nature and the transformative power of experience bring depth and relatability to unforgettable character journeys.

Effective character development can significantly influence the overall narrative of a movie. Some characters undergo remarkable transformations, contributing to some of the most memorable arcs in cinematic history. These transformations often involve a profound change in the character's personality, values, or beliefs, shaped by the experiences and challenges they face throughout the film. From the likes of Michael Corleone in The Godfather, who evolves from a reluctant outsider to a ruthless mafia boss, to Sarah Connor in the Terminator series, who transforms from a vulnerable waitress to a battle-hardened warrior, these character arcs leave a lasting impact on the audience.

Other notable examples include Matt Damon’s memorable character Will Hunting in Good Will Hunting, whose journey from a troubled genius to a man embracing his potential is nothing short of inspiring, and Travis Bickle in Taxi Driver, whose descent into madness serves as a haunting commentary on society's underbelly. The power of effective character development lies in its ability to create a deep emotional connection between the audience and the characters, making their journeys feel authentic and relatable. By exploring the complexities of human nature and the transformative power of experience, these films showcase the art of crafting unforgettable characters.

10 Chris Gardner (Will Smith)

The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)

The Pursuit of Happyness Where to Watch *Availability in US stream

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buy Not available Not available Not available Director Gabriele Muccino Release Date December 15, 2006 Writers Steven Conrad Cast Will Smith , Todd Black , Jason Blumenthal , James Lassiter , Steve Tisch , DeVon Franklin Runtime 117 Minutes Main Genre Drama

Will Smith's portrayal of Chris Gardner in The Pursuit of Happyness stands as one of the most remarkable character arcs in cinematic history. Gardner begins the film as a struggling salesman, homeless and relying on shelters to survive with his young son. Despite the bleak circumstances, his unwavering determination and love for his child shine through.

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As the story unfolds, Gardner's transformation is nothing short of inspiring. He tackles an unpaid internship at a brokerage firm, juggling its demands with the responsibilities of single fatherhood. Through resilience and an unrelenting work ethic, Gardner excels, ultimately securing a position as a stockbroker. His journey serves as a powerful reminder of the strength of the human spirit and the unbreakable bond between father and son.

9 Derek Vinyard (Edward Norton)

American History X (1998)

American History X Director Tony Kaye Release Date October 30, 1998 Cast Edward Norton , Edward Furlong , Beverly D'Angelo Runtime 1hr59

In the gripping film American History X, Edward Norton's portrayal of Derek Vinyard stands as a remarkable example of character development. At the start of the movie, Derek is a fervent white supremacist, his beliefs fueled by the tragic death of his father at the hands of a black drug dealer. He is a charismatic leader within a neo-Nazi group, deeply entrenched in racist ideologies. However, Derek's character arc takes a profound turn during his time in prison, where an unlikely bond with a black inmate named Lamont sparks a journey of self-reflection and transformation.

Through this connection, Derek begins to confront the contradictions in his beliefs, questioning the hate-fueled worldview he once embraced. As the narrative unfolds, Derek's evolution becomes a powerful story of redemption and reconciliation. He actively works to reject his past beliefs and dismantle the white supremacist ideology he once championed. His character development is a raw and honest portrayal of confronting one's own demons and the consequences of past actions.

8 Will Hunting (Matt Damon)

Good Will Hunting (1997)

In Good Will Hunting, Will Hunting initially hides his genius behind a facade of wit and impeccable one-liners, using his smart-mouthed persona as a defense mechanism to keep others at a distance. This prevents him from forming genuine connections and embracing his true potential. However, as the narrative unfolds, Will's journey takes a profound turn through his interactions with Sean Maguire, played by Robin Williams, a movie that defined the beloved actor’s career.

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Sean's unwavering patience, understanding, and guidance gradually chip away at Will's emotional barriers, allowing him to confront the deep-seated issues that have held him back. The pivotal "not your fault" scene marks a defining moment in Will's transformation, as he comes to terms with his past and realizes his worthiness of love and acceptance. By the film's end, Will has evolved into a man no longer afraid to be vulnerable, open himself up to others, and pursue his true potential.

7 Woody (Tom Hanks)

Toy Story (1995)

Toy Story Where to Watch *Availability in US stream

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buy Not available Not available Not available Director John Lasseter Release Date November 22, 1995 Writers Joss Whedon , Alec Sokolow , Joel Cohen , Andrew Stanton Cast Tom Hanks , Don Rickles , Annie Potts , Tim Allen , Jim Varney Runtime 81 minutes Main Genre Animation

Woody, the iconic animated movie character from Toy Story, undergoes a remarkable transformation that showcases the power of personal growth and the importance of friendship. At the start of the film, Woody is Andy's favorite toy, enjoying a position of privilege and status among the other toys. However, his world is turned upside down with the arrival of Buzz Lightyear, a technologically advanced space ranger who quickly captures Andy's attention.

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Driven by jealousy and the fear of being replaced, Woody makes a series of poor choices that accidentally send Buzz tumbling out of a window, stranding them both at a gas station far from home. Faced with a perilous journey back to Andy's house, Woody realizes that he must put aside his insecurities and work together with Buzz to ensure their safe return. As Woody and Buzz navigate the challenges and obstacles in their path, they forge an unbreakable bond built on trust, respect, and a shared goal. Woody learns to set aside his selfishness and embrace the value of friendship.

6 Michael Corleone (Al Pacino)

The Godfather Trilogy (1972-1990)

In The Godfather, Michael Corleone's character arc is a masterclass in the corrupting influence of power and the transformative nature of circumstance. At the start of the film, Michael is presented as an outsider to the Corleone family, a law-abiding citizen who has deliberately distanced himself from the criminal underworld that his father, Vito Corleone, presides over. He is the one Corleone brother who has chosen a different path, rejecting the dark dynamics that define his family's legacy.

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However, when external forces threaten the Corleone family and Vito is no longer able to lead, Michael finds himself thrust into a role he never wanted. Faced with the need to protect his family and restore order, Michael begins to cross thresholds, gradually shedding his outsider status and embracing the very world he once shunned. By the ending of The Godfather, Michael has become the very thing he once despised - the Godfather, a man consumed by the need for power and control.

5 Phil Connors (Bill Murray)

Groundhog Day (1993)

Groundhog Day Where to Watch *Availability in US stream

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buy Not available Not available Not available Director Harold Ramis Release Date February 11, 1993 Writers Danny Rubin , Harold Ramis Cast Bill Murray , Andie MacDowell , Chris Elliott , Stephen Tobolowsky , Brian Doyle-Murray , Marita Geraghty Runtime 101 minutes

One of the most remarkable character transformations of all time unfolds in Groundhog Day, as Phil Connors evolves from a self-absorbed and cynical weatherman to a compassionate and empathetic individual. At the start of the film, Phil views his assignment covering Punxsutawney's Groundhog Day festivities as tedious and beneath his talents. Trapped in a time loop, reliving the same day over and over, he initially exploits this predicament for personal gain, indulging in hedonistic pursuits without consequences.

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However, as Phil continues to navigate the endlessly repeating day, a profound shift begins to occur. He starts to notice the struggles and aspirations of those around him. This newfound awareness sparks a desire for self-improvement, as Phil dedicates his time to learning new skills, cultivating empathy, and genuinely striving to make a positive impact on the lives of others. Phil's metamorphosis is undeniable. He becomes a kind, compassionate individual who understands the value of human connection and the power of each moment to shape one's character.

4 Travis Bickle

Taxi Driver (1976)

Considered one of Robert De Niro's best movies, his portrayal of Travis Bickle in Taxi Driver stands as a haunting exploration of a man's descent into madness, fueled by his alienation from society and a twisted sense of justice. Travis starts out as a deeply troubled Vietnam War veteran, grappling with insomnia and a growing disillusionment with the world around him. As he navigates the streets of New York City as a taxi driver, Travis becomes increasingly disturbed by the corruption, crime, and decay that surround him, his internal turmoil intensifying with each passing night.

Travis's character arc takes a dark and unsettling turn as the narrative unfolds. His initial feelings of powerlessness and frustration morph into a dangerous obsession with "cleaning up" the city. By Taxi Driver's ending, Travis's transformation is complete, a tragic descent into madness that culminates in a brutal and shocking display of violence. His character's evolution serves as a chilling reminder of the destructive power of unchecked disillusionment and the dangers of isolation.

3 Nina Sayers (Natalie Portman)

Black Swan (2010)

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buy Not available Not available Not available Director Darren Aronofsky Release Date December 3, 2010 Writers John J. McLaughlin , Andres Heinz , Mark Heyman Cast Natalie Portman , Mila Kunis , Vincent Cassel , Barbara Hershey , Winona Ryder , Benjamin Millepied Runtime 108 minutes

Black Swan’s lead protagonist, Nina Sayers, undergoes a harrowing transformation that displays the psychological toll of pursuing artistic perfection. Nina starts out as a meticulous and fragile ballet dancer, consumed by her desire to secure the lead role in Swan Lake. While she effortlessly embodies the innocent and pure White Swan, Nina struggles to capture the seductive and dark essence of the Black Swan, a duality that mirrors her own internal struggle.

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As Nina's obsession with perfecting the Black Swan role intensifies, the boundaries between reality and hallucination begin to blur, pushing her further into a spiral of madness. Natalie Portman's nuanced performance captures the gradual unraveling of Nina's psyche, as paranoia and self-doubt consume her every waking moment. Nina's character arc reaches a disturbing climax as she fully embraces the darker aspects of her own personality. The final act of Black Swan serves as a haunting reminder of the sacrifices demanded by the pursuit of artistic excellence, as Nina's triumph on stage comes at a devastating personal cost.

2 Charles Foster Kane (Orson Welles)

Citizen Kane (1941)

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buy Not available Not available Not available Director Orson Welles Writers Herman J. Mankiewicz , Orson Welles , John Houseman , Roger Q. Denny , Mollie Kent Cast Orson Welles , Joseph Cotten , Dorothy Comingore , Agnes Moorehead , Ruth Warrick , Ray Collins Runtime 119 minutes

The beginning of Citizen Kane depicts Kane's death, and the narrative embarks on a journey to unravel the mystery behind his final utterance: "Rosebud." Through a series of fragmented flashbacks, the audience witnesses Kane's transformation from an innocent child to an idealistic entrepreneur, and ultimately, to a towering figure of ambition and excess. Kane's rise to prominence is marked by his pursuit of success, as he evolves from a young man with noble intentions to a media tycoon whose influence knows no bounds.

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However, beneath the veneer of his achievements lies a profound sense of emptiness, a void that Kane seeks to fill through the acquisition of power and wealth. What sets Kane's character development apart is the masterful way in which Orson Welles and his co-writers weave together the fragments of his life, painting a portrait of a man consumed by his own ambition and the weight of his decisions. It is this complex portrayal of a man's rise and fall that has solidified Citizen Kane's place in cinematic history.

1 Sarah Connor (Linda Hamilton)

The Terminator 1 and 2 (1984-1991)

The Terminator (1984) Where to Watch *Availability in US stream

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buy Not available Not available Not available Director James Cameron Release Date October 26, 1984 Writers Harlan Ellison , James Cameron , Gale Anne Hurd , William Wisher Jr. Cast Arnold Schwarzenegger , Michael Biehn , Linda Hamilton , Paul Winfield , Lance Henriksen , Bess Motta Main Genre Action

Sarah Connor's character development in both The Terminator and its sequel, Terminator 2: Judgment Day, stands as a groundbreaking example of a protagonist's evolution in science fiction cinema. In the first film, Sarah transitions from a vulnerable, unassuming waitress to a determined fighter, driven by the knowledge of her unborn son's destiny. However, it is in the sequel that Sarah's character arc reaches new heights, showcasing the profound impact of her experiences and the depth of her transformation.

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Terminator 2: Judgment Day presents a Sarah Connor that’s hardened by her past, having spent years preparing for the impending apocalypse. Confined to a mental institution, Sarah's fierce determination and belief in her mission set her apart, even as others question her sanity. Sarah's character development in Terminator 2 is the perfect example of nuance and complexity, as she navigates the fine line between strength and vulnerability, ultimately emerging as a symbol of resilience and hope in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds.