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In this article, I will compile a list of the 10 most inspirational movie characters that have deeply influenced me.
This exercise serves as a valuable tool to identify the admirable qualities that individuals should strive to embody.
1. Maximus Decimus Meridius
Maximum Decimus Meridius is the main protagonist of the iconic movie Gladiator. This movie is actually a parallel to the story Abel and Cain in the Bible.
Outside of the values Strength and Honor. The four virtue that a leader should have according to Marcus Aurelius are :
- Wisdom
- Justice
- Temperance
- Courage
“Keep yourself simple, good, guileless, dignified, unpretentious, devoted to justice, pious, kind, affectionate to others, and resolute in carrying out your proper tasks. Strive to be and remain the kind of person philosophy would have you be.”
Marcus Aurelius: Meditations VI:30
Maximus is a modest individual who attains his position through competence. He prioritizes the welfare of others over his own and does not pursue power or fame. Instead, he desires a modest and uncomplicated life with his loved ones. Despite the tragedy of his life, he maintains a graceful demeanor.
Commodus is the antithesis of Maximus. Born into privilege, he never had to earn anything. Realizing he can never achieve his ideal, which is represented by Maximus, he attempts to eliminate him.
In the end, both of them meet their demise and endure unimaginable suffering. However, while one earned everything, the other lost everything in the process.
2. Vasily Zaytsev
Once more, Vasily Zaytsev emerges from modest beginnings. Pressed into service during World War II, this Russian sniper ascended to the status of a national hero.
We will be discussing the portrayal of this character in the film “Enemy at the Gates” directed by Jean-Jacques Annaud, as we are concentrating on movie characters.
Like many protagonists, this character is selfless and doesn’t pursue power or glory. He’s simply trying to do what’s right. Rather than viewing himself as a hero, he sees himself as a servant to his country.
Contrary to Danilov, Vasily lacks formal education and struggles with writing. However, this characteristic renders him an honest individual who refrains from manipulating others’ perspectives.
3. Jack Dawson
Jack Dawson serves as the male lead in the renowned film Titanic, widely regarded as one of the most famous movies of all time. Hailing from a humble background, Jack embraces life in the moment and views it as a precious gift, regardless of his circumstances.
Artistic and adventurous, Jack is a free spirit that enjoy the simplest things in life. More importantly, Jack has virtues. He is selfless and is willing to sacrifice himself for others.
In contrast, the antagonist Cal Hockley comes across as pretentious, condescending, and overly concerned with his public image, despite his immense wealth and polished demeanor. However, beneath this facade lies a truly despicable nature.
He is willing to go to extreme lengths, such as feigning fatherhood, to ensure his own survival. This highlights the distinction between mere pretense and genuine selflessness.
4. The Driver
The protagonist in the film Drive remains nameless. However, his competence, cool demeanor, and humility are evident throughout the story.
Despite exhibiting some bipolar tendencies, he recognizes that his greatest strength lies in acts of kindness and in serving others. Notably Irene and his son.
I believe the standout scene in this movie occurs when, after portraying the perfect gentleman towards Irene and her son, reality abruptly intrudes when her husband returns home.
Even though the driver consistently does what is right, he is met with contempt by fate; however, he maintains his dignity. Accompanied by the song “Under Your Spell,” this scene stands out as one of the most powerful in cinematic history for me.
5. Farrier in Dunkirk
Farrier is the RAF pilot in the film Dunkirk. While little is revealed about his background, two traits stand out.
Firstly, like most pilots, he remains as calm under pressure. Secondly, he demonstrates intelligence, competence, and bravery by venturing to the front lines to engage in combat.
However, what truly sets him apart is his willingness to sacrifice himself for the sake of others. In essence, he is selfless.
Even after receiving cheers for saving his comrades with a plane lacking an engine, he refrains from celebrating. For him, it was simply fulfilling his duty.
After crashing and burning his plane, he resigns himself to being taken prisoner, viewing it as a fair exchange.
6. Nam Do San
Nam Do San is one of the protagonist in the Start Up Drama on Netflix. Although he is a bit of a geek and is quite awkward with women.
Nam Do San have his heart in the right place. He is humble, although very competent and smart when it comes to engineering.
In comparison to Han Ji-pyeong, who is also a successful and handsome character in the series, Nam Do San exudes a sense of innocence.
He still possesses the fire of humanity within him, so to speak. Meanwhile, Han Ji-pyeong is already quite cynical and realistic. This stark contrast between the two is the most notable difference.
7. Andy Dufresne
Andy Dufresne, the central character in one of my all-time favorite films, “The Shawshank Redemption,” deviates from the typical portrayal of bravery, given his profession as an accountant. Nevertheless, he embodies qualities reminiscent of the archetypal protagonist.
Andy’s focus extends beyond himself; he demonstrates care and concern for his fellow inmates, going so far as to make efforts to educate them.
One of Andy’s greatest qualities is his ability to stay moral and true to his beliefs, even when surrounded by criminals who have forsaken all sense of morality.
This narrative bears a striking resemblance to the biblical tale of Job. However, the essence of this movie revolves around maintaining faith and hope in the face of adversity as a human being.
8. Daniel Ocean and Rusty Ryan
I can’t quite pinpoint it, but there’s an undeniable allure to thieves, especially those reminiscent of Robin Hood.
Daniel Ocean and Rusty Ryan form one of my cherished duos. They complement each other perfectly: one exudes pure charisma as a leader, while the other is a stylish and highly skilled professional.
These films and characters have aged remarkably well. Even the fashion portrayed in the movies remains current. Generally, I’m not particularly fond of wearing suits, but I must admit that these two exude an undeniable sense of style and elegance.
These characters aren’t just attractive; they’re also remarkably cool. Their self-deprecating humor makes them approachable and down-to-earth.
Despite their thieving ways, they maintain a certain set of values unlike Benedict or Toulour. Crucially, they prioritize loyalty and teamwork by always looking out for their own as a cohesive group.
9. Neo or Keanu Reeves
Honestly, I’m perplexed about who is truly the chosen one between Neo and Keanu Reeves. Nevertheless, this actor arguably embodies the quintessential protagonist.
With exceptional abilities, humility, selflessness, kindness, and bravery, Neo epitomizes the ideal man, much like Keanu Reeves himself.
Joe Rogan seems to echo this sentiment. Keanu Reeves isn’t ostentatious; he strives to maintain simplicity, and his generosity is truly remarkable and uncommon. I believe they both likely represent the most spiritually balanced characters.
10. James Bond
Despite his tendencies as a womanizer and his seemingly hollow personal life beyond his responsibilities, James nonetheless embodies a certain ideal of masculinity.
Not only is he exceptionally competent and intelligent, as expected of any special agent, but he also demonstrates selflessness and a willingness to sacrifice himself for the greater good.
He also possesses athleticism and carries a polished style without appearing pretentious. He’s undoubtedly a charismatic character, but his lack of presence in a family setting makes it difficult for older individuals to relate to him.
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