This year has had significantly less superhero movies than in recent years. There have certainly been a few and you will find some on this list, but not like years past. However, that does not mean there has been any shortage of heroes or villains. We have just had to look into different genre’s to find them. Which has opened up a rich gallery of characters to choose from and some of them have been very memorable. Here is my picks for the best heroes and villains of 2024!
12. Kate (Daisy-Edgar Jones), Twisters
Daisy Edgar-Jones has swiftly risen from her breakout role in Normal People to action hero status. Her performance alongside Paul Mescal in the BBC series showcased her emotional depth, captivating audiences worldwide. In Twisters, she takes on a bold new role, starring as Kate in one of the biggest sequels of 2024. Edgar-Jones brings a fresh intensity and determination to her character, proving her versatility. Kate is really the heart and soul of the picture. From romantic drama to thrilling action, she seamlessly transitions, marking her as one of Hollywood’s most exciting rising stars. And Kate is a hero that young girls and boys alike can look up to who seems just like them.
11. Lucius (Paul Mescal), Gladiator II
Paul Mescal and Daisy Edgar-Jones both had breakout roles this year, captivating audiences with their incredible performances. While Daisy shined in Twisters, Paul took on the fierce role of Lucius in Gladiator II. It’s thrilling to see both actors reach a larger audience after their impressive work in Normal People. Lucius, however, is a true standout. He’s a badass character, filled with strength, determination, and grit. Moreover, he seamlessly steps into the role left by Maximus, adding his own unique power and presence. Together, Mescal and Edgar-Jones prove they are stars on the rise.
10. Lucy MacLean (Ella Purnell), Fallout
Ella Purnell has become a magic ingredient in bringing video games to life on television. She’s already captivated audiences as Jinx in Arcane, and now she shines as Lucy MacLean in Fallout. Lucy is truly the heart of the series, offering kindness in a violent, chaotic world. Her warmth and empathy provide a stark yet engaging contrast to the harsh environment, making the show even more compelling. Moreover, Purnell’s portrayal gives viewers a character to root for amid the darkness, offering a glimmer of hope in a world full of destruction. I thought hard about putting the Ghoul (Walton Goggins) here, but there is just no show without Lucy.
9. Zelda, The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom
In The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom, players experience something groundbreaking: playing as Zelda herself. This marks the first time in franchise history that Zelda takes the lead role, and she proves she can kick ass just as much as Link. Throughout the game, her strength, intelligence, and combat skills shine, making her an empowering and dynamic protagonist. Moreover, Zelda’s journey adds fresh layers to the story, giving players a new perspective on the world of Hyrule. It’s clear that Zelda is more than just a side character; she’s a true hero in her own right.
8. Clayface (Dan Donohue), Batman: The Caped Crusader
The writers and actor Dan Donohue brings a new depth to the character of Clayface in Batman: The Caped Crusader. His portrayal captures the tragic past of an actor whose life is forever changed by a terrible chemical accident. While Clayface has often been portrayed as a silly villain, this series redefines him. The show delves into his dark transformation, making him one of the most complex and compelling villains of the year. With a perfect blend of empathy and menace, Donohue’s Clayface is chilling and fascinating, adding layers to the iconic villain. As a result, the character feels fresh and more terrifying than ever before.
7. Indiana Jones (Troy Baker), Indiana Jones and the Great Circle
In Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, we finally see the original 1930s Indy in prime form for the first time since 1989. And boy is he better than ever, thanks to the incredible motion capture and voice acting by Troy Baker. Additionally, the game uses a picture-perfect likeness of Harrison Ford from the ’80s, adding authenticity. With these elements combined, Indy feels like a true, living legend once again. Furthermore, the story is captivating, full of adventure and mystery. Together, they create a perfect game that captures everything fans love about the iconic archaeologist. This is the Indiana Jones experience we’ve all been waiting for.
6. Gambit (Channing Tatum & AJ LoCascio), Deadpool & Wolverine & X-Men 97′
In 2024, Gambit finally makes his long-awaited debut on the big screen and return to small. For years, Channing Tatum tried to get a Gambit movie made, but it never happened. Thankfully, Ryan Reynolds made it happen, and the result was fantastic. Gambit appeared in Deadpool & Wolverine, bringing a fresh take on the character we all loved. Moreover, the Gambit from the ’90s X-Men: The Animated Series returned for a powerful send-off in X-Men 97′. This moment became one of the most memorable in the new show, reminding fans of his significance. Gambit was huge this year, and anyone who gets to enjoy it will be all the better for it.
5. Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo), Wicked
Cynthia Erivo is nothing short of amazing as Elphaba in the new Wicked movie. She’s one of the few characters this year who walks the fine line toward villainy, yet remains the true hero. Erivo pulls this off beautifully, capturing Elphaba’s complexity and depth. Her chemistry with Ariana Grande’s Galinda is brilliant, creating a dynamic relationship that keeps audiences engaged. At the heart of Wicked is the nature of good and what we perceive as wicked. Erivo expertly embodies this conflict. She creates an Elphaba that audiences will root for and never forget, making her portrayal truly unforgettable.
4. Aerith (Brianna White), Final Fantasy VII: Rebirth
In Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, modern audiences finally see why Aerith has been a staple in gaming for over 25 years. Actress Brianna White brings her to life beautifully, capturing Aerith’s warmth and depth. While she’s not the most badass character—Cloud and Tifa take that spot—Aerith is the one who holds everything together. She is the heart of the story, and without her, nothing would be the same. Her presence in one of gaming’s greatest stories makes her a hero for the ages. It’s just a shame that more people haven’t played this game to experience her greatness.
3. Jinx (Ella Purnell), Arcane
Jinx, voiced by Ella Purnell in Arcane, is another character this year who walks the line between villainy and heroism. The team of artists and writers did an incredible job shaping her complex arc. I have to give huge props to them for creating such a layered character. Ella Purnell’s voice acting brings Jinx’s turmoil and unpredictability to life, making her unforgettable. I had my own preconceived notions about where Jinx’s story would go, yet I was pleasantly surprised. Her character development challenges expectations, making her one of the most captivating in Arcane.
2. Dementus (Chris Hemsworth), Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga
Chris Hemsworth delivers the best performance of his career as Dementus in Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga. His portrayal of this character fits his name perfectly, captivating audiences from start to finish. One minute, you’ll root for him, and the next, you’ll want Furiosa to get her revenge. Hemsworth walks this perfect line between charm and menace, keeping viewers enraptured. His performance is unpredictable, making Dementus one of the most memorable villains of 2024. This character showcases Hemsworth’s incredible range, proving he can embody both heroism and villainy with equal mastery.
1. Mariko (Anna Sawai), Shogun
Anna Sawai’s breakout performance as Mariko in FX’s Shogun is nothing short of extraordinary. Throughout the series, Mariko’s resilience in the face of immense adversity is gripping. Despite the overwhelming challenges, she consistently adheres to her traditions and fulfills her duties, even when they conflict with her personal beliefs. This inner conflict only strengthens her character, transforming her suffering into a wellspring of courage and determination. In Episode 9, her bravery reaches its peak, leaving a powerful emotional impact that brought me to tears. Undoubtedly, this is one of the greatest performances of the year, and Mariko stands as a defining hero of our time.
- 12 Best of Christmas: The Best Movies of 2024! - December 23, 2024
- 12 Best of Christmas: The Best of Television 2024! - December 22, 2024
- 12 Best of Christmas: The Best Podcasts of 2024! - December 19, 2024