The supporting figures, designed to complement the protagonist, sometimes captivate audiences in unexpected ways. Whether through a breakout performance or a perfectly written role, these characters transcend their initial purpose and become the true stars
Fat Amy from Pitch Perfect (2012)
Pitch Perfect is filled with great side characters, but Fat Amy takes the crown. Of course, Rebel Wilson’s comedic timing elevates the role, but truly, there’s no Pitch Perfect without this one. She just makes the movie better, and funnier.
Also, we can argue that she does the same for the movie’s acapella group, the Bellas, which needed a fresh approach to entertainment. If the story is somewhat formulaic, we can forgive that just to hear Wilson’s great vocals and unhinged jokes.
George Downes in My Best Friend’s Wedding (1997)
It’s hard to hate Julia Roberts, but her character Jules in “My Best Friend’s Wedding” almost makes us do that. In this classic film, Jules basically loses her mind and tries to stop her friend Michael’s (Dermot Mulroney) wedding by doing the worst things she can think of. Trying to talk some sense into her, is her other friend George, portrayed by Rupert Everett.
George is sassy and witty, but also the voice of reason (despite being ignored by Jules almost the entire movie). His great personality not only makes him an audience favorite, but he is also the scene-stealer with the iconic restaurant scene in which he sings “I Say A Little Prayer.” Simply, iconic.
Trinity in “The Matrix” (1999)
In this sci-fi classic, Trinity is a skilled hacker and warrior. We have nothing against Neo (portrayed by Keanu Reeves), but with each movie, Trinity has become even and even cooler than the main protagonist.
With a bold and saucy attitude, Trinity excels in combat and plays a crucial role in the film’s plot. This is especially true in “Matrix Reloaded”, in which the most captivating sequences center around characters like Trinity.
Donkey in Shrek (2001)
Talking about side characters that steal the show, it’s impossible to not mention Donkey in Shrek. Of course, he is the main comic relief of the story, always bringing laughs to the audience thanks to his comments. However, he is also a great friend.
It was voiced by Eddie Murphy, and as he assists Shrek in his journey to rescue Princess Fiona, Donkey’s eccentric character and adorable charisma forge the perfect synergy. He turns their on-screen camaraderie into a genuinely enjoyable spectacle.
Sam in The Lord of the Rings (2001-2003)
The Lord of the Rings trilogy is filled with amazing characters to root for (and others to lathe). While Frodo is the main hero, Samwise Gamgee, played by Sean Astin, has become one of the favorite characters of all the fans of the film series.
Sam is the supportive friend of Frodo, and he stays bi his side through thick and thin. His strong loyalty, and bravery make him the ultimate sidekick and best friend. It’s hard imagining the story without him.
Hermione from Harry Potter (2001-2011)
As the majority of millennials, we love Harry Potter and we love the titular character. However, we also know that Hermione is the best of them all. Super smart and brave, she can be very stubborn when needed, but she is also a kind hearted person.
Hermione was one of the several examples of girls that stood out for their character (and not their beauty or something superficial). She showed little girls that it’s important to be determined and doing what’s right.
Dr. Ian Malcolm in Jurassic Park (1993)
Not hate to Dr. Alan Grant (Sam Neill), but we do love a clever mathematician that is also irreverent, and that’s Dr. Ian Malcolm, played by Jeff Goldblum. He clashes with Alan, while also being a flirt with Ellie Sattler (Laura Dern).
This charismatic and humorous individual with clever one-liners and an engaging personality instantly endeared him to the audience. Dr. Ian Malcolm undeniably steals the scene in Jurassic Park.
Neil in Tenet (2020)
Tenet, by Christopher Nolan, is a movie that is more about vibes than characters. However, we must say that one of the film’s best characters is Neil, portrayed by Robert Pattinson. If the movie is about style, he is the one that brings it out the most.
Neil is the one who helps the Protagonist (John David Washington) to discover the truth behind all these time-manipulation schemes to end the world. There are several theories about Neil’s true identity (is he the son of Elizabeth Debicki’s character?), but what thing do we know: thanks to him, the Protagonist is able to save the day.
Dory in Finding Nemo (2003)
In “Finding Nemo,” Dory is a side-kick that steals the show due to her saucy personality. However, that added to her short-term memory loss which leads to humorous situations in the film.
Despite her challenges, Dory’s quirky charm and optimistic outlook make her a memorable and endearing character. She was so beloved that she ended up having her own sequel/spin-off, “Finding Dory.”
Nick Fury in Captain Marvel (2019)
Nick Fury, portrayed by Samuel L. Jackson, is a high-ranking S.H.I.E.L.D. agent in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. While we are talking specifically about “Captain Marvel,” it’s true that Nick Fury is always a great side character.
Known for his brassy and authoritative presence, Fury is a no-nonsense person with a penchant for delivering sharp and snippy lines. It also happens to be the character we have known for a longer time, so it’s easy for him to steal the show.