15 Side Characters That Steal the Spotlight from the Lead

No great movie can work without great characters. While we, as an audience, usually root for the hero, there are times when sidekicks are so compelling, funny, or complex that we can’t help but love them even more. Check out 15 side characters that steal the show.

There are various reasons why a side character might shine more than the protagonist. Sometimes, our main guy or girl is a bit dull or straightforward. Other times, they may not be as exceptional as they believe. However, many times, side characters help enhance the narrative and provide perspective to the core challenge.

Whether through comic relief, unexpected heroism, or touching moments, they contribute significantly to the film’s emotional landscape. These characters remind us that the magic of cinema often lies in the richness and depth of every role, not just the lead.

Mushu in Mulan (1998)

Live-action remake of this Disney classic was destined to fail for several reasons: not being able to have a proper theatrical release, changing so much of the story and, of course, not having Mushu (voiced by Eddie Murphy). While we admit that there were real possibilities that the CGI version of this dragon wouldn’t have been so… appealing, this side character is one that steals thes show.

This is not to say that Mulan isn’t a great main character, because she is, but it’s undeniable that a big part of the charm of the film is thanks to Mushu’s sassy comments and sarcastic attitude. But he’s not only a comic relief, as he also has his own journey to self-realization.

Emily Charlton in The Devil Wears Prada (2006)

Emily Blunt’s portrayal of Emily Charton exemplifies her exceptional acting prowess. She brings remarkable depth to the character—an ambitious workaholic with a penchant for fashion and a slightly mean-girl demeanor. Initially hesitant about Andy’s (Anne Hathaway) hiring, Emily’s character evolves significantly throughout the movie.

We observe that Emily is somewhat ensnared in the superficial aspects of her lifestyle, as evidenced by her remark, ‘I don’t eat anything, and when I feel like I’m about to faint, I eat a cube of cheese.’ However, unlike Andy, she is honest about her desires and never apologizes for them. She should have been the one in Paris, and we stand by that.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Kronk in The Emperor’s New Groove (2000)

Kronk stood out as the highlight of The Emperor’s New Groove, to the extent that he earned his own follow-up film released directly to video. Despite the central plot revolving around Emperor Kuzco’s transformation into a llama by his former administrator Yzma, the spotlight often veered towards Kronk.

Even with notable characters like Yzma, Kuzco, and Pacha, it was Kronk who truly captivated the audience. This fumbling henchman won hearts with his charming yet silly demeanor and hilarious antics.

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.

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.”

Max Bruner in The Edge of Seventeen (2016)

In this coming-of-age film, Hailee Steinfeld portrays Nadine, a 17-year-old who suffers from depression and must deal with all the changes in her life. And, to help her with that, there is her teacher Max Bruner, portrayed by Woody Harrelson.

Steinfeld probably gives the best performance ever with Nadine, but let’s be real, she is kinda a tough character to sell. Meanwhile, Bruner’s sassy and bold demeanor is the perfect way to give her some perspective when she is being too… teenager. But, when Nadine most needs him, he is there for her, and offers some wisdom.

Inigo Montoya in The Princess Bride (1987)

Directed by Rob Reiner, this is a timeless fairy tale that weaves together romance, adventure, and humor. While the film tells the story of Buttercup and Westley, two star-crossed lovers separated by fate, there is a side character that steal the show: Inigo Montoya.

Inigo Montoya is a skilled swordsman seeking revenge for his father’s murder. While maintaining a determined and serious demeanor, Inigo’s cheeky and clever lines, especially in pursuit of his vengeance, showcase his unique brand of sass.

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.

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.

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.