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Fantasy movies, renowned for their grand narratives, enchanting landscapes, and unique plots, often weave tales filled with mythology, legends, supernatural elements, and magical realms. Icons like The Lord of the Rings, Star Wars, Clash of the Titans, and Harry Potter transport audiences to otherworldly realms, providing an escape from reality and fostering emotional connections with characters and moments on-screen.
However, amidst the exhilarating adventures, fantasy films frequently subject characters to profound tragedies, propelling them through harrowing experiences for eventual growth. In this realm of magic and wonder, here are the 10 most heart-wrenching characters who undergo poignant journeys in fantasy films.
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10 Most Tragic Heroes in Fantasy Movies
Aragorn — The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (2003)
In Peter Jackson’s epic fantasy trilogy, “The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King” marks the culmination of the adventurous journey that began with “The Fellowship of the Ring.” The film follows Frodo, Sam, and Gollum as they strive to destroy the One Ring, unaware of Gollum’s deceitful intentions. Meanwhile, in Minas Tirith, Aragorn, along with a diverse group of allies, engages in a battle to defeat Sauron.
Aragorn, portrayed by Viggo Mortensen, emerges as one of the more tragic figures in the story. Despite enduring various hardships, such as the loss of his mother and the long concealment of his true lineage, Aragorn’s most poignant moment comes with a bittersweet twist. In order to marry Arwen, his true love, he is compelled to embrace his destiny as the King of Gondor. This act, rooted in the traditional need for parental approval in marriage and the imposition of an unwanted life, symbolizes the enduring struggles of Aragorn’s lengthy existence.
Severus Snape — Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 (2011)
The last installment in the Harry Potter film series, “Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows: Part 2,” adapts the second half of the corresponding novel. It depicts Harry and his allies’ ultimate battle against Lord Voldemort and the dark forces threatening the magical realm. Launched in 2011, the movie received critical acclaim and contributed to the franchise’s massive fan following eagerly anticipating new content.
Excluding Harry, the series’ most tragic character is arguably Severus Snape, portrayed by Alan Rickman. Despite a troubled childhood, Snape’s life choices led him to become a spy and a crucial player in Harry’s victory over Voldemort. Throughout the films, Snape’s apparent disdain for Harry becomes clearer, and it’s only in the final film that we understand the reasons. Snape’s deep-seated feelings stem from his affection for Harry’s mother, whose death profoundly impacted him, prompting a reevaluation of his beliefs and forcing him to mature.
Willow Ufgood — Willow (1988)
In the 1988 film Willow, directed by Ron Howard and based on a story by George Lucas, we witness the classic theme of good versus evil and the journey of a hero. While the film received mixed reviews, with some criticism directed at makeup and special effects, a 2022 Disney+ sequel series, also named Willow, faced removal as the studio aimed to tidy up its streaming platform.
The protagonist, Willow Ufgood, portrayed by Warwick Davis, hails from the unique Nelwyn race on Andowyne. Willow’s early life is marked by tragedy—losing his mother at a young age and facing his father’s disapproval of his magical abilities, urging him to embrace the family farming business. Despite his attempts to do good, Willow embarks on a transformative journey, facing challenges that shape his character and force him to discover the true essence of life.
Daenerys Targaryen — Game of Thrones (2011-2019)
The list focused on films, but Game of Thrones, an exception, stands out for its epic portrayal of tragic characters. The series, adapted from George R. R. Martin’s novels, garnered awards, critical acclaim, and paved the way for the 2022 prequel, House of the Dragon.
Daenerys Targaryen, portrayed by Emilia Clarke, is a surviving member of House Targaryen, seeking to reclaim The Iron Throne. Her tragic arc unfolds as she loses everything in her pursuit. A Medium article highlights her most poignant moment when betrayal, failures, and the realization that her identity’s foundation was shattered left her with a sense of futility. In the end, the pain and sacrifices seemed to be in vain.
Dr. Jekyll/Mr. Hyde — Jekyll (2007)
In the 2007 adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson’s novella, “Jekyll,” the classic tale takes a modern twist as Dr. Henry Jekyll, portrayed by Matt Keeslar, explores a cancer cure. However, his experiments lead to the creation of a computer-generated alter-ego, Mr. Hyde, played by the same actor. This unpredictable Hyde becomes a monstrous force, going on a killing spree and attempting to murder his own creator.
The tragedy in “Jekyll” lies in Dr. Jekyll himself. His pursuit of a cure and the unintended consequence of creating Hyde become the catalyst for his downfall. The film portrays Jekyll as a tragic character, as his own experiments and ambitions become the source of his undoing. The true tragedy unfolds in Jekyll’s inability to break free from the destructive grip of Hyde.
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Anakin Skywalker — Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith (2005)
Sure thing! “Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith” presents a pivotal moment in the conflict between the Jedi and the Dark Side. Directed by the legendary George Lucas, the film primarily follows Anakin Skywalker, a Jedi tasked with getting close to Palpatine, the Supreme Chancellor. However, Anakin falls under Palpatine’s manipulation, leading to a tragic transformation from a once noble Jedi to the infamous Darth Vader. The movie explores Anakin’s journey as a victim, a villain, and ultimately, a complex hero who succumbs to the lure of power. The decision to watch it third or sixth depends on whether you prefer chronological or release order.
Boromir — The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001)
Released in 2001, The Fellowship of the Ring kicks off the epic trilogy, following Frodo’s journey to thwart Sauron’s quest for the One Ring. The Fellowship, comprising Gandalf, Legolas, Gimli, Aragorn, Boromir, Sam, Merry, and Pippin, joins forces to ensure Frodo reaches Mount Doom and prevents Sauron’s resurgence.
Boromir, portrayed by Sean Bean, embodies tragedy in the Lord of the Rings narrative. Initially tempted by the Ring’s power, he later recognizes its malevolence and sacrifices himself for Frodo, enabling the Fellowship to press on. His demise stands out as one of the series’ most heart-wrenching moments.
Macbeth — The Tragedy of Macbeth (2021)
In the 2021 adaptation of Macbeth, titled The Tragedy of Macbeth, Joel Coen takes the helm as the sole director, writer, and producer. The film had a limited theatrical release before moving to Apple TV+. Denzel Washington stars as Macbeth, and according to Vulture’s Alison Willmore, the film maintains the Coen brothers’ trademark of portraying characters trapped in their obsessions and shortcomings. The onscreen world reflects Macbeth’s internal struggles and inescapable self.
The story follows Macbeth, a Scottish noble driven by the prophecy of three witches to seize the throne. His ambitious wife, played by Frances McDormand, is unwavering in her support, leading to a compelling exploration of the character’s tragic journey.
Morgana — Excalibur (1981)
Excalibur, released in 1981 and inspired by Thomas Malory’s Le Morte d’Arthur, retells the tale of King Arthur and the Round Table knights. While the film received mixed reviews, it remains a must-watch for medieval fantasy fans. Surprisingly, the most tragic character isn’t who you’d expect. Morgana, portrayed by Helen Mirren, manipulates Gawain, leading to a seduction and the birth of a child. Despite the attempts to portray her negatively, Morgana emerges as a powerful woman embracing her own version of life. In a tragic turn, her actions bring grief to Arthur and Merlin, and her own son, unaware of her identity due to her rapid aging caused by magic, ends up strangling her to death.
Perseus — Clash of the Titans (2010)
Louis Leterrier’s 2010 film Clash of the Titans, a remake of the 1981 movie, follows the journey of Perseus, a fisherman who discovers his demigod status as Zeus’s son. Leading a band of warriors, he faces various challenges and creatures orchestrated by Hades. Despite mixed critical reviews, the movie raked in a solid $493 million globally and spawned a 2012 sequel, Wrath of the Titans. Perseus’ story is marked by tragedy—he loses his adoptive family, learns his divine heritage, and endures imprisonment by Draco. Nevertheless, he persists in his quest, ultimately triumphing over challenges like slaying Medusa.
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