The 21st century has introduced the world to a variety of iconic movie characters, from superheroes to rebels, to royalty, to villains. These characters have captured the hearts of audiences worldwide with their unique traits and compelling storylines. Among the most iconic movie characters of the 21st century is Iron Man’s Tony Stark, whose portrayal by Robert Downey Jr. in the Marvel Cinematic Universe has become a symbol of the franchise. Another character is the strong and resilient Katniss Everdeen played by Jennifer Lawrence in The Hunger Games. The Joker, played by Heath Ledger, in The Dark Knight, has also become a haunting and unforgettable character in movie history. Other iconic figures include Elsa (Frozen), Harry Potter, T’Challa (Black Panther), Gollum (Lord of the Rings), Jack Sparrow (Pirates of the Caribbean), Shrek, and Wonder Woman (Diana Prince). These characters have all served as sources of inspiration, empowerment and entertainment in their respective movies.

The 10 Most Iconic Movie Characters of the 21st Century

The 21st century has been a time of great change in the movie industry. We have seen the rise of superhero movies, the explosion of franchises, and the increasing prominence of diverse voices on the big screen. With all of these changes, it’s no surprise that we’ve been introduced to some truly iconic movie characters. From superheroes to villains, from rebels to royalty, these characters have captured our attention and our hearts. Here are the 10 most iconic movie characters of the 21st century.

1. Iron Man (Tony Stark)

Robert Downey Jr.’s portrayal of Tony Stark in the Marvel Cinematic Universe is nothing short of iconic. The charismatic, sarcastic, and brilliant playboy-turned-superhero has become a symbol of the entire Marvel franchise.

2. Katniss Everdeen

Jennifer Lawrence’s performance as Katniss Everdeen in the Hunger Games series is powerful and unforgettable. The strong and resilient character has become an inspiration for young women everywhere.

3. Joker

Heath Ledger’s performance as the Joker in The Dark Knight is haunting and unforgettable. His portrayal of the iconic villain is widely regarded as one of the greatest performances in movie history.

4. Elsa

Elsa, the ice queen from Disney’s Frozen, is perhaps the most iconic Disney character of the 21st century. Her powerful ballad “Let It Go” has become an anthem for self-acceptance and empowerment.

5. Harry Potter

Daniel Radcliffe’s portrayal of Harry Potter in the Harry Potter series is iconic. The bespectacled wizard has become a symbol of hope, bravery, and resilience.

6. Black Panther (T’Challa)

Chadwick Boseman’s portrayal of T’Challa in Black Panther is not only an iconic character, but a symbol of empowerment for the black community. The Wakandan king has become a beloved figure in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

7. Gollum

Andy Serkis’ performance as Gollum in the Lord of the Rings trilogy is nothing short of iconic. The tortured and conflicted character has become a symbol of both the power and danger of obsession.

8. Jack Sparrow

Johnny Depp’s portrayal of Jack Sparrow in the Pirates of the Caribbean series is unforgettable. The swaggering, drunken pirate has become a beloved icon of adventure and rebellion.

9. Shrek

Mike Myers’ portrayal of Shrek in the Shrek series is iconic. The good-hearted yet gruff ogre has become a beloved figure for both children and adults alike.

10. Wonder Woman (Diana Prince)

Gal Gadot’s portrayal of Diana Prince in the Wonder Woman movies is empowering and iconic. The Amazonian warrior has become a symbol of female strength and empowerment in the male-dominated superhero genre.

There you have it, the 10 most iconic movie characters of the 21st century. Each of these characters has left an undeniable mark on pop culture, inspiring us and entertaining us along the way.