10 Best Character Introductions of All Time

You only get one first impression and that counts double for movies. The way you meet a character, for better or worse, can define the rest of a movie. These are all the different ways a character can show up in a movie in some of the best character introductions of all time.
Here's the list!
Indy from Raiders of the Lost Ark
John Doe from Se7en
Tucco from The Good, The Bad and The Ugly
Kambei from Seven Samurai
Bond, James Bond from Dr. No
Lisa Fremont from Rear Window
Hans Beckert from Fritz Lang's M
Sherif Ali from Lawrence of Arabia
Harry Lyme from The Third Man
and of course The man himself from Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory.
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[@SentimentalGentleman]

“I’m afraid I haven’t been a really good host, old sport. You see, I’m Gatsby”

[@cathjh7570]

Yessss and daisys first scene was amazing too!

[@plsarguewithme2665]

This should have been part of the list

[@jadahwise]

LOL THAT'S WHAT I CAME HERE FOR LOL

[@shouzhengtang2692]

The problem with that scene for me was that it was a bit too unfocused, for the majority of the previous shots it was focused on his ring and all of a sudden you get a full shot of Gatsby without any specific feature to look at, sure the fireworks express his flamboyance and extravagance but there is no personality. Whereas the previous shots of him in the window and the close-ups tell us that he is cautious, solitary elusive and mysterious. Its not enough to just unveil a enigmatic character, but when unveiled, the scene needs to tell us something more about him that we dont know to have an impact

[@willgibson7982]

Absolutely top 3, probably should have been for the #2 category in my opinion

[@Z3ROTH3RT33N]

Wasn't expecting the feels at the end.

[@CineFix]

Sorry, we kinda snuck that in there, didn't we?

[@Z3ROTH3RT33N]

It's okay, Gene's legacy is an everlasting gobstopper of joy.

[@mohamedumar3082]

+CineFix why art thou so cruel ?

[@AegisNova]

+CineFix Rat bastiges! (It was perfect.)

[@nikoraito]

Well, number one was about reversal of expectations after all

[@rubenlarochelle1881]

7:16 ...Wait, are you telling me that James Bond took the _"Surname, Name Surname"_ line from someone else?!?

[@rvantong]

Holy effing shit!

[@v1ceroy]

Sylvia Trench deserves more respect. The OG Bond girl and paved the pay for the Bond,James Bond dialogue,and the first recurring Bond girl.

[@liberpolo5540]

... ...well, whaddya know ... *mind-blown!**

[@bramsta]

@Yoda _ well obviously he didn't, smartass

[@user-jv3om4vd3q]

He was repeating what Sylvia Trench said but with his own name. Might not be the only thing Ms Trench taught him ..

[@daddysasageyo6810]

My personal favorite is Jack Sparrows introduction in pirates of the caribbean

[@anshullall3929]

Mine too... Jhonny depp is sexy

[@HAL-vm3wn]

The best. Introduction. Of all. Time.

[@samarvora7185]

I concur.

[@itamarsalhov]

@@samarvora7185 Was about to write that myself

[@olliehopnoodle4628]

Loved it the first time in the theaters, love it every time since.

[@rosenblau]

The introduction of Hans Landa in the Inglorious Basterds. One of my personal favorites.

[@davefetch6064]

Yes!

[@laurencethecamper5405]

THAT'S A BINGO 😁

[@frankcarlosnajera9723]

yep

I was about to type that very same...

[@kelst75]

Oh for sure, he was a great character

[@PatrickAllenNL]

I like how this channel is waaaayy different from Watchmojo in the way they present lists..You sound like you know stuff

[@LockeWick]

I would hope they know their stuff considering their channel is dedicated to film.

[@justdewitt5409]

it's quality content rather than just clickbait

[@HDmexsComboCon]

it actually sounds like they do... Research.

[@quickhakker]

Tbh on KZbin you either have to be lucky or use click bait which is sad (click bait in either title or thumbnail)

[@erroldtumaque3430]

heh a lot of watchmojo videos i watch seem very well put together and researched

[@Karl_Marksman]

Somehow being caught off-guard by Kevin Spacey doesn't sound as fun anymore

[@rachelgarber1423]

Ikr, creeptastic

[@OS-dd1bn]

lmao

[@katherynemero9355]

Regardless of anything he ever did, he's still a really good actor. Learn to separate the man from the characters that he plays. They aren't the same thing.

[@meepthesheep.lovestosleep4508]

That movie didn’t age well for him lol 😂

[@blurryhouse]

@@katherynemero9355 we don’t always have to

[@kris242]

Dr. Frank N. Furter deserves at least a mention. There’s something so perfect about it. You get the elements of prior reputation, small initial visual details, the stunned reactions of Janet and Brad mixed with the excitement of everyone else in the room... and then he just immediately belts out this killer song with swagger equivalent to a mob boss. It’s just perfect and really gives the audience an immediate impression that “yeeaaahhh, this dude’s gonna be a favorite.”

[@dickiewallace]

I liked the list and descriptions of various character introductions, but the omission of Dr. Frank N. Furter kind of undermines the whole project, doesn’t it?

[@kris242]

@@dickiewallace Abso-fricken-lutely, dude 🤣 And thank you ❤️ I, personally, definitely think that Gene Wilder’s Wonka is the absolute greatest character-intro, but Frank N. Furter is an extremely close second. The others listed are great too, but can’t even come close (immediate impact-wise and characterization-wise) to those particular two.

[@mamabear8150]

I looked for this comment was expecting him to number 1 but he’s not even on the list

[@positivelysimful1283]

Glad it's not only me; I was surprised he didn't make the list too.

[@kurtwicklund8901]

I came to the comments to post the very same thing. Then the first thing I saw was this posting. In other word, hellyeah!

[@squamish4244]

I like how CineFix doesn't just reference films that most of us are familiar with, generally from 1980 onwards, but goes back over the entire history of cinema. I've learned about movies and directors I would not otherwise have heard of or am not that familiar with. Fritz Lang I knew about from Metropolis obviously, but not the film showcased here.

[@ohauss]

"M" is why you should think twice whistling "In the Hall of the Mountain King" on the street... especially when there are children around. Ironically, it wasn't Peter Lorre who was whistling, he couldn't do it. Lang himself was whistling instead.

[@dantebad]

M is a masterpice. I really love it even more than the silent Metropolis. Dont get me wrong.. metropolis is a work of art but Lang`s use of suspense and paranoia in M is pretty well remarkable.

[@geokaplan59]

Absolutely. And, with Hitchcock's "Blackmail," it is a primer on how to use sound to build suspense and character, and it does it brilliantly so early in the development of sound film.

[@WalterLiddy]

I value M way higher than Metropolis. Lang's first foray into sound involves so many thoughtful applications, and even though he's being innovative as hell in that area, he doesn't neglect to be just as creative in his visual imagery and use of characters. It's a movie that demonstrates just about every cinematographic device possible. You can watch any movie today and not find a single technique Lang wasn't already employing when he made it (other than CG/effects). You could easily offer it as the single example subject of film school instruction.

[@WaterShowsProd]

As well as Lang's amazing filmmaking technique in M, there is Peter Lorre's phenomenal performance, and the way he generates sympathy in such a villainous role. I don't think Hollywood really made a film quite like M until the 1950s.

[@gutz1981]

I am so surprised that Yoda in 'The Empire Strikes Back' did not get a number. There are only few instances where you are introduced to a character that is the complete opposite of what we were expecting to see. Not only that, we meet him without meeting him as he plays off of his own stereotype appearance, the little funny side kick looking person, who in a turn of everything moment, is revealed to be perhaps the most powerful being in the galaxy of Star Wars. The oldest, the wisest, he is the ant at our feet who if we saw in the street would think little to nothing of.

[@CineFix]

slow clap

[@robbieclark7828]

+CineFix Hire this man

[@ikmnification5737]

Except, like much of Star Wars, that idea was inspired by something else, the old martial arts master who pretends to be a drunk or cripple.

[@gutz1981]

IKMNification Kinda but not really. See in those films, when a young apprentice goes out to seek said master and when they find them they are a drunk or a cripple, the master in not hiding his identity and is kind of a disgrace in a way, the student is underwhelmed and thinks he cannot learn anything from this drunk. It is not until a test of ability does the master prove he still "Has it" and his legend exists for a reason. Where as in Yoda, no one knew shit about him, or that his "defect" was what made him who he was. Its all similar, but can you see the difference?

[@christopherparry7389]

yeah but ideas are very rarely original they are always inspired by something

[@abterran]

The shark from Jaws. He was built up all movie between POV shots, that incredible score, the carnage, and then FINALLY we get the "you're gonna need a bigger boat" scene. Awesome

[@pimvandergeer7179]

I still think the original introduction of Han Solo is among the best intro's ever, all you need to know about the character in two iconic lines : "yes, i'll bet you have"(BLAST!) and "sorry about the mess" (flips coin to bartender) Absolute gold.

[@ml5955]

💯 I was about to say the same thing 👍

[@jlinkous05]

Well, his intro was talking to Luke and Obi-Wan and commissioning his ship, and then telling Greedo he he'll have the money

[@darkseid_of_luna]

"detective.... detective..... dETECTIIIIIVE!!!" I just can't get over it.

[@ujjwalmishra8962]

When he entered the movie u knew u were watching a classic

[@louise19808]

This movie scarred me for life but I'm also hooked for life

[@tombrennan7333]

An 'Every Frame a Painting' video and a Cinefix top ten in the same day??? Best monday ever

[@shadowwolf6689]

same. love these guys.

[@kingofwakanda6899]

Yeah me too. Glad to see we watch the same channels!

[@TravisOrozco]

I was just thinking that as well! Also a cinematography database video if you watch that channel as well.

[@dbzrulz100]

Same af

[@tombrennan7333]

Yeah I do agree when he asked do a piece of marvel music I immediately hummed the avenger's theme

[@juanc.chavez5803]

Good list, but.... Vito Corleone - The Godfather Hans Landa - Inglorious Basterds

[@josephgoggin5632]

These 2 were the very first that came to mind for me

[@j1zzay]

I couldnt have said it any better :)

[@rogerstone9173]

Keyser Soze

[@sangeovr]

Apocalypse now too

[@ciaranconlon84]

Hans Landa? Ooh, that's a bingo!

[@carag2567]

Truthfully, I thought #1 - especially given the description of the category - was going to be the Great and Powerful Oz. For the entire movie, he's just an idea of a character based on what others think and say and have heard about him. During the reveal, almost at the end of the film, he defies every expectation of what and who the audience (and the other characters) is/are meant to believe about him. He even admits this himself. The film is eponymously titled for him and yet, he essentially plays the smallest role in terms of advancing the plot even though his presence is mentioned throughout the whole film. I truly thought that would be the #1 spot.

[@protorhinocerator142]

You're right. This should have been #1, for both reveals. 1. When the heroes first meet Oz the Great and Powerful, with all the thunder and fire. Such an intimidating presence! I can only imagine how mind-blowing that must have been in 1939. 2. When they meet the man behind the image and actually get what they need.

[@davidanderson2357]

@@protorhinocerator142Your comment should have received a LOT more attention.

[@thegiraffe0067]

I was just really hoping to see "I'm afraid I've been a terrible host old sport, you see... I'm gatsby" such an amazing entrance

[@JazzyMe89]

Thegiraffe00 Yes and that grin on DiCaprio's face that's like "yes, it's me and you're welcome." I love that scene!!

[@mrspotato5858]

Same I thought they would put that in

[@lisakate853]

they're only choosing introductions from movies that were actually good.

[@Ashley-em7eb]

Thegiraffe00 omg sane

[@half-lifescientist1991]

Thegiraffe00 His introduction was flashy, but that's it. His introduction in the book fit the character better.

[@cherylalikhani5957]

I'm happy Gene Wilder was #1, his intro was his brain child. He refused to act the character unless they added that intro scene. He wanted to keep everyone from knowing if his character was lying or telling the truth. He was right. 😊

[@Dubfansince]

I love the cane they used. It was so flexible that it was almost useless. Funny.

[@sumin95]

I miss that man!

[@kelst75]

The genius of Wilder. Never quite sure if Wonka was an arsehole or not. He wasn't a nice person but you liked him anyway

[@Jimmersaunt]

I didn’t know it was his brainchild-it was brilliant! I first saw this as a child and I never forgot it. I do miss Gene Wilder.

[@gemsandlasers269]

Yeah, but Roald Dahl hated his potrayal, so in my opinion he shouldn't be on this list. If you act the role so badly that the author of the book disowns the film, then you've done something very wrong.

[@drunkindonuts13]

Every character introduction from Ocean's Eleven (2001) was pretty awesome. Also love the beginning of The Blues Brothers and the reveal of Jake once he's out of jail.

[@thecreamyone3606]

I love how with each number a catergory was given along with the honorable mentions for it. Smart

[@Pieceoreece]

Every frame a painting uploading 2 videos now THIS? KZbin truly is a great place.

[@IgorToffoli]

Exactly!

[@Sunomis]

Yeah, it was a good evening overall.

[@kingofwakanda6899]

Yup a good day for cinephiles!

[@mycalamarewok]

you get my like just for being subscribed to every frame a painting :)

[@Advent3546]

What a good day to be a fan of film analysis.

[@thegirlinthefireplace10]

Gatsby in the Great Gatsby would have been perfect for #2 "oh, you must know Gatsby!" Is said so many times before he's revealed.

[@MarcelLWalker]

Great suggestion!!

[@jadahwise]

That's what I expected to be here!

[@luist49]

Voldemort also fits in at #2

[@joelm6632]

Not been any good Great Gatsby movies though

[@joytempeste296]

I agree. I was expecting to see it in this list or at least an honorable mention.

[@classicalhero7]

I would say that the introduction of Sylvia Trench is just as iconic as James Bond's. The build up to the reveal of Kyser Soze is fantastic.

[@afrosoulstylist]

Léon: The Professional... I have never seen it done better.

[@andid]

Totally missed my favorite introduction, the musical introduction, and its winner, Tim Curry in Rocky Horror. Forgiven given the Wilder.

[@SteampunkCentral]

Maybe that will be number one once Tim Curry passes away.

[@nedflanders5442]

yes

[@Sunomis]

Yup, I too thought we'd see it. I was almost shivering with anticipation.

[@Shipperscum]

On the subject of Tim Curry his introduction at the beginning of IT is also a classic character introduction. The entire conversation Pennywise has with Georgie, the fact that its a perfectly made up and clean clown popping out of the sewer, his fast talkin car salesmen voice and his consistent eerie smile tell us everything we need to know about how fucking scary and evil this clown is.

[@ajdc88]

i love the erratic zoom, very jarring, great scene

[@roonion1279]

I was expecting Joker from Dark knight... well at least he was mentioned.

[@arthas640]

Thate honestly top 3 for me

[@pudder68]

@@arthas640 The Dark Knight and Inglorious Bastards are 2 of my all time opening scenes in movies.. I dare anybody to find better ..

[@uncomfortablecat]

@@pudder68 I mean, they dared and found.

[@ilikedolphins3059]

Yeah me too

[@xxraddude3621]

eating sugar no papa well if a movie is the 3rd best movie of all time (according to IMDb), you kind of have to take it seriously

[@pixiebells]

I know it's not a cinematic masterpiece, but the intro of Miranda Priestly in The Devil Wears Prada feels like it should be an honorable mention somewhere here. The titular Prada bag swinging carelessly at her side that costs more than your rent. The frenzy of her coworkers aka her underlings anticipating/dreading her early, unexpected arrivial. The way everyone in the lobby meekly kowtows to her and graciously accommodates her every move; even ensuring she has an entire elevator to herself. The sheer panic that runs through the office, punctured by Stanly Tucci's warning shot to "gird your loins!" -- a line that apparently took a dozen takes to get the inflection just right. Not to mention Meryl Streep took many cues from Clint Eastwood, namely to never raise her voice yet rule every room she walks into.

[@dupalcojoseluisv.1687]

"He's a man of focus, commitment and sheer will." ~ Vigo, John Wick Greatest character introduction ever!

[@MsJuliab14]

As ridiculous as it is, Mr. Chow in The Hangover would be a great addition to this list.

[@slimtinggs6600]

dead

[@mnljh711986]

When Frodo noticed a strange-looking weather-beaten man sitting in the shadows near the wall, he was also listening intently to the hobbit-talk. He had a tall tankard in front of him, and was smoking a long-stemmed pipe curiously carved. His legs were stretched out before him, showing high boots of supple leather that fitted him well, but had seen much wear and were now caked with mud. A travel-stained cloak of heavy dark-green cloth was drawn close about him, and in spite of the heat of the room he wore a hood that overshadowed his face; but the gleam of his eyes could be seen as he watched the hobbits. He appears then after Frodo falls, yanks him by his jacket into the stairwell "while he whispers menacingly "you draw far too much attention to yourself Mr. Underhill" I just love that scene. Aragorn's first appearance in The LOTR.

[@Ana-sj5xx]

I WAS LOOKING FOR THIS COMMENT

[@carolelaforge5318]

You are so right. I kept expecting to see Viggo M's intro as Strider on the list, huge overlook of a great intro.

[@MystiDawn]

YES!!!!!!!

[@LittleSteamMrs]

and thank the Lord Viggo took that role

[@lieslmichelle4136]

thank you...now im back with the books.

[@aarontroy3]

I love Grace Kelly's Intro in Rear Window but Rita Hayworth's hair flip in Gilda should have been the pick in my opinion.

[@anne-elizabethmcgeary1023]

Gilda, definitely!

[@hamzaazhar4531]

Agreed

[@88wildcat]

I would make an argument that the greatest introduction of a female character in a movie is the Statue of Liberty in Planet of the Apes.

[@shirmanturley3911]

Totally!

[@protorhinocerator142]

Gene Wilder in Willy Wonka was a personal favorite. He insisted on that entrance because once you see that you can never completely trust him again. It sets up the rest of the movie. On that same note, I'd like to include Peter Pan in the movie Hook. We saw Robin Williams create the character of Peter Banning, a nerdy office worker with no time for his kids, and we knew he was really Peter Pan, but we didn't really see him. There was a seismic buildup of tension as the stakes got higher, and we felt his frustration at not being able to save his children. Where was Pan? The first moment was a real grabber - Pan's happy thought. And then there was the moment he arrived on the scene by cutting a Pan-shaped hole in the sail and then floating through it.

[@Parntwingen]

The T- Rex from Jurassic Park should be in this list. She is mysteriously hinted at by John Hammond saying " We clocked the T-Rex at 30 miles per hour. The leadup is masterfully suspenseful with the goat appearing and the guests growing bored of the wait , the storm approaches then the power goes out paired with the screech of loose electrical fence posts and a claw on the wires to test if the power to the fence is still on. Then the Trex bulldozes its way out, showing a fence was not powerful enough to contain her.

[@Meowmento]

God damn right

[@paulallen2474]

Harry Lime in The Third Man is the coolest and greatest character introduction of all time. The character of Lime was so hyped up and having Orson Welles show up was so great.

[@senpaizac4687]

Hey, Paul!

[@ashleightompkins3200]

I'm gonna say this and I'm going to get an axe in the head for it but I don't understand the hype behind the Third Man.

[@kumarsen88]

Gene Wilder was an underrated genius, period. And so is Mel Brookes.

[@user-jv3om4vd3q]

Yes. It occurred to me on watching it in your list that the children were dissppointed to see WW limping... did they feel poorly for him ? Did they think he wouldn't be as much fun ? Were I wheelchair-bound I'd know well the reactions of other folks. "Ablist" is a real thing. But I think in this film it is as Wilder said - so you'd never know whether he was being honest. Had WW continued to limp, but showed what he could do and changed people's thoughts about a mobility- challenged person, might have been better but not made Wilder's point. Just saying - walk a mile in someone else's shoes, especially if they can't walk. Take nothing for granted. Mind your assumptions...

[@propagandix]

Dr. Franknfurter from Rocky Horror Pucture Show was a great entrance.

[@gutz1981]

6:47 "This is the part I really like, this is when she does that shit with her hair."

[@Zurita404]

That's you Red?

[@general_iroh_]

Yeah, I know, I've seen it three times this month.

[@mohamedumar3082]

the scene that followed fucked me up pretty good....not as much as Andy was but pretty close.....pretty close indeed.

[@brayanargandonaflorentino548]

I just got a boner for it

[@carlosvazquez7173]

rita the hottest redhead ever

[@rubyfirefly2582]

Also bravo for your #1 pick. I've always thought that Gene Wilder's entrance as Willy Wonka has been unmatched in cinema. How he not only starts by breaking expectations in walking out disabled, but breaks them again in showing that he's not. He shows us immediately that he's a prankster. He's putting everyone on from minute one and loving every second of it.

[@heathergaston436]

There is only one Willy Wonka, and it is and always will be Gene Wilder. End of.

[@waynechapman9823]

I love the shocked reactions of those who gaze upon Buddy Love before he's finally revealed in "The Nutty Professor" (1963).

[@montypeno1495]

I've always liked the introduction of Lando Calrissian in Empire Strikes Back. Not knowing if he is friend or foe is in that category of introduction as Sharif Ali in Lawrence of Arabia. Maybe not on that level but still massively enjoyable.

[@MMM-rt8xo]

Another great entrance is the slow moving camera on the sky of london as an oveture is playing where suddenly perched on a cloud Mary Poppins is doing her make up like its nothing.

[@511dydy]

Kurosawa's characters never seized to amaze me.

[@Stark-Raving]

ceased?

[@511dydy]

+Alex Stark thats what I meant, thank you... Lol

[@Stark-Raving]

Ariaditya Pramestu No problem haha

[@parhamtabatabaee1417]

Kurosawa's characters are life, and history, and cinema.

[@hendrsb33]

In some weird way, Ariaditya, your erroneous phrasing still works for me...

[@mintonmedia]

Thanks for including so many films to which Millennial and Gen-Z viewers may not have previously introduced. So many of these "10 Best" lists include only the films which are part of the current zeitgeist. By acknowledging such pics (and picks) as Stagecoach, M, The Third Man, Cool Hand Luke, Lolita, even Yojimbo and 7 Samurai, classically aged (or aging) treasures of the big screen, you are doing an immeasurable service to cinema culture. Among the many who profess to know film, you actually seem to do just that...KNOW, not profess to know.

[@CMC050]

Agreed. 6:35 The Ringo Kid entrance is the best of all time imo. One of the first truly badass introductions. Someone please use that gun flip again!

[@trickytreyperfected1482]

I really like how they talked about the difference in genders and how they're often portrayed in movies. It irks me sometimes and I'm glad to hear a great channel talk about it. We just need more reveals like Rocky Horror from _Rocky Horror Picture Show._

[@quirkasaurussaurus2896]

really? i took issue at the characterization and found it ill-mannered projection. i've watched all of those movies and never thought that a woman was something to be owned or possessed. i always thought to myself, that those beautiful woman, like in Rear Window, (not Lolita, for pete's sake...) were someone to whom to prove yourself worthy of their love and adoration.

[@trickytreyperfected1482]

@@quirkasaurussaurus2896 totally fair and valid opinion! Been 3 years since I watched the video and made the comment, so my opinion may have changed over time. Or it may not have. Would have to rewatch to get full context.

[@quirkasaurussaurus2896]

@@trickytreyperfected1482 Indeed. My reaction was to his introduction of this topic near the beginning. I think Sean Connery as James Bond was on the screen. Of course, rethinking it a bit, it would be naive of me to categorically say that Hollywood _never_ presented women in terms of chattel, think "The Quiet Man", but, in my family, women were loved, not owned.

[@trickytreyperfected1482]

@@quirkasaurussaurus2896 Same here. I'm glad my family (at least the parts I knew/know: parents, grandparents, aunts/uncles) was also a family built around love, not ownership. And I intend to continue that trend... as soon as I find a significant other to love which may take years at this point. Sad but true. For all I know, I may not even get married because it has that sort of undertone of ownership (even down to the usual wording of the vow: "I now pronounce you man and wife" as opposed to "husband and wife", though I'm sure plenty of people change it to be the latter), but that probably has more to do with me not being religious and me growing up being shunned by the church than the undertones of ownership. Honestly, I am sure that decision will come in time when I find someone to settle down with and see what his opinions on the matter are. There's certainly something nice about celebrating the bond between the two people and having the symbolic bringing together of two families... but who says you need a wedding to do that. And at this point I've derailed the conversation lol. Sorry... I tend to do that a lot. ADHD and all.

[@ColtraneAndRain]

I know it wasn't really an intro, but the scene in The Exorcist with Father Merrin under the street lamp was pretty iconic.

[@Studio44B]

True, it wasn't his intro, but you are 100% right: Merrin in that beam of street lamp is one of the most perfect movie images ever.

[@riparianlife97701]

Here's something you never noticed about the Willy Wonka entrance: One single paver in the courtyard was pulled out, and replaced with a similar color sand. Wilder sticks the cane into the sand without looking, the lets go. The Foley artist made the cane make the same exact sound when it was pushed into the sand as when it tapped against the pavers. Maybe a Foley award is in order...

[@zeroforkgiven]

Lets also note that Wilder hit that mark perfectly. Not sure which take that was, but it was his idea for his intro to be against expectations...and none of the child actors knew it beforehand.

[@heyitscomplex]

Derek’s introduction in Step Brothers number one. He literally saves the scene with his solo.

[@darkwing_don2391]

This got me thinking about V for Vendetta, and how many of these styles overlap in the dual character intro of V and Evey.

[@LordBaktor]

For the "long awaited reveal" I would have at least mentioned the Xenomorph from Alien.

[@rattis]

Or either the T-rex or the Raptors from Jurassic Park. Or hell, even the Dilophosaurus. Spielberg was on a roll when it came to introducing the monsters in that movie.

[@sparroni]

Lord Baktor Prior to the special editions, I'd include Jabba the Hutt on this list: you hear about him in A New Hope & The Empire Strikes Back, but you have to wait until Return of the Jedi before you saw him. I'd also include Keyser Söze on this list: you hear stories about him all through The Usual Suspects. The entire film is about his identity & the question of who is the man behind the myth. The twist ending even clouds his real identity until the very end; despite having a face to put to the name, the film never really answers the question: "Who's Keyser Söze?"

[@gregawallace]

Long awaited reveals has to go to marlon brando colonel kurtz from apocalypse now he's so built up and not at all what you expect he comes in at the end of the movie and steals the show the horror the horror

[@lazy_gamer_dad]

Great point. The creature intro is worthy of noting.

[@jacobharris4838]

I would add Kurtz in Apocalypse Now. The whole film you're eagerly awaiting his appearance, and then it gets there and it's even better than you hoped.

[@jacobharris4838]

Oh I just saw the mention

[@theartofstealth228]

Exactly what I was thinking too. I mean, its literally like 2.5 hours of not knowing who this mysterious mythical guy looks like so the anticipation to see him was huge

[@ArtisticEntrepreneur]

I was writing basically the same thing, and before I submitted and I scrolled down the comments. Glad I did. I 100% agree with you, and personally I think Kurtz should have been #1.

[@ArtisticEntrepreneur]

And not just for the suspense, but also the experience once you get there (in terms of screen, dialogue and performance).

[@DH_Artist]

Ledger’s Joker not having an official spot on this list is a crime. That’s probably the coolest introduction of a character I’ve seen

[@brickellrich1]

Amen! As well as Hannibal Lecter in The Silence of the Lambs. The omission of those two is a total head scratcher. It’s almost as though the narrator tries so hard to think outside the box and be different that he omits material that is genuinely brilliant and timeless despite its pop culture appeal. A famous and mainstream movie or character can absolutely be the very best too, not just lesser known and older material.

[@leslauner5062]

I'd like to give an honorable mention to Khan Noonien Singh(Ricardo Montalban) in "Star Trek II The Wrath of Khan"(1982). Everything about that scene is tense and foreboding. He slowly unwraps himself from his outerwear, takes off one of his gloves, peels off the bottom half of his facemask and slowly takes his helmet off to James Horner's sinister music. Then he subtly glares with his eyes and Checkov(Walter Koenig) whispers "Khan...." His eyes subtly flash open wider at that....WOW!

[@SAndSPictures]

I feel like Gene Wilder's Willy Wonka introduction wouldn't be #1 if this video was made before his death.

[@danieleltringham3859]

Yeah, but it was made after and its a good entrance.

[@MuscarV2]

For me it would. I have always thought of that introduction as something completely on it's own. He creates such tension, and even after him doing the roll and showing everyone it was just an act, the tension stays there with his character all throughout the movie.

[@Stark-Raving]

I feel like this list wouldn't exist without Gene Wilders passing

[@milododd]

1. The edit here started too late and didn't show the anticipation before the door opens. and 2. It doesn't do it justice anyway to show it without the first 30-odd minutes of the film preparing us for his introduction. Easily a #1

[@daffyduck5376]

Gene Wilder only accepted the role of Willy Wonka under one condition: this EXACT character entrance would be used in the film, which he created.

[@LynnHermione]

Jack Sparrow's introduction has to be the best thing I've ever seen. Missing one: Starlord from Guardians of the Galaxy. Deliciously unexpected.

[@natsune09]

2 intros that should be in it. -Frank N Furter: you just don't expect anything, and there he is like in all his shocking glory -Ogie Oglethorpe from Slap Shot. He is mentioned numerous times as this terror of the ice, you never see him and you aren't sure you will. When you finally do, he is outstanding with his large red bushy hair.

[@timz9862]

Night Crawler in the opening scene of X-Men 2. Amazing intro.

[@jahadu]

Dr.franknfurters entdance in rocky horror picture show though..

[@Serai3]

YES. THIS. One of the best entrances in cinematic history. But again, this channel is heavily bro-centered, so queer characters are anathema. I can't think of a single time one has been featured here. The focus is heavily skewed towards testosterone fests.

[@gglydie4242]

Yes! Came to the comments to say the same. Almost thought the spiel on gender was a lead in to Frankenfurter smashing the gender stereotypes.

[@ebinrock]

Forgot about that one! Meat Loaf's motorcycle intro wasn't half-bad either!

[@missyb9438]

hamnen though what🤷🏼‍♀️??

[@Chishannicon]

I was really expecting Frank to be on this list somewhere.

[@HarryBillyBobGeorge]

This channel has taught me more about beginning a film in the last half hour than 2 1/2 years of film school has. Kudos.

[@jinxghoul588]

The Bear Jew (Donnie Donowitz) intro from ‘Inglorious Basterds’ is definitely one of my favorites of all time

[@coryjeffreys5146]

You picked the right number one thats for sure, it brought a tear to my eye.

[@THE8-BITROAD]

Great list, but my favourite introduction is Agent Norman Stansfield's introduction in Leon, the professional.

[@CineFix]

Agreed. Oldman's out of his mind in that movie!

[@prkrprtn]

Hugo Stiglitz Inglorious Basterds was amazing

[@prkrprtn]

As well as "the bear Jew"

[@sidfreeland3128]

+Parker Partain well technically he's introduced before hand in the debriefing scene but yeah I'm with you on that

[@RCMartin08]

if we will be talking about Tarantino Universe, my vote will be for Reservoir Dogs opening scene for all characters, Django Unchained 's Dr. King Schultz, Bill of Kill Bill in volume 2, Hans Landa and Hugo Stiglitz of Inglorious Basterds

[@AikiNickAMV2]

As well as Hans Landa himself! Starts of with a devastating and horrific action - should have been mentioned on no.7

[@vincentadultman8527]

If you're asking me, and I know no one really is, Inglorious Basterds is peak Tarantino and probably one of the 10 best movies ever.

[@jacobautrey3050]

The real dark night joker intro when he’s introduced to the mobs of Gotham

[@Pythonfan3]

This is only the 2. video I've watched from you, but I already love your style. You really have solid knowledge, impressing insight and a non-narcissistic, pleasant way to present it all. Thank you.

[@WolfkinNorthclaw]

For me finally seeing The Predator in the original film was the big moment for me, or finally seeing Godzilla in the 1956 Americanized Godzilla King of the Monsters, or The Alien in Alien. I'm a big fan of horror and sci-fi and finally seeing the creature after a good build up is big for me. While the 1956 American version can never live up to the 1954 Japanese release, Godzilla's reveal on the island will always be my all time favourite.

[@CineFix]

Yeah monsters could've had their own category. List making is hard, you guys!

[@williamtimonen6814]

+CineFix Is that a thing in the future?

[@CineFix]

We actually did one awhile ago, you can check it out if you dig back through our playlist. But we're not shy about revisiting something if there's more to talk about, so you never know!

[@SaleemFrazer]

Ones that weren't listed here that I'd add: 1. The Cenobites in Hellraiser hospital scene 2. The alien from The Thing 3. Ryder from the The Hitcher (1986), 4. Davy Jones introduction from Pirates of the Caribbean 2 5. GORT's introduction from The Day the Earth Stood Still (2008) 6. Tristina reveal from Rec. 7. Opening sequence from Maniac (2012) 8. Jack's intro from The Invisible Man (1933) 9. The Balrog's intro from The Fellowship of the Ring 10. The Winter Soldier's debut scene from Captain America 2 11. Blackout, Demolisher, and Shockwave's intros from the Transformers franchise 12. Godzilla's tsunami arrival from the 2014 reboot 13. Sheer Khan and King Louie's intro from The 2016 reboot of The Jungle Book 14. The Enchantress transformation reveal from Suicide Squad.

[@bredmond812]

One that I would have mentioned for category #1 was Dark Helmet from Spaceballs

[@ameliapotter627]

Gatsby, Gatsby all the way: first his silhouette, then the over the shoulder shots, the close ups of his hand with the Daisy motif ring, then finally the climax when the figure turns round and zooms in on Leo's face, he then says the most simple line "I'm Gatsby" then the fireworks show up, the music starts and the slow motion raise of his cocktail glass. Absolutely perfect and timeless. ❤️

[@GordonLF]

No. Gatsby´s introduction is so overdone that becomes bad cinema. Not to mention that it does not capture F. Scott Fitzgerald´s intentions for the character (he's not a cartoon but a complex enigmatic human being).

[@GordonLF]

@@colettecavazos6543 I mostly agree with what you say. What I meant by "introduction" was not the suspense up to Gatsby´s first camera shot (which follows the book well) but the design of the film, which I think of poor taste.

[@trans8010]

@@biffbutowski2447 Because its Leo, not because its Gatsby.

[@Jimmersaunt]

Speaking as someone who first saw Willy Wonka as a child when it first came out-I’m so happy you made that introduction number one! As a child he almost seemed a little angry when he first came out-then when he does that somersault it’s such a great moment and I never forgot it! RIP Gene Wilder-you’ll always be Willy Wonka to me!

[@norahahn7109]

When Willy Wonka approached the factory gates, the children's reactions were real, not rehearsed. They were actually meeting Gene for the first time...the producer wanted their reactions to be genuine, so they weren't allowed to see him before then.

[@martythemartian99]

Brad and Janet argue while Fanknfurter slowly descends in the elevator behind them.

[@wolverinefangowings]

I'm not sure if this counts as a character intro, but the first scene with the TRex in the original Jurassic Park is simply magnificent.

[@jimalbi]

I miss Keven Spacey. What a great actor.

[@EatsToYoutube]

Robin Williams' Genie for me. All the manic energy was perfectly introduced in the song "never had a friend like me"

[@tannerdavis212]

The characters have a great introduction in "The Incredibles." It opens with casual dialogue that shows the personalities of all the characters and almost instantly makes them three-dimensional. It's also just a great movie intro.

[@jordanread5829]

And their views during those interviews are swapped when they are forced into hiding. Bob wanted to live a simple and humble life, raise a family etc. However he couldn't get over the glory days. Helen didn't want to stop being the hero, but accepted reality for what it became.

[@emresaladin2164]

In my opinion Vito Corleone in The Godfather is number 1.

[@alexchavez2550]

I wouldn't, his reveal in the film is nice but not number one, I feel like his full entrance is seen at the end of the wedding as we see him deal with a variety of situations. From clients to Family, and the suaveness he has.

[@reubidoo]

Yeah I'm surprised this wasn't even mentioned in this list?

[@KendrickHarrisKenfinity]

I have arrived! It's awesome to dive into the unforgettable entrances our unique characters have made. Stay safe and keep it up!

[@summability]

Boris the Blade AKA Boris the Bullet Dodger in 'Snatch.' His introduction is simply a sound that follows him throughout the whole film. Before we see him. Before we hear his name. Before we know anything about him. We get five tones. Those five tones become synonymous with Boris. Every time we see him thereafter or every time he's mentioned, those tones are there. It's brilliantly hilarious.

[@LazyMasquerade]

13:13 - More like Rosebud tinted nostalgia glasses ;)

[@ZaraWillEatYourSoul]

Marty Mcfly in Back to the Future was a pretty good entrance

[@CineFix]

I'd argue the opening to Back to the Future is an intro to the WHOLE movie. You get Marty, you get Doc, you get Huey Lewis, it's an awesome title sequence.

[@rhobbietuazon6938]

how about the introduction of T800 in terminator

[@Intellect_123]

predator should have been added as a honorable mention... when you first see it uncloaking with the glowing yellow eyes staring at Arnie and his troops from the trees..... absolutely mesmerizing cinema....

[@maufarrugia9166]

You should do a list about antagonist's introductions. And if i could sugest one: mozart's intruduction in Amadeus through salieri's eyes is beautiful. It defines their entire relationship without them Even interacting.

[@julieenslow5915]

You need a new list, and you get to put this video on it. Your number one - got me crying when you said your goodbye. He totally deserved that. Thank you. Subbed.

[@beandean23]

Would the T-Rex in Jurassic Park count?

[@adldesigner]

Cobbie D yes

[@Sky-en9zy]

best entrance ever, hands down

[@PhantomStella]

the TRex always counts

[@Froggie481989]

She was the best character in the movie. Damn right she counts.

[@GodofDeathZero]

no, because Rexie gets her own list

[@StuCam1966]

Definitely think the alien from Alien is a worthy Top 10 introduction.

[@danielpender599]

Was actually thinking of the queen in Aliens

[@TeganX7]

Chestburster or the fully grown adult? I'm not sure it matters, they were both amazing intros.

[@peterlavelle3261]

the #2 (long-awaited mythical reveal) should've been 'Kaiser Soze' (Spacey) from The Usual Suspects as he's walking away and his limp disappears

[@attractedtosin16]

I thought the hat tilt that introduced Rose in Titanic was a brilliant move. It synced up with the crescendo of the music so well and was just a beautiful moment.

[@shirmanturley3911]

I *think* it was inspired by Rita Hayworth's hat-tilt from "Cover Girl".

[@NekoMouser]

1. How can you be talking about Orson Welles and "rose-tinted nostalgia glasses" instead of "rosebud-tinted nostalgia glasses?" 2. Wilder pushed for that intro himself. It's not how the director intended to introduce the character. Wilder wanted the audience to basically never fully trust Wonka so he wanted the "deceptive" introduction where he appears crippled, but then isn't.

[@michaeledwards6683]

Witty little bugger, ain't you?

[@entr0pix]

another reason as to why he made the character so memorable

[@Serai3]

That's a good point. It puts a seed of doubt in the audience's head, so when Wonka gets angry, you're not sure if he really is, or when he's kind, you're not sure if he's going to freak out again. It was a great instinct on Wilder's part.

[@sawdusttostardust]

This was absolute genius and why the movie, which could otherwise easily have been so saccharine, was so successful to my mind. The underlying darkness that has so much truth. He brought such intelligent nuance to the movie. Also, rosebud-tinted is inspired ;-)

[@polymathematics_]

Gene Wilder thought of that entrance and only agreed to be Wonka if he could do it!

[@michellemuskeyn329]

Cool fact. Thanks for sharing 😃

[@stephenstelmak6821]

Neo from the Matrix is literally asleep. The computer is searching. Neo wakes up and takes off his headphones, ready to wake up and engage for the rest of the movie. Great intro.

[@Aramanth]

Love Tuco's entrance in The Good, The Bad and the Ugly! I would add Holly Golightly in Breakfast at Tiffany's too. 💎

[@dimariobell8499]

"... Nay, the PLEASURE of his grizzly visage" lmfao

[@GreatWonderMoose]

My favorite has got to be Dr. Frankenfurter in Rocky Horror Picture Show. It's so perfect.

[@jneal68]

I agree with Willy Wonka but you left out one of the absolute most iconic entrances!!! Frankenfurter (Tim Curry) from Rocky Horror Picture Show! Blew my mind the first time I saw it!

[@DanElgaard9]

Still blows my mind, even that I must have seen it a 100 times.

[@Azameanie]

Yes I know this is two years old. What about the shark from Jaws? Also, given the comments, what about a similar list for non- human characters?

[@alexhatheway8361]

Or the T-Rex from Jurassic Park -- or the velociraptor. No one knows how to use a monster like Spielberg.

[@SnidgetAsphodel]

Or Seabiscuit from the movie of the same name. When he comes out of the fog it hits you in the feels.

[@user-iw3zp1vh1n]

Chestburster in Alien

[@GroovingPict]

what about Frank-N-Furter?

[@hendrsb33]

How do you do, I... see you've met my... faithful handymaaaaaannnn....!

[@matbroomfield]

I so hope the remake is not garbage!

[@hendrsb33]

Are you SERIOUS?!? They're REMAKING IT??? Words fail... they can try but I doubt they're recapture the glory.

[@Werewolf914]

I love Rocky Horror so much =)

[@deliglah6827]

OMG YES

[@FeatheredCrow]

This needs a TV version just for Deaths introduction in Supernatural

[@climbinguphill]

THIS

[@madiantin]

I was thinking the exact same thing! I fell in love with Death simply because of that awesome introduction. And also the pizza, natch.

[@gpjk4172]

The introduction of Jack in the Lost pilot is pretty great.

[@ItsMe-or5tx]

Castiel had a pretty great introduction as well.

[@TophatTalulah]

Yes! Death had the best introduction of any character on that show, and I have yet to see one as good on another show. Castiel's intro is definitely a close second.

[@theccpisaparasite8813]

Yes, David Lean's scene in LoA is just so memorable. He goes even further in that he casts the desert itself as a living breathing shimmering character. But that emergence of Sharif out of the desert especially on wide-screen in a theater, sticks with you years later. Especially when it is echoed by O'Toole later in the film.

[@robinharwood5044]

Yes, LoA is best seen on an enormous wide screen.

[@theccpisaparasite8813]

@@robinharwood5044 absolutely

[@bobnavonvictorsteyn9017]

It’s amazing how well organised this video is

[@KNakanishi]

The Godfather, yo. That intro to Marlon Brando is the definition of majesty.

[@hotradiogaga]

What about Frank N Furter?!

[@XenogearSolid]

Agreed, it's astounding.

[@yair1010]

Agree

[@michaelgask]

was thinking the same... I expected that to be one of the honourable mentions in the first category (focusing on parts of the body, etc, before you see the face)

[@VonBlade]

Definitely. Would put him instead of Spacey.

[@littlefurnace]

Exactly what i was going to put.

[@juscuzuluvme]

I am just discovering this channel and having watched just this first video, I love the way you do the things you do!! That said,Indy's into is my personal favorite along with Jack Sparrow. I was thinking the Brad Pitt's intro from Legends of the Fall would be on your list,but your list is way too good for him to have been in your top 10!

[@jimmelka8132]

I was amazed by quite a few of your picks. And Gene Wilder as #1! Absolute perfection! Thank you for bringing back so many wonderfu memories.