DISCLAIMER: There will be some spoilers, so just a head's up.
Harry Potter Films (2001-2011) Prof. Severus Snape -
The first time I saw Alan Rickman onscreen was in the first Harry Potter film. Mind you, I had read books 1-3 multiple times before I saw the trailer. The first time he walks onto the screen in his classroom, I felt the anxiety with the rest of the students. He was a formidable antagonist, regardless of the outcome of his character.
I was really impressed both with Rowling's confidence in him with the twist ending, as well as his input with the wardrobe. Alan Rickman was the reason for Snape's long sleeves. He also looked great in Neville's grandmother's clothes. That hat, man!
And of course, the finale. We could not forget the Pensive flashback. His initial falling in love with little Lily Evans, his bravery in switching sides and being Dumbledore's double agent, and (heartbreakingly) his anguish when he saw the dead corpse of his beloved. Even beneath the makeup to make him look young at the time. (was it makeup or CGI?) He made Snape lovable in the end.
Sense and Sensibility (1995) Colonel Brandon -
A hero! This movie was the reason I got hooked on the Jane Austen novels. The scene that made me love this character was the piano scene. Just the adoration Colonel Brandon showed Marianne as she played the piano and sang like an angel. You felt him fall in love with her. He was a hero, unexpected, but everyone rooted for nonetheless.
Dogma (1999) The Metatron -
Who would forget the anatomically incorrect scene, or even the "wax-on-wax-off" climax? He was just too good as "the voice of God." Yes, it was a ridiculous movie, but there was also some underlying truths as well. Who knew Alan Rickman could be funny?
Galazy Quest (1999) Alexander Dane/ Dr. Lazarus -
Oh, Alexander! Another funny character he played. I loved him and his mirroring Spock from "Star Trek." He gave depth to Dr. Lazarus, even at the end when his "fan" died in his arms. I felt his character shift right then.
Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (2007) Judge Turpin -
I loved this musical! I think it was so dark and beautiful, maybe that's what drew me in. However, I had to confess that I blocked him out, resulting in my biased perception as a flat character. I could not bare a man like him to be so creepy. Still, I loved him in this musical.
The Butler (2013) Ronald Reagan -
Who knew that Alan Rickman could play an American president? I think he made this president lovable and you understood some of his decisions as president, even though none of us agreed with them. Rickman made this character well-rounded, which in turn made Whitaker's performance unforgettable.
Alan Rickman was one of the many reasons I began reading certain books. He was a great man and a great actor. The world will be short one more talent. He will be missed. "Always."
No comments:
Post a Comment