TOP 5 FICTIONAL MALE CHARACTERS On whim a long time ago I thought to create a list detailing my top choices for fictional characters in which I would looove to engage in a romantic relationship with. I didn't feel entirely good about the finished product, so I'm back with something polished and I've invited my husband to write an identical article regarding female characters. You can read his companion
Top 5 Fictional Women.
Before the list, let me do a little explaining as to why no "real" people show up in this list. Television shows (and movies) have a tall order to fill when inventing a character. That character must be created in broad, generalized strokes so that a wide viewing audience will all respond favorably to them. The character suffers because of this; they are bland and uninteresting. They aren't "real" and they cannot afford to bare personalities traits that would inflict flaws and otherwise alienate parts of the viewing audience and cause them to reject the character or series entirely. Television has gotten better here and there, but most often its one of two extremes: the character is bland so that no person can find a fault with them, or the character is burdened by gimmicks and quirks, thus forcing them equally from the realm of true human experience.
Because its taking so long to strike up a successful middle-ground with live-action television and movies, I've grown up attaching myself to characters that are intended for a niche audience and so doesn't have to work under the same pressures. That ended up being cartoons or fantastic characters in general. Because of the medium and the market, these characters had a lot more creative freedom, and their so creators chose for them to be compelling.
As to why there is no anime or manga characters although I am a big fan of the mediums... well, it just didn't turn out that way. ^^; I've had a somewhat long history of hard and fast crushes on the shows I watched as a kid, and manga is a fairly recent past-time of mine, so it couldn't compete! So many other characters were already in line, so to speak. If there's a call for it, I can see myself devising a Top 5 just for anime and manga. But that's enough introduction, now on to the list:
1
REMY LEBEAUalias, Gambit
fandom,
X-MenCharacter OverviewGambit is an enigma to his teammates and even the object of his affections, Rogue. He hails from a southern background, speaking with a thick Cajun accent. Gambit was a thief, working for the wrong crowd, but eventually joined the X-Men team and has since redeemed himself , although he continues to bare an edgier side.
My First ImpressionI was probably 11 or 12, and I was first introduced to Gambit and the X-Men by Saturday morning cartoons, by
the same name. Gambit was charismatic, and even more charming during his flirtatious encounters with Rogue, who I must admit was my first and still favorite character. I must also admit that it was likely their own struggling romance that helped Gambit reach my 1 because I really enjoyed their interaction and was always rooting for them to get together. Because of their relationship we were able to see a sincere and sometimes vulnerable Gambit.
Why Our Relationship Might WorkAssuming Rogue either didn't exist or wasn't presently involved with Gambit, he and I could have a relationship without the fear of having our necks snapped. He's playful and outgoing, but not eccentric, so I feel I could keep up with his activity level. He's attractive, in his mussed and rugged way, so I have no problem taking our relationship to a sexy level. Gambit is skilled at engaging others in conversation as well as disarming them; I see this as a good thing, because I can be uncomfortable or tense in date-like situations. I would feel secure in his company, since Gambit is more than capable to defend himself and those he cares about, not only with his mutant powers, but with the bō and martial arts.
Why Our Relationship Might Not WorkI can see so many reasons why Gambit works for me, but I have just as much trouble trying to trump up what I can do for him. Not much. I think we would have fun in a casual relationship seeing movies and making out, but if ever Gambit wanted to settle down, he would need a woman of womanly proportions. Gambit is horribly flirtatious and I would have a problem with the advances he'd put on other women. We might also fight about that dirty trench coat.
ConclusionGambit is the ideal man at a distance. If ever he wanted a serious relationship I couldn't compete, because his tastes wouldn't include me. Its best kept casual, passionate, and with little commitment. As for why he's my 1 despite my admissions, well, its done out of loyalty, since I've declare myself his fan over ten years ago. And whenever anyone asks what male character I like, his name has always popped into my mind first. Because of this, he deserves first place.
2
TOM SERVOspecies, Robot
fandom,
Mystery Science Theater 3000Character OverviewTom Servo is a bot crafted and given life by Joel Robinson, an engineer who was stranded in space aboard the Satellite of Love. Tom Servo was created along with Crow T. Robot, both of them wise-cracking companions for Joel, who was subjected to watching bad movies each week.
My First ImpressionThe first time I was asked, I was hard-pressed to pick my favorite character between Mike Nelson, Crow and Tom. Since then I've watched numerous more episodes and have gotten better acquainted with each character. Although Mike Nelson has the average-looking human-thing going for him, Tom Servo has the larger-than-life personalty that won me over in the end. He's cunning (or at least he thinks he is), is a talented tenor and isn't above wearing a dress (or a brownie uniform).
Why Our Relationship Might WorkDespite being a robot, Tom Servo has captured my heart! He's upbeat and witty; he doesn't rely on cheesy humor to entertain, which I appreciate (I like humor that emerges from conversation and observation). He isn't too timid and can be direct with his curiosity, happy to explore a wide variety of topics. He's fond of singing, and I like a man with at least one superior talent, and this is his. He can be tough and aggressive and also sensitive and willing to let his guard down and cry on your shoulder. The two of us just seem to have compatible personalities who could bond over the fun times we'd have.
Why Our Relationship Might Not WorkTom Servo has many facets, and a few of them are devious, arrogant and deceitful. Tom's personalty is so varied that it might be tiring to be with him 24/7 (not to mention all the hijinx he's bound to involve you in). He might prove a little too capricious a person. But the main thing that would make things awkward between Tom and I is Mike Nelson, who almost made it into my Top 5 himself. Tom seems like an open-minded guy, though... we might be able to work something out between the three of us. >;3
ConclusionTom Servo has far more pros than cons when it comes to judging a fantasy relationship between the two of us, and I think we'd do beautifully together. Like any relationship, no one of the two is totally perfect, and I can accept Tom's few shortcomings. Because our relationship seems the most successful if given the chance, Tom Servo gets the 2 spot.
3
RAPHAELspecies, Turtle
fandom,
Teenage Mutant Ninja TurtlesCharacter OverviewRaphael is one of four mutated turtles trained in martial arts by their mentor Splinter. He is probably the most fully-explored character, known primarily for his bad temperament. Raphael is cynical, sardonic and rebellious. He has a tense relationship with Leonardo, the leader of the brothers, and is quick to contest his authority, eager to act on his own impulses. As one of the Ninja Turtles, Raphael and the others fight petty crime, an evil organization known as the Foot, and aliens when need be.
My First ImpressionI first saw TMNT in 1990 with their
first live-action movie. Martial art masters inside rubber suits, dubbed by voice actors kicking street-thug butt... it was near the peak of my childhood. At the time, of course, I wasn't gleaning any romantic interest from the movies or subsequent cartoon series, being way too young; only since growing up I'm able to look at the characters in this particular light. However, Raphael still stuck out to me. If Leonardo was the leader, my young mind assumed he was the oldest; by that same logic, Raphael must be the second-born. Being the middle child myself, I felt a connection. Raphael also speaks with a mild Brooklyn accent -- why him and no one else I have no idea. But accents are definitely a plus.
Why Our Relationship Might WorkHonestly, I wrote how this relationship wouldn't work first because I thought it was easier -- probably a bad sign. Raphael is a piece of work for any woman to undertake; he's not "ready-to-wear" so to speak; Raphael needs a stable force in his life that won't be pushed away by his faults and can stand their ground. I'm attracted to Raphael's passion, and I feel that if he were as equally willing to climb into a relationship together, we may be able to forge through his problems and bond in the process. I would also love to hang out with the other turtles. ♥
Also, the sex might be good? hahahaWhy Our Relationship Might Not WorkRaphael obviously has anger issues beyond what I would consider reasonable; if we were going to have a relationship, I would insist on counseling. This isn't just a small bump in the road; Raphael is so burdened by his short temper and cynicism it prevents him from forming normal relationships with people and is a threat to his own safety. Over time I've been able to study my own reasons for why I am typically attracted to the withdrawn, strong and silent type. I've discovered that this is due to a sub-conscious desire to be "special" by being that one girl that that type of guy can open up to. An endeavor like that is very appealing, because the reward is so good. The ultimate ego boost! Because I know myself to do this rather often, I'd have to carefully assess my motivations before pursuing Raphael, because it would be wrong to chase after him with an insincere heart.
ConclusionRaphael's passion, dark sense of humor and restlessness attract me, but he is fraught with problems I'm not sure I could handle in the long run. However his believability as a real person breaks the boundaries between our species, allowing me to overlook the fact that he is a turtle, and I a human. ♥ Because I must ultimately admit our relationship couldn't survive the trials it would take to create a harmonious relationship, Raphael is 3.
4
ALADDINalias, Prince Ali Ababwa, Al
fandom, Disney's
AladdinCharacter OverviewAladdin is a young man living in Arabia, more precisely in the city of Agrabah. Orphaned at a young age, he lives in the streets, using cunning and thievery to survive. Although motivation for these acts was simply self-preservation, he is willing to steal and lie to meet those ends. Destiny stepped in to save him a life of strife, however, when he uncovers a magic lamp that would grant him three wishes.
My First ImpressionAs a kid, I believe Aladdin was the first Disney feature I watched in theaters. Looking back on a history of Disney films starring princesses and their cookie-cutter prince, Aladdin contrasts as the only truly attractive guy with a real personality and personal philosophy. Aladdin was the first fully-fleshed male protagonist.
Why Our Relationship Might WorkAladdin has a humble past, unlike the male characters before him who were each a Prince. This has taught Aladdin lessons about pride and that the world isn't easy and most definitely not black and white. This is what really sets Aladdin apart and dares to make him real; he has ideas, philosophy to live by and ambitions to fuel a good relationship. As a couple we would be able to live off the street and act as a family, which is something Aladdin would be content with. If either of us had an idea or an ambition or thirst for adventure, I can see us working together to obtain those things for each other. Also, he is arguably the most handsome male character in Disney. ♥
Why Our Relationship Might Not WorkAladdin suffers from insecurity and is occasionally emo. If this were a lasting personality trait, I wouldn't be able to humor him long. Not to say I would break up over it, but if his self-depreciating melancholy were incessant, it would certainly put a damper on things.
ConclusionOriginally Aladdin was 5 purely based on looks, but I had to bump him up because he presents a workable relationship for me and seems like he would translate well from Disney fairy-tale to real-life. Aladdin has personality I feel is compatible with my own and we could definitely benefit from one another, living modestly and still have fun. I'm not above breaking a few rules myself. ^_^
5
DICK GRAYSONalias, Robin
fandom,
Teen TitansCharacter OverviewRobin is the protégé of Batman, but now leads his own band of adolescent super-heroes. He is focused, serious and intent on making his name known as an independent force for justice and not just someone's sidekick. He lives in Titan Tower with his crew and they fight an array of enemies, from aliens to common thugs. Robin's acknowledged nemesis however is Slade.
My First ImpressionThe first time I experienced Batman was with the live-action series. I was old enough by then to form a crush, and I choose youthful Robin over Adam West's Batman. So I was already prepped to fangirl over Robin for his re-interpretation and stylistic-makeover for Teen Titans, both of which I approved of. As a manga reader and anime watcher, I've experienced many genres including shounen-ai (boy's-love) and have become good at picking up on the cues of the genre. I noticed these elements placed in the dialog and cinematography of Robin and Slade. Personally I enjoyed the seme/uke-ish undertones, which made me an even bigger fan of Robin. But that's an entirely different essay.
Why Our Relationship Might WorkAs I climb down from strong character cases like Gambit and Tom Servo, its inevitable that my arguments become weaker. I feel a little sheepish now trying to defend the idea of a relationship between myself and a fifteen-year-old boy. I'm not about to say that I'm perfect for him or he's perfect for me; rather, I admire Robin, find him brimming with good-looking potential, but know well enough that he's far too engrossed in his own career plans and his weakness to become obsessed with his work. As an ordinary human myself, a relationship just couldn't survive.
Why Our Relationship Might Not WorkFor many of the same reasons I explained above, our age difference sets us apart, as well as Robin's strong personality traits. He's driven, ambitious and is prone to fall to obsession. Unless you were a Titan living in the same building with him, Robin wouldn't have time to notice you. He may not have the inclination either.
ConclusionWe're just too different. I would constantly be pulling him away from his work, while he would be running out of the theater or a meal to go save the city. It isn't his fault or something that can be fixed, so its useless to criticize a plain fact. Also, as a civilian living in the city, I wouldn't exactly be content with Robin living alongside clingy Starfire at the Titan Tower.
TOP 5 HONORABLE MENTIONS Here are a few guys that I wish could be on the list, but a Top 10 was too much to tackle. They are:
Mike Nelson (MST3K),
Tommy the Green Ranger (Power Rangers),
Cho Hakkai (Saiyuki),
Jim (The Office), and
Yasu (NANA).
AND THAT CONCLUDES THE TOP 5 I hope you enjoyed the read. If you have any questions about the characters or fandoms that have appeared on the list, I invite you to ask. If this inspires you to whip up a list of your own, I'd be pleased to read it! You can even post it in a comment.