6. Captain Jack Sparrow (Pirates of the Caribbean)
Johnny Depp reinstated his popularity with audiences the world over with his iconic portrayal of the clumsy boozer pirate badass Jack Sparrow in the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise; however, watching the films, I couldn't help but feel a little deja vu - have we not seen a similar character before? In the novel and film adaptation of The Princess Bride, Dread Pirate Roberts is one of the most feared pirates, known for his ruthless demeanour and skill at swordplay. Now, I know what you're thinking - Jack Sparrow isn't exactly ruthless, he's more of a bumbling oaf. And that's where things get interesting - Dread Pirate Roberts is just a pseudonym adopted by pirates who manage to coast by on the
reputation that their name invites. In the film version, hero Westley (Cary Elwes) disguises himself as Roberts, affording him undue respect, and similarly, much of Sparrow's regard throughout the land in the Pirates films relates to tall tales that may or may not have actually happened. Sure, an oafish pirate isn't the most original character out there as it stands, but the execution is inarguably similar. It's just fortunate for Depp that he manages to do something truly spectacular with it.