15. Colonel James Rhodes (Iron Man 1-3)
Colonel (Im going with his rank in the last movie) James Rhodey Rhodes is just a part of Tony Starks gang, and he brings an interesting point of view to the folda sympathetic, open-minded member of the military, where his loyalties put him in the middle between his friend and his country. The Iron Man movies could easily have become just a simple man versus government kind of story, but Rhodey, who considers his friend (and objectivity) as important as the military, changes this. He is especially notable and entertaining to watch because of the complex, intelligent conflicts that arise between his strong point of view, logic, and loyalties. He represents common sense and the Constitution in constant debate with one another, all in what are essentially three popcorn movies. It enhances them without bogging them down because of how organically its presented. Rhodey as a character no doubt contributed to the overall mega-success of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The Iron Man movies may be a lot of things, but they certainly do not patronize us, and Hollywood should take note of that, as well as who played Rhodey. Rhodeys presence creates a multitude of possibilities for a writer in each moment shared with the character.