1. The Joker (The Dark Knight)
In one of the few instances in which a posthumous Academy Award has been given, Heath Ledger gives life to an already legendary character: the Joker. Before this film came out, when there were only rumors of Ledger reprising Batman's most famed villain, the nerd-world shouted their skepticism in a lone, proud voice. How could this pretty-boy, star of chick flicks like Ten Things I Hate About You, attempt to play the Joker? Did Christopher Nolan really believe audiences would accept this and be willing to overlook Nicholson's performance as comic history's greatest bad guy? In 2013, we can look back and laugh, because we know the answer is yes. From making pencils disappear to just wanting to watch the world burn, Ledger's Joker is the embodiment of joyous chaos and anarchy. He's the perfect foil for our caped crusader.
Why We Can't Help But Love Him: His facial tics. His delight in violence. His continually increasingly complex schemes to wreak havoc and thwart the Batman.
Honorable Mentions: Mr. Blonde. Thoughts? Leave a comment below and check out my weekly podcast for more movie-lists, The Beast Duels Radio Hour.