Some of the best fantasy films have not only one lovable character, but rather an entire cast. A great fantasy film will have the screen packed with different mystical and otherworldly characters, all with their own unique backstories and relations to the fantasy world in which they inhabit. Some of the very best characters from the fantasy genre are not the ones in which the film centers around, but their presence brings an added dimension of realism and immersion.

The fantasy genre defines itself through the mystical, strange, and fantastical. The genre has a wide range, from high-fantasy like The Lord of the Rings to films that take place in worlds similar to our own, like Swiss Army Man. The creation of a fantasy world is difficult; the films are often filled with an explosion of computer-generated graphics, or entirely animated, but what really pulls one into the world of fantasy is the characters. Here are a few supporting characters that we believe deserve their own films.

Samwise Gamgee - The Lord of the Rings

     New Line Cinema

Samwise Gamgee is a fan favorite, and for good reason. He played an integral role in the original The Lord of the Rings trilogy. He helps Frodo on his quest by keeping him motivated and pushing him when he needs it the most — Frodo would not have been able to complete his mission without the help of Sam. Sam is played by Sean Astin, who does an absolutely stellar job with this role. He was nominated for one Academy Award in 1995 for his short film, Kangaroo Court. We would love to see Astin play the role of Sam again in a future spinoff, as his impeccable job in the role would be a spot to fill.

Severus Snape - Harry Potter

     Warner Bros. Pictures

The performance of the late great Alan Rickman in the role of Snape is another amazing performance in the fantasy genre. Alan Rickman brought a tremendous amount of life into the character with his distinct tone and emotion. As the Harry Potter film series progressed, there was quite a bit of backstory given to the Snape character; his relationship with Harry’s Parents, the Order of the Pheonix, and the Death Eaters. A film about Snape’s early life would be very interesting, and add a lot to the already beloved character.

Mr. Tumnus - Chronicles of Narnia

     Walt Disney Pictures

Mr. Tumnus is the main male Faun that is featured in The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, who used to serve the White Witch, and is first encountered by Lucy after she came through the wardrobe. The character is portrayed by James McAvoy, who does a great job in this film and is known for his roles in Split, Glass, and Filth. Among the wide range of characters in the Narnia films, Mr. Tumnus stands out as an affable and loving character. It has been 12 years since the last Narnia movie, and a story centering around this charter would be a great addition to the universe.

Pintel and Ragetti - Pirates of the Caribbean

     Buena Vista Pictures Distribution

In the action-packed Pirates of the Caribbean series, Pintel and Ragetti are often the comic relief of any given scene. Whether it is Ragetti losing his eye in the middle of a battle, or the two capsizing their small ship while attempting to land ashore, the lovable characters always seem to be down on their luck. Lee Arenberg plays Pintel and Mackenzie Crook plays Ragetti in the films. Although their roles are minor, they are very notable and are talented actors. A spinoff movie featuring the two would be hilarious and well-worth the watch.

Darth Maul - Star Wars

     20th Century Fox

Darth Maul is one of the most memorable characters from the Star Wars saga, even though his original appearance in Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace occupied only a few minutes of screen time. This character was played by Ray Park, who did a great job of acting as the double-sided lightsaber-wielding villain. Seeing Darth Maul appear again as the main villain in a contemporary Star Wars live-action reboot would be an incredible sight to see.

Randall - Monsters Inc.

From both the original Monsters, Inc. and Monsters University, Steve Buscemi does a great job of voicing the series villain. The casting decision for this voice-acted role was amazing, as Buscemi has six Primetime Emmy Award nominations and one win. Although a movie without the presence of John Goodman as Sully and Billy Crystal as Mike might be a little lackluster, a movie that centers around Randall would be a very fun one to watch.

Rocket - Guardians of the Galaxy

     Marvel Studios

Last on our list is Rocket from Guardians of the Galaxy, who is voiced by Bradley Cooper. Rocket and his partner, Groot, were big-time fan favorites. Bradley Cooper, with nine Academy Award nominations, was a great casting for the role. A film following the energetic and trigger-happy raccoon would be a great addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe.