ROTTEN TOMATOES: Total Recall: Best Movie Wizards Comments

Total Recall: Best Movie Wizards

by RT Staff | July 16, 2009

Summary

Class is back in session at Hogwarts, with Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince hitting screens this week. Since the academy is a place where young witches and wizards practice their craft, we at Rotten Tomatoes thought it would be a good time to count down some of the most spellbinding mystics who've ever graced the big screen. The entrants on our list of memorable movie wizards share many of the same attributes: musty spell books, magic wands, and unkempt beards, as well as prickly people skills and the ability to rouse the dead. However, they've also provided many a fantasy film with magical moments. Read on for a compendium of cinema's finest sorcerers! (And don't forget to check out all the reviews for Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince.) Back to Article

(1-150 of 150 posts) | Reply

dj Mark writes:
on Jul 16 2009 10:15 AM

So Gandalf is #1.... well DUH. But High Aldwin??? You guys were really reaching for source material eh?

(Reply to this)

Logan A. writes:
on Jul 16 2009 10:17 AM

Yeah Gandolf does work.

(Reply to this)

Alessandro T. writes:
on Jul 16 2009 10:17 AM

Gandalf is... way too epic, what about Raiden, from MK. He`s a wizard in my books.

(Reply to this)

RT-Matchity writes:
on Jul 16 2009 10:22 AM

Whatever - the High Aldwin rocks! And Raiden is the Thunder God of the MK universe.

(Reply to this)

ffamilyguy writes:
on Jul 16 2009 10:25 AM

nerds

(Reply to this)

TheArshMan writes:
on Jul 16 2009 10:41 AM

get rid of someone, and put in saruman from lotr.

(Reply to this)

Logan A. writes:
on Jul 16 2009 10:45 AM

But Saruman is a DARK wizard...sounds like another RT Total Recall should be in order..ahah

(Reply to this)

Racer Z writes:
on Jul 16 2009 10:53 AM

Where are Yoda and Obi-Wan Kenobi? Star Wars has always had more in common with Fantasy than Science Fiction and those two most definitely qualify as wizards in the traditional sense.

(Reply to this)

jacog writes:
on Jul 16 2009 11:03 AM

An gads, poor poor Willow has a seriously naff tomatometer score. It's an awesome and fun film.

But anyhoo... good list... just a bit short.

(Reply to this)

RT-Ryan writes:
on Jul 16 2009 11:16 AM

I haven't seen willow in well over a decade, if not longer, but I remember loving that movie, too. I think I even still have it on VHS somewhere back at my parents' place.

(Reply to this)

Confounded writes:
on Jul 16 2009 11:24 AM

In reply to this comment (#2527634)
You can't call Yoda or Obi-Wan "wizards" because then you'd be calling the Force "magic." And woe be the day you piss off an army of Star Wars geeks by calling it that.

How does the High Aldwin get on the list over Willow himself? He fooled the most powerful sorcerer in the world with a disappearing pig trick!

Also I'd be willing to argue for:

Ergo the Magnificent from Krull
The Childlike Empress from Neverending Story
Jareth the Goblin King from Labyrinth (duh)
Mickey from Fantasia
The Mystics from The Dark Crystal
The kid from The Wizard (Powerglove is as close to get to a magic wand in the 90s)

(Reply to this)

Kevin E. writes:
on Jul 16 2009 11:36 AM

What about, I don't know....Harry Potter?!

(Reply to this)

King Kubrick writes:
on Jul 16 2009 11:38 AM

where's the wiz? I call bull on this list. Also Merlin started it all and therefore should be numero uno

(Reply to this)

Racer Z writes:
on Jul 16 2009 11:42 AM

In reply to this comment (#2527652)
Yes, but in the traditional fantasy narrative, Yoda and Obi-Wan fill the typical wizard archetype. Structurally, Star Wars is no different from Harry Potter or LOTR. Indeed, the Force IS magic in the SW universe.

(Reply to this)

ARTaylor writes:
on Jul 16 2009 11:55 AM

In reply to this comment (#2527660)
Plus, Uncle Own does call Old Ben a "crazy old wizard," and the one guy on the Death Star, his name escapes me, does call the Force "sorcerer ways" earning him Vader's Force choke. The original trilogy does seem to indicate that the Force is magical and mystical, not just bacteria.

(Reply to this)

D Effin W writes:
on Jul 16 2009 12:13 PM

Ugh... I hate the LOTR series. And hate is a strong word. Still not strong enough to portray my feelings over that series. But its a Total Recall list. What about The Tall Man from the Phantasm series? lol

(Reply to this)

RT-Matchity writes:
on Jul 16 2009 12:29 PM

We thought about Yoda, but since he doesn't rock any kind of hat (which is part of the standard wizard uniform), he doesn't make the list.

(Reply to this)

sund7cuU writes:
on Jul 16 2009 12:30 PM

For some sweet duelling-wizard action, I recommend Boris Karloff vs Vincent Price in "The Raven" (1963).
On Youtube search for "The Raven Final Fight"
(and in case you're wondering--NO, there was no wizard duel in Poe's poem!) lol

(Reply to this)

JUDGE DREDD writes:
on Jul 16 2009 12:39 PM

In reply to this comment (#2527667)
I agree that the Jedi/Sith could be classed as Wizards, theyre basically space wizards so have been renamed accordingly. And in general there are many types of magic anyway such as illusion/alchemy/magician/spells etc. Jedi/Sith use elemental forces such as controlling the living force, a trick that only THEY can do. Some traditional wizards also control elemental forces such as Earth wind fire and air. Is this not similar the the force?

The only beef i can see with Star Wars not making the list is who out of all the Jedi/Sith would you choose to represent? Probably Yoda?

Anyways, props to who ever mentioned Willow, an awesome movie still with great fun and music score.

(Reply to this)

ColinTheCimmerian writes:
on Jul 16 2009 12:40 PM

Nice list; I would have put Merlin ahead of Dumbledore, because, let's face it, Merlin is a freakin' institution, and Dumbledore is kind of a newcomer. Plus, Merlin is super awesome. But he's in the top 3 so I'm satisfied.

I like the inclusion of Akiro from Conan too. He was annoying in Conan the Destroyer (but so were most of the characters, as well as the movie in general), but loved him in Conan the Barbarian.

I'd be up for including Obi-Wan Kenobi. Not the version of him from the prequels, but the original trilogy Obi-Wan could be classified as a wizard in my book.

Interesting that neither wizard from Ralph Bakshi's 'Wizards' made it; I thought one or the other might.

(Reply to this)

tomwaitsjr writes:
on Jul 16 2009 12:50 PM

I loved Dragonslayer as a kid.

I also loved Excalibur! It was on HBO quite often. I forget who, but a critic gave it 0 stars. Idiot.

Then I watched it again 2 years ago. Hmmm, directed by John Boorman. Notice Liam Neeson is in it. Nice. Also noticed that the movie SUCKED. Hard. One thing that stood out was whoever played Merlin couldn't act his way out of a paper bag.

Yah Merlin(or some write Merlyn) is about as good as they come, but that dude in Excalibur SUCKS giant donkey .

I also think you guys made a huge mistake in not including Merlin from THE SWORD IN THE STONE.

(Reply to this)

Adamtimtim T. writes:
on Jul 16 2009 01:12 PM

W00t go Gandalf!
Best wizard ever!

(Reply to this)

jacog writes:
on Jul 16 2009 01:25 PM

Curiously, George took the magic out of the force in the prequels and yes, made it into bacteria. I have no idea why. Surely it's enough for them to just "sense that the force is strong in this one" and don't need to do a blood test to determine that. But then this topic has been discussed to death.

(Reply to this)

Bigbrother writes:
on Jul 16 2009 01:26 PM

Jedi Knights, Knights can't be wizards ipso facto, Jedi aren't wizards. Next!!!!

(Reply to this)

Shaun822 writes:
on Jul 16 2009 01:29 PM

Obi-Wan in the original movie absolutely rocked the wizard uni. He wears a nasty old robe that almost completely covers his face with the hood up and is longer than his arms when he want it to be. Heck even in the prequels that count he had a wizard uniform on for most parts. And, episode 1 never happened.

(Reply to this)

Bigbrother writes:
on Jul 16 2009 01:30 PM

Oh and before somebody comments. CtrlAltDestroy, I'm looking at you. No, I don't know what "Ipso Facto" means, how to spell it or even how to use it properly. I've been avoiding learning what it means for most of my adult life, because I think that would make it less funny when I use it.

(Reply to this)

Racer Z writes:
on Jul 16 2009 01:34 PM

In reply to this comment (#2527683)
LOL! Fair enough. :)

(Reply to this)

Confounded writes:
on Jul 16 2009 02:01 PM

Seriously though, how do you pass up Mickey in Fantasia?

(Reply to this)

dj Mark writes:
on Jul 16 2009 02:03 PM

In reply to this comment (#2527657)
After he defeats You Know Who.. he'll make the list. :P

(Reply to this)

dj Mark writes:
on Jul 16 2009 02:07 PM

In reply to this comment (#2527683)
The Wizard of OZ certainly isn't rocking said Wizard attire.

J/K, this is a fun list/debate.

(Reply to this)

Redbeard writes:
on Jul 16 2009 02:09 PM

What is it with Americans and Star Wars, honestly. I don't believe anyone in Holland gives a sh.t about those movies. But hey, we legalised pod, why would we need star wars for dumb fun.

(Reply to this)

JamminJay87 writes:
on Jul 16 2009 02:10 PM

Yeah, Gandalf is DEFINITELY number one, but dumbledore is number two? I hop you are only referring to the character in the book and not the character in the movie. Dumbledore in the Harry Potter series is an excellent wizard.....and his character is fantastic, the actor just doesn't make the character.

(Reply to this)

Bigbrother writes:
on Jul 16 2009 02:18 PM

In reply to this comment (#2527727)
Yeah, but that's why you guys are France's welcome mat for the Germans while we, the British and The Russian's were saving the world. Ohhhhh too soon? Perhaps if the Force was a little bit stronger with you. Just kiddin, love Amsterdam and you guys and your wooden shoe's are alright.

(Reply to this)

Walken The Park writes:
on Jul 16 2009 02:20 PM

What about the blind wizard in Krull? Even though he gets rocked by the Slayers (not to be confused with death metal legend Slayer), he still despenses some useless, wizard-like jargon before his demise. No, you're right. I wouldn't even have put him on this list in place of Billy Barty. Good call!

(Reply to this)

lovinthelook411 writes:
on Jul 16 2009 02:45 PM

the lord of the rings= best trilogy ever!!!!

(Reply to this)

ledawg1138 writes:
on Jul 16 2009 02:47 PM

In reply to this comment (#2527740)
Agreed.

But the Wizard of Oz isn't a wizard.

(Reply to this)

ParanoidAndroid writes:
on Jul 16 2009 02:56 PM

YOU SHALL NOT PASS!!!

(Reply to this)

ROCK N' ROLL writes:
on Jul 16 2009 02:58 PM

I agree Dumbledore is tolally awesome and deserves to be on the lsit.

(Reply to this)

JUDGE DREDD writes:
on Jul 16 2009 03:02 PM

In reply to this comment (#2527727)
LOL, where the hell IS Holland exactly? Cant see it on my map. Kidding, I love yo hoes. (bit pricey though.)

(Reply to this)

JerryYelton writes:
on Jul 16 2009 03:02 PM

WRONG!!! No way does Gandolf beat Dumbledore!! "Albus Dumbledore is the greatest sorcerer of all time!" - Harry Potter

(Reply to this)

phinn writes:
on Jul 16 2009 03:03 PM

The top 2 choices are obvious. But after reading all 7 HP books and the 3 LOTR books and now thinking about it, I would almost put Dumbledore as number 1. I think he would have owned Gandalf the Grey, and maybe even Gandalf the White.

(Reply to this)

JUDGE DREDD writes:
on Jul 16 2009 03:06 PM

In reply to this comment (#2527740)
Kids today huh! While I love LOTR. The Death star would have blown middle earth away just for cheek of it. Shame Bilbo didnt give Han n chewie the ring to drop into Mount Doon, they would have done it in uder a parsec. And NOT taken a year or so getting there especially with the use of wizards and friendly eagles. I jest.

(Reply to this)

ledawg1138 writes:
on Jul 16 2009 03:12 PM

In reply to this comment (#2527752)
Of course you jest friend.

(Reply to this)

JUDGE DREDD writes:
on Jul 16 2009 03:15 PM

In reply to this comment (#2527749)
What bothered me about gandalf the white, is he seemed just as or even less powerful than when he was grey. Shame there wasnt much magic used by gandalf in times of crisis.

(Reply to this)

tomwaitsjr writes:
on Jul 16 2009 03:20 PM

If someone had the O.E.D. nearbye, please post the definition of wizard!

As is, the compact O.E.D. states:

wizard

%u2022 noun 1 a man who has magical powers, especially in legends and fairy tales. 2 a person who is very skilled in a particular field or activity.

%u2022 adjective Brit. informal, dated excellent.

%u2014 DERIVATIVES wizardly adjective.

%u2014 ORIGIN originally in the sense philosopher, wise man: from WISE1.

I think the most important thing is Wizard is derived from Wise/Wisdom. So, yah, gotta say Yoda is a wizard. . .

(Reply to this)

Reservoir Dog writes:
on Jul 16 2009 03:39 PM

The Wizard by Black Sabbath is an awesome song. Obvious 1 and 2 but the right ones.

(Reply to this)

Redbeard writes:
on Jul 16 2009 03:43 PM

haha, touch�.
Although I should say no-one here wears wooden shoes anymore. (Okay, I do actually own a pair, but I'm from hicksville. My backyard looks like Hobbitton :d )
Btw, kindly thank your grandfather for liberating us. My grandma really appreciated it ;)

(Reply to this)

Logan A. writes:
on Jul 16 2009 03:52 PM

Um..i thought that most Dutch people refer to their country as The Netherlands and that Holland was just a region there.

(Reply to this)

Kevin E. writes:
on Jul 16 2009 04:09 PM

In reply to this comment (#2527687)
okay, if people with elemental powers can be considered wizards then I guess many mutants from the X-men films are wizards!

(Reply to this)

Kevin E. writes:
on Jul 16 2009 04:17 PM

Gandalf wins hands down! In fact LOTR probably inspired many works of fantasy including Harry Potter! And I agree with the people that say LOTR is better than Star Wars. If you are counting the prequels then of course LOTR is better!

(Reply to this)

Bigbrother writes:
on Jul 16 2009 04:27 PM

In reply to this comment (#2527767)
Yeah, I bought a pair while I was on vacation. My nieces and nephews loved them. I'm sure my Grandpa would have enjoyed your Grandma, but they made him go to the Pacific. Having a father who fought for the other side in WWI made the government suspicious of his trustworthiness in Europe. Only in America :). The ladies at Guadal Canal and Iwo Jima weren't nearly as attractive or accomodating apparently much to MY grandma's delight.

(Reply to this)

tfortier writes:
on Jul 16 2009 05:23 PM

Nice reply Redbeard... Wish people were as civilized on other forums.

Is your name from Kurosawa's Red Beard?

(Reply to this)

JohnnyJonJon writes:
on Jul 16 2009 05:32 PM

I don't care what everyone is arguing about. I'm just happy to see Lo-Pan on the list. James Hong rocks!

(Reply to this)

Jen L. writes:
on Jul 16 2009 05:35 PM

dumbledore is better than gandalf! of course..im just prejudiced. Big Harry potter fan.
But still, I think dumbledore takes first, gandalf second.

(Reply to this)

tomwaitsjr writes:
on Jul 16 2009 05:41 PM

Red Beard, FANTASTIC.

But, then again, Mifune and Kurosawa are the best actor/director duo EVER.

(Reply to this)

celia h. writes:
on Jul 16 2009 05:44 PM

Cool lists. It's really weird to see a list about wizards and only have ONE from the Harry Potter series on the list. But that's to be expected! I agree with the whole list.

(Reply to this)

Ashron writes:
on Jul 16 2009 05:49 PM

Okay, what's going on? 54 comments and not one person calling another an idiot, or berating them for their opinion? Something must be done to stop this outbreak of civility or it may spread. Someone get the Captain of Magic in here.

(Reply to this)

Bigbrother writes:
on Jul 16 2009 05:53 PM

I can live with Gandalf over Dumbledore though I disagree with the LOTR's inspiration for Harry Potter. Gandalf inspiring Dumbledore I buy, but not the entire story. For dark wizards I think Voldemort beats Saruman and Sauron. Pts for not being just a huge disembodied eye.

(Reply to this)

Proudfoot writes:
on Jul 16 2009 05:55 PM

Ergo from Krull!! and someone mentioned Dark Crystal, I'd namely say Ochre (sp?) the old witch with the removable eye was worthy of mention.

While Gandalf is a well represented wizard, he's also fairly generic. When I started reading the list my first thought of 'cool wizard' was Ergo the Magnificent. Not the best of movies sure, but his character was worthy!

(Reply to this)

JUDGE DREDD writes:
on Jul 16 2009 05:57 PM

In reply to this comment (#2527820)
Its a kind of magic!!!!

(Reply to this)

Bigbrother writes:
on Jul 16 2009 05:57 PM

In reply to this comment (#2527820)
I tried, I insulted his entire nation and he didn't rise to the bait. OK, I wasn't really trying and clearly meant it as a joke, but most of the time that would still have illicited a violent response. He must have been cowed by my German heritage. Crazy Dutch bastard. Now you insult my people I'm German, Irish and Catholic so I've made it almost too easy. Then we can all leave satisfied.

(Reply to this)

Bigbrother writes:
on Jul 16 2009 05:59 PM

In reply to this comment (#2527829)
Ahhhh, Ramirez from the Highlander movie's. He was a court magician.

(Reply to this)

tfortier writes:
on Jul 16 2009 06:00 PM

Gandalf is actually not even human. He is one of the Maiar (Saruman, Radagast, Sauron and the Balrogs...) who came down to the world to defeate Sauron. Gandalf and the other Maiar walk Middle-Earth since thousands of years.

Middle-Earth magic is quite more subtile than Dungeons&Dragons or Harry Potter. Its more about knowledge and influence than actual "powers". Of course Gandalf can use direct magic (mostly fire) if threatened but his main effort is mostly in leading the events of the third age.

Dumbledore is quite a cool wizard too, in the books, but on a more local and temporary scale.

It remind me that old thread; Voldemort VS Sauron... who win?

Sauron is not even alive in the human sens, more like an evil spirit. No way you can do a simple killing curse on that.

Oranges and Apples if you ask me.

(Reply to this)

tfortier writes:
on Jul 16 2009 06:31 PM

What about Aku or Yubaba sister in Spirited Away? Aku is quite cool. I wonder why there is never any miyazaki movies in any RottenTomatoes articles.

(Reply to this)

ledawg1138 writes:
on Jul 16 2009 07:21 PM

In reply to this comment (#2527819)
Probably one per series.

(Reply to this)

ledawg1138 writes:
on Jul 16 2009 07:22 PM

In reply to this comment (#2527820)
Beautiful ain't it?!

(Reply to this)

Darrin C. writes:
on Jul 16 2009 07:25 PM

In reply to this comment (#2527688)
I tottaly agree, Avatar should have been on the list from Wizards.

I also would have included the wizard from Dungeons and Dragons: Wrath of the Dragon God. When she pulls out that pet and says its been in the family for years and then it gets zapped I have never laugh out loud so hard. So did the thief :).

Then there was the two wizards in Krull.

What about Doctor Strange. They just did an animated version and he kicked *** in that.

If we are gonna call Obi-wan a wizard then Yogurt qualifies from Space balls.

(Reply to this)

Darrin C. writes:
on Jul 16 2009 07:28 PM

In reply to this comment (#2527825)
I would disagree with the LOTR inspiration as well. If anything her books are very influenced by the Xanth series, with all the puns on the items and such.

(Reply to this)

ZigBallistic writes:
on Jul 16 2009 08:39 PM

Your missing a cool bumbling wizard like Orko, or the dude in Krull, or even the mage in the D&D cartoon. Also, Lo Pan should be higher than eight, the man is the most quotable out of the whole bunch.

(Reply to this)

ZigBallistic writes:
on Jul 16 2009 08:47 PM

Gandalf really didn't strike me much as a wizard, but more like a general. I went through all 3 movies thinking he would cast some fireballs or summon a bunch of griffons, or maybe conjure a cone of cold or at least blow some **** up. The most he does is beat the crap out of the Balrog and he does that better in the book than in the movie.

(Reply to this)

vincent x. writes:
on Jul 16 2009 08:59 PM

Gandalf is not a wizard

(Reply to this)

TrigunMyles writes:
on Jul 16 2009 09:13 PM

You guys are such fat neckbeards.

(Reply to this)

potter007 writes:
on Jul 16 2009 09:24 PM

How can Gandalf be no.1 ..i mean he is great but he has lost to Witch King in the extended version of LOTR and Witch King is not as powerful as Lord Voldemort.

(Reply to this)

matt d. writes:
on Jul 16 2009 10:39 PM

i dont think they based the criteria off who would win in a hypothetical wizard duel...

i pretty sure they just went for whos a better thematic character and wizard...

and gandalf is most definately numero uno and dumbledore second... everything else i dont really care...

u never really knew what gandalf could do with his powers but i kinda liked that... you would see him summon thunder to his sword and kill the balrog and that **** was sweet... oh and he has a sword! he was even a badass with out using magic...

(Reply to this)

aknddon4 writes:
on Jul 17 2009 12:34 AM

What about Howl from Howl's Moving Castle?

(Reply to this)

Redbeard writes:
on Jul 17 2009 02:16 AM

I bet you're happy your grandfather went to the pacific too, or we might not be having this pleasant conversation :)
Anyway, you won't really get me angry by insulting my country. You might get me pissed if you insult my favorite movies though (just for future reference)
And you're right Logan. We call our country 'Nederland' and Noord-Holland and Zuid-Holland are just regions. Calling The Netherlands 'Holland' is probably just an English misconception or something, or maybe an oldfashioned word. It's just that I find that 'The Netherlands' sounds a bit.. odd.
In all honesty tfortier, Redbeard was just a random name. I had to look Kurosawa up on wikipedia to see who the hell he was. But I'll adopt your idea if you don't mind. It will make me look very educated ;) and the film IS about a guy trained in a Dutch medical school. (I will have to see that film now, or I'll just lose all credibility here ;d )

Well, so far this post had nothing to do with the topic at hand, so just for the sake of it let me say: Gandalf and Dumbledore both rule!!

(Reply to this)

DarthRage writes:
on Jul 17 2009 05:33 AM

Sauron would obliterate Voldemort quite quickly.

(Reply to this)

Alex L. writes:
on Jul 17 2009 05:35 AM

I think Tim the Enchanter should be in the top 3.

(Reply to this)

The Reaper writes:
on Jul 17 2009 07:25 AM

Lo Pan:

"Shut up Mr. Burton! You are not put on this earth to 'get it'."

Awesome.

(Reply to this)

THE REAPER writes:
on Jul 17 2009 07:45 AM

I don't know his name but where the guy out of the 1986 film Warlock he kicks ***

(Reply to this)

Derbeste writes:
on Jul 17 2009 08:11 AM

For those that don't think LOTR inspired Harry Potter....

You REALLY don't see any similarities between Sauron's bond to the 1 ring and Voldomort to his horcruxes?

(Reply to this)

Janice Aries writes:
on Jul 17 2009 09:51 AM

In reply to this comment (#2527820)
lol.

(Reply to this)

vizh writes:
on Jul 17 2009 10:37 AM

Seriously, no animated characters? Even if you cut out all the witches (Maleficent, Ursula, etc.) due to gender, surely Aladdin's Jafar earns more style points than the guy from Willow. I'd also go with Mickey or Howl as well.

(Reply to this)

B. Banner writes:
on Jul 17 2009 10:46 AM

Gandalf and Dumbledore are undeniably 1 and 2, no need for a list there.

However Miracle Max is an awesome character in a great movie, but not exactly a wizard

(Reply to this)

Kevin E. writes:
on Jul 17 2009 11:02 AM

Thulsa Doom. He could turn into a snake, persuade people to obey him and worship him as a god,turn a snake into an arrow,... okay maybe not quite a wizard.

(Reply to this)

Kevin E. writes:
on Jul 17 2009 11:06 AM

I would agree that Howl is a great wizard but unfortunately he probably isn't as popular as others on the list even if he deserves to be. He does steal Batman's voice on occasion too. lol For the record I don't have a problem with Bale's Batman voice but I just don't want to hear it in other films besides the Batman ones.

(Reply to this)

Confounded writes:
on Jul 17 2009 11:41 AM

In reply to this comment (#2528127)
"WHYDOUWANTOKILLME?"

"I'm sorry, I don't undertsrtand what you're asking."

(Reply to this)

Confounded writes:
on Jul 17 2009 11:45 AM

In reply to this comment (#2527911)
If we were to use your logic, Voldemort is no where near as powerful as the Witch King because he couldn't even kill an infant.

(Reply to this)

Jon T. writes:
on Jul 17 2009 12:07 PM

Jafar

(Reply to this)

Kevin E. writes:
on Jul 17 2009 12:08 PM

In reply to this comment (#2528133)
yeah, that may be a funny spoof but of course you can understand what he is saying in the film. Sometimes when I hear Clint Eastwood he sounds similar.

(Reply to this)

Kevin E. writes:
on Jul 17 2009 12:22 PM

In reply to this comment (#2528134)
If I'm not mistaken Aragorn defeated the Witch King in Fellowship. And then the Witch King was killed by Eowyn.

(Reply to this)

Kevin E. writes:
on Jul 17 2009 12:28 PM

But any wizard that can take down Balrog deserves a lot of respect!

(Reply to this)

William M. writes:
on Jul 17 2009 12:57 PM

These lists are a hoot.

Firstly, comparisons between Voldomort and Dumbledore and Sauron and Gandalf are silly. The first two are humans. Voldemort thought he could CHEAT death, but that doesn't make him immortal or different. Just evil. Dumbledore as you all know is definitely mortal.

Gandalf is an angelic being (read your books of Enoch folks, like Tolkien and Joss Whedon obviously have) who has existed since the original creation of the Universe. He doesn't use his power to interfere in the human affairs because GOD has FORBIDDEN him to do so!!! His job is to lead and inspire. Obviously, since he saves the ENTIRE MORTAL COSMOS, I would say that he succeeds.

Voldemort would probably have joined up with Sauron (a fallen angelic being or DEMON)as one of his lesser minions. No offense intended to evil wizards.

The key to understanding angels and demons is that they have direct control on matter using their wills. Their human form is in that sense a game. Their power is largely due to their tremendous size (interesting echoes with quantum physics) which translates into enormous latent energy which they can excercise more or less (depending or their where they stand on the angelic chain of being - the great angels/demons would be closest to (though infinitely far from) God in their control of the material world.

(Reply to this)

Ashron writes:
on Jul 17 2009 01:08 PM

Whoa, William M, that's some pretty deep stuff. Of course reading this thread has reminded me of the exchange in Stand By Me.

Vern: Who do you think would win in a fight between Superman and Mighty Mouse.
Teddy: That's easy. Superman. Superman's a real person. Mighty Mouse is just a cartoon.
Vern: Yeah, I guess you're right. It would be a good fight, though.

(Reply to this)

William M. writes:
on Jul 17 2009 01:10 PM

Instead of tremendous size - I should have written "tremendous mass."

(Reply to this)

William M. writes:
on Jul 17 2009 01:12 PM

But Mighty Mouse was a talking mouse. On steroids. With a bulge.

He has got to get points for that.

(Reply to this)

Kevin E. writes:
on Jul 17 2009 01:31 PM

Superman and Goku have more in common than him and Mighty Mouse. In fact, Superman vs. Goku has been debated a lot before.

(Reply to this)

Bigbrother writes:
on Jul 17 2009 01:37 PM

In reply to this comment (#2528064)
Not really, sure they bare some resemblance in the fact that they are objects I guess, but Voldemort wasn't spending the entire Harry Potter series trying to reclaim his lost horcruxes from Harry, Dumbledore and a bunch of midgets and underwear models. By that logic The Wizard of Oz inspired The Grapes of Wrath because they both had farmers in them. Seriously I just picked the first two books that came to my mind and connected them as effectively as the relationship between Horcruxes and the one ring. OK, maybe not quite as good, but you get my point. I never got the impression that Sauron made the ring as a recepticle for his soul. Plus even if it was, Horcruxes weren't a part of the series AT ALL until the 6th book of the series. Bottom line we're talking about 2 very complex works of fiction that happen to bare a few similarities in small portions of their stories. Don't think that constitutes inspiring the whole thing.

(Reply to this)

Dave J. writes:
on Jul 17 2009 01:44 PM

A very good list , except I think they should've said wizards because they're more than one wizard in the Harry Potter movies and the Ring series.

(Reply to this)

Led_Zepp writes:
on Jul 17 2009 02:27 PM

Gandalf... Yeah!with his words of wisdom

(Reply to this)

Caleb L. writes:
on Jul 17 2009 02:29 PM

pretty decent list, I thought egg-shen would have been on here for sure though, at least they got lo-pan on here.

(Reply to this)

gm1200 writes:
on Jul 17 2009 03:12 PM

Pull Dumblewhatever the F off the list and its pretty much perfect.

Great list of movies overall (again...excepting the Pooter series)

(Reply to this)

sund7cuU writes:
on Jul 17 2009 03:28 PM

A symbolic fist-bump to everyone that mentioned Bakshi's "Wizards".

I'd also like to vote for Jimmy Page in "The Song Remains the Same", as the old hooded wizard guy on top of the mountain that swings that multicolored sword-thingy back and forth during "Dazed & Confused". That's some badass wizardry going on, people.

And yes I pretty much still live in the 70s.

(Reply to this)

Zachari L. writes:
on Jul 17 2009 04:34 PM

The Harry Potter series bears little resemblance to the Lord of the Ring series. Also, Sauron could not destroy Voldemort totally unless he would also kill Harry Potter first because of the way things are so that argument is thrown out. Anyway, pretty good list. I tend to think of Gandalf as a wise, powerful leader, not a wizard. Numbers 1 and 2 are interchangable though (unless you're a fanboy of either).

(Reply to this)

Kevin E. writes:
on Jul 17 2009 05:18 PM

Well Gandalf is one of the chief Istari or wizards of Middle Earth and only appears as an old man. And he didn't even show his true power in the films because he is forbidden to use his full strength against the Enemy. So he is even more powerful than what is shown.

(Reply to this)

Bigbrother writes:
on Jul 17 2009 05:21 PM

For all you wondering, Gandalf is a wizard. It's intrinsically what he is. Saruman and Radagast as well. It may not be a traditional fire throwing wizard as we know them, but he does perform magic and is frequently referenced as a wizard, magician and conjuror. Just because someone isn't human doesn't mean they can't be a wizard. By that definition a ton of wizards people have been suggesting would be eliminated. For me a wizard is a wise old man who uses magic or tricks as part of his repetoire. Simple, easy. What about Roger Daltry from Tommy? He was a pinball wizard.

(Reply to this)

EgoTripper77 writes:
on Jul 17 2009 09:27 PM

Tim the Enchanter just points and things blow up. How is that not top 5???? Leewwwwwk at tha bowunnnnnnnnessss!!!

(Reply to this)

Bhoopalan T. writes:
on Jul 17 2009 10:19 PM

I am sorry, but just one character from the Harry Potter series? Am I the only one to get much impressed with Rubeus Hagrid, next to Albus Dumbledore? Or he can't be considered as wizard?

(Reply to this)

FritzLang writes:
on Jul 17 2009 10:30 PM

How about best witches?

5. That crazy feral witch in Conan
4. Sigourney Weaver in Snow White
3. Wicked Witch of he West - Wizard of Oz
2. The old woman from Pumpkinhead
1. Miranda Richardson from Sleepy Hollow

(Reply to this)

vileredfalcon writes:
on Jul 18 2009 02:08 AM

About the Dumbledore versus Gandalf debate- when Gandalf dies doesn't he just come back as a more powerful version of himself?

(Reply to this)

p w. writes:
on Jul 18 2009 06:07 AM

What about Avatar from Wizards? Come on guys. What kind of research do you do?

(Reply to this)

b d. writes:
on Jul 18 2009 08:18 AM

In reply to this comment (#2527760)
In response to the statement that not enough magic was used by Gandalf in the Lord of the Rings: I am assuming you haven't read the trilogy, or anything by Tolkien for that matter. Please do, it is a wonderful experience!

Gandalf is one of the five Istari, messengers of the Valar sent to aid the people of Middle earth in the coming battle to destroy Sauron. They were under strict orders to be guides and give advice, not to use their powers to do the work of men for them. Gandalf's primary purpose is to help men to understand that united they can be strong and overcome any evil. Again: he is not there to fix everything with his powers, hence, the 'lack of magic'.

(Reply to this)

b d. writes:
on Jul 18 2009 08:21 AM

In reply to this comment (#2527825)
Saruman is a spirit, as is Sauron, who has taken the mantle of his master, who was a GOD. Voldemort is an idiot savant.

(Reply to this)

b d. writes:
on Jul 18 2009 08:26 AM

In reply to this comment (#2528412)
forgot to add, that I will admit that Sauron could take a few lessons from Voldemort regarding making more than one Horcrux. Haha.

(Reply to this)

b d. writes:
on Jul 18 2009 08:28 AM

In reply to this comment (#2528412)
forgot to add, that I will admit that Sauron could take a few lessons from Voldemort regarding making more than one Horcrux. Haha.

(Reply to this)

Vaporymuffin writes:
on Jul 18 2009 12:26 PM

Whoa! If Dumbledore is on this list then Voldemort should be on here. Voldemort is 100x better than that loser Dumbledore. I say Voldemort at #2 and Dumblebum at #3.

(Reply to this)

harshalpotter2 writes:
on Jul 18 2009 01:07 PM

In reply to this comment (#2527728)
I guess, having a beard is also a qualification required to make into this list.

Else, Harry Potter himself would have made into the list.
And no reason to believe that Snape and Voldemort shouldn't be there.

(Reply to this)

harshalpotter2 writes:
on Jul 18 2009 01:13 PM

In reply to this comment (#2528409)
The books and Gandalf are great.
But I guess this list was prepared from the movies and not from the books.

A

(Reply to this)

harshalpotter2 writes:
on Jul 18 2009 01:14 PM

In reply to this comment (#2528409)
The books and Gandalf are great.
But I guess this list was prepared from the movies and not from the books.

And in the movies Gandalf is definitely not very magical.

(Reply to this)

pmilleroly27 writes:
on Jul 18 2009 03:55 PM

Gandalf game over

(Reply to this)

Kaleban writes:
on Jul 18 2009 04:54 PM

While its not a movie, I would humbly submit Dark Schneider as the strongest of all wizards.

(Reply to this)

celia h. writes:
on Jul 18 2009 05:27 PM

Where are all the DARK WIZARDS? Only goodies are on the list.

(Reply to this)

Matthew H. writes:
on Jul 18 2009 10:17 PM

Gandalf is fair enough to have as #1, but give me a break, Dumbledore can't possibly outrank Merlin-especially considering the fact that he's the quintessential wizard-oh well, #3 is still in high standings.

(Reply to this)

J P. writes:
on Jul 18 2009 11:53 PM

You are all wrong. #1 wizard is definitely Tim for being one of the only wisely gratuitous use of power sorcerers. Most non-dark spell casters foolishly prattle on about maintaining some pointless universal balance, not my main man Tim! If you could throw magic fireballs like that, who couldn't resist doing it 24/7!

We already knew this list had a few flaws in it when they picked a decent Mako over a stellar Thulsa Doom though. In fact James Earl Jones made the best Jedi too. Also an honorable mention also needs to go out to Mok the Magic Man.

(Reply to this)

Shax B. writes:
on Jul 19 2009 07:14 AM

He might've been a complete rip-off of Cheech Wizard, but Avatar from Ralph Bakshi's 1977 film "Wizards" deserves at least an honorable mention. Sure, all he wants to do is sleep with big-tittied fairy chicks, and I can't remember if he ever does a single magic trick in the entire movie. Still, you gotta love how he completely ruins the climactic battle with Blackwolf by just pulling a pistol out from under his robes and shooting the evil bastard dead with one shot.

(Reply to this)

Art V. writes:
on Jul 19 2009 12:57 PM

Man, these guys do ALOT for boosting sales and rentals in dated films. Now I have to go get Willow and Big Trouble In Little China. Both those movies are cult classics in my book. Specially with Lo Pan. I was hysterical last time I saw that, with the "This really pisses me off to no end" line. Classic.

(Reply to this)

Mona Nessa writes:
on Jul 19 2009 01:31 PM

In reply to this comment (#2527624)
Sauramon was gay!! Snape should have been on that list.

(Reply to this)

Paints Hz Shirt Red writes:
on Jul 19 2009 02:10 PM

In reply to this comment (#2528731)
actually dumbledore is gay.

(Reply to this)

lauren r. writes:
on Jul 19 2009 02:36 PM

Lord of the rings is by far the better wizard movie but only because The Sword of Truth Novels haven't been made into movies yet.

(Reply to this)

CitizenRob writes:
on Jul 19 2009 02:51 PM

Come on, Dumbledore does more magic stuff in the current HP movie than any of those other so called "wizards" in their all their films put together. Dumbledore restores a ruined house at the start, and nukes a zillion or so charging zombies in the film as well. Gandalf's main power is hitting people and monsters with his stick. He wouldn't have lasted a second against those zombies.

(Reply to this)

Nat M. writes:
on Jul 19 2009 05:27 PM

I think we're missing an obvious top 10 choice. What about Merlin from Disney's Sword in the Stone??? I think anyone that can turn himself into a disease in order to best a dragon is easily one of the top 10 wizards in my book.

(Reply to this)

Nat M. writes:
on Jul 19 2009 05:43 PM

Gandalf is by far the number one wizard of all time. Where in the Harry Potter series does Dumbledore go one-on-one against a beast from hell and reincarnate to help SAVE THE WORLD??? Also, I would have to say having an entire race of orcs, goblins, and Uruk-hai to do your bidding would have to trump having a rabble of misfits and college drop-outs running around doing parlor tricks to scare high school kids. Ergo, Sauron would also beat Valdomort hands down.

On a side note, although i do enjoy episodes 4-6 of the star wars saga, the only thing obi-wan did in that series was a few mind tricks and then died to become, arguably, a ghost. I would have to say that if any "wizard" made it into this list from star wars it would have to be Yoda, but i would classify him as more of a paladin-like character than actual wizard. Wizards don't generally wield swords but rely on magic to protect their otherwise frail body.

(Reply to this)

A J. writes:
on Jul 19 2009 06:07 PM

I agree with the list and I also agree with ColinTheCimmerian, Old Obi-Wan could have made the list. What about Quai-Chang Cain from Kung Fu: The Legend Continues and his buddy the Ancient. Of course if there is to be a "Dark Wizards List" to be made, make sure you include Shoi Kahn from MK. OH! and of coarse the soucerer from The Temple of Doom.

(Reply to this)

Voldemort writes:
on Jul 19 2009 11:16 PM

hmm... I don't really care much who's older wizard, but nowadays the effects and make ups are awesome...Gandalf or Dumbledore are just awesome. Besides its all "MAGIC" not a science fiction type. Rule out the jedis on this one.

(Reply to this)

Paul H. writes:
on Jul 20 2009 06:47 AM

Can't believe Saruman isn't listed for a kick-off. However, I'm dumbfounded as to why no one has mentioned a single wizard from the Ray Harryhausen fantasy films! Just because the CGI has eclipsed most other forms of sfx doesn't mean the classics of yesteryear should be forgotten. So I'm more than a little disappointed not to find any of the following in reverse order of quality (my opinion of course):

3) MELANTHIUS played by Patrick Troughton - Sinbad and the Eye of the Tiger
2) PRINCE KOURA played by Tom Baker - The Golden Voyage of Sinbad
1) SOKURA plyed by Torin Thatcher - The Seventh Voyage of Sinbad

All three are worthy enough to be on the top ten list, and although I'm as big a Doctor Who fan (Baker and Troughton played the part)as dear old Ray seems to have been, Sokura takes top spot for me. While Koura got dramatically older the longer he used his homonculus to spy on our hero, Sokura was played by a little more spirit.

"In the land beyond beyond, in the land past hope and fear, I bid you genie now appear!" He presided over a host of terrifying monsters, inc. the giant Roc, the cyclops, and had his lair guarded by a living skeleton and a dragon.

Shame on you lot for not getting at least ONE of the above on the list!

(Reply to this)

Sarah J. writes:
on Jul 20 2009 09:11 AM

Thanks for the bruised tailbone --- from falling off my chair laughing. Haven't seen The Holy Grail in many years and I'd forgotten about Tim. Glad he made the list, but I'd vote for Yoda over him on technical merit.

(Reply to this)

drayve d. writes:
on Jul 20 2009 09:36 AM

I am glad Gandalf made it at the first spot.
I just love the LOTR series!!!!!!!
well also i am a big fan of the harry potter, but merlin, i think, is a step ahead of dumbledore.
They should have given him 2nd spot and dumbledore the 3rd.

(Reply to this)

goni27 writes:
on Jul 20 2009 07:14 PM

In reply to this comment (#2527634)
I agree that Yoda and Obi Wan are essential wizards in that the fit the archetype of the mythological wizard, the guide character.

(Reply to this)

goni27 writes:
on Jul 20 2009 07:15 PM

In reply to this comment (#2527634)
I agree that Yoda and Obi Wan are essential wizards in that the fit the archetype of the mythological wizard, the guide character.

(Reply to this)

Grotug writes:
on Jul 21 2009 08:42 AM

In reply to this comment (#2527752)
Except that Han would not have understood the need to destroy it and would have attempted to use it. There are few protagonists I can think of off hand that would have been quicker to use the ring than destroy it than Han Solo.

(Reply to this)

Lanca R. writes:
on Jul 21 2009 08:53 AM

That's why you make the Wookie do the heavy lifting :)

(Reply to this)

Milos R. writes:
on Jul 21 2009 01:36 PM

I think Tim The Enchanter should be #1...

(Reply to this)

Peter C. writes:
on Jul 21 2009 05:37 PM

Gandalfs powers and abilities are feeble compared to Dumbledore. Gandalf can't even dream of what Dumbledore can do. But i still love them both.

(Reply to this)

Ryan A. writes:
on Jul 21 2009 11:30 PM

A pretty good list. I don't mind Miracle Max's inclusion here, but I think he may be too high (considering his bit role and the fact that he may or may not be an *actual* wizard). Not only do I think High Aldwin belongs on this list, I'd actually notch her up a few slots. Let's not forget that after who knows how many years living as a rat, then very quickly many other animals, she became a naked old lady and almost out dueled a pretty damn wicked villain.

I'm bummed out at the use of trailers here to 'represent' the less-famous (but kick-***) wizards in some of these movies. I particularly remember some awesome scenes with Akiro that should have been represented, but also High Aldwin.

(Reply to this)

Ryan A. writes:
on Jul 21 2009 11:31 PM

In reply to this comment (#2527613)
In "A New Hope" Governor Tarkin refers to Jedi as "wizards." Yoda would have been appropriate, but I can see your point and think it a valid one. (Plus, you can almost make an entire list of "best Jedi," too.)

(Reply to this)

Ryan A. writes:
on Jul 21 2009 11:42 PM

In reply to this comment (#2527833)
Great summary, but just because he has the Ring of Fire, doesn't mean he uses "mostly fire" (in fact, I can think of more overt examples of him using lightning). The Ring of Fire doesn't actually have any elemental power -- it's a ring that inspires hope in those around him, as well in he himself. None of the Elfish rings have actual elemental powers... they all are more nuanced, as you say.

If I were to think of a reason why Dumbledore should succeed Gandalf on this list, it's because Gandalf is a Maiar. He's really closer to an angel than a wizard, in the traditional sense. The old-man wizard is just the form he took when he went into Middle-earth.

(Reply to this)

Keith H. writes:
on Jul 22 2009 07:14 AM

How can Avatar from Bakshi's 'Wizards' not be on this list?

(Reply to this)

Keith H. writes:
on Jul 22 2009 07:15 AM

How can Avatar from Bakshi's 'Wizards' not be on this list? I realize he's not Gandalf or Merlin, but to put Lo-Pan ahead of him is just not right.

(Reply to this)

Myamyone writes:
on Jul 22 2009 05:49 PM

So, just male Wizards:

1. Merlin (who needs no introduction)
2. The Great and Powerful Wizard of Oz (also no introduction)
3. Tim the Enchanter from Monty Python
4. Gandalf from LOTR
5. Willow Ulfgood from Willow
6. Akiro from Conan
7. Ulrich from DragonSlayer
8. Yen Sid from Fantasia
9. Miracle Max from Princess Bride
10. Lo-Pan from Little China

(Reply to this)

greg h. writes:
on Jul 23 2009 08:03 PM

TheArshMan
TheArshMan writes:
on Jul 16 2009 10:41 AM

get rid of someone, and put in saruman from lotr.

gandalf=god

(Reply to this)

Related Links

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

Related Articles

Most Discussed

Latest News

Latest Interviews

Latest Features

Sponsored Links