20 Times Hollywood Stars Missed Their Chance at Iconic Roles

1. Elf 2003，IMDB Rating: 7.0，Douban Rating: 6.9，ID: tt0319343
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Elf, a film that radiates Yuletide cheer, is a delightful watch. Will Ferrell’s portrayal of Buddy, a human who believes he’s an elf, is both funny and charming, adding a unique flavor to the film. The movie’s casting, plot, and special effects all contribute to its charm, making it a standout in the realm of holiday films. An interesting tidbit about the film is that Jim Carrey was originally slated to play Buddy.
2. Breakfast at Tiffany’s 1961，IMDB Rating: 7.6，Douban Rating: 8.1，ID: tt0054698
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As a teacher and a movie lover, I find ‘Breakfast at Tiffany’s’ a captivating blend of romance and comedy. Audrey Hepburn’s portrayal of Holly Golightly is iconic and unforgettable, making it hard to imagine anyone else in the role.
3. Titanic 1997，IMDB Rating: 7.8，Douban Rating: 9.4，ID: tt0120338
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As a retired engineer who values informative and cultural movies, I found ‘Titanic’ to be a remarkable film. The meticulous attention to detail, the historical accuracy, and the emotional depth of the characters left a lasting impression on me.
4. Jerry Maguire 1996，IMDB Rating: 7.3，Douban Rating: 7.5，ID: tt0116695
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Jerry Maguire is a film that beautifully blends the worlds of sports and romance. It tells the story of a sports agent who, after a moral awakening, decides to put his clients’ interests first, leading to unexpected professional and personal changes.
5. Jurassic Park 1993，IMDB Rating: 8.1，Douban Rating: 8.2，ID: tt0107290
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Jurassic Park, a film that revolutionized the world of special effects, brings us face-to-face with dinosaurs, creatures that have been extinct for millions of years.
6. The Matrix 1999，IMDB Rating: 8.7，Douban Rating: 9.0，ID: tt0133093
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The Matrix (1999), a film that redefined the sci-fi genre, is a rollercoaster ride of action and groundbreaking special effects. Directed by the Wachowski siblings, the film features an impressive cast, including Keanu Reeves, Laurence Fishburne, and Carrie-Anne Moss. Despite its impressive visuals and high-octane action sequences, the film retreats to formula, leaving the audience wanting more from its intriguing premise.
7. Casino Royale 2006，IMDB Rating: 8.0，Douban Rating: 7.6，ID: tt0381061
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In the world of espionage and high stakes, ‘Casino Royale’ stands as a beacon of gritty realism and character depth. Daniel Craig’s portrayal of James Bond is a masterclass in character reinvention, shedding the frivolous gadgetry for a more grounded and intense 007. The film, however, does test the audience’s endurance with its lengthy runtime, a minor hiccup in an otherwise stellar cinematic experience.
8. Sex Story Fifty Shades Of Grey 2012，IMDB Rating: 5.2，Douban Rating: 5.0，ID: tt2309262
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As a retired teacher and a movie lover who enjoys classic and nostalgic films, I found ‘Sex Story: Fifty Shades of Grey’ to be a fascinating exploration of the cultural phenomenon that is ‘Fifty Shades of Grey’. The documentary provides an insightful look into the success of the novel and its impact on popular culture. While it doesn’t feature any iconic roles that were turned down by actors, it does offer a compelling narrative that keeps the viewers engaged.
9. Brokeback Mountain 2005，IMDB Rating: 7.7，Douban Rating: 8.8，ID: tt0388795
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Brokeback Mountain is a film that resonates deeply with me. Its portrayal of forbidden love is both heartbreaking and inspiring. The performances by Heath Ledger and Jake Gyllenhaal are raw and powerful, bringing to life the complex emotions of their characters. The film’s narrative is beautifully crafted, making it a cinematic masterpiece that leaves a lasting impression.
10. Legally Blonde 2001，IMDB Rating: 6.3，Douban Rating: 7.3，ID: tt0250494
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As a movie lover who appreciates realism and meaningful narratives, I found ‘Legally Blonde’ to be a delightful surprise. The film, while seemingly light-hearted and frivolous on the surface, offers a deeper commentary on stereotypes and personal determination. Reese Witherspoon’s portrayal of Elle Woods is both charming and inspiring, as she navigates the world of Harvard Law School with a unique blend of fashion knowledge and legal acumen.
11. Forrest Gump 1994，IMDB Rating: 8.8，Douban Rating: 9.5，ID: tt0109830
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Forrest Gump is a film that leaves an indelible mark on the viewer. Its blend of humor, drama, and whimsy creates a unique narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking. Tom Hanks’ portrayal of Forrest is nothing short of brilliant, bringing a depth and sincerity to the character that is truly remarkable.
12. Pretty Woman 1990，IMDB Rating: 7.0，Douban Rating: 7.9，ID: tt0100405
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Pretty Woman is a classic romantic comedy that tells a modern Cinderella story. The film stars Richard Gere and Julia Roberts, whose palpable chemistry makes their unlikely romance believable and engaging. Despite some minor flaws, such as a stretched plot and lack of character development, Pretty Woman remains a beloved classic in the romantic comedy genre. It’s a charming film that offers a delightful blend of romance, comedy, and drama, making it a must-watch for any movie lover.
13. The Silence of the Lambs 1991，IMDB Rating: 8.6，Douban Rating: 8.9，ID: tt0102926
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As a movie lover and a mother, I found “The Silence of the Lambs” to be a chilling and captivating film. The performances of Anthony Hopkins and Jodie Foster are truly remarkable, creating an atmosphere of psychological terror that keeps you on the edge of your seat. The film’s reliance on story and acting rather than blood and gore makes it a standout in the horror genre. However, due to its intense and disturbing themes, it might not be suitable for younger viewers or those with a faint heart.
14. Star Wars 1977，IMDB Rating: 8.6，Douban Rating: 8.4，ID: tt0076759
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Star Wars, released in 1977, is a film that has left an indelible mark on pop culture. Directed by George Lucas, it’s often hailed as a masterpiece that ushered in a new era of science fiction. The film’s impact is undeniable, with its influence seen in numerous aspects of media and popular culture.
15. Twilight 2008，IMDB Rating: 5.2，Douban Rating: 7.5，ID: tt1099212
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As a mother who enjoys sharing the magic of movies with her family, ‘Twilight’ presents a captivating, albeit controversial, narrative. The film’s exploration of teenage love and desire, embodied in the characters of Bella and Edward, offers a unique perspective on the complexities of adolescence. However, the obsessive nature of their relationship raises questions about the messages conveyed to younger viewers.
16. The Hunger Games 2012，IMDB Rating: 7.2，Douban Rating: 7.0，ID: tt1392170
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As a chef and a movie lover, I found ‘The Hunger Games’ to be a feast for the senses. The dystopian world, the intense survival game, and the raw emotions of the characters were all masterfully portrayed. Jennifer Lawrence, as Katniss Everdeen, delivered a performance that was both strong and convincing, making the film an effective and engaging entertainment.
17. La La Land 2016，IMDB Rating: 8.0，Douban Rating: 8.4，ID: tt3783958
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La La Land, a film that dances its way into your heart with its charming performances and mesmerizing music. The chemistry between Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone is palpable, making their love story feel real and relatable. The film beautifully explores the balance between pursuing dreams and nurturing love, a theme that resonates with many of us.
18. Back to the Future 1985，IMDB Rating: 8.5，Douban Rating: 8.7，ID: tt0088763
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Back to the Future is a timeless classic that transcends the boundaries of its era. Its inventive plot, coupled with the energetic performances of Michael J. Fox and Christopher Lloyd, makes it a cinematic gem. The film’s ability to blend comedy, drama, and science fiction into a cohesive narrative is a testament to Robert Zemeckis’ brilliant direction.
19. Ghostbusters 1984，IMDB Rating: 7.8，Douban Rating: 6.7，ID: tt0087332
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Ghostbusters is a delightful blend of comedy and special effects, making it a standout film of its time. The performances, particularly Bill Murray’s deadpan humor, add a layer of charm that is hard to resist.
20. Pulp Fiction 1994，IMDB Rating: 8.9，Douban Rating: 8.9，ID: tt0110912
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Pulp Fiction, a film that dances on the edge of comedy and violence, is a testament to Tarantino’s unique storytelling. The film’s nonlinear narrative, interweaving tales of crime and intrigue, creates a world that is both thrilling and unsettling.