Meet The Anti - Heroes

As two of cinema’s most celebrated lovable rogues are about to hit screens once more, we look at the other charmingbut-dangerous folk who tend to put their own safety before others but actually come out looking good for it.

- Luke Spafford

Before even beginning to decide who to hand out the award for best anti-hero to, it is important to decide exactly what an anti-hero is. On first glance, the above definition from the OED would seem to spell it out conclusively. Except it doesn’t. Firstly, what we think of as an anti-hero is rarely the central character; take, for example, Han Solo. Were it not for the rich mythology given to the character since Episode IV (soon to be expanded in the upcoming Solo: A Star Wars Story), Han could still be seen as a bit player in a very large ensemble cast, but by no means the central character. Secondly, what exactly are heroic attributes? Valour? Honour? Bravery? Compassion? You could argue that Han is brave and thus a true hero, but for the most part, his bravery is borne out of a succinct desire to save his own skin, which, in turn, negates any argument for honour or valour.

Looking to Our Lord Spock: “Logic clearly dictates that the needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few.” OK, so if this is the case, then the Doctor cannot be defined as a true hero, but an anti-hero. We’ve seen the Doctor lay waste to countless species to save the life of his dearly beloved companion a myriad of times (more so recently Moffat, we are looking squarely at you) and as such, can’t be called a hero, but an anti-hero. Except he isn’t; he’s a dyed in the wool full-blown hero in every sense. He has honour, bravery, kindness, and compassion. His code of conduct is one that we aspire to, never cruel, never cowardly. See, it’s complicated.

Now, take Batman. He has all the heroic attributes we expect, but on the flipside has no compunction with a little maiming here and there. But would you call him an anti-hero? Of course not, he’s the protector of Gotham City, metering out proportionate punishment to a crime-filled town that would be overrun without him.