Alan Rickman: 1946 – 2016

[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he entertainment industry has seen yet another tragic loss, with the passing of actor, Alan Rickman. Most people would agree with me when I say that Alan Rickman was one of the finest talents to have graced British cinema and theatre. Throughout his career he has captured audiences through his iconic performances in films such as Die Hard, Sense and Sensibility, Sweeney Todd and Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves.

Yet, it was his portrayal of the enigmatic potions professor, Severus Snape that spread his appeal to a new generation of fans. I am one of the many fans, who first encountered Rickman through the Harry Potter series. It’s a performance that will be treasured by any fan of the franchise, and one that convinced me that he is no doubt one of my favourite actors. To pay tribute to Alan Rickman’s remarkable cinematic works, I would like to invite you to join me as I revisit a few of my personal favourites.

Hans Gruber (Die Hard, 1989)

Alan Rickman as Hans Gruber; Bonnie Bedelia as Holly McClane
Image: 20th Century Fox

Rickman definitely caught audiences’ attention with his theatre work during the early years of his career, however he gained wider popularity after assuming the devilishly charming role of Hans Gruber in the first instalment of the Die Hard saga.  His portrayal earned him a place on AFI’s 100 years… 100 Heroes & Villains list and granted him the title of one of the best villains in cinematic history. His performance left a deep impression on audiences and Gruber was therefore considered to be John McClane’s one true nemesis.

In my opinion, Rickman’s prowling stage presence overshadows the hero of the film, John McClane. This dominance on the screen enhances Gruber’s intimidating demeanour. Hans Gruber is often held as Rickman’s most popular role and resulted in him incessantly being typecast as a villain. Despite being recognised as “the villain”, Rickman himself expressed that Gruber was a complex character, who wanted things and thereby took certain measures to get them. Even so, his highly acclaimed portrayal of Hans Gruber will always be regarded as one of Rickman’s quintessential performances.

Despite being recognised as “the villain”, Rickman himself expressed that Gruber was a complex character, who wanted things and thereby took certain measures to get them.

 

Sheriff of Nottingham (Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, 1991)

The Sheriff.
Image:

Contrasting from other adaptations of the tale, Prince John is completely omitted from the film and instead the sheriff is the main antagonist. Rickman’s version depicts a far more lecherous and ambitious dimension to the character, augmented by his repugnant behaviour, making him an incredibly dislikable villain.

What is interesting however is that Rickman initially turned down the role twice, due to his unwillingness to be categorised as “the villain” yet again. It was only when producers ensured him he would have carte blanche with his interpretation of the character, that he got on board with the production going on to win a BAFTA for Best Supporting Actor. Personally I felt that in many ways Rickman’s execution of the role saved the film, especially when compared to Kevin Costner’s flat portrayal of Robin Hood.

Metatron (Dogma, 1999)

Rickman brings a certain “British” wit to the character that makes him most enjoyable to watch, in addition the relentless sarcasm only adds to the character’s charm and hilarity.

Rickman as the Metatron.
Image: Lionsgate

I chose to include this role, because I feel that it is often overlooked. Whilst Alan Rickman was widely recognised for his prominent villainous characters, there were those rare occasions where he would dabble in comedic roles. Often, it was these roles that best showcased the dry, self-deprecating wit that many found to be his most endearing trait. Dogma, directed by Kevin Smith, was a satirist film that drew most of its humour from the hypocrisies found in religion, specifically Catholicism. In the film Rickman plays the Metatron, who is the voice of God and is sent to Earth to enlighten the film’s protagonist. Rickman brings a certain “British” wit to the character that makes him most enjoyable to watch, in addition the relentless sarcasm only adds to the character’s charm and hilarity.

Severus Snape (Harry Potter Series, 2001-2011)

Image: Warner Bros

The likability of Snape is still up for considerable debate amongst the fandom, but perhaps that is testimony to his flawed yet realistic human nature, which was so well conveyed by Rickman.

Lastly, I want to talk about the role that left a profound impression on me. Many of us grew up cowering away from the TV whenever the scowling potions master appeared. Yet, the moral ambiguity that surrounds the character eventually lead many to warm to and develop an understanding of the character. It is difficult to think of another actor who could have executed the role as well given the part is laced with such complexity.

Rickman emulated Snape’s cold and dark exterior, but also bore the concealed feelings and anguish that haunted the character. The likability of Snape is still up for considerable debate amongst the fandom, but perhaps that is testimony to his flawed yet realistic human nature, which was so well conveyed by Rickman. Rickman was J.K Rowling’s personal choice to portray the character and in fact, she enlightened him prior to completion of the books of Snape’s fate.

It was the intricate back story that drew the actor to play the character and which he used as a guide to fashion particular scenes. Guarding this secret for the span of seven films, Rickman’s last performance as the character will always be haunting for me and his portrayal will be treasured by many.

Alan Rickman has gifted cinematic audiences with a multitude of memorable characters. His ability to slip into any character with ease makes him the unique talent that he is. We raise our wands for you Alan Rickman and the ineffable legacy you’ve left behind.