The 10 Best ‘Chosen One’ Characters in Movie History, Ranked

The ‘chosen one’ trope is a classic in storytelling, where a seemingly ordinary character is destined for extraordinary things. From epic fantasies to sci-fi adventures, these characters captivate us with their journeys, facing impossible odds to fulfill their fates.

Whether they’re wielding magic, leading rebellions, or saving entire worlds, these heroes resonate because their stories mirror our own hopes for purpose and triumph. I’ve ranked the top 10 chosen ones in movie history based on their impact, growth, and memorability.

10. Po – ‘Kung Fu Panda’ (2008-2024)

Po, a clumsy panda obsessed with kung fu, gets picked as the Dragon Warrior by a seemingly random twist of fate. He’s an unlikely hero, tasked with protecting the Valley of Peace from deadly threats like Tai Lung.

Jack Black’s voice brings humor and warmth to Po, who learns to embrace his unique strengths. His journey from noodle shop dreamer to martial arts master shows that passion and persistence can outweigh doubt and inexperience.

9. Jake Sully – ‘Avatar’ (2009)

Jake Sully, a paralyzed ex-Marine, steps into his brother’s shoes in the Avatar program on Pandora. Chosen to connect with the Na’vi, he becomes a key figure in their fight against human invaders, earning their trust through a spiritual bond.

Sam Worthington’s portrayal captures Jake’s transformation from outsider to leader. His choice to defend the Na’vi over his own kind highlights a rare twist on the chosen one, emphasizing empathy over destiny.

8. Thomas – ‘The Maze Runner’ (2014-2018)

Thomas wakes up in a mysterious Glade with no memories, surrounded by boys trapped in a deadly maze. As the last arrival, he’s revealed to be pivotal to their escape and holds a cure for a world-ravaging virus.

Dylan O’Brien brings intensity to Thomas, whose curiosity and bravery drive the group forward. His role as an underdog who unravels the maze’s secrets makes his story gripping and relatable.

7. John Connor – ‘Terminator 2: Judgment Day’ (1991)

John Connor is humanity’s hope against Skynet, a future AI bent on wiping out mankind. As a rebellious teen, he’s targeted by advanced machines, yet destined to lead the resistance in a war not yet fought.

Edward Furlong’s raw performance makes John’s struggle feel real, blending defiance with vulnerability. His bond with the reprogrammed T-800 adds heart to a high-stakes story of fate and survival.

6. Katniss Everdeen – ‘The Hunger Games’ (2012-2015)

Katniss volunteers for the brutal Hunger Games to save her sister, becoming an accidental symbol of rebellion against the oppressive Capitol. Known as the Mockingjay, she inspires a revolution despite her reluctance.

Jennifer Lawrence’s fierce portrayal shows Katniss as both vulnerable and unyielding. Her journey from survivor to leader proves that chosen ones can emerge from selfless acts, not just prophecies.

5. Paul Atreides – ‘Dune’ (2021)

Paul, heir to House Atreides, arrives on the desert planet Arrakis, where he’s hailed as the prophesied Lisan al Gaib by the Fremen. His destiny involves leading a revolution and shaping the galaxy’s future.

Timothée Chalamet’s nuanced performance captures Paul’s internal conflict between duty and fear of his path. His story blends political intrigue with mysticism, making him a complex chosen one.

4. Harry Potter – ‘Harry Potter’ series (2001-2011)

Harry discovers he’s a wizard destined to defeat the dark lord Voldemort, marked by a prophecy and a lightning-shaped scar. His journey through Hogwarts is filled with trials that test his courage and loyalty.

Daniel Radcliffe grows alongside Harry, bringing depth to a boy burdened by fate yet grounded by friendship. His saga resonates for its blend of magic, growth, and the fight against evil.

3. Frodo Baggins – ‘The Lord of the Rings’ trilogy (2001-2003)

Frodo, a humble hobbit, inherits the One Ring, tasked with destroying it in Mordor to stop the dark lord Sauron. His selflessness and resilience make him an unlikely but perfect choice for the mission.

Elijah Wood’s heartfelt performance shows Frodo’s struggle against the ring’s corrupting power. His quiet strength and sacrifice elevate him as a timeless hero in an epic tale.

2. Anakin Skywalker – ‘Star Wars’ prequel trilogy (1999-2005)

Anakin, a gifted young slave on Tatooine, is identified as the Chosen One destined to bring balance to the Force. His journey from prodigy to Jedi Knight and eventual fall to Darth Vader is a tragic saga of power and temptation.

Hayden Christensen’s portrayal captures Anakin’s passion and inner turmoil, making his transformation both heartbreaking and compelling. His story as a flawed hero who shapes the galaxy’s fate stands out for its emotional depth and epic scope.

1. Neo – ‘The Matrix’ (1999-2021)

Neo, a hacker, learns he’s the prophesied One meant to overthrow the AI-controlled Matrix and free humanity. His journey from skeptic to savior is marked by mind-bending revelations and epic battles.

Keanu Reeves embodies Neo’s quiet intensity, making his awakening as a hero iconic. His ability to break the cycle of control cements him as the ultimate chosen one, blending philosophy with action.

Which chosen one inspires you most, or did I overlook a legendary hero? Drop your thoughts in the comments!