Max von Sydow
Max von Sydow, who sadly passed away in 2020, left a lasting impact on the world of science fiction and fantasy films. He was a highly respected actor with a career that spanned several decades, included some of the most iconic roles in the genre, and he is (in my opinion) one of the greatest Science Fiction and Fantasy actors of all time.
First and foremost, Max von Sydow had a commanding presence on screen. He was often cast in roles that required him to play powerful, wise, or mysterious characters, and he always delivered. Whether he was playing the wise knight, Antonius Block, in "The Seventh Seal," the enigmatic and powerful Ming the Merciless in "Flash Gordon," or the ancient and powerful Lor San Tekka in "Star Wars: The Force Awakens," von Sydow had a way of capturing the attention of the audience and holding it.
Antonius Block, Ming the Merciless and Lor San Tekka
Another reason why Max von Sydow is considered a sci-fi/fantasy icon is his versatility. He was equally adept at playing heroes and villains, and he brought depth and nuance to every role he took on. He played the villainous Blofeld in the James Bond film "Never Say Never Again," but he also played the heroic Father Merrin in "The Exorcist." He was equally comfortable in big-budget blockbusters and smaller, more intimate films.
Blofeld and Father Merrin
Max von Sydow was also known for his commitment to his craft. He took every role seriously and was always willing to go the extra mile to bring his characters to life. In "The Exorcist," for example, he learned to speak lines in Arabic so he could better portray Father Merrin's knowledge of Middle Eastern languages and culture. In "Conan the Barbarian," he spent hours in the makeup chair to transform into the aged and wise King Osric.
Finally, Max von Sydow had a lasting impact on the sci-fi/fantasy genre. He inspired generations of actors and filmmakers with his performances, and his contributions to the genre will be remembered for years to come. He paved the way for other talented actors to take on iconic roles in science fiction and fantasy films, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of filmmakers.
Below is just a sampling of his 166 roles. As you look over the list, I challenge you to think of another actor (who’s last name isn’t Lee or Cushing, ) who transcended the genres so flawlessly and gave us as many great movies.
The Seventh Seal - the Knight Antonius Block
The Greatest Story Ever Told - Jesus
The Exorcist I & II - Father Merrin
Flash Gordon - Emperor Ming
Conan the Barbarian - King Osric
Never Say Never Again - Blofeld
Dune - DOctor Kynes
Needful Things - Leland Gaunt
Judge Dredd - Judge Fargo
Minority Report - Director Lamar Burgess
Solomon Kane - Josian Kane
Wolfman - Passenger on Train
Robin Hood - SIr Walter Loxley
The Simpsons - Klaus Ziegler
Star Wars Episdoe VII - Lor San Tekka
Game of Thrones - Three Eyed Raven
