Alan Rickman’s Career: From ‘Die Hard’ to ‘Eye in the Sky’

Alan Rickman was a celebrated English actor and director known for his distinctive voice and magnetic stage presence. He began his career in the theater, becoming a member of the prestigious Royal Shakespeare Company and earning acclaim for his roles on both the London and Broadway stages. His transition to film was nothing short of iconic, as he brought a unique blend of intelligence, wit, and complexity to every character he portrayed.

While he became famous for playing memorable villains, Rickman’s body of work was incredibly diverse, spanning across genres from romantic comedies to historical dramas and science-fiction spoofs. He possessed a rare ability to convey deep emotional depth, often with minimal dialogue, making his characters feel both larger than life and deeply human. His legacy is that of a versatile and beloved actor whose performances continue to captivate audiences around the world.

‘Die Hard’ (1988)

‘Die Hard’ is a classic action film that redefined the genre. It follows New York City police detective John McClane, who finds himself trapped in a Los Angeles skyscraper during a Christmas party that is taken over by a group of terrorists. What starts as a simple holiday visit to his estranged wife turns into a one-man war against a highly organized criminal enterprise.

Alan Rickman made his explosive film debut as Hans Gruber, the cunning and sophisticated leader of the terrorists. Gruber is no ordinary villain; he is intelligent, stylish, and ruthlessly calm under pressure. Rickman’s portrayal created one of the most iconic antagonists in cinema history, moving beyond the typical action movie bad guy to craft a character who was a genuine intellectual match for the hero.

‘The January Man’ (1989)

‘The January Man’ is a quirky crime comedy set in New York City. The story centers on an eccentric ex-cop who is brought back to the force to catch a serial killer. The film combines elements of a thriller, a comedy, and a romance as the unconventional hero uses his unique methods to solve the case.

In this film, Alan Rickman plays Ed, a painter and friend of the main character. His role is that of a supportive and slightly eccentric artist who helps the hero in his investigation. The part showcases Rickman’s ability to fit into an ensemble cast and add his distinct presence to a character, even in a smaller supporting role.

‘Quigley Down Under’ (1990)

‘Quigley Down Under’ is a Western set in the Australian outback. An American sharpshooter named Matthew Quigley is hired by a wealthy and powerful Australian rancher. Quigley believes he is being hired for his marksmanship skills for a simple job, but he soon discovers the rancher’s cruel intentions toward the local Aboriginal population.

Alan Rickman plays Elliot Marston, the villainous English rancher with a dark obsession with the American West. Marston is a cold and ruthless landowner who sees himself as the master of his domain. Rickman portrays him with a chilling arrogance and a commanding presence, creating a memorable villain for the hero to face off against in the vast Australian landscape.

‘Truly Madly Deeply’ (1991)

‘Truly, Madly, Deeply’ is a romantic drama with a fantasy twist. The film follows a woman named Nina who is struggling with overwhelming grief after the sudden death of her partner, Jamie. Her life is turned upside down when Jamie’s ghost reappears in her apartment, seemingly back from the dead.

Alan Rickman delivers a touching and heartfelt performance as Jamie. He portrays the ghost not as a spooky apparition but as the loving, and sometimes annoying, partner he was in life. Rickman’s charm and warmth in the role are central to the film’s exploration of love, loss, and the difficulty of moving on.

‘Closet Land’ (1991)

‘Closet Land’ is an intense psychological drama that takes place entirely in one room. The film features only two actors and tells the story of a children’s book author who is taken from her home and brutally interrogated by a secret government agent. The agent accuses her of hiding subversive political messages in her stories.

In this powerful two-person film, Alan Rickman plays the unnamed Interrogator. His character is menacing and manipulative, using psychological tactics to break down the author’s will. Rickman’s performance is a masterclass in controlled intensity, creating a deeply unsettling and claustrophobic atmosphere through his dialogue and presence alone.

‘Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves’ (1991)

‘Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves’ is a blockbuster action-adventure film that retells the classic English folktale. The story follows Robin of Locksley, who returns from the Crusades to find his father murdered and his lands seized by the cruel Sheriff of Nottingham. He joins a band of outlaws in Sherwood Forest to fight back against the Sheriff’s tyranny.

Alan Rickman steals every scene as the villainous Sheriff of Nottingham. He plays the character with a perfect mix of theatrical rage and dark humor, delivering some of the film’s most memorable lines. Rickman’s over-the-top, charismatic performance earned him a BAFTA Award and is often cited as the highlight of the movie.

‘Close My Eyes’ (1991)

‘Close My Eyes’ is a complex and provocative drama about a dangerously close relationship between a brother and sister. The story explores their lives over several years, from a period of youthful attraction to a full-blown affair after the sister is married. The film examines themes of love, family, and forbidden desire.

Alan Rickman plays Sinclair, the wealthy and sophisticated husband of the sister, Natalie. He is initially unaware of the secret relationship between his wife and her brother. Rickman portrays Sinclair with a quiet intelligence and a growing sense of unease, adding a layer of tragic dignity to the film’s central conflict.

‘Bob Roberts’ (1992)

‘Bob Roberts’ is a satirical film shot in the style of a documentary. It follows the political campaign of a right-wing folk singer who is running for a seat in the U.S. Senate. The movie uses comedy and music to critique the American political landscape and the media’s role within it.

In this political mockumentary, Alan Rickman plays Lukas Hart III, the chairman of Roberts’ campaign. His character is a shrewd and determined political operative working behind the scenes to ensure his candidate’s victory. Although a supporting role, Rickman adds to the film’s authentic feel with his portrayal of a savvy political insider.

‘Mesmer’ (1994)

‘Mesmer’ is a biographical drama about the life of Franz Anton Mesmer, an 18th-century German doctor. He was a controversial figure who developed a theory of “animal magnetism” and used unconventional methods, including hypnotism, to treat his patients. The film follows his rise to fame in Vienna and his eventual downfall.

Alan Rickman takes on the title role of Franz Anton Mesmer. He portrays the doctor as a brilliant but misunderstood man who genuinely believes he can heal people with his unorthodox techniques. Rickman’s performance captures the charisma and passion of Mesmer, as well as the controversy that surrounded his life and work.

‘An Awfully Big Adventure’ (1995)

‘An Awfully Big Adventure’ is a dark coming-of-age drama set in the world of a Liverpool theater company in the 1950s. The story follows a teenage girl who joins the company and becomes entangled in the complicated and often harsh realities of the adult actors’ lives, both on and off the stage.

Alan Rickman plays P. L. O’Hara, a demanding and charismatic actor who is the star of the theater company. His character has a dark secret that is slowly revealed as the story unfolds. Rickman delivers a powerful performance, showing the charm and the underlying menace of a man haunted by his past.

‘Sense and Sensibility’ (1995)

‘Sense and Sensibility’ is a beautiful adaptation of Jane Austen’s classic novel. The film tells the story of the Dashwood sisters, Elinor and Marianne, as they navigate the complexities of love, heartbreak, and societal expectations in 19th-century England. After their father’s death leaves them in a difficult financial situation, they must find security through marriage.

Alan Rickman plays Colonel Brandon, a reserved and honorable gentleman who falls in love with Marianne. Despite his wealth and status, he is a quiet and melancholic figure who carries the pain of a past love. Rickman’s portrayal is full of subtlety and grace, perfectly capturing the deep sense of loyalty and devotion that defines the character.

‘Michael Collins’ (1996)

‘Michael Collins’ is a historical biopic about the life of the Irish revolutionary leader. The film follows Collins’ journey as he helps to form and lead the Irish Republican Army in a violent struggle for independence from British rule. The story also covers the difficult political negotiations that led to the creation of the Irish Free State.

In this film, Alan Rickman portrays Éamon de Valera, a key political figure in the Irish independence movement and a rival of Michael Collins. Rickman plays him as a calculating and pragmatic politician whose vision for Ireland often clashes with Collins’ more direct methods. The performance captures the complexity of a man who was both a patriot and a shrewd political operator.

‘Judas Kiss’ (1998)

‘Judas Kiss’ is a neo-noir crime thriller with a twisting plot. The story centers on a small-time criminal crew whose plan to kidnap a computer mogul goes horribly wrong, resulting in an unexpected murder. The film follows the police investigation as two detectives try to unravel the web of deceit and betrayal.

Alan Rickman stars as Detective David Friedman, a cynical and world-weary police officer assigned to the high-profile case. Alongside his partner, he interrogates the suspects and slowly pieces together the truth behind the crime. Rickman brings a sense of gravity and intelligence to the role of the seasoned detective navigating a morally corrupt world.

‘Dark Harbor’ (1998)

‘Dark Harbor’ is a psychological thriller about a wealthy, bickering couple who are driving to their private island home for a vacation. On the way, they pick up a mysterious and handsome young man they find injured on the side of the road. They take him with them, but his presence soon creates tension and suspicion, leading to a dark and twisted series of events.

Alan Rickman plays David Weinberg, the older, intellectual husband in the troubled marriage. He is irritated by his wife’s decision to bring the stranger into their lives, and his jealousy and distrust grow as the story progresses. Rickman’s performance captures the character’s mounting paranoia and the slow unraveling of his relationship.

‘Dogma’ (1999)

‘Dogma’ is a satirical fantasy comedy that explores themes of Catholic faith and mythology. The film follows a distant relative of Jesus Christ who is tasked with stopping two fallen angels from re-entering Heaven, an act that would undo all of existence. She is aided on her quest by a variety of celestial and human characters.

Alan Rickman provides a scene-stealing performance as the Metatron, the divine voice of God. He appears as a sarcastic and world-weary angel who explains the mission to the film’s hero. Rickman’s dry wit and commanding voice were perfectly suited for the role, and he delivered a memorable and comedic performance.

‘Galaxy Quest’ (1999)

‘Galaxy Quest’ is a science-fiction comedy that lovingly spoofs series like ‘Star Trek’ and their dedicated fanbases. It tells the story of the cast of a classic sci-fi TV show who now spend their days at fan conventions. Their lives take an unexpected turn when a real alien race, who believe the show was a historical document, abducts them to help fight an intergalactic war.

Alan Rickman plays Alexander Dane, a classically trained British actor who resents being typecast for his role as the alien science officer, Dr. Lazarus. He is deeply cynical about his career but is forced to become a real hero. Rickman is hilarious as the frustrated thespian, perfectly capturing both the comedic and heartfelt moments of his character’s journey.

‘Help! I’m a Fish’ (2000)

‘Help! I’m a Fish’ is an animated adventure film for children. The story follows three kids who accidentally drink a magic potion that turns them into sea creatures. They must find the antidote within 48 hours, or they will remain fish forever. Their quest is made more difficult by a villainous pilot fish who has also taken the potion and plans to use it to rule the ocean.

In this animated feature, Alan Rickman provides the voice for the evil fish, Joe. Using the potion to gain intelligence and the ability to speak, Joe becomes a megalomaniacal leader who builds an army to take over the sea. Rickman’s distinctive voice brings a perfect blend of menace and comedy to the film’s antagonist.

‘Blow Dry’ (2001)

‘Blow Dry’ is a heartfelt British comedy centered around a national hairdressing competition being held in a small town. The film follows a former champion stylist who has become a recluse after his wife left him for another woman. He is forced to confront his past when the competition comes to his town, pitting him against his old rival.

Alan Rickman stars as Phil Allen, the talented but emotionally broken barber who has lost his passion for his craft. The film follows his journey as he reconnects with his family and rediscovers his love for hairdressing. Rickman delivers a subtle and touching performance as a man trying to put the pieces of his life back together.

‘The Search for John Gissing’ (2001)

‘The Search for John Gissing’ is a quirky comedy about a man who travels to London for a business deal, only to find that his scheming English counterpart has made him the victim of a series of bizarre pranks. The Englishman is trying to sabotage his rival to steal his job, leading to a chaotic and confusing adventure across the city.

Alan Rickman plays the title character, John Gissing, the mischievous and manipulative executive who goes to elaborate lengths to derail his American replacement. The film is an absurd cat-and-mouse game, with Rickman clearly enjoying the chance to play a purely comedic and delightfully wicked character.

‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’ (2001)

This film marks the beginning of the hugely successful ‘Harry Potter’ series, introducing audiences to the magical world of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Young Harry Potter discovers he is a wizard and begins his education at the school, where he makes friends, learns magic, and uncovers the truth about his parents’ deaths.

Alan Rickman first appears as Severus Snape, the cold and intimidating Potions Master at Hogwarts. From the very beginning, Snape shows a deep-seated animosity towards Harry, making him a primary source of suspicion and fear for the young wizard. Rickman’s performance established the character’s menacing presence and iconic, deliberate speaking style.

‘Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets’ (2002)

In the second installment of the ‘Harry Potter’ series, Harry returns to Hogwarts for his second year, but a dark and mysterious force begins to terrorize the school. Students are being turned to stone, and a sinister message warns that the “Chamber of Secrets has been opened.” Harry and his friends must solve the mystery before the school is forced to close.

Alan Rickman reprises his role as the disdainful Professor Snape. He remains a key antagonist in Harry’s school life, often accusing him and his friends of wrongdoing and showing clear favoritism to students from his own house, Slytherin. Rickman continues to build the character’s complexity, hinting that there is more to him than meets the eye.

‘Love Actually’ (2003)

‘Love Actually’ is a popular romantic comedy that follows the interconnected stories of various individuals dealing with love in London during the Christmas season. The film features a large ensemble cast and explores different aspects of love through ten separate but related storylines, ranging from the romantic to the familial.

Alan Rickman plays Harry, a managing director of a design agency who is married to his wife, Karen. He finds himself tempted by the flirtations of his new secretary, leading to a storyline that explores infidelity and the quiet heartbreak of a long-term relationship. Rickman’s subtle performance masterfully captures the guilt and weakness of his character.

‘Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban’ (2004)

The third film in the series takes a darker turn as Harry learns that Sirius Black, a notorious prisoner from the wizarding prison Azkaban, has escaped. Everyone believes Black is a dangerous killer who is now hunting Harry. Meanwhile, the terrifying, soul-sucking Dementors are stationed at Hogwarts for protection, making for a grim school year.

In this film, Snape’s deep-seated hatred for Harry’s father, and by extension Harry himself, is further explored. When Snape is tasked with teaching a class in place of another professor, he uses the opportunity to humiliate Harry. Rickman’s portrayal of Snape’s bitterness and old grudges adds another layer to the character’s mysterious past.

‘Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire’ (2005)

Harry’s fourth year at Hogwarts is marked by the Triwizard Tournament, a dangerous magical competition between three wizarding schools. When Harry’s name is mysteriously chosen from the Goblet of Fire as a fourth champion, he is forced to compete in a series of deadly tasks, all while the dark lord Voldemort is plotting his return to power.

Professor Snape remains a suspicious and menacing figure throughout the film. He is openly hostile toward Harry, particularly after he is chosen as a champion, and accuses him of seeking fame and glory. Alan Rickman continues to deliver a performance filled with disdain, perfectly embodying the intimidating professor who is one of Harry’s greatest tormentors.

‘The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy’ (2005)

Based on the popular book series, ‘The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy’ is a quirky science-fiction comedy. The story follows an ordinary Englishman named Arthur Dent, who is saved from Earth’s destruction by his alien friend. Together, they embark on a wild and absurd journey through space, encountering a host of strange characters along the way.

Alan Rickman provides the voice for Marvin the Paranoid Android, a robot with a “brain the size of a planet” who is perpetually bored and depressed. Marvin’s gloomy and pessimistic commentary on everything provides some of the film’s funniest moments. Rickman’s deep, monotone delivery was the perfect choice for bringing the iconic, chronically depressed robot to life.

‘Snow Cake’ (2006)

‘Snow Cake’ is an independent drama about an Englishman who is traumatized after a fatal car accident. He travels to meet the mother of the young woman who was killed in the crash, only to find that she is a highly functional autistic woman. He ends up staying with her for a short time, and the two form an unlikely and touching friendship.

Alan Rickman stars as Alex Hughes, the quiet and reserved man who is trying to cope with his grief. His character must learn to navigate the world of Linda, the autistic mother, and in doing so, begins to heal. Rickman gives a restrained and deeply emotional performance that anchors this gentle and moving film.

‘Perfume: The Story of a Murderer’ (2006)

‘Perfume: The Story of a Murderer’ is a dark period thriller set in 18th-century France. The film follows the life of a young man who was born with an extraordinary sense of smell but no personal scent of his own. His obsession with capturing the perfect scent leads him to become a serial killer, murdering young women to distill their essence.

Alan Rickman plays Antoine Richis, a wealthy and protective father whose beautiful daughter becomes the final object of the murderer’s obsession. When he realizes his daughter is in danger, he does everything in his power to protect her. Rickman brings a sense of authority and desperate determination to the role of a father trying to outwit a killer.

‘Nobel Son’ (2007)

‘Nobel Son’ is a dark comedy thriller about a brilliant but arrogant chemistry professor who wins the Nobel Prize. The celebration is cut short when his son is kidnapped, and the kidnapper demands the two-million-dollar prize money as ransom. The story takes several twists and turns as family secrets and betrayals are revealed.

Alan Rickman stars as Eli Michaelson, the narcissistic and womanizing professor who seems more concerned with his own fame than his son’s safety. He is a deeply unlikable character who has alienated everyone around him, including his own family. Rickman revels in the role, delivering a deliciously cynical and selfish performance.

‘Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix’ (2007)

In the fifth film, the wizarding world is in denial about the return of Lord Voldemort, and Harry Potter is discredited by the Ministry of Magic. A new, tyrannical professor is installed at Hogwarts, and Harry is forced to secretly teach a group of students defensive magic. All the while, Voldemort is seeking a prophecy that is hidden in the Ministry.

This film delves deeper into Snape’s painful past as Harry accidentally enters his memories, witnessing him being bullied as a student. For the first time, audiences see a vulnerable side to the character. Rickman’s portrayal of Snape’s fury and humiliation in response to this invasion of privacy is a powerful and pivotal moment in the series.

‘Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street’ (2007)

‘Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street’ is a dark musical thriller directed by Tim Burton. The story follows a barber who returns to London after being falsely imprisoned for 15 years by a corrupt judge. He seeks revenge, opening a new barbershop where he murders his customers, whose bodies are then baked into pies by his accomplice.

Alan Rickman plays the villainous Judge Turpin, the man responsible for ruining Sweeney Todd’s life. Turpin is a cruel and lecherous man who has taken Todd’s daughter as his ward and plans to marry her. Rickman fully embraces the character’s evil nature and showcases his singing abilities in this gruesome and stylish musical.

‘Bottle Shock’ (2008)

‘Bottle Shock’ is a drama based on the true story of the 1976 wine competition that became known as the “Judgment of Paris.” The film follows a British wine expert who travels to California’s Napa Valley in search of wines to compete against the best French bottles in a blind taste test. His efforts would go on to revolutionize the wine industry.

Alan Rickman stars as Steven Spurrier, the snobbish but passionate wine connoisseur who organizes the competition. He is initially skeptical about the quality of California wines but is eventually won over. Rickman brings a perfect blend of wit and sophistication to the role, capturing the character’s journey from skeptic to champion of a new era in winemaking.

‘Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince’ (2009)

As Lord Voldemort’s power grows stronger, the wizarding and Muggle worlds are no longer safe. At Hogwarts, Dumbledore enlists Harry’s help to uncover a crucial memory from a professor that may hold the key to Voldemort’s defeat. Meanwhile, Snape makes an Unbreakable Vow, a magical oath that he cannot break without dying.

Snape’s role in this film is more central and mysterious than ever before. He is finally given the teaching position he has long desired, but his true loyalties are called into question. Alan Rickman’s performance is filled with ambiguity, culminating in a shocking and dramatic act that changes the course of the entire series.

‘Alice in Wonderland’ (2010)

‘Alice in Wonderland’ is a visually stunning fantasy adventure that serves as a loose sequel to the original stories. A 19-year-old Alice returns to the magical world she first visited as a child, though she has no memory of it. She reunites with old friends and learns that it is her destiny to end the tyrannical rule of the Red Queen.

Alan Rickman provides the voice for Absolem, the Blue Caterpillar. He is an all-knowing and somewhat cryptic character who guides Alice on her journey of self-discovery. Rickman’s slow, deliberate voice was perfectly suited for the enigmatic and wise caterpillar, making the character both memorable and iconic.

‘Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1’ (2010)

The penultimate film in the series follows Harry, Ron, and Hermione as they embark on a dangerous mission to find and destroy Voldemort’s Horcruxes, the magical items that grant him immortality. With Dumbledore gone and the Ministry of Magic fallen, the three friends are on their own, hunted by Voldemort and his Death Eaters.

With the Death Eaters in control of Hogwarts, Snape has been appointed the new Headmaster. He is seen as a traitor and a villain by those who were loyal to Dumbledore. Alan Rickman’s performance in this film is brief but powerful, portraying Snape as a cold and authoritative figure who is now seemingly in league with the dark side.

‘Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2’ (2011)

The epic final film of the ‘Harry Potter’ series sees the battle between good and evil escalate into an all-out war. Harry, Ron, and Hermione continue their search for the remaining Horcruxes as Voldemort and his army launch a massive attack on Hogwarts. The film culminates in a final, dramatic showdown between Harry and the dark lord.

In this concluding chapter, the full truth of Severus Snape’s life is finally revealed in a powerful sequence of his memories. The reveal redefines his character from a simple villain to one of the bravest and most tragic heroes of the entire story. Alan Rickman’s performance is heartbreaking and brilliant, cementing Snape’s legacy as one of literature’s most complex characters.

‘Gambit’ (2012)

‘Gambit’ is a heist comedy about a London art curator who devises a plan to trick his abusive, wealthy boss into buying a fake Monet painting. He enlists the help of a Texas rodeo queen to pose as a woman whose grandfather acquired the painting at the end of World War II. However, his supposedly foolproof plan quickly starts to fall apart.

Alan Rickman plays Lord Shahbandar, the arrogant and obnoxious media tycoon who becomes the target of the con. Shahbandar is a vain and cruel boss, making him a character the audience loves to hate. Rickman clearly has fun playing the over-the-top billionaire, bringing his comedic timing to the role of the film’s antagonist.

‘The Butler’ (2013)

‘The Butler’ is a historical drama inspired by the true story of a man who served as a White House butler for over three decades. The film follows his life and career, which spanned eight presidential administrations, and uses his unique perspective to witness some of the most pivotal moments of the Civil Rights Movement and 20th-century American history.

Alan Rickman makes a memorable appearance as President Ronald Reagan. In his scenes, he and Nancy Reagan invite the butler and his wife to be guests at a state dinner, a significant moment in the film. Rickman captures the public persona and charm of the 40th U.S. President during his time in the White House.

‘A Promise’ (2013)

‘A Promise’ is a romantic period drama set in Germany just before World War I. The story follows a young man of humble origins who is hired as a clerk for an aging, wealthy factory owner. He soon falls in love with his employer’s beautiful young wife, and the two begin a secret, passionate affair that is interrupted by the outbreak of war.

Alan Rickman plays Karl Hoffmeister, the older, ailing husband who is unaware of the romance blossoming under his roof. He serves as a mentor to the young man, placing his complete trust in him. Rickman delivers a subtle and dignified performance as a man whose health is failing and who remains oblivious to the betrayal unfolding before him.

‘CBGB’ (2013)

‘CBGB’ tells the story of the iconic New York City music club that became the birthplace of the punk rock and new wave movements. The film focuses on the club’s owner, Hilly Kristal, and his determination to give a stage to underground and original bands, despite the club’s constant financial struggles.

Alan Rickman stars as Hilly Kristal, the eccentric and passionate owner of the legendary venue. He portrays Kristal as a man who genuinely loved music and was dedicated to providing a space for unconventional artists to perform, even if he didn’t always understand their sound. Rickman captures the spirit of a man who inadvertently changed music history.

‘A Little Chaos’ (2014)

‘A Little Chaos’ is a period drama set in 17th-century France, which Alan Rickman also directed and co-wrote. The film follows a talented and independent female landscape artist who is commissioned to design one of the main gardens at the Palace of Versailles for King Louis XIV. She must navigate the complex etiquette of the royal court while completing her work.

In addition to his work behind the camera, Alan Rickman also plays King Louis XIV. He portrays the famous “Sun King” not just as a powerful monarch, but as a thoughtful and curious man who forms a unique bond with the landscape artist. Rickman’s performance is filled with warmth, wit, and a touch of melancholy.

‘Eye in the Sky’ (2015)

‘Eye in the Sky’ is a tense military thriller that explores the ethical dilemmas of modern drone warfare. A military intelligence officer is in command of a top-secret drone operation to capture a group of terrorists in Kenya. The mission escalates when a young girl enters the kill zone, forcing a difficult debate among military and political leaders about the cost of war.

In his final on-screen role, Alan Rickman plays Lieutenant General Frank Benson. He is a pragmatic military leader who must argue with politicians about the necessity of the drone strike, weighing the life of one innocent child against the potential deaths of many more. Rickman delivers a powerful and commanding performance that perfectly captures the moral complexity of the situation.

Which of Alan Rickman’s many masterful roles do you find the most unforgettable?