From creepy bakers to villainous alien robots, Tony Todd has tackled it all. Known as a horror movie legend amongst fans of the genre, Todd boasts quite a list of outstanding characters that he’s played throughout his career. The actor has also been a part of quite a few Broadway shows, including August Wilson’s King Hedley II and Athol Fugard’s The Captain’s Tiger. For the latter of which, he even received a Helen Hayes nomination. Given the presence and the talent the actor holds, it’s not surprising that he’s had the opportunity to work on some of the best projects in the industry. Here are some of his best performances:
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8 Hell Fest (2018)
Lionsgate Films
Directed by Gregory Plotkin, Hell Fest is a 2018 slasher film. The movie centers around a group of teenagers at a traveling Halloween carnival that is stalked by a serial killer. Despite being one of Todd’s more recent movies, the actor has a minor role in the film. The role is not as big or striking as some of Todd’s other roles, but the actor still did a good job nailing the part. Todd plays the part of a creepy carnival baker, his voice and appearance an omen of bad things to come.
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7 The Crow (1994)
Miramax
Based on a comic of the same name by James O’Barr, The Crow is a superhero film that follows a murdered musician who returns from the dead to avenge his death. The movie is known for its rather unconventional portrayal of revenge alongside the action. Todd portrays Grange, a mobster, and henchman of the gang leader, Top Dollar. Again, Todd’s screen time is limited, yet the actor still manages to stand out as one of the most intimidating of Top Dollar’s lackeys. The Crow is known as Brandon Lee’s last film. The lead actor was accidentally shot during the final days of filming for the movie.
6 Night of the Living Dead (1990)
Columbia Pictures
Perhaps the role that cemented Todd’s talent as an actor, was Todd’s part in the Night of the Living Dead, a remake of George A. Romero’s 1968 film of the same name. Some even believe that Todd’s performance in the film was what later helped him get his role in Candyman. The film centers around a group of people who end up barricading themselves in a Pennsylvania farmhouse to protect themselves from a group of zombies. Tony Todd plays the part of Ben, the protagonist of the film. Unlike his usual characters that are often sinister or creepy, Todd’s character in Night of the Living Dead is rather innocent, full of fear, and confusion at the events occurring around him. Despite the contrast from his usual characters, Todd gives a rather unexpected yet strong performance.
5 Hatchet (2006)
Anchor Bay Entertainment
Written and directed by Adam Green, Hatchet is an American slasher film known for being a masterpiece in the genre. The movie follows a group of tourists that get stranded in the wilderness of a haunted New Orleans swamp. The group is then hunted down by a vengeful supernatural man who attempts to kill them. Todd portrays the part of a rather suspicious tour guide by the name of Reverend Zombie. Todd’s character isn’t too arresting, but he doesn’t disappoint the audience either, with his suspicious and often creepy presence. Hatchet is filled to the brim with gore and blood. The movie also has some spectacular practical effects and some striking dialogue. The three sequels and comic book series based on the movie speaks of the success it has gathered since its release.
4 Final Destination (2000)
New Line Cinema
The first Final Destination movie starts off when a group of people escapes death, when one character has a premonition of a plane crash. Todd portrays William Bludworth, a mortician, who warns the protagonist that they can’t cheat Death. Todd’s role in the film is rather interesting, because he doesn’t really play a black-and-white character who is either good or bad. Instead, Bludworth is simply there to help maintain the balance of the natural order. He’s rather intimidating, as he warns the main characters of their fate in his eerie voice.
3 The Rock (1996)
Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures
Perhaps one of Michael Bay’s best works, The Rock is a 1996 American action thriller film. It centers around a special task force team that’s sent to Alcatraz to stop a group of rogue US Marines that have held a group hostile. Todd portrays Captain Darrow, as one of the antagonists in the movie. At the peak of his career, Todd does an excellent job at portraying the terrifying Captain, who doesn’t have time to play nice. His appearance added to his intimidating presence is perfect to play the part of the daunting Captain.
2 Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen (2009)
Paramount Pictures Studio Store
Another film directed by Michael Bay, Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen takes place two years after the happening of the first installment and revolves around the Decepticons, transformative alien creatures, that are attempting to destroy the Sun. Todd voices the leader of the Decepticons, Megatronus Prime, also referred to as The Fallen. Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen is one of the highest-grossing films that Todd has worked on, which makes it a significant role. For most of his roles, Todd has relied on his appearance to make himself seem more intimidating. However, for this particular role, Todd had to rely solely on his voice and his acting skills to seem sinister and intimidating. His talent definitely shows because his performance was nothing short of impressive.
1 Candyman (1992)
TriStar Pictures
The role that Todd is most popularly known for is his part in Candyman. The movie is an adaptation of a short story, The Forbidden, by Clive Barker. It revolves around a mythical serial killer who appears whenever his name is uttered five times. Todd plays the part of Danielle Robitaille, aka the Candyman. His portrayal of the role is dripping with menace and charisma, and is perhaps the reason why the film has become a cult classic over time. Candyman also does a rather spectacular job of highlighting racism and class inequality in Chicago.
