Favorite characters

Does anyone have an absolute favorite character of Martin's? Someone that they just can't get out of their minds, day or night? A character who most touches their heart or who makes them weak in the knees?

For me, that would be Rufio from "Cleopatra". But for anyone who knows me, (like all of you!), this would not be a surprise. *wink* <--- Can you believe it? They actually have an Egyptian emoticon!

My favorite TV series character would have to be Rollin Hand, as much as I *adore* Commander Koenig. But in saying this, it is a VERY close tie and sometimes, it switches!

My favorite character of his in a guest starring role in a series would probably be Emeliano, from "The Gift" episode of Bonanza. I absolutely fell in love with his performance in that! I thought he just looked sooo handsome and I loved his costume which he wore *very* well. When he said that he was "too ugly to even have a wife", I just wanted to put my arms around him and tell him how completely wrong he was! He was such a very sweet character and his gentleness really came through in the love he showed for his beautiful white horse, even sacrificing himself. I cried at the end.

By the way, I also adored Lucky Silva!

That is s tough one Miranda. I think you have probably seen more of Martin's performances than I have so you may be in a better position to choose, although because all his performances are outstanding that probably makes it more difficult!

I have only really seen him in Mission Impossible, Space 1999 and Cleopatra so if I had to choose a favourite character ... oh no, this is difficult... I think it would have to be Commander Koenig, but Rollin Hand would come a close second. Am I sitting on the fence here

I guess the reason I like Martin as Koenig is that this is the role in which I first became aware of him. I understand, Miranda, when you say that sometimes your choice switches between Koenig and Rollin. There are so many wonderful character moments with Martin as Koenig, the romantic Koenig , the heroic Koenig, the strong, commanding Koenig...the list goes on.

PS When I saw the Egyptian emoticon I thought of you!

Greetings!

I also love Martin's work in the Hitchcock classic "North by Northwest" and of course his Oscar-winning performance in "Ed Wood!" I too feel that Commander John Koenig is his best role.

Chance wrote:

Greetings!

I also love Martin's work in the Hitchcock classic "North by Northwest" and of course his Oscar-winning performance in "Ed Wood!" I too feel that Commander John Koenig is his best role.

Welcome Chance, whoever you are! Nice to have you here and look forward to your contributions.

I'm sure I've seen 'North by Northwest' at some time in the distant past, but I don't remember enough about it to comment on Martin's performance. I only really remember the iconic scene of the chase on Mount Rushmore. A 50th anniversary DVD is being released which I might buy. I haven't seen 'Ed Wood' either so I need to get both of these movies into my collection fast!

I've enjoyed him in so many roles, but if I absolutely had to pick one, it would be his portrayal of Bela Lugosi in Ed Wood. many lesser actors would have ended up with it being a sort of gross pastiche or impersonation, but Martin gives a splendid, funny but truly poignant and moving performance of this fallen idol in his shadow years. It was a well-deserved Oscar winner and if you haven't seen it yet, please do - you won't regret it!

Adrian C, I totally agree with your wonderfully stated accessment of Martin in "Ed Wood"! He breathed life into Lugosi so beautifully as I believe no one else could have.

Great job on being able to pick out "just one" favorite role, by the way. My response was rather long-winded, haha. I'm very much looking forward to "Lovely, Still" and have been for so long. Probably as well as you, I know the preview clips like the back of my hand. (No pun intended )