With the release of Pierre Morel’s From Paris With Love starring John Travolta, I thought it would be somewhat therapeutic to go through my Top Ten Travolta Characters. Let it be known that this is not an assessment of the films but rather the characters Travolta played in the films and my love for them.
10. Tom Hardy – Basic (2003)
Tom Hardy is one of those better-than-average interrogators who also happens to be a trained Ranger. There’s something about how Travolta handles being good and bad cop at the same time. He knows exactly how to make a man feel like he’s volunteering information while not being overbearing – until he has to be that is. I love a good thriller and Travolta fills this role perfectly.
9 . Gabriel Shear – Swordfish (2001)
What is there to say about a man who puts a gun to your head while making a girl blow you while asking you to crack an impossible firewall in less than 60 seconds. Travolta does know how to overdo it, and I keep this character in mind, along with all the other fun stupid films that I loved as a teenager.
8. Sean Archer/Castor Troy – Face/Off (1997)
Who doesn’t like redemption? What about a bad guy who turns good and a good guy that turns bad? Well that’s kind of what happens when Castor Troy puts on Sean Archer’s face and goes off trying to destroy L.A. Somehow I still love the fact that Travolta and Nic Cage were able to pull off these ridiculous characters. Yes I’m a sucker for the 90s John Woo films.
7. Chili Palmer – Get Shorty (1995)/Be Cool (2005)
What do I say about the man who reminded me that “if you’re important enough you’re never late, they’re just early.”? He’s cool as a cucumber, handling his business without a blink or shiver. Give me a Chili Palmer any day.
6. Edna Turnblad – Hairspray (2007)
Yes, I know. It’s very odd to see Travolta in drag. Thankfully, it’s too fun to not love. Though it could have potentially turned fans (including myself) off of the actor, Travolta lets loose, making the most of his screen time and gaining fans he never had before.
