Sean Connery’s position as one of Britain’s most beloved actors is, quite simply, undeniable. He was a force of nature on screen, a commanding presence who could make even below-par movies shine with his swashbuckling charisma and brutish good looks. While his career was punctuated by both major professional peaks and, let’s be honest, a few serious lows — for every iconic James Bond, there was his unruly costuming in *Zardoz* — one picture, in particular, stood out not only as one of his best but as his absolute favorite: *The Man Who Would Be King*.
It’s a rare and fascinating insight when an actor with such an extensive, glittering career points to a single film as their personal peak. Connery himself once explained, “I’m often asked if they were my favourite films, but while they mean a lot to me, if I had to name a particular favourite, it would probably be The Man Who Would Be King, which I made with Michael Caine in 1975. It was a tremendous film to make.” This declaration offers a tantalizing invitation to delve deeper into the film that held such a special place in his heart, and to explore the broader cinematic journey that led him to that cherished experience.
Indeed, Connery’s journey through the world of cinema was a testament to his belief in challenge and the eternal moments it could initiate. From humble beginnings as a milkman and a bodybuilder to becoming a global sex symbol and an Academy Award winner, his trajectory was anything but conventional. This article embarks on an analytical exploration of his most charming and remarkable characters, his master-class acting, and the deliberate choices he made to justify those dramatis personae, starting with the film he held dearest and extending to other pivotal roles that left an indelible mark on the world of cinema.
1. **Daniel Dravot, ‘The Man Who Would Be King’ (1975)** It might not be the first movie that springs to mind when envisioning Sean Connery, but *The Man Who Would Be King* certainly had an profound impact on him. Directed by the legendary John Huston, this adventure epic paired Connery with another prominent British icon, Michael Caine, resulting in what can now be described as one of the finest moments in both of their careers. The film, based on Rudyard Kipling’s famous short story, tells the tale of two former British soldiers, Connery’s Daniel Dravot and Caine’s Peachy Carnehan, who, finding colonial India insufficient for their grand ambitions, set their sights on the riches and adventures of Kafiristan.
Huston, who had waited decades to bring this story to the screen, originally envisioned Humphrey Bogart and Clark Gable in the lead roles. The passing of Bogart flummoxed that plan, but the eventual casting of Connery and Caine proved nothing short of perfect. Their natural charisma bounced off one another like a Newton’s cradle, propelling the story into a new space for a more modern audience. This colonial double act, two charming chancers fueled by their extraordinary friendship, forms the beating heart of the narrative.
Both Caine and Connery delivered great performances, making for a joyful romp that navigated the problematic moments inherent in a colonial allegory. Their witty retorts fizzed and popped, creating a suitably fragrant cocktail of entertainment. This on-screen chemistry was undoubtedly amplified by their close off-screen friendship, cultivated since the 1960s. Their camaraderie lent a warmth and believability to the characters, crucial for avoiding caricatures of colonial conquerors and instead bringing a “chocolatey richness” to their bond.
The movie relies heavily on Connery and Caine’s rapport, a reliance that it delivers on every aspect. This perhaps explains why, when asked, Connery picked it as his favorite picture. It’s rare for such symbiosis to occur, and it wasn’t just the actors who cherished it; critics loved it too, and it garnered Academy Award nominations, earning a thankful audience. But perhaps, nobody loved it more than the gruff Scot himself.
2. **James Bond, ‘The James Bond’ series (1962-83)** For many, Sean Connery *is* James Bond, the quintessential secret agent who set the gold standard for all who followed. He was the first actor to play cinema’s most iconic spy, originating the role in *Dr. No* (1962). It was in this film that he famously improvised the spy’s introduction, uttering the cool, definitive line: “Bond. James Bond.” He single-handedly established the blueprint for the well-dressed, classy, and dangerously debonair agent.
Initially, Connery was reluctant to commit to a film series, yet he shrewdly understood the immense career benefits if the franchise succeeded. James Bond’s creator, Ian Fleming, famously harbored doubts about Connery’s casting, seeing him as “an overgrown stunt-man” rather than the refined Commander Bond he envisioned. However, Fleming’s girlfriend, Blanche Blackwell, convinced him of Connery’s requisite sexual charisma, and after *Dr. No*’s success, Fleming was so impressed he even gave the character a Scottish heritage in later novels.
Connery’s portrayal of Bond was also significantly shaped by the stylistic tutelage of director Terence Young. Young reportedly took Connery “under his wing,” teaching him how to walk, talk, and even eat in character, refining his rough edges while utilizing his natural physical grace and commanding presence for the action sequences. The transformation was highly successful, leading Connery to receive thousands of fan letters weekly after *Dr. No*’s opening and quickly cementing his status as a major sex symbol.
The line “Bond … James Bond” became an instant catchphrase in Western popular culture, a testament to its icily disdainful style and Connery’s masterful delivery. Film critic Peter Bradshaw perfectly encapsulated its impact, calling it “the most famous self-introduction from any character in movie history,” a “challenge, or seduction,” embodying the dangerous and sexy allure that defined Connery’s Bond in the early 60s. Despite the global fame, Connery eventually grew tired of the role and its pressures, openly stating, “[I am] fed up to here with the whole Bond bit” and even, “I have always hated that damned James Bond. I’d like to kill him.”
3. **Michael McBride, ‘Darby O’Gill and the Little People’ (1959)** Long before he donned the tuxedo of James Bond, Sean Connery’s first significant full-feature role was in a rather unexpected cinematic venture: the Walt Disney Productions musical fantasy, *Darby O’Gill and the Little People*. Even his most ardent fans might be surprised by this early career choice, which saw him playing Michael McBride, a charming young groundskeeper entangled in an Irishman’s battle of wits with mischievous leprechauns.
In this charming film, Connery brought his inherent charisma to the fore, delivering a perfect combination of expressive acting and clear dialogue. It’s a testament to his burgeoning talent that he performed believable lip-sync in his musical numbers, showcasing an early versatility that belied his eventual typecasting. His chemistry with the leading lady, Janet Munro, was also terrific, adding a genuine warmth to the romantic subplot.
Upon its initial release, the film garnered praise from critics. A. H. Weiler of *The New York Times*, while describing Connery as “merely tall, dark, and handsome,” still lauded the film as an “overpoweringly charming concoction of standard Gaelic tall stories, fantasy and romance.” This role provided a fascinating glimpse into the raw potential of an actor just on the cusp of superstardom, demonstrating his ability to infuse charm into even the most fantastical of narratives.
4. **Mark Rutland, ‘Marnie’ (1964)** As his Bond fame exploded, Connery made a conscious and crucial decision to diversify his acting portfolio. One significant step in this direction was his collaboration with the legendary Alfred Hitchcock in the psychological thriller *Marnie* (1964). Here, Connery took on the complex role of Mark Rutland, a wealthy businessman who hires, then marries, the mysterious Marnie Edgar (Tippi Hedren), only to uncover her deep-seated psychological issues.
Connery’s desire to work with Hitchcock was well-known, and Eon Productions facilitated the connection. However, Connery, ever conscious of typecasting, insisted on seeing a script – a demand that reportedly shocked Hitchcock’s agent, who pointed out that even Cary Grant never asked for one. Connery famously retorted, “I’m not Cary Grant,” signaling his determination to control his career trajectory and avoid variations of Hitchcock’s previous spy-themed films.
In *Marnie*, Connery brought both charm and the needed depth to a character grappling with a deeply troubled wife. While Tippi Hedren’s performance has often been highlighted, Connery performs equally well, providing a crucial anchor for the film’s tense psychological drama. The role allowed him to showcase an emotional range beyond the suave spy, proving that he was indeed “beyond the James Bond role that time knows him for.”
Despite some initial reservations about the film, Connery and Hitchcock reportedly got along well during filming, a testament to Connery’s professional approach. This challenging role with a master director proved to be an important strategic move, further solidifying his credibility as a serious actor capable of much more than action heroics.
5. **Sergeant Major Joe Roberts, ‘The Hill’ (1965)** Another pivotal choice in Sean Connery’s quest to shatter the James Bond mold was his role as Sergeant Major Joe Roberts in Sidney Lumet’s intense military drama *The Hill* (1965). This film, largely unknown to many viewers, offered Connery a stark departure from the glamorous world of espionage, depicting five British soldiers sent to a brutal Libyan desert detention camp. Connery’s character, Sergeant Major Joe Roberts, is imprisoned for the mysterious assault of an officer.
Connery consciously picked this role to break his Bond image, and his star power also significantly helped secure the necessary financing for the project. The film had a famous start but was shot under incredibly challenging conditions, which, despite not leading to a great commercial result, yielded an acting performance from Connery that remains, to this day, highly underrated. He perfectly mastered the army sergeant, exuding a tangible toughness in his appearance and dialogue that felt utterly authentic.
*The Hill* was not a financial success, but it was a critical triumph, debuting at the Cannes Film Festival and winning Best Screenplay. This marked the first of five films Connery would make with Sidney Lumet, whom he considered one of his favorite directors. Lumet, in turn, held immense respect for Connery, remarking on his performance, “The thing that was apparent to me – and to most directors – was how much talent and ability it takes to play that kind of character who is based on charm and magnetism. It’s the equivalent of high comedy and he did it brilliantly.”
The film underscored Connery’s serious artistic intentions and his capability to deliver a nuanced, powerful performance in a demanding, non-commercial setting. It was a crucial step in proving his range and commitment to dramatic acting beyond the iconic spy.
6. **Zed, ‘Zardoz’ (1974)** If there was ever a role that screamed “diversification” with a capital D, it was Connery’s portrayal of Zed in John Boorman’s psychedelic science fiction film, *Zardoz* (1974). While many might dismiss *Zardoz* as far from one of the greatest films of all time, it undeniably deserves attention for the brave choices Connery was making to expand his craft as an actor. Here, he transformed into the anti-villain Zed, a character who sported perhaps the strangest costume of his career, yet he displayed the same unwavering confidence he brought to Bond’s impeccably tailored suits.
The visual spectacle of Connery in a bizarre red loincloth and thigh-high boots, contemplating a giant floating stone head, is unforgettable, if somewhat jarring. This role was a deliberate, almost defiant, move away from the expectations of his global fame. It was Connery saying, unequivocally, “I am an actor, not just a spy.” His willingness to embrace such an avant-garde project speaks volumes about his artistic courage.
While *Zardoz* was not a commercial success, Connery’s brave choice and his earnest performance are something that certainly deserves mention in any retrospective of his career. It showcases his willingness to take significant artistic risks, to push boundaries, and to explore unconventional roles that offered profound psychological and philosophical dimensions. He was not afraid to experiment, even if it meant venturing into the truly bizarre.
His commitment to the role, regardless of the film’s divisive reception, demonstrated his dedication to the craft. It proved that Connery was not content to rest on his laurels but was constantly seeking new challenges, pushing himself to embody characters far removed from his established persona, and asserting his range as a true artist.
7. **Robin Hood, ‘Robin and Marian’ (1976)** Following closely on the heels of his cherished performance in *The Man Who Would Be King*, Sean Connery took on another legendary role: Robin Hood in Richard Lester’s poignant historical drama, *Robin and Marian* (1976). This film offered a more mature, elegiac take on the classic tale, presenting a Robin Hood who returns from the Crusades weary and grizzled, only to find his beloved Maid Marian now a nun and less than welcoming.
In this role, Connery infused Robin with an old charm and a needed calm, portraying a war-hardened man who has lost close friends and is searching for love and meaning in a changed world. He brought out a remarkable tenderness in the character, particularly in the rawness and authenticity of his relationship with Maid Marian, played by the equally iconic Audrey Hepburn. Their on-screen chemistry was a marvel to behold, as recognized by film critic Roger Ebert, who praised their “tacit understanding” and noted that they “glow,” truly appearing to be in love.
The film’s original title, “Death of Robin Hood,” was notably changed because Connery believed that Americans didn’t like a hero who dies – a fascinating insight into his awareness of audience reception and his influence on production decisions. This role allowed Connery to showcase a marvelous complexity, fondness, and softness in his acting, further demonstrating his range beyond the strict, authoritative figures he often portrayed.
Connery’s Robin Hood was a deeply human portrayal, marked by a sense of melancholic realism that resonated deeply with audiences. It was yet another example of his ability to imbue even the most mythical characters with profound emotional depth, further solidifying his standing as an actor capable of rich, multifaceted performances. He would, incidentally, later revisit the Robin Hood legend, playing King Richard in Kevin Reynolds’ 1991 epic *Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves*, starring Kevin Costner.
8. **Agamemnon/Fireman, ‘Time Bandits’ (1981)**After cementing his return to form with cherished roles like Robin Hood, Connery ventured into the fantastical with Terry Gilliam’s cult classic *Time Bandits*. In this delightful and visually inventive film, Connery took on the dual role of Agamemnon and a Fireman, proving his ability to seamlessly blend into an ensemble cast while still making a significant, memorable impression. His presence in this multi-star film was, in typical Connery fashion, effortlessly commanding.
Indeed, his rich, unmistakable voice perfectly synced with the regal bearing of Agamemnon, a character that is, to be fair, quite the departure from a secret agent or a colonial adventurer. He illuminated every shot he was in with his strong persona, making this character one of his larger and more striking roles despite its fantastical setting. It was a role that, while seemingly lighthearted, allowed Connery to showcase a different kind of gravitas—one steeped in mythical authority and a touch of the absurd.
*Time Bandits* was a fascinating detour in Connery’s career, demonstrating his willingness to collaborate with idiosyncratic directors and embrace unconventional narratives. It was a testament to his versatility that he could jump from a weary Robin Hood to a Greek king (or an imagined one) with such ease, captivating audiences anew. This film serves as a brilliant example of Connery’s ongoing commitment to exploring diverse roles, always bringing his inimitable blend of charm and power to even the most unexpected projects.
9. **William von Baskerville, ‘The Name of the Rose’ (1986)**The mid-1980s saw Connery deliver one of his most subtle yet utterly compelling performances as William von Baskerville in Jean-Jacques Annaud’s medieval crime mystery, *The Name of the Rose*. Set in the chilling confines of a 14th-century abbey, Connery portrays a Franciscan monk tasked with investigating a series of suspicious deaths, which he soon uncovers to be murders. It’s a role that demands intellectual rigor and a quiet intensity, and Connery delivered it in spades.
In this lead role, Connery brought a slow and subtle performance that was perfectly suited to the film’s intricate narrative and atmospheric horror-noir mood. He masterfully employed pauses and silences, not as empty spaces, but as deliberate tools to build suspense and deepen the mystery, drawing the audience further into the dark corridors of the abbey. This was Connery as the intellectual detective, a far cry from the physical prowess of Bond, showcasing a profound shift in his character studies.
*The Name of the Rose* stands as one of his finest crime thrillers, and indeed, an acting masterclass for anyone seeking a demonstration of restrained power. Connery’s portrayal was critically acclaimed, earning him a BAFTA Award for Best Actor that same year, proving that his earlier conscious decisions to diversify his portfolio were now truly paying off with significant accolades and critical recognition. It was a testament to his range and his ability to command the screen with quiet authority.
10. **Juan Sánchez-Villalobos Ramírez, ‘Highlander’ (1986)**In another remarkable display of his expanding range, Connery took on the unforgettable role of Juan Sánchez-Villalobos Ramírez in the fantasy action cult classic, *Highlander*. While not an immediate box office smash, the film’s enduring appeal and cult status owe much to Connery’s portrayal of the immortal Egyptian swordsman, who, quite famously, was presented as a Spaniard—a choice that Connery, a proud Scot, made utterly convincing.
This was Connery at his most flamboyant and authoritative, embodying a character with centuries of wisdom and martial skill. He brought a fair and noble presence to the Spanish swordsman, all while maintaining a subtle sense of authority that was both captivating and believable. His ability to inhabit such a distinct character, complete with a unique accent and historical depth, showcased his remarkable adaptability as an actor, demonstrating that he could own any part he was given, regardless of its origin.
*Highlander* was undoubtedly different from many of Connery’s other roles, yet it powerfully demonstrated his range as a true artist unafraid to experiment with genres and character types. The film’s noteworthy aspect, beyond its imaginative premise, was Connery’s uncanny ability to sell such an outlandish concept, solidifying his reputation not just as a global superstar, but as a performer with an impressive knack for imbuing even the most fantastical roles with genuine gravitas and conviction.
11. **Jim Malone, ‘The Untouchables’ (1987)**Then came the role that finally brought him long-overdue Academy recognition: Jim Malone in Brian De Palma’s iconic gangster epic, *The Untouchables*. In a film teeming with heavyweight talents like Robert De Niro as Al Capone and Kevin Costner as Eliot Ness, it was Connery who, with a commanding yet nuanced performance, truly stole the show and made the character his own. This role perfectly encapsulates the “Oscar-winning performance” aspect of his later career.
As Jim Malone, the paternal Irish-American cop who schools Ness in “the Chicago way,” Connery masterfully got under the character’s skin, imbuing him with both a weary cynicism and an unyielding sense of justice. He brought the perfect blend of power and control to the role, delivering lines that have since become enshrined in cinematic history. His presence was electrifying, providing the moral compass and brutal pragmatism that the young, idealistic Eliot Ness desperately needed.
This performance earned Connery the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, marking a monumental achievement as the first Scottish actor to win a major Oscar. He also received a Golden Globe Award for the same category, cementing his legacy not just as a movie star, but as an actor of profound depth and talent, capable of delivering performances that resonated deeply with both critics and audiences, showcasing his ability to elevate an already strong ensemble.
12. **Henry Jones Sr., ‘Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade’ (1989)**Following his Oscar triumph, Connery embarked on one of his most beloved and charming collaborations, joining forces with Harrison Ford in Steven Spielberg’s *Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade*. Cast as Henry Jones Sr., the titular archaeologist’s academic, somewhat stuffy father, Connery’s presence was nothing short of a stroke of casting genius, creating a dynamic duo that became an instant classic in cinematic history.
The chemistry between Connery and Ford was, quite simply, pitch-perfect—a match made in cinematic heaven. Despite Connery being only 12 years older than Ford, he effortlessly embodied the role of the senior Jones, creating a believable and utterly endearing father-son dynamic. He didn’t just play a father figure; he imbued Henry Jones Sr. with a delightful mix of professorial gravitas, dry wit, and a surprisingly adventurous spirit that contrasted beautifully with his son’s more reckless approach.
This role perfectly demonstrated Connery’s knack for captivating collaborations, as his interplay with Ford was the beating heart of the film. He stole scenes with his sheer charisma and comedic timing, proving that even as a “father figure” in his later career, he could still command the screen and elevate a blockbuster with his unique blend of charm and acting prowess. It was a performance that further solidified his iconic status and endeared him to a whole new generation of fans.
13. **Captain Marko Alexandrovich Ramius, ‘The Hunt for Red October’ (1990)**The early 1990s saw Connery take on another complex, authoritative role as Captain Marko Alexandrovich Ramius in John McTiernan’s taut Cold War submarine thriller, *The Hunt for Red October*. As a Soviet submarine commander whose intentions—defection or attack—remain shrouded in mystery, Connery delivered one of his most conflicted and gripping on-screen character studies, cementing his mastery of dramatic suspense.
Connery, despite being a Scot with a distinctly thick accent, completely immersed himself in the role of the enigmatic Russian captain, making it feel utterly authentic. His portrayal, characterized by an almost impenetrable poker face and subtle gestures, kept audiences guessing about his true intentions throughout the entire film. This was a testament to his ability to transcend nationality and language barriers through sheer force of character and profound acting skill.
His representation of the fatalistic yet noble turncoat received immense praise. He effortlessly conveyed the internal struggle and moral ambiguity of Ramius, making this a standout performance in a career already filled with them. *The Hunt for Red October* showcased Connery’s continued commitment to challenging roles that allowed him to explore deep psychological terrain, further solidifying his legacy as an acting maestro capable of delivering powerful and nuanced performances well into his later years.
14. **Capt. John Connor, ‘Rising Sun’ (1993)**Continuing his streak of taking on diverse challenges, Connery ventured into the realm of modern crime thrillers with *Rising Sun*, where he starred as Capt. John Connor, a seasoned police investigator delving into the murder of a prostitute. While the film itself may have had its narrative peaks and valleys, Connery’s performance as Connor was undeniably excellent, showcasing his enduring ability to anchor a complex story.
His on-screen bond with co-star Wesley Snipes was a particularly delightful and unexpected element of the film. Their chemistry proved Connery’s smooth capacity to sync with anyone, regardless of genre or co-star’s style. He brought a grizzled wisdom and world-weariness to Connor, a character who navigates the intricate cultural nuances of the case with a subtle authority that only Connery could deliver, demonstrating his expanded range in character studies.
*Rising Sun* offered Connery another opportunity to portray an older mentor figure, a role he comfortably embraced in his later career. Yet, he always managed to infuse these characters with unique traits and a compelling presence, preventing them from becoming repetitive. This film served as a strong reminder that even in projects that were perhaps less universally acclaimed, Connery’s individual performance consistently shone through, a testament to his undeniable star power and acting prowess.
As we reflect on the remarkable tapestry of Sean Connery’s career, it becomes clear that his journey was far more expansive and artistically daring than simply being “Bond.” From the cherished adventure of *The Man Who Would Be King* to the psychological depth of *The Name of the Rose*, the heroic father figure in *Indiana Jones*, and his Oscar-winning turn in *The Untouchables*, Connery consistently sought out roles that challenged him and allowed him to showcase an extraordinary range. He was an actor who transcended typecasting, evolving into a true maestro of his craft, leaving an indelible mark on cinematic history with every nuanced performance, every commanding presence, and every unforgettable line. His belief in challenge, and the eternal moments it initiated, truly defined a legend who will forever be remembered as one of the silver screen’s most cherished and diligent artists.
