It's impossible not to admire an actor as respected and beloved as Michael Keaton. Yet, it's equally baffling how he's faced such persistent misfortune in securing an Academy Award, despite his remarkable performances and exceptional versatility. Michael Keaton consistently surprises audiences with his acting prowess, a trait he's maintained throughout his career. Michael Keaton Birthday: 10 Best Memes on Actor's Turn as Batman to Remind Us That It's the Best!

In the '80s, he won hearts with his comedic brilliance in films like Night Shift and Mr Mom. However, eyebrows were raised when Tim Burton cast him as Batman in the 1989 film titled...well, Batman. Fans protested, and Warner Bros received countless letters of dissent. But when the film hit the screens, Keaton's portrayal of the Dark Knight earned widespread acclaim. Many still argue that his rendition remains the best, even though his reprisal of the role in 2023's The Flash failed to capture audience attention and resulted in a box office flop.

From superhero stardom to villainous turns, and even scene-stealing supporting roles, Michael Keaton's career has forged a rich legacy across various genres, spanning from thrilling suspense to rib-tickling comedy and heartwarming drama. On the occasion of his 72nd birthday, let's delve into five of his most memorable villainous portrayals.

Beetlejuice

Michael Keaton in
Beetlejuice

It's amusing that Michael Keaton's titular character in Beetlejuice doesn't dominate the screen time. Yet, every moment he graces the frame, he's an absolute riot. As the mischievous and lewd mischief-maker, causing chaos amongst both the living and the deceased, Keaton delivers one of cinema's most iconic characters. Excitingly, the actor is set to reprise this role in the long-awaited sequel due to release in 2024. Beetlejuice 2: Michael Keaton, Jenna Ortega's Horror Comedy to Release in Theatres on This Date - Check Inside!

Pacific Heights

Michael Keaton in Pacific Heights

In the 1990 thriller Pacific Heights, Keaton embodies a 'tenant from hell' who torments his landlord couple, portrayed by Melanie Griffith and Matthew Modine, using all means, even those within the boundaries of the law. It's a complex character, and Keaton injects it with the necessary intensity and tension to keep viewers perched on the edge of their seats.

 

Spider-Man: Homecoming

Michael Keaton in Spider-Man: Homecoming

In Spider-Man: Homecoming, Michael Keaton brings to life the live-action iteration of one of Spider-Man's infamous adversaries, Adrian Toomes, also known as the Vulture. What makes Toomes so fascinating is that he's not a supervillain with grandiose world-ending ambitions. Instead, he's someone who will go to any lengths to protect those dependent on him for sustenance, even if it means resorting to a life of crime. Toomes' relatable, everyday man quality adds depth to his character and contributes to one of the most unexpected twists in the MCU, leading to a gripping car conversation sequence masterfully executed by both Keaton and Tom Holland, who plays Spidey.

The Founder

Michael Keaton in The Founder

Shifting into the realm of biopics, in John Lee Hancock's 2016 film The Founder, Keaton portrays Ray Kroc, the man responsible for transforming McDonalds from a modest eatery into a global franchise. Rather than crafting an inspiring success story, The Founder serves as a cautionary tale about dealing with individuals who sell dreams but ultimately reveal themselves as capitalist nightmares. Keaton infuses the character with depth and nuance, rendering Kroc simultaneously captivating and morally ambiguous. Michael Keaton Birthday Special: From Batman to Batman Returns, 5 Best Moments of the Actor as the Dark Knight.

Dumbo

Michael Keaton in Dumbo

In Disney's live-action remake of the animated classic, Keaton takes on the role of VA Vandevere, the charismatic yet ambitious owner of Dreamland, who sees the titular flying elephant as a means to save his business. As the film unfolds, we discover that beneath Vandevere's charming exterior lies a devious and exploitative mind, determined to retain his golden-egg-laying dream at any cost, even if it means causing harm to the innocent creature. Keaton's portrayal is a captivating blend of charm and cunning.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 05, 2023 09:11 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).