The Sidekick: From Unreliable Companions to Powerful Partners

When discussing the dynamics of characters in books, TV series, and movies, the role of the sidekick is often overlooked or undervalued. However, this article explores the evolution of the sidekick from an underappreciated role to one that rivals that of the main character. We will delve into iconic examples such as The Lord of the Rings and Almost Heroes, as well as less conventional depictions that highlight the importance of sidekicks in storytelling.

Key Examples of Sidekicks

The Lord of the Rings

Perhaps the most obvious example of a sidekick who is as important as the main character is The Lord of the Rings. Samwise Gamgee, Frodo Baggins' loyal companion, is not just a sidekick or a mere helper. He is an integral part of the journey to Mount Doom, and his steadfastness and bravery are crucial to the success of their quest. Similarly, Legolas and Gimli, despite their hierarchical relationship, are depicted as equals in combat and adventure, highlighting their shared significance in the group.

Nero Wolfe and Archie Goodwin

In the series of detective stories featuring Nero Wolfe, the partnership between Nero and his sidekick, Archie Goodwin, showcases a successful dynamic of two capable detectives working together. Nero Wolfe, the master detective who spends his days observing people and deep in thought, relies on his sidekick Archie to gather clues, navigate police investigations, and handle social interactions. Archie is capable of solving mysteries on his own, but their combined efforts often prove to be irresistible to even the most impossible of cases. These stories demonstrate that a sidekick can be just as capable as the main character, and their relationship can be mutually beneficial.

Almost Heroes by Joyce Greenfield

A more modern and comical example of a strong sidekick is found in Almost Heroes by Joyce Greenfield. In this story, the sidekick Whisper, played by the gangly Damien, becomes the sidekick to the superhero Ethereal. This duo takes on the role of donning capes and spandex, chasing their nemesis Ribaldi. Whisper, who aspires to be a genuine superhero, is not just a backup or a convenient ally in a pinch, but an active participant in the adventure. The partnership between Ethereal and Whisper illustrates how a sidekick can contribute to the narrative just as significantly as the main character can.

The Evolution of the Sidekick Role

Historically, sidekicks have been depicted as unreliable or overly eager companions who provide comic relief or devil-may-care attitude to the main character. These depictions often minimised the importance of the sidekick, overshadowed by the shine of the protagonist. However, recent works have shown that a good sidekick is not only a reliable companion but also a valuable aid to the main character. The evolution of the sidekick in modern storytelling has transformed these characters into protagonists in their own right, capable of driving the plot forward and crucial to the success of the story.

Conclusion

From The Lord of the Rings to the modern superhero adventures in Almost Heroes, the importance of sidekicks in storytelling is now widely recognised. Sidekicks have moved beyond their initial role as comic relief or simple supporting characters to become integral parts of the narrative. By exploring these depictions, we can appreciate the value and significance of these often-overlooked characters and understand how they contribute to the richness and depth of a story.