Norman Stansfield is a fictional character and the primary antagonist in Luc Besson’s 1994 film “Léon: The Professional,” portrayed by Gary Oldman12. Stansfield is a corrupt and mentally unstable DEA agent known for his erratic behavior and violent tendencies12. He is often cited as one of cinema’s greatest villains due to his unpredictable and menacing nature12.
Stansfield’s character is marked by his love for classical music, particularly Beethoven, which he listens to during his violent outbursts. He is also known for his drug use, taking a substance that appears to be Librium. His most notorious act in the film is the brutal murder of Mathilda Lando’s family, sparing only Mathilda, who then seeks revenge with the help of the hitman Léon.
Gary Oldman’s portrayal of Stansfield is both chilling and charismatic, adding a layer of dark humor to the character. This role has been influential in shaping the portrayal of villains in cinema, often being referenced as a benchmark for psychopathic antagonists.
