Top 10 WTF Hairstyles in Movies

#10: Irving Rosenfeld
“American Hustle” (2013)

In David O. Russell’s Oscar-nominated sting flick, Christian Bale portrays Irving Rosenfeld, based on a real life con man named Mel Weinberg. Given the '70s setting, there’s nothing especially wrong with the style, but it’s clear that Irving seems to have a bit of trouble up top. There’s a contrived comb-over at work here, one that can easily make anybody look ridiculous with just a gust of wind or even a little prodding from an associate. In the underworld that Rosenfeld lives within, the mop top makes him an easy target, as no amount of bravado can save him from a hairpiece fail.

#9: David Kleinfeld
“Carlito’s Way” (1993)

In Brian De Palma’s gangster film, Sean Penn plays a mobbed-up lawyer that loyally stands by his pal Carlito Brigante. And one could argue that his troubling hairstyle is actually more offensive than his corrupt techniques. Despite the obvious receding hairline, David simply refuses to give up on the look as a whole, although maybe the massive set of curls is simply a power move. After all, a man with a cut this ridiculous must have his reasons, or maybe David is just trying to fit in. Unfortunately, it’s a look that only goes over well in a darkly lit club, as Mr. Kleinfeld has one of the most aggressive hairlines in '90s cinema.

#8: Queen Amidala
“Star Wars Episode I - The Phantom Menace” (1999)

She’s the mother of Princess Leia and clearly has strong beliefs when it comes to intergalactic grooming. In theory, the epic costumes and elaborate hair designs accentuate Padmé’s facial features, which is a plus. But some of the hairstyles can be distracting, too, most notably the large-scale, upside down heart bun. Certainly, Queen Amidala intends to impress, but it’s almost too much hair bravado to handle. Sure, everybody appreciates a classic double bun a la Princess Leia, yet her mom seems to have drawn inspiration from some crazy dreams.

#7: Bobby Pellitt
“Horrible Bosses” (2011)

Now, here’s a character with a cluttered mind and a disastrous sense of style. When Bobby Pellitt takes over the family biz, he plays the role of a confident businessman. It’s a bold move to bring further attention to a questionable comb-over with blonde highlights, yet Bobby sells the look as best he can. Unfortunately, the faux masculinity only brings more attention to the hair, which is actually quite well groomed yet still deeply suspicious. Given Bobby’s personality, it’s more than possible that he might have some type of secret stash up there.

#6: Terl
“Battlefield Earth” (2000)

In the year 3000, this man becomes the security chief for the Psychlos. Though Terl’s ultimate goal includes both money and power, his long dreadlocks give him more of a vagabond look, at least from a 21st century perspective. In the year 3000, however, dreadlocks seem to be all the rage, with Terl leading the way with his unique style. Of course, Terl also has a giant skull, so he’s got plenty of volume going on, too. Even so, he’s a man that doesn’t seem too keen on hair product or 2 in 1 shampoo and conditioner combos.

#5: Mugatu
“Zoolander” (2001)

As the antagonist of Ben Stiller’s model film, this fashion mogul sets his own trends. Only someone like Mugatu could rock an outlandish perm like this. It’s got the flair of a classic 18th century pianist; only with a sharp, central part that creates a jarring effect. Of course, the thick goatee adds to the WTF vibe as well. It’s a wholly unique look for the modeling industry, and one suitable for a genuine villain with an eye for fashion. Mugatu seems to speak loudly even when he’s not speaking at all, and his insane haircut is a big reason why.

#4: Charlie Kaufman
“Adaptation.” (2002)

Based on the real-life experiences of the screenwriter Charlie Kaufman, this character’s haircut seems to exemplify the very BEING of Charlie Kaufman. Symmetrical and the antithesis of stylish, there’s nothing incredibly horrifying about the cut – aside from the fact that a grown man would sport this type of mini-afro. It seems well kept, but it also seems a bit frizzy too, just like the troubled character’s mind. This is the kind of WTF hairstyle that implies that Charlie has been wearing it for some time, and that he’s afraid or perhaps ignorant of modern trends - it’s just there, and it never changes. Charlie Kaufman is a man who rejects formulaic writing, and he’s also a man who rejects formulaic hair.

#3: Ernie McCracken
“Kingpin” (1996)

In this Farrelly Brothers’ comedy, a bowler named Big Ern has some big ideas. It’s easy to see that he’s been around the block, mainly because of his deranged hairstyle. It’s like a matted puppy dog got blown around in the wind and landed on Ernie McCracken’s head. There are many things happening with this look, whether it’s the notable bald spot on the back of the head or the forgotten clumps of hair that Big Ern refuses to part with. It’s what you might call a hot mess, and given that Ernie isn’t a young hipster trying to stand out, well, that makes it all the more devastating.

#2: Henry Spencer
“Eraserhead” (1977)

This character’s hairdo has become almost iconic within the realm of independent cinema. Like many troubled men in film, the bizarre nature of the hairstyle complements the personality, with Harry’s dome pretty much taking on a life of its own. This David Lynch film follows a surreal narrative, with this WTF hairstyle acting as perhaps the most constant aspect of the film. One can’t predict Henry’s decision-making, but one can be sure that he’ll be sporting an electrifying head of hair.

Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.

- Johnny Suede
“Johnny Suede” (1991)

- Iona
“Pretty in Pink” (1986)

- Cynthia
“Working Girl” (1988)

#1: Ruby Rhod
“The Fifth Element” (1997)

So, here’s a man of the future. As the preeminent talk show host of the year 2263, Ruby Rhod rolls with a futuristic hairstyle. He’s just a bit flamboyant, but you’ve gotta respect the attention to detail with this platinum blonde cut … which features some type of frontal apparatus. It’s an impressive yet WTF kind of look, and one that’s definitely unfit for a baseball cap. Or, if Mr. Rhod does wear a baseball cap in the future, it only makes sense to wear it backwards given the enormous protruding bun. This is a hairstyle perfected for the public, as there’s really no point in sporting this hairstyle unless you’re constantly in the public eye and hoping that people will keep asking: WHY?

Do you agree with out list? What movie hairstyle makes you say “WTF”? For more weird Top 10s published daily, be sure to subscribe to WatchMojo.com.