Arliss Howard

Howard does such a good job with the material, taking a fundamentally unlikable 'suit' and injecting him with hints of self-doubt, introspection, insecurity. A brilliant moment is right as the Rex gets loose in San Diego - as the camera pushes in he has his eyes closed, as if trying to wake from a nightmare, right before Ian leans into frame and whispers "now you're John Hammond", at which point Ludlow turns his head ever so slightly as if to say "I know".

Indeed, that quote forms a nice foundation for Howard's exploration of the character - Ludlow comes across as a somewhat distant, isolated individual who WANTS to have John's casual charm and easy way with people, and can't pull it off. He's out of his depth not only in the harsh environment of Isla Sorna but in basic human interactions. See his awkward efforts to connect with the VIP guests on the InGen dock or his attempt to sympathise with Ian during the hike. He's TRYING to be like John, but as Ian says, it just comes off as a hustle.

It's for reasons like this - and other little moments (his genuine, childish glee during the round-up, the way he completely shuts down when Ian and Sarah ask about the location of the infant Rex) that make me at least a little sympathetic for his final moments of fear and terror in the hold of the Venture. He's written as the stereotypical corporate villain, but Howard gives him little moments of humanity and vulnerability.