Protagonist

Character Role Analysis

David Levinson and Steve Hiller

Independence Day is more about the ensemble than individual characters, but David and Steve definitely emerge as the two most important characters, since their individual journeys drive the action (and of course, end up converging).

In addition to saving Earth through their bravery and smarts, David and Steve both advance larger life goals/journeys through the course of the film, with David finding his way back to his estranged wife, and Steve finally getting to go into space (apparently a lifelong goal).

Since their personal journeys drive and occupy the main focus of the story, we say they both get the protagonist title.