by Vera H-C Chan

Who do you want to be when you grow up? Or, if you're already grown up, who would you rather be?

Identity play is one of the many other inhibition-busters that Halloween permits. And before you ask—no, despite being immersed in the election season, there's no strong interest in being the orator, foreign policy elder, warrior, or frontierswoman... just yet.

Popular culture, as usual, spurs the dress-up schemes. Last year, the rage included the rippling man-chests of "300" and the bubble-gum glow of "High School Musical." This year, traditional Disney and Star Wars themes dominate, but the unrelenting success of "Dark Knight" underscores Batman's role in the costume universe. Heath Ledger's mesmerizing take has made the villain the most-searched costume possibility, and may have inspired its female counterpart (number 14).

Literary and historical icons are a strong second tier, but an elusive creature has skulked back into 10th spot. Mull over who you want to be as we review the top 20 character costume searches in the past 30 days. And if you're too cheap to buy a costume, go as Michael Phelps or Misty May-Treanor... just start those ab crunches now.