Who’s more interesting, the good guy or the bad? I bet there’s wide disagreement among die-hard movie fans about whether the hero or the villain is the most essential element in helping to move a story along. Certainly, all would agree, however, that some type of conflict or character flaw is necessary in any movie in order to keep things interesting. Personally I think it many classic movies would be pretty bland without a little touch of “evil” lurking around. Whether you’re a fan of the good guy or the bad guy, there’s a good bet that, if nothing else, the bad guy is bound to be pretty entertaining and memorable. Here’s a list of some of the greatest movie villains:
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1. Darth Vader, Star Wars
Actor Dave Prowse was correct when he said nobody forgets the villain, and Darth Vader remains one of the most well-known movie characters in history. In fact, the film is so popular today that stores continue to sell Darth Vader toys and other memorabilia as if the movie was just recently released.
2. The Wicked Witch of the West, The Wizard of Oz
The land of Oz is home to a cinematic icon. From her blood-boiling cackle to her green-faced sneer, the Wicked Witch of the West is considered the witch of all witches.
3. The Joker, Batman
He’s twisted, witty, and sadistic. This bleach-faced crook from the Batman franchise has been well interpreted by a number of award-winning actors including, Cesar Romero, Jack Nicholson, and Heath Ledger.
4. Lord Voldemort, Harry Potter
In addition to having a creepy face and some rather impressive magical skills, ‘He Who Shall Not Be Named’ is the villain in one of the most popular book-turned-movies in cinematic history.
5. The Queen, Snow White, and the 7 Dwarves
There’s one Disney queen who started it all. Consumed by her magic mirror, Snow White’s evil superior was jealous from the get-go. Between the crowned beauty and apple-bearing hag, viewers don’t know which version of the Queen to fear the most.
6. Michael Myers, Halloween
The Halloween films epitomized the slasher genre thanks to the legendary Michael Myers. It’s not only the white mask that creates such unease, but also his slow-paced walk that somehow always keeps him right behind his running victims.
7. Hannibal Lecter, The Silence of the Lambs
Never mess with intelligence and insanity. Anthony Hopkins chilled audiences worldwide with his tightrope walk between good and evil, scaring people with his on-screen eating habits.
8. Amon Goeth, Schindler’s List
Nothing is scarier than an accomplice to one of the most horrific events in human history. Actor Ralph Fiennes’s portrayal of real-life Nazi Lieutenant Amon Goeth deserved every bit of Oscar praise.
9. Jack Torrence, The Shining
Clearly, Jack Nicholson has a knack for villainy. His stirring performance in this popular Stephen King horror flick left viewers thoroughly creeped out. Perhaps this was the result of the film’s combination of two scary real-world scenarios – isolation and insanity.
10. Alex DeLarge, A Clockwork Orange
Malcolm MacDowell made movie history with his improvised version of “Singin in the Rain.” Of course, his character performed the number while brutally attacking his female victim. Alex DeLarge still haunts viewers today with his eerie mix of happiness and terror.
No movie is complete without a little opposition, and these ten characters definitely give film viewers something to fear and remember. Who are your favorite movie villains?
