Top 10 Best Movie Villains of All Time

Which villains in cinema have given you the feeling of them actually being evil?

The Top Ten

The Joker - The Dark Knight

The thing that made Heath Ledger's portrayal of the Joker so brilliant and masterful was the fact that, instead of simply 'acting' out the character of the Joker, he immersed himself within the role and 'became' the Joker.
Many people claim that his 'becoming the Joker' drove him insane or made him go crazy, resulting in him overdosing. This, in itself, though sad, is a testament to just how amazing and immersed he was in the character of the Joker.
When I came to this page of TheTopTens, I was so glad to see that so many people agree that Heath Ledger's portrayal of the Joker in The Dark Knight was indeed the best villain portrayal in movie history.
Darth Vader - Star Wars

Darth Vader is a Star Wars character who serves as the main antagonist of the original Star Wars trilogy and as the central figure in the Star Wars prequel trilogy, where he is known by his original name, Anakin Skywalker. Initially trained as a Jedi Knight, Anakin defects to the Sith under the influence... read more

While I love and absolutely adore the Joker in every sense of the word, he really can't compare to the nature and malice that Darth Vader puts into every single one of the films he appears in. Darth Vader is the reason for nearly everything.
His backstory is heavily built upon in Episodes I-III, his menace and dark deeds are showcased throughout Episodes IV-VI, and his ominous legacy and effects on the galaxy are a big backbone for Episodes VII-IX. Darth Vader is what makes Star Wars well... Star Wars!
There can be a DC or a Batman without the Joker, but there could never be a Star Wars without Darth Vader.

He is way better than the Joker. Like, come on, the Joker isn't even on the same level as Darth Vader! Has he blown up a planet? Can he use the Force to kill his enemies?
Listen, let's look into Greek culture. Darth Vader is like Achilles. He strikes fear in his enemies, possibly even making them retreat because just the sight of Darth Vader would make his enemies paranoid. He is highly intimidating, like Achilles in the Iliad. When the Trojans were driving the Greek soldiers back, his friend dressed up like Achilles because Achilles refused to fight. But when his friend died, Achilles was enraged. When Achilles entered the battlefield, the Trojans started to fall back, but to no avail. He slaughtered many of them. Personally, I think Darth Vader was, is, and always will be the best villain EVER.
Hannibal Lecter - The Silence of the Lambs

Dr. Hannibal Lecter is a character in a series of suspense novels by Thomas Harris. Lecter was introduced in the 1981 thriller novel Red Dragon as a forensic psychiatrist and cannibalistic serial killer. He became more widely known after Anthony Hopkins' iconic portrayal in the 1991 film The Silence... read more

Heath Ledger's Joker may be at the top of this list, but he wouldn't be there without the inspiration from Sir Anthony Hopkins' character from The Silence of the Lambs. Hopkins/Thomas Harris invented a new breed of psychopath with the genius-level intellect and charming personality of Dr. Hannibal Lecter. In my opinion, as far as villains go, Lecter has never been equaled and never will.

Hannibal Lecter is not only murderous but highly intelligent as well. If it wasn't for him, Clarice Starling probably would have never caught Buffalo Bill. He also has an eerie way of speaking. And nobody fits the part better than Anthony Hopkins. Dr. Hannibal Lecter IS the best movie villain of all time.
Lord Voldemort - Harry Potter

Lord Voldemort is a fictional character and the primary antagonist in J. K. Rowling's Harry Potter book series. He first appears in Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, published in 1997. Born as Tom Marvolo Riddle, he becomes the dark wizard known as Voldemort and is characterized by his obsession... read more

Since this list is for movie villains, I'm not counting the books. If I did, he'd probably be #3, ahead of Thanos, Davy Jones, Scar, and Palpatine.
He's still a top 10 villain regardless, in both the movies and books.

If someone is a villain that everybody fears to speak his or her name, he or she will definitely be at the top of the list. Lord Voldemort achieved that.
He deserves to be first.

Voldemort makes Harry Potter possible. Without him, there would be no Harry Potter.
He is by far the most threatening villain on this list. And how is this 71?!
Thanos - Avengers: Infinity War

Thanos is a fictional supervillain featured in American comic books published by Marvel Comics. He was created by Jim Starlin and made his first appearance in Iron Man #55, published in February 1973. In the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Thanos has been portrayed by Damion Poitier in The Avengers (2012... read more

Thanos is literally the main character in Infinity War, which is my favorite MCU movie, and he's the main reason why. As the movie progresses, we see what he's willing to do to achieve his goal, and it ends up breaking him.
Thanos is probably my third favorite villain of all time.

He was the most interesting part of Infinity War. Such a complex guy, evil enough that you cheer on the good guys but good enough to make you wonder whether the world would be better off if his plan succeeded. I personally found him to be a much more complex and interesting character than the Joker.
Loki - Thor

Loki Laufeyson, also known as Loki Odinson, is a fictional character appearing in American comic books published by Marvel Comics. He is the adoptive brother and archenemy of Thor and is known as the "God of Mischief." In the Marvel Cinematic Universe, the character is portrayed by Tom Hiddleston.

MY BELOVEDDDD
He's one of the most complex characters (and I am deeply disappointed by the TV show), but he's just so goddamn charming that he should be much higher.

Besides Joker being my favorite character, Loki is my second choice. He's funny and charming.
He's easily one of the best movie villains and my favorite Marvel character.

He's one of the best movie villains. Without him, Thor (1 and 2) would've been so boring!
The only reason Thor was quite successful is because of Loki!
Anton Chigurh - No Country for Old Men

Anton Chigurh is a fictional character and the main antagonist of Cormac McCarthy's 2005 novel No Country for Old Men.
In the 2007 film adaptation of the same name, he is portrayed by Javier Bardem, whose performance earned him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.

Chigurh is a perfect incarnation of the fear that comes with the ambiguous and unknown. His unpredictable and sociopathic behavior makes him absolutely terrifying, and Javier Bardem's performance took it to another level. Bravo.

Never was afraid of a character before watching this movie. I was surprised how likable the actor actually is.

Anton Chigurh is the best villain I have ever seen. Javier Bardem was outstanding in this character.
Bane - The Dark Knight Rises

Bane is a fictional supervillain in DC Comics who often serves as an enemy of Batman. He first appeared in Batman: Vengeance of Bane #1 in 1993 and was created by Chuck Dixon, Doug Moench, and Graham Nolan. Bane is known for his superhuman strength and intellect, and for using the drug Venom to enhance... read more

I don't know what it was, but Bane was just so intimidating. Of course, he gets overshadowed by the Joker in the previous film. But to be honest, the Joker didn't have as much firepower as Bane. Bane could actually go one-on-one with Batman. His plans were interesting, and I felt like he stole the show every single time.

A pretty good bad guy when it comes down to remembering him. Probably Batman's second-best villain by far.
The Emperor - Star Wars

Darth Vader may have a tragic backstory, but come on, people! In terms of villainy and how awesome they are, it's not about how sad and good of a character they are. The Emperor literally succeeded in ruling the galaxy in the comics and movies and even blows up planets if people don't listen to him. He was also a rare twist villain but was insanely calm at the same time. What did Vader do interesting as a villain? Say "Luke, I am your father" and that scene in Rogue One? There are some, but Palpatine has far more.

He'd probably rank above Davy Jones, Scar, and maybe even Thanos if not for The Rise of Skywalker. The sequels need to be decanonized.
Jason Voorhees - Friday the 13th

Jason Voorhees is a fictional character from the Friday the 13th horror film series. He first appeared in the original 1980 movie as the young son of the killer, Mrs. Voorhees. Over the course of the series, Jason became the central antagonist, known for wearing a hockey mask.

There are even more people who know about Jason than any of the others. Seriously. He is one of the most iconic characters of all time and also the most powerful serial killer on this list.
He is invincible to magic because he is connected to the Necronomicon, one of the most powerful objects there ever was. Not even the Force comes close.
He can't be killed, not even by an explosion, grenades, or Earth's atmosphere. Compared to most people here, he is a GOD.

The scariest serial killer out of them all and fun to watch!

The Newcomers

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Paul Prenter - Bohemian Rhapsody

Paul is in love with Freddie Mercury, even to the point of tricking Freddie into firing John Reid regarding a solo deal worth $4 million, effectively breaking up Queen.
Freddie leaves Paul after finding out that Paul withheld information about the Live Aid concert.
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Eric Finlander - The Bedford Incident

He endangers his crew due to his obsession with hunting Soviet subs, despite the fact that he's not allowed to engage.

The Contenders

Agent Smith - The Matrix

Agent Smith is a fictional character and the main antagonist in The Matrix trilogy. He was portrayed by Hugo Weaving in the original films and voiced by Christopher Corey Smith in the video game The Matrix: Path of Neo. Due to scheduling conflicts, Weaving did not reprise the role in The Matrix Resurrections... read more

What makes him a good one? No, it's not his speed, building jumps, and more. It's the fact that he was a servant who would overthrow his master. He became the big one, stronger in each movie, until he gained the power of the Oracle. He is a reasonable guy who talks with people politely before doing anything. These types of villains are rare, but he increases it.

Smith deserves a top ten spot. The idea behind him is so original. He can leap buildings, dodge every bullet fired at him, and deliver his cryptic, "matrixy" lines so beautifully. 100% of the quotes I cite regularly from this movie come from him in his silky, articulate style. (Do you hear that, Mr. Anderson? That is the sound of inevitability. Goodbye...) Hugo Weaving's best role. Ever.
Pennywise the Clown - It

It (sometimes capitalized as IT), more commonly known as Pennywise the Dancing Clown, is the main antagonist of Stephen King's novel It, as well as its 1990 television miniseries and the 2017 film adaptation. It is a shapeshifting and ancient malevolent entity that is millions, possibly billions, of... read more

He could be the reason that many people are afraid of clowns.

Tim Curry is the perfect Pennywise.
Sauron - The Lord of the Rings Trilogy

Sauron is the title character and main antagonist of J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings. Originally a servant of the first Dark Lord, Morgoth, Sauron rose to power after Morgoth's defeat. He forged the One Ring to dominate Middle-earth but was defeated when the Ring was cut from his finger.... read more

This villain is arguably the most dangerous of all time. Not only did he take down millions in the form of a giant in armor, but he also really presented danger as both a mouth and an eye separately.
He created a ring that drives the bearer mad over it. He proved that only his eye could take down millions. He is also part of the most famous fantasy trilogy of all time, and he can control other people through his eye alone.
Additionally, this villain helped Rowling create Voldemort. J.R.R. Tolkien really knew what he was doing, and Sauron is as dangerous as villains come!

He should be at least 4th, as he is powerful enough to take over the world's most powerful wizard in his bodiless form.
The only way to destroy him is to somehow get hold of the Ring, sneak past 100,000 orcs, and through his all-seeing eye into Mordor, climb up a volcano (through the den of a massive spider), and throw the Ring into the volcano. Don't forget that the Ring maddens you, and Gollum will probably be stalking you.
Stansfield - Léon: The Professional

It was a tough decision between Hans Gruber and Norman Stansfield, but let's face it, Stansfield is so evil he would kill a 12-year-old and her family, and he's supposed to be a cop! Also, he has the BEST quotes ever: "I haven't got TIME for this Mickey Mouse bull***" and "Everyone, EVERYONE!" His love for Mozart is so sinister. Love it!

Gary Oldman is a phenomenal actor and was an outstanding villain in The Professional.
Without him, the movie wouldn't have been so brilliant.

Fantastic. Gary Oldman should have won an Oscar and been knighted for this role alone.
Magneto - X-Men

Magneto is a fictional character in American comic books published by Marvel Comics. He is most often associated with the X‑Men franchise. Magneto is a powerful mutant with the ability to generate and manipulate magnetic fields.

While the psychopath can often be appealing, Magneto is a great villain because he is goal-driven, which is more appealing to me. If you ask me, this is more interesting than some crazy guy (you know they are already going to do something insane).
Instead of being crazy, he is interesting because of his respect for Charles and rivalry with the X-Men. He isn't as iconic as, say, the Joker, but I would say he has a lot more influence every time he appears.
He has tremendous power that beats out every villain listed above him. He's very charismatic, and in every portrayal, he is an easy favorite because he invokes power through his dialogue and mutant ability. When one is able to threaten squads of police with their own bullet with one hand, you know that's a powerful villain. Not to mention, he always looks badass. The Master of Magnetism never fails to impress.
Freddy Krueger - A Nightmare on Elm Street

Fred "Freddy" Krueger is the primary antagonist in the A Nightmare on Elm Street film series. He first appeared in the original film directed by Wes Craven in 1984. Freddy is known for his burned face, red-and-green striped sweater, and his glove with razor-sharp blades.

Freddy actually wore a red and green sweater and invades your dreams. He has a glove with knives on the tips, and he is indeed a great fighter.
Freddy forever.

He has never shown even the slightest of sympathy to his victims. Nobody on this list is as heartless and ruthless as Freddy.
He should be #1.

Nightmare on Elm Street was a hell of a movie for its time. But Freddy was a hell of a character too then.
The Joker - Batman (1989)

Unlike Heath Ledger:
- Joker had a good backstory.
- He was played by a much better and more menacing actor.
- Heath was serious. This one was funny and intimidating.
- He inspired Mark Hamill. Mark Hamill said that Heath was better than him. He wasn't being honest.
- Bob Kane, creator of Batman, actually wanted Jack to portray Joker.
- "Have you ever danced with the devil in the pale moonlight?" This quote means: Have you ever found yourself in a horrifying situation when no one is around to assist?
- Permanent smile. Heath's wounds would disappear over time.
- True to the comic book version.
- He sounds much more evil, rather than crazy, which is already in his personality.
- The only thing that stands up for Ledger is his fans. And seriously, do they think Heath was a better villain than Darth Vader? That's insane and downright stupid.
Hal 9000 - 2001: A Space Odyssey

HAL 9000 is a fictional character in Arthur C. Clarke's Space Odyssey series. First appearing in 2001: A Space Odyssey, HAL is a sentient computer that controls the systems of the Discovery One spacecraft and interacts with the ship's astronaut crew. HAL is known for its calm voice and eventual malfunction... read more

HAL-9000, the smartest and most reliable computer there is. But, what happens when that AI of extraordinary intelligence and power goes paranoid? He loses chess matches, no big deal. He doesn't open the pod bay doors, which is concerning but not too terrifying. Killing all of the crew members except one? Hmm...

I'm sorry, Dave, but I'm afraid I can't let you do that.
Maleficent - Sleeping Beauty

Maleficent is the main antagonist in Disney's 1959 animated feature film Sleeping Beauty. She is an evil fairy and the personification of pure evil, causing misfortune throughout King Stefan's kingdom. Maleficent has since become one of Disney's most iconic villains.

Not my favorite villain, but my favorite Disney villain. She was much better than Scar and cursed a baby because she wasn't invited to a party. That's cruel. I think she should at least be at 11, 12, or 9.
But I do agree that the Joker from The Dark Knight should be number one. He was scary as hell. But Maleficent is truly the mistress of all evil in both the Disney world and the movie world. I think she claimed that title pretty well with her pet raven Diablo and her dragon.
Annie Wilkes - Misery

Anne Marie Wilkes Dugan, usually known as Annie Wilkes, is a character in the 1987 novel Misery by Stephen King. She is a former nurse who holds author Paul Sheldon captive in her home. The character was famously portrayed by Kathy Bates in the 1990 film adaptation, a role that won her an Academy Award... read more
Doc Ock - Spider-Man 2
Norman Bates - Psycho

Norman Bates is a character created by writer Robert Bloch as the main character in his novel Psycho. He was portrayed by Anthony Perkins as the primary antagonist of the 1960 film of the same name, directed by Alfred Hitchcock, and in its sequels. Bates is known for his disturbing psychological complexity... read more

Even if you haven't watched the movie, just look at the pic here. He looks terrifying!

Everyone goes a little mad sometimes.

Nobody can say Hannibal sucked. Darth Vader is awesome. Anton was amazing, and don't even get me started on the Joker.
But I am disappointed Norman isn't higher on the list.
The Jigsaw Killer - Saw

I know Heath Ledger's portrayal in "The Dark Knight" is revered, especially after his untimely death, and I'm aware of the multitude of Star Wars enthusiasts. However, if we're seriously considering this list, then as far as villains go, it is definitely John Kramer from Saw.
John Kramer was undoubtedly the most intelligent, methodical, creative, and manipulative villain - and at times, quite convincing. Watching him speak was pure entertainment. It was remarkable how he convinced so many of his "projects" to side with him, and how he managed to trap every person even remotely connected to him.
His strategy was simple yet effective: he finds a bad guy and traps him. The bad guy's friends find him, and they get trapped. People seeking revenge for their friends get trapped. Cops pursuing John get trapped. And when the Feds come after the cops, they too get trapped. All the while, he was expanding his army using these very individuals.
The disturbing part is his ability to argue, quite convincingly, that he never killed anyone - that they killed themselves. He even boldly states that he "despises murderers." This character is, at best, an avenging angel out to test the innocent and slay the wicked, and at worst, a Charles Manson/Hannibal Lecter hybrid on crack. There's a reason he was featured in seven movies. After watching the third, you begin to grasp the depth of his character and become addicted.
The Terminator (T-800) - The Terminator

I like this take on a machine infiltrating human society and emulating us. Not to mention the constant threat.

He feels no pain, nor remorse, nor fear, and he's unstoppable!
Hans Gruber - Die Hard

Hans Gruber is a fictional character and the main antagonist of the 1988 action film Die Hard, portrayed by Alan Rickman. Gruber is depicted as a sophisticated and ruthless German terrorist leader. The character is widely regarded as one of the greatest movie villains in cinema history.

The way he presents himself in a suit, with no barbaric style, his educated choice of words, and the cruel, merciless head shot. Amazing performance by Alan Rickman with a great character.

Hans Gruber redefined the suave villain. He kept his cool the entire film. Character portrayals changed because of him. One of the best antagonists ever.

A maniacal, psychopathic mastermind, yet he presents himself formally, with suave style. He is evil, yet distinguished.