“Every coin has two sides.” This well-known saying reminds us that there are always multiple perspectives to consider and different ways to approach any situation. For every positive, there is a negative; for every hero, there is a villain; for every mountain, there is a valley. But can anyone really be completely good or bad? The concept of the anti-hero challenges this notion, suggesting that the lines between heroism and villainy are often blurred. This raises the question, ‘Is it really that easy to side with or align yourself with the villain’s ideology rather than the hero’s without knowing his side of the story?’ In fact, some villains have become so iconic that they have earned their own movies or TV series. Here’s a look at some of the villains who have captivated audiences to the point of becoming the stars of their own stories.
The Wicked Witch of the West
Poster for the musical play “Wicked”
The Wicked Witch of the West is one of the most iconic villains in literary history, first mentioned in L. Frank Baum’s classic novel The Wonderful Wizard of OzIn the book, he is depicted as a powerful and dangerous advisor to Dorothy, but his character is more nuanced and complex than his portrayal in the 1939 film adaptation, where he is more overtly evil and antagonistic.
His iconic look includes a tall black hat, a long black dress, green skin, and a menacing laugh. This image has become synonymous with the character and has been embedded in popular culture for generations.
Gregory Maguire’s 1995 novel Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West, Readers got the chance to reimagine the character’s backstory, including her unlikely friendship with Glinda the Good Witch. This dynamic friendship, filled with jealousy, rivalry, and misunderstanding, adds layers of complexity to both characters, humanizing the Wicked Witch in a way we’ve never seen before.
This reimagining of the Wicked Witch’s story was later brought to the stage in the Tony Award-winning musical “Wicked.” This musical delves even deeper into the complex relationship between the two witches, exploring themes of friendship, identity, and the nature of good and evil.
And now, fans of the Wicked Witch and her story have something new to look forward to as the first part of the big screen adaptation of “Wicked” is set to hit theaters in 2024.
Cruella De Vil
A scene from the animated film “101 Dalmatians”
Cruella de Vil emerged as one of literature’s most notorious villainesses from Dodie Smith’s children’s novels. one hundred and one dalmatians. Her wickedness was later immortalized in the classic animated film “101 Dalmatians,” where she is portrayed as a fashionable but diabolical villainess with her distinctive black and white hair and coat made of Dalmatian fur.
Her name, a clever pun on the words “cruel” and “evil”, perfectly reflects her malicious nature. Cruella’s villainous antics have earned her a spot on the American Film Institute’s list of the 100 Greatest Heroes and Villains.
In the 2021 live-action film “Cruella,” audiences are told an origin story that uncovers Cruella’s past and explores what made her the villain we love to hate. A fun fact: According to a 2002 Forbes article, Cruella is worth $875 million, establishing her as one of the richest fictional female characters.
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Angelina Jolie stars as the villainess “Maleficent” from the 1959 classic film “Sleeping Beauty.” | Photo credit: Gregg Williams/AP
Maleficent, the mysterious fairy first appeared in the 1959 Disney animated film “Sleeping Beauty.” However, her character has deeper roots in Charles Perrault’s fairy tale La Belle Au Bois Dormant (The Beauty Sleeping in the Wood) and the Brothers Grimm Little Briar Rose,
Maleficent is known for her iconic look, which includes her horned headdress, dramatic black and purple costume, and a staff with a glowing green orb. Her character is portrayed as the epitome of evil, who curses Princess Aurora on her 16th birthday because she was not invited to the princess’ christening.
In the 2014 live-action film “Maleficent,” starring Angelina Jolie, the character is reimagined in a more sympathetic light. The film reveals Maleficent’s backstory, portraying her as a misunderstood and wounded character rather than simply evil. This reimagining adds depth to Maleficent’s character, showing viewers that even villains have a story worth telling. Through the film’s narrative, Maleficent transforms from a villain to a tragic anti-heroine, challenging our perceptions and inviting us to see her in a new light.
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Venom in Spider-Man 2 | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
Venom, a symbiotic alien entity, first appeared in the pages of Marvel Comics in 1988. the amazing Spider Man Issue #300. Since then, Venom has become one of Spider-Man’s most formidable adversaries known for his iconic black suit and demonic fanged smile.
In the 2018 film “Venom,” starring Tom Hardy, the character received an exciting reimagining. The film tells the origin story of Eddie Brock, a journalist who becomes bonded with a symbiote, resulting in the creation of Venom. Unlike previous versions, where Venom was portrayed as a purely villainous character, this film shows the complex relationship between Eddie and the symbiote, presenting Venom as an anti-hero with his own sense of morality.
With Tom Hardy’s dynamic performance and cutting-edge CGI effects, “Venom” brought the iconic character to life in a whole new way, thrilling audiences with its action-packed sequences and dark humor.
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Loki (Tom Hiddleston) in the Marvel Studios film LOKI | Photo Credit: Courtesy Marvel Studios
Loki, the Norse god of mischief, has long fascinated audiences with his complex character and cunning schemes. He made his debut in Marvel Comics Mystery Journey (1962). From his very first effort, Loki has been portrayed as a multifaceted personality, often overshadowed by his more virtuous brother, Thor.
With his iconic emerald green costume and golden horned helmet, Loki stands out as a distinct and memorable character in the Marvel universe. However, it is his turbulent relationship with his brother Thor that truly defines him. Often seen as the black sheep of the family, Loki struggles to match his brother’s heroic deeds and legendary reputation.
In the Marvel Cinematic Universe, brilliantly portrayed by Tom Hiddleston, Loki’s dynamic interactions with Thor and his complicated relationship with the Avengers reflect his inner turmoil and desire for acceptance. The 2021 TV series “LOKI” further explores his journey from antagonist to protagonist and appeals to audiences who empathize with his struggles to form his own identity and find a sense of belonging.
Let’s face it, when you have a sibling who can do no wrong, it’s hard to measure up. Loki’s constant quest for validation and identity adds depth to his character, making him one of the most compelling and relatable characters in the Marvel pantheon.
