The greatest movie villains of all time

Throughout movie history, we've loved heroes who defeat devious and ruthless villains. These heroes have captured our hearts and adoration for generations. That being said, they wouldn't have been so loved if the villains they defeated weren't so evil! Think of how sweet Harry Potter's triumph was over the ever-present Voldemort or the demons Batman had to overcome when facing the unforgettable Joker. Heroes, while made valiant by their actions, have their villain counterparts to thank for their fame.

Click through this gallery to see which of the bad guys have earned a place in our hearts (and nightmares). 

Thanos ('Avengers' films, 2015-2018)

A villain with a twisted sense of mercy, Josh Brolin's Thanos seeks to balance the universe, demonstrating that he's not just a physical threat but a philosophical one.

Kylo Ren ('Star Wars: The Force Awakens,' 2015)

Adam Driver presents a complex character torn between the dark side and the light, making Kylo Ren a fascinating study of conflicted villainy.

Anton Chigurh ('No Country for Old Men,' 2007)

Javier Bardem's portrayal of this emotionless killer, with his bizarre moral code and terrifying calmness, redefined what we expect from movie villains.

Javier Rodriguez ('Traffic,' 2000)

Benicio Del Toro plays a complex character embroiled in the drug war, blurring the lines between right and wrong, and showcasing the human side of the conflict.

Miranda Priestly ('The Devil Wears Prada,' 2006)

Meryl Streep's turn as the icy, demanding fashion magazine editor illustrates a different kind of villainy, one laced with elegance and cutting criticism.

Jean-Baptiste Grenouille ('Perfume: The Story of a Murderer,' 2006)

Ben Whishaw plays a perfumer with a unique talent and a disturbing obsession, leading him down a dark path of murder in his quest to create the perfect scent.

Loki (MCU, 2011-2023)

Tom Hiddleston brings a charismatic and sometimes sympathetic depth to Loki, the god of mischief. His journey from villain to antihero across the Marvel Cinematic Universe has made him a fan favorite.

Terence Fletcher ('Whiplash,' 2014)

J.K. Simmons's Oscar-winning role as the abusive, perfection-seeking music instructor illustrates a different kind of villainy, one that pushes boundaries in the pursuit of greatness.

Lotso ('Toy Story 3,' 2010)

Ned Beatty voices the seemingly sweet but deeply bitter and manipulative stuffed bear who rules Sunnyside Daycare with an iron fist, showing that villains can come in the most unexpected forms.

Bellatrix Lestrange ('Harry Potter' films, 2007-2011)

Helena Bonham Carter's portrayal of the sadistic and fiercely loyal Death Eater brought to life one of the 'Harry Potter' series' most memorable and deranged antagonists.

Hans Landa ('Inglourious Basterds,' 2009)

Christoph Waltz's performance as the cunning and multilingual SS officer, whose charm is as disarming as his ruthlessness, earned him an Oscar and made Landa an unforgettable antagonist.

Vulture ('Spider-Man: Homecoming,' 2017)

Michael Keaton brings depth to Adrian Toomes/Vulture, a villain with understandable motivations turned dangerous antagonist, highlighting the consequences of socioeconomic disparities.

Ego ('Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2,' 2017)

Kurt Russell plays the celestial being with a god complex, whose plans for the universe conflict with his son, Peter Quill. Ego's charismatic facade and paternal bond make his betrayal all the more shocking.

Richmond Valentine ('Kingsman: The Secret Service,' 2014)

Samuel L. Jackson plays a tech billionaire with a twisted plan to solve climate change through mass genocide, combining humor with a deadly serious intention, making Valentine a uniquely memorable villain.