RANKING: the 53 most terrifying villains in cinema and TV 6v366z

Even though most productions focus on the heroes' journeys, there is no good story without a well-constructed villain. From iconic cruel figures from Brazilian soap operas and classic cartoons to the darkest horror characters, we have organized a complete list in the form of a ranking, starting with the least dark antagonists and ending with the most terrifying villains in cinema and television! 2l6a24

Movie Villains 421o2v

Yzma (The Emperor's New Groove) 2m6i3r

Full of unpredictability and acid humor, yzma (Eartha Kitt) masks an inordinate ambition for power. His elaborate and often bizarre attempts to overthrow kuzko, full of potions and crazy plans, make her a comical but very dangerous threat. 

The egocentric Emperor Kuzco (David Spade) undergoes a comical transformation into a llama by the claws of the Machiavellian yzma. Lost and vulnerable, his only hope of regaining the throne lies with the kind peasant Pacha (John Goodman). From there, this unlikely duo embarks on an adventure full of dangers and misadventures to stop the sinister plans of Yzma and her henchman. Kronk (Patrick Warburton).

Where to see: Disney +

Red Queen (Alice in Wonderland) 5d3s6d

With his impulsive tyranny and propensity for beheadings for minor offenses, the Red Queen (Helena Bonham Carter in live-action) personifies the abuse of absolute power. Her explosive temper and the constant atmosphere of fear she imposes on Wonderland make her a terrifying and memorably frightening villain, even in a fantasy context.

In the version live action, the young woman Alice Kingsleigh (Mia Wasikowska) is taken by a white rabbit to a hole that transports her to the magical and forgotten Wonderland, a place that haunted her childhood dreams. There, she meets fantastic figures like Mad Hatter (Johnny Depp), Red Queen and Cheshire Cat (Stephen Fry), embarking on a surreal adventure to unravel his destiny and return home. 

Where to see: Disney + (1951 drawing) / Disney + (2010 film)

Ursula (The Little Mermaid) 2p51z

Manipulative, Ursula exploits other people's insecurities to get what she wants and sign treacherous contracts. Her cunning nature, combined with her powerful magic and the constant threat of transforming her victims into polyps, makes her one of the greatest villains in cinema.

To win the heart of a human prince, the young mermaid Ariel (Halle Bailey in live-action) makes a risky pact with the fearsome sea witch Ursula (Melissa McCarthy in live-action). In exchange for your beautiful vocal cords, Ariel gains legs and the chance to explore an unknown world. However, this magical deal comes at a dangerous price and a fatal deadline. 

Where to see: Disney + (1989 drawing) / Disney + (2023 film)

Cruella de Vil (101 Dalmatians) 1i3566

The manic obsession of cruella by Dalmatian fur coats makes her one of the greatest villains in cinema, as it highlights her callous, selfish and cruel personality. Her willingness to kidnap and kill innocent puppies, coupled with her sinister flamboyance and shrill laugh, have consecrated her as a popular symbol of villainy.

In the origin film of cruella, the talented and ambitious designer Estella (Emma Stone) dreams of shining in the fashion world and, with her creativity, captures the attention of the powerful Baroness Von Hellman (Emma Thompson). However, this professional relationship triggers a series of surprising revelations about his past. Estella and causes his goal to abruptly change to a thirst for revenge.

In the classic and the 1996 live-action, the stylist Anita (Joely Richardson) and the game creator Roger (Jeff Daniels) fall in love, just like their Dalmatians Pongo e Lost. But general happiness is threatened when the numerous Dalmatian puppies are kidnapped by the extravagant and cruel head of Anita, Cruella De Vil (Glenn Close), obsessed with fulfilling her wish of making a coat out of the dogs' fur. Desperate, Pongo and Perdita lead a thrilling quest to rescue their ninety-nine puppies from the villain's clutches.

Where to see: Disney + (1961 drawing) / Disney + (1996 film) / Disney + (2021 film focused on Cruella)

Miss Trunchbull (Matilda) e4v45

The principal Trunchbull (Pam Ferris) is the embodiment of adult tyranny and the abuse of power against defenseless children. Her physical and psychological brutality, expressed in sadistic assaults and punishments on students, make her a terrifying character who exploits primal childhood fears of oppressive authority figures.

to small Matilda Wormwood (Mara Wilson) is a brilliant child who has been neglected by her eccentric parents, who don't even to enroll her in school. Upon discovering her incredible powers, the girl's life takes a new direction when she finally enters school. In this new environment, she must use her magic to protect her friends from the tyrannical and cruel heistress.

Where to see: Max

Regina George (Mean Girls) 143l4z

Despite her facade of popularity and beauty, Queen George (Rachel McAdams) She is a master of psychological manipulation and social exclusion. Her ability to control and destroy the reputation of her classmates with gossip and intrigue makes her a striking villain, who exploits the insecurities and cruel dynamics of the school environment.

Raised in Africa by researcher parents, the intelligent Cady Heron (Lindsay Lohan) faces a culture shock when she enters American high school. There, she discovers a social ecosystem governed by ruthless popularity rules, resulting in her unexpected infiltration into the exclusive group of “Power Girls”, led by the feared Queen George.

Where to see: Play Market e Paramount + (2004 film) / Netflix (2024 musical film)

Catwoman (Batman Returns) 45q31

A Catwoman (Michelle Pfeiffer) de Batman: The Return is a complex character whose villainy is born of revenge against exploitation and abuse. Her transformation from a downtrodden secretary to a feline anti-heroine with combat skills and a sharp cunning makes her an unpredictable and seductive threat.

Em Gotham City, the millionaire Max Shreck (Christopher Walken) orchestrates a plan to manipulate the city with the help of Penguin (Danny DeVito) that was abandoned in the city hall sewers. To further complicate the life of the Batman (Michael Keaton), the enigmatic appears Cat Woman, a seductive figure with a dangerous dual personality, the result of a traumatic past.

Where to see: Max

Miranda Priestly (The Devil Wears Prada) s2r2n

Every worker's biggest nightmare has a first and last name: Miranda Priestly (Meryl Streep). Cold and calculating, Miranda sets impossible standards in the fashion world. Her sheer power and ability to effortlessly destroy careers make her a feared and respected figure, personifying the subtle and frightening cruelty of the high-pressure professional environment.

in success The devil Wears Prada, Andy (Anne Hathaway) is a young woman who gets a job at the most important fashion magazine in New York. She starts working as an assistant Miranda Priestley, editor-in-chief of the vehicle. Despite the chance that many would dream of getting, soon Andy Le Sauce realize that working with Miranda It is not that simple.

Where to see: Play Market e Disney +

Mother Gothel (Tangled) 461z1m

What makes Mother Gothel (Donna Murphy) One of the best villains in cinema is her capacity for emotional manipulation and her kidnapping of Rapunzel to maintain her own youth. Disguised as a loving mother figure, she isolates and controls the princess, exploiting her fear of the outside world for her own selfish ends, becoming a dark representation of false protection.

The charming thief Flynn Rider (Zachary Levi) seeks refuge in an isolated tower, becoming hostage to the spirited Rapunzel (Mandy Moore), a young woman with long, magical golden hair who has been imprisoned there for years. Desperate for freedom, Rapunzel makes an unusual pact with Flynn, and the duo embarks on a hilarious and exciting adventure into the outside world.

Where to see: Disney +

Dolores Umbridge (Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix) 4pnq

Dolores Umbridge (Imelda Staunton) is one of the most popular villains in the franchise, and for good reason. She terrorizes students with her sweet facade and her oppressive and authoritarian policies at Hogwarts. Her bureaucratic cruelty, expressed in abusive decrees and sadistic punishments, makes her a sadistic villain who exploits institutional power to inflict pain.

After a traumatic summer, Harry Potter (Daniel Radcliffe) returns for a somber fifth year at Hogwarts. Widespread disbelief over the return of Voldemort (Ralph Fiennes) isolates him, while the detestable new teacher Dolores Umbridge establishes an oppressive regime. So, once again alongside friends Ron (Rupert Grint) e Hermione (Emma Watson), he needs to find his own way to fight the approaching darkness.

Where to see: Max

Annie Graham (Hereditary) gm58

The villainous nature of Annie Graham (Toni Collette) consists of her emotional instability and the dark influence she inherits from her family. Struggling with trauma and dark secrets, she becomes an increasingly disturbed and dangerous figure to her own family, resulting in shocking acts of violence under supernatural influence.

After the death of grandmother Ellen (Kathleen Chalfant), bizarre secrets begin to haunt the Graham family, especially their lonely teenage granddaughter, Charlie (Milly Shapiro), for whom the matriarch had a strange obsession. With a growing terror Taking over the house, the family explores darker places to escape the unfortunate fate they inherited

Where to see: Max

Jane Hudson (What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?) 311126

The villainy of Jane Hudson (Bette Davis) manifests itself through her pathological envy and her fascination with maintaining control over her sister Wheat beer. Her mental decay and the acts of psychological and physical cruelty she inflicts on this isolated and dependent woman make her a disturbing figure and a dark portrait of sibling rivalry.

The sisters and former movie stars Blanche Hudson (Joan Crawford), confined to a wheelchair, and unstable “Baby Jane” Hudson live isolated in their decaying mansion. With the dismissal of the last employee, Wheat beer becomes increasingly dependent and vulnerable to the psychological abuse and bizarre behavior of his own sister. 

Where to see: Youtube

Annie Wilkes (Misery) 6e4o3y

Annie wilkes (Kathy Bates) is definitely one of the most terrifying villains in cinema. She is the personification of terror and fanatical obsession that turns into kidnapping and violence. Her unhealthy devotion to her favorite author leads her to unpredictable and dangerous behavior, making her a claustrophobic and threatening figure for her victim who is held captive suffering unimaginable torture.

the movie of Rob reiner is another successful adaptation of one of the books by StephenKing. In it, the successful writer Paul Sheldon (James Caan) suffers a car accident and is rescued by the nurse Annie (Bates), who claims to be his number one fan. She takes him to her isolated home and takes care of his health, but one day she ends up having access to the originals of the writer's next book and discovers that her favorite character will be killed. This revelation causes her unhealthy personality to reveal itself.

Where to see: Prime Video

Marla Grayson (I Care a Lot) 3869d

Marla Grayson (Rosamund Pike) follows another kind of villainous line. She becomes a master at systematically exploiting vulnerable elderly people for financial gain. Her predatory nature and lack of remorse make her a frighteningly realistic modern villain who abuses the legal system for her own ends.

The ambitious legal guardian Marla Grayson built a luxurious life by exploiting the vulnerabilities of wealthy seniors. Certain that she had found her next perfect victim, the seemingly fragile Jennifer Peterson (Dianne Wiest), Marla soon discovers that the lady hides dangerous secrets and powerful connections with the mafioso Roman Lunyov (Peter Dinklage). Trapped in a web of lies and threats, she will need to use all her cunning and coldness to survive a deadly game.

Where to see: Netflix

Elle Driver (Kill Bill vol.2) 4s3f4e

The character Elle Driver (Daryl Hannah) can be considered one of the best villains for her sadistic cruelty and her treacherous nature within the assassin squad. Her lack of scruples, demonstrated in acts of violence and her deadly rivalry with Beatrix Kiddo reinforce her reputation as a good antagonist.

In continuation of the journey of revenge of Bride/Beatrix Kiddo (Uma Thurman), she is taken to Bill (David Carradine), her former master and lover, for a final confrontation. However, when she comes face to face with the traitor, an unexpected revelation awaits her, changing the course of her revenge.

Where to see: Prime Video

Asami Yamazaki (The Litmus Test) 3z321g

In the story, the character Asami Yamazaki (Eihi Shiina) terrorizes her victims with her psychological manipulation and her ability to exploit others' vulnerabilities to win the "game." Her Machiavellian intelligence and the coldness with which she orchestrates events to eliminate her competitors make her a calculating and effective villain.

Em The Litmus Test, a widower follows the advice of a friend and meets several women to try to get rid of the loneliness he was feeling. His plan seems to start working when a beautiful and mysterious woman enters his life, but, little by little, the girl reveals a dangerous side.

Where to watch: currently unavailable

Red (We) 3od49

The character Red (Lupita Nyong'o) plays her villainous role as the leader of the “Shadow Ones,” evil duplicates who emerge from underground to seek revenge on their surface counterparts. Their mysterious nature, the sinister coordination of their group, and the existential threat they pose to society make them deeply disturbing antagonists.

What begins as a drama about a failed family vacation Adelaide (Lupita Nyong'o) e Gabe Wilson (Winston Duke) quickly becomes a nightmare involving doppelgängers and parallel worlds beneath us. Trapped and confronted by their identical copies, the family must fight for survival against their own shadow selves.

Where to see: Netflix e Prime Video

Rose Armitage (Run!) k2l2o

Charismatic and kind at first, Rose Armitage (Allison Williams) She soon sheds this facade and shows herself to be one of the greatest villains in cinema by participating in a racist and bizarre conspiracy that lures victims to a terrible fate.

in the plot, Chris (Daniel Kaluuya) visit his girlfriend's parents, Rose (Allison Williams) over the weekend at a secluded, luxurious property. Initially welcoming, the parents of Rose, Dean (Bradley Whitford) e Missy (Catherine Keener), and his strange friends display disturbing and sinister behavior. 

Where to see: Prime Video, balloon play e Youtube

Bellatrix Lestrange (Harry Potter Saga) 3x5g50

A Bellatrix Lestrange (Helena Bonham Carter) throughout the franchise personifies the fanatical and unhealthy loyalty to Lord Voldemort (Ralph Fiennes), as well as showing a sadistic pleasure in torture and violence. Her mental instability, maniacal laughter, and dark magical abilities make her one of the most dangerous and terrifying Death Eaters.

Where to see: Max

Nurse Ratched (One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest) 6i1s3a

Despite having a series dedicated to the character, the most terrifying version continues to be the Nurse Ratched (Louise Fletcher) of the film. Her psychological manipulation, the prohibition of individuality and the application of brutal “treatments” make her a symbol of dehumanization in the name of order.

In the oppressive environment of a psychiatric hospital, the rebel Randall McMurphy (Jack Nicholson) arrives transferred from prison, bringing with him an indomitable spirit. His presence soon ignites the other patients, inciting a fight for freedom against the tyrannical rules of the nurse Ratched and its employees.

Where to see: Prime Video

Eva Ernst (Grand High Witch) (The Witches' Convention) 6mq1d

Even with a remake made in 2020, it is the Grand Witch de Anjelica huston that causes more fear and terror in anyone who watches the scene of the revelation of her face. Her genocidal plan to turn children into rats and her true monstrous form reveal her as a horrifying threat and a nightmare for childhood.

During a stay in an English hotel with your Grandma Helga (Mai Zetterling), the young man Luke (Jasen Fisher) accidentally discovers a sinister secret coven of witches. Horrified, he hears their diabolical plans to turn all the children in the country into rats. Unmasked by one of the witches, the boy becomes the first test subject for the terrifying magic potion. Now, as a rat, he and his grandmother must find a way to stop this hideous threat before it's too late.

Where to see: AppleTV +

Esther (The Orphan) 5u123e

The childlike and angelic appearance of Esther (Isabelle Fuhrman) hides an adult psychopath with a dark past and violent tendencies. Her ability to manipulate and deceive her adoptive parents leads to acts of brutality towards them and the couple's children, a fact that makes her one of the greatest villains in cinema.

After adopting the lovely Esther, nine years old, Kate (Vera Farmiga) e John Coleman (Peter Sarsgaard) begin to witness disturbing events in their home. Little by little, Cover develops a growing and bizarre conviction that the girl's angelic appearance hides a sinister and evil nature. 

Where to see: Max

Another Mother (Coraline) 4c1t6b

A Another Mother (Teri Hatcher) terrifies Coraline with her facade of perfection and love, which gradually reveals itself to be a sinister prison of control and manipulation. Her empty button eyes and the transformation of the young girl's world into a terrifying trap make her a nightmarish creature who feeds on the souls of children.

Exploring your new home, Coraline (Dakota Fanning) finds a secret door to a seemingly perfect, mirrored world: his “Another Mother” e “Another Father” are attentive, and their wishes come true. Even though they are fascinated by everything, Coraline It doesn't take long for her to realize that something is wrong and discover the sinister truth behind this paradise of buttons in her eyes: her other family wants to keep her locked up forever.

Where to see: Play Market, Prime Video e Youtube

The Wicked Witch of the West (The Wizard of Oz) 6v1m61

A Wicked Witch of the West (Margaret Hamilton) terrorizes everyone with her horrifying appearance, her evil magical powers and her relentless determination to obtain the ruby ​​slippers. Her shrill voice, the flying monkeys at her service and her iconic ending have consecrated her as one of the greatest villains in the history of cinema.

the young Dorothy (Judy Garland) and his faithful little dog Totó are magically transported from Kansas to the vibrant and fantastical land of Oz by a devastating cyclone. On their journey to the glittering Emerald City to find the powerful Wizard of Oz (Frank Morgan), they make friends with one Scarecrow (Ray Bolger) in search of intelligence, a Tin Man (Jack Haley) that yearns for a heart and a The Cowardly Lion (Bert Lahr) who wants to have courage. To have their wishes granted, the Magical sends them on the dangerous mission of capturing the broom of the fearsome Wicked Witch of the West.

Where to see: Max

White Witch (The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe) o6x45

Besides the intimidating appearance, the White Witch (Tilda Swinton) has traits of tyranny and cruelty. Her powerful magic, the transformation of her enemies into stone and her relentless quest for domination of Narnia make her one of the best villains of recent times.

Amid the bombings of World War II London, the brothers pevensie - Lucy (Georgie Henley), Peter (William Moseley), Edmund (Skandar Keynes) to Susan (Anna Popplewell) – are evacuated to a country house. In this place, the curious Lucy discovers a wardrobe that takes her to the magical world of Narnia. Upon returning and convincing her brothers, they the noble lion Aslan (voiced by Liam Neeson) in the epic battle against the tyrannical White Witch, which cast an eternal winter over the enchanted land.

Where to see: Disney +

Margaret White (1976 Carrie) 4v155p

Although the focus is on the history of Carrie, one of the main villains of the plot is her own mother, Margaret White (Piper Laurie), a woman taken by oppressive religious fanaticism who has mental instability, a factor that leads her to psychologically abuse her daughter.

The adaptation of the novel by Stephen King, made by Brian de Palma, is considered a saga of well-justified revenge in the face of a traumatic adolescence. In the plot, Carrie White (Spacek) is a shy and lonely young woman who unleashes her powers when she is humiliated by her schoolmates.

Where to see: Telecine

Amelia (The Babadook) 1g1f1g

Amelia (Essie Davis) is a maternal figure tormented by grief who, as time es, ends up being progressively possessed by an evil entity. The manifestation of the Babadook and the transformation of Amelia into a threatening figure for her own son, they explore the fears of loss, insanity and the destruction of the maternal bond, making her one of the worst villains.

The history of Jennifer kent accompanies Amelia (Essie Davis), a widowed mother, struggling with her son's fear of a storybook character coming to life. The film could easily go down a path full of clichéd and lazy jump scares, but in fact it offers some pretty terrifying scenes that blend in with its take on the burden of single motherhood.

Where to see: MUBI

Jennifer Check (The Girl From Hell) ck12

The seductive beauty of Jennifer Check (Megan Fox) used to attract and devour boys, combined with her supernatural and violent nature, make her a lethal teenage predator for all the boys who cross her path.

After being possessed by a demonic entity, the popular Jennifer Check turns into a seductive and vengeful predator, hunting any and every boy she comes across. While trying to satisfy her hunger with the flesh of her classmates, her best friend, the nerd Needy Lesnicky (Amanda Seyfried), discovers the terrible truth and vows to stop the carnage, whatever the cost.

Where to see: Disney +

Hela (Marvel) 1f1oq

In addition to the destructive attitudes and the abuse of great powers to decimate armies and feed the ambition to retake the throne, the characterization of Cate Blanchett , the Whole It's terrifying, while also being visually stunning. 

After years away, Thor (Chris Hemsworth) returns home and discovers that his father, Odin (Anthony Hopkins), king of Asgard, is missing. Upon finding him, Thor discovers the existence of his older sister, Hela (Cate Blanchett), the powerful goddess of death. With the help of Loki (Tom Hiddleston), he faces Whole, but during the battle, Thor ends up trapped on Sakaar, a planet on the other side of the universe. Now, he must race against time to return to Asgard and prevent Ragnarok, the destruction of his world.

Where to see: Disney + (Thor: Ragnarok)

Phoenix Force (X-Men Franchise) 501e5v

From comics to the screen, the Phoenix Force (Famke Janssen) it manifests itself as a cosmic entity of unlimited power that corrupts its host, Jean gray, transforming her into an uncontrollable destructive force. Her ambivalent nature and the threat of annihilation she poses to the universe make her one of the X-Men's most feared and graphically frightening entities.

Em X-Men: The Last Stand, the promise of a cure for mutations presents mutants with a crucial choice: give up their unique gifts and finally feel like they belong in society as humans, or keep their powers and persist in their status as outcasts.

Where to see: Disney + (X-Men: The Last Stand)

Evil Queen (Snow White) 5t6n1a

In this classic that has had a few reinterpretations along the way, Evil queen continues to be one of the best villains in history. Driven by envy and vanity, she uses her black magic to try to kill her stepdaughter at any cost.

Consumed by envy of the beauty of Snow White, Evil queen orders her death. Upon discovering that the princess has survived and is living in the forest with seven adorable companions, the villain hatches a cruel plan. The naive Snow White falls into her trap and is poisoned, leaving only a fairy tale to save her: the kiss of a charming prince. 

Where to see: Disney + e Prime Video (1937 drawing)

Sylvia Ganush (Drag Me to Hell) 526q2t

The actress Lorna Raver is absolutely terrifying as the villain Sylvia Ganush. With great scenes of jump scare, his bizarre appearance as he pursues the protagonist, creates a growing sense of terror and despair.

In this horror movie, Alison lohman plays Christine brown, a bank employee who had the unfortunate mission of evicting a lady who, surprisingly, carried a supernatural curse. From then on, her life turned upside down, forcing the young woman to fight for her life.

Where to watch: currently unavailable

Mrs. Voorhees (Friday the 13th) 255a59

Although Jason is the most famous villain in the franchise, he has someone he takes after. His mother, Mrs. Voorhees (Betsy Palmer), causes chills as she seeks to punish all those responsible for her son's death. Her fury, combined with the film's plot twist, made her a memorable character.

In Crystal Lake, a murder in the past doesn't stop a group of young counselors from seeking out fun at a summer camp. Ignoring the grim warnings of the locals, they soon discover that the legend is in fact real. A bloodthirsty killer lurks in the shadows, turning what was supposed to be a peaceful vacation into a bloody fight for survival.

Where to see: Max

Mia (The Evil Dead) 3x4b1b

the transformation of Mia (Jane Levy) being possessed by a demonic entity is one of the scariest in cinema. From then on, she becomes one of the best villains by acting in a sadistic and furious way, driven by an evil force to act against her own friends.

In search of sobriety, Mia travels with his brother David (Shiloh Fernandez), his girlfriend Natalie (Elizabeth Blackmore), and friends Olivia (Jessica Lucas) e Eric (Lou Taylor Pucci) to a secluded family cabin. Upon arriving, they find the place strange and a macabre basement, adorned with stuffed animals and an altar containing the sinister Book of the Dead. Reading the book unleashes demonic forces that seek to possess the group, turning the search for redemption into a brutal and bloody fight for survival, where only one will remain to face the horror.

Where to see: Max

Kayako Saeki (The Scream) 492do

Kayako Saeki (Takako Fuji) is a vengeful spirit trapped in a cycle of rage and grief after his brutal death. His distinctive guttural sound and haunting presence curse all who come into with his former home.

In the story, a teacher goes to the house of one of his students after he disappears and ends up coming across the terrible reason for his absence from school.

Where to see: Prime Video

Samara Morgan (The Ring) 1h1448

With a pale appearance, bizarre movements and a dark appearance, Samara Morgan (Daveigh Chase) became one of the most terrifying villains in cinema when she returned through a cursed tape seeking revenge.

The supernatural tale of Gore verbinski is an remake from the 1998 Japanese horror film, Ringu, based on the novel of the same name by Koji Suzuki. The premise remains the same: a journalist investigates the legend of a videotape containing bizarre and cursed images, leading the person to receive a deadly phone call in seven days. Led by a captivating performance by Naomi Watts, the story remains dark and adds many layers of jump scare in the Samara.

Where to see: Play Market

Queen Akasha (Queen of the Damned) 3ig4s

With mesmerizing beauty and supernatural strength, the Queen Akasha (Aaliyah) She is presented as the first vampire and also as one of the best villains. Awakened from a thousand-year sleep, she returns with a thirst for power and the ambition to dominate the world, something that becomes a lethal threat to humanity. 

After the first success Interview with the Vampire, in the 21st century, the iconic vampire Lestat (Stuart Townsend) continues his misadventures and eventually rises to stardom as a captivating rocker. His powerful music echoes around the world, awakening the ancient and fearsome Vampire Queen, Akasha, who chooses him to be her king. Amidst this dark awakening, the beautiful and mortal Jesse Reeves (Marguerite Moreau) also feels irresistibly attracted to Lestat.

Where to see: Max

Ellie (Evil Slayer: The Ascension) 2g2b67

With a frightening demonic transformation and the brutally violent scenes that unfolded from there, Ellie (Alyssa Sutherland) has easily become one of the most terrifying villains in cinema. The possession caused her to become a grotesque creature, making everything turn into a nightmare full of blood and horror for the family.

In the fifth film of the horror franchise Evil Dead, the young woman Beth (Lily Sullivan), tired from the road, pays a visit to her older sister, Ellie, who is raising three children alone in a cramped Los Angeles apartment. The sisters' reunion is interrupted by the discovery of a mysterious book in the bowels of their apartment building. Ellie, which gives rise to flesh-possessing demons and pushes Beth for a primordial battle for survival.

Where to see: Max

TV Villains 6b3e6e

Sue Sylvester (Glee) 6a5mg

Full of sarcasm and strategies to bring down the school choir, Sue Sylvester (Jane Lynch) has proven to be every student's worst nightmare. Her obsession with destroying the dreams of music-loving teenagers is comical, but it leads the character to commit surprisingly cruel acts. 

With great optimism, the professor Will Schuester (Matthew Morrison) takes on the mission of revitalizing the once-glorious Glee Club, the McKinley High School choir, bringing together a group of misfit students like the ambitious Rachel Berry (Lea Michele), the talented Kurt Hummel (Chris Colfer), the nerd Finn Hudson (Cory Monteith) and the cheerleader Quinn Fabray (Dianna Agron). Despite the challenges and obstacles that Sue Sylvester try to put, Will is determined to turn this unlikely choir into a musical success.

Where to see: Disney +

Flora (The Favorite) 5b1pl

At the time of the premiere of The favorite, the public was divided and several theories began, some defending the innocence of Flora (Patricia Pillar), others reinforcing that she was in fact the villain of the story. As the chapters went by, the sweet and wronged way gave way to a psychopathic, manipulative and murderous woman. 

After years in prison for the murder of her former friend's husband Donatela (Claudia Raia), the calculator Flora He leaves determined to prove his innocence and win back his daughter's love. Lara (Mariana Ximenes), which was created by Donate it during all these years. The return of Flora reignites an explosive rivalry between the two women, transforming the lives of Lara at the center of a dispute full of twists and turns.

Where to see: balloon play

Phyllis Schlafly (Mrs America) 216o51

The greatest trait of villainy of Phyllis Schlafly (Cate Blanchett) em mrs america was also the fear of many people. In the fact-based story, Phyllis is an extremely conservative woman who fought against the Equal Rights Amendment. Her influence on American politics and her ability to mobilize opposition to a movement for equality make her a complex and frighteningly effective antagonist.

In the 1970s, the American feminist movement fought fervently for the ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA), seeking constitutional equality for women. However, their efforts ran into an unexpected and powerful conservative protest, led by the charismatic Phyllis Schlafly. 

Where to see: Disney +

Laura (Celebrity) 5g6l6j

Driven by an unhealthy obsession to achieve fame, Laura (Claudia Abreu) She is a woman willing to do anything to achieve it, including manipulating and destroying the lives of other celebrities. Calculating and envious, she soon finds the perfect targets to achieve her goal.

In one of the best Brazilian soap operas, the powerful businesswoman and former model Maria Clara Diniz (Malu Mader) finds himself the target of envy disguised as iration when the cunning Laura approaches, weaving a web of falsehood. Behind compliments and kindness, Laura aims to steal everything that Mary Clare conquered. 

Where to see: balloon play

Victoria Grayson (Revenge) 595z2a

Among the best villains on television is Victoria Grayson (Madeleine Stowe), a shrewd, cold and calculating woman who is capable of orchestrating great intrigues to protect the family's secrets. 

In the luxurious Hamptons, where beauty, wealth and status rule the day, Emily Thorne (Emily VanCamp), a mysterious young woman, infiltrates the local high society with a single goal: to avenge the injustices that destroyed his father years ago. The plot brings dangerous games of seduction, manipulation and shocking revelations, where every glamorous party and every smile hides a web of secrets. 

Where to see: Disney +

Regina Mills / Evil Queen (Once Upon a Time) 1ar5r

On the Serie, Lana parrilla interprets one of the best versions of Evil queen. Just like the classic story, she seeks revenge at any cost against the Snow White and, because of this, it causes pain and suffering wherever it goes. 

Em Once Upon a Time, the peaceful life of Emma Swan (Jennifer Morrison) is turned upside down with the reappearance of Henry Mills (Jared S. Gilmore), the son she abandoned over a decade ago. The boy convinces her that she is the missing daughter of Snow White (Ginnifer Goodwin) and Prince Charming (Josh Dallas), and that the inhabitants of his town are fairy tale characters cursed to live with no memory of their magical past.

Where to see: Disney +

Agatha Harkness (Marvel) 5t9j

Agatha Harkness (Kathryn Hahn) She is extremely manipulative and yet the revelation of her true nature as a powerful witch with ulterior motives always surprises, disappointing everyone around her. Her ability to disguise herself and influence events, resulting in an intense magical confrontation, classifies her as one of the best villains in the series and in Marvel. 

WandaVision combines the style of classic comedies with the Marvel Cinematic Universe to tell the story of Wanda Maximoff (Elizabeth Olsen) e Vision (Paul Bettany), a superhero couple with a perfect life, who begin to suspect that not everything is as it seems. 

Next, in the miniseries Agatha Since Forever, the infamous agatha harkness finds himself powerless after a young man (Joe Locke) a helps him free himself from a twisted spell. She shows interest when he asks to be taken to the legendary Witches Path, a magical route of trials that will reward the surviving witch with what she desires most. Together, Agatha and this mysterious young man gather a desperate coven and set off on the great adventure.

Where to see: WandaVision No. Disney + / Agatha Ever After No. Disney + 

Villanelle (Killing Eve) 5v2aw

Despite being charming and somewhat comical, villanelle (Jodie Comer) has psychopathic traits and unpredictable outbursts of violence. His high intelligence combined with his unhealthy obsession with Eve Polastri, make her a fascinating assassin.

Em Killing Eve: Double Obsession, Eve Polastri (Sandra Oh) is a secret agent who becomes obsessed with capturing Villanelle (Jodie Comer), an enigmatic and relentless assassin. As the hunt intensifies and tensions rise, a dangerous and fascinating relationship between the two develops.

Where to see: Netflixx

Aunt Lydia/Aunt Lydia (The Handmaid's Tale) 1y5i1k

In history, Aunt Lydia (Ann Dowd) ends up becoming a terrifying figure for the Handmaids because of her fanatical devotion to the Gilead regime and her cruel methods of physical and psychological torture for women who dare to rebel. 

The drama series is set in the fictional Gilead, a totalitarian society that dominates the United States. This new city is governed by a fundamentalist regime that sees women as property of the State. Upon observing the drop in the birth rate, the government begins to aim to repopulate society. In other words, the few fertile women who still exist are forced to sexually serve the families they are resigned to. June Osborne (Elizabeth Moss) is one of them – who eventually rebels and with great determination seeks to escape from that unhealthy environment, going in search of the daughter who was taken from her.

Where to see: Paramount +

Odete Roitman (Anything Goes) 4e2l4m

In the first version of Vale Tudo, the iconic Odette Roitman (Beatriz Segall) She terrorized everyone around her with arrogance, prejudice and cruelty reinforced by elitism. Her declared antipathy towards the working class and her manipulative actions made her one of the greatest villains in Brazilian history.

The honest and hardworking Rachel Accioli (Regina Duarte) sees his world fall apart when his ambitious daughter, Mary of Fatima (Gloria Pires), sells the family home and flees with the money to Rio de Janeiro, seeking social advancement at any cost. Raquel, in turn, goes after her daughter and meets Ivan Meireles (Antonio Fagundes), with whom she falls in love. To earn a living, she starts selling sandwiches on the beach. While her mother struggles to survive, Maria Fatima allies with Caesar (Carlos Alberto Riccelli), a bad character who encourages her to seduce the millionaire Afonso Roitman (Cassio Gabus Mendes), son of the powerful businesswoman Odette Roitman.

Where to see: balloon play

Carminha (Brazil Avenue) 1n414d

Em Brazil Avenue, Carminha (Adriana Esteves) has a history of villainy marked by blows, betrayals, murders and even mistreatment of his own daughter, in addition to Rita. All of this made her one of the most memorable antagonists in Brazilian soap operas.

Rejected and left to die in a dump by her cruel stepmother Carminha, the little Rita (Mel Maia) grows up thirsty for revenge. Years later, under the identity of Nina (Debora Falabella), she returns to execute her meticulously planned objective against the woman who destroyed her childhood. However, fate plays a trick on her by placing in her path Jorginho (Cauã Reymond), his great love from the past and, ironically, son of Carminha. Torn between love and the thirst for revenge, Nina will have to make choices that will change the course of their lives forever.

Where to see: balloon play

Nazaré Tedesco (Lady of Destiny) 5t504t

A Nazareth Tedesco (Renata Sorrah) is one of the best villains in Brazilian soap operas, loved and hated to this day. Her ability to alternate between moments of apparent normality and outbursts of rage, added to her lack of remorse, acid humor and her Machiavellian plans, make her an iconic and frighteningly charismatic villain.

In this emblematic novel, Mary of Carmel (Susana Vieira) She is a strong and hard-working woman from the Northeast who has succeeded in life and raised her five children with determination. However, her heart carries the pain of a loss: the kidnapping of her daughter. Lindalva (Carolina Dieckmann), still a baby. Years later, the woman continues tirelessly in her search for her missing daughter, facing challenges and twists and turns on her journey to finally reunite her family.

Where to see: balloon play

Serena Joy Waterford (The Handmaid's Tale) w2t1z

Considered one of the best villains, Serena Joy Waterford (Yvonne Strahovski) was one of the minds behind the oppressive regime of Gilead, even though she was visibly one of the victims, since this government's principle is to demean women. Her hypocrisy, her search for validation within a system that subjugates her, and her psychological cruelty inflicted on the handmaids make her a complex and, at the same time, disturbingly cold figure.

In the plot, the series is set in the fictional Gilead, a totalitarian society that dominates the United States. This new city is governed by a fundamentalist regime that sees women as property of the State. Upon observing the drop in the birth rate, this government begins to aim to repopulate society. In other words, the few fertile women that still exist are forced to sexually serve the families to which they are resigned. June Osborne (Elizabeth Moss) is one of them – who eventually rebels and with great determination seeks to escape from that unhealthy environment, going in search of the daughter who was taken from her.

Where to see: Paramount +

Cersei Lannister (Game of Thrones) 2f184d

One of the most Machiavellian minds on television, Cersei Lannister (Lena Headey) manages to captivate and at the same time provoke hatred in those who watch Game of Thrones. Her obsessive love for her children, her thirst for power and her complex relationship with her brother make her capable of anything to achieve her goals. Anything at all.

Based on the bestselling book series by George RR Martin, Game of Thrones portrays two powerful families, the Stark and the Lannister, in a grand battle for power over the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros and to take the coveted Iron Throne. In the midst of this dispute, many heads roll, many characters appear and a common enemy promises to end it all.

Where to see: Max

Tempesta/Stormfront (The Boys) 505d5c

A Stormfront, played by actress Aya Cash, can be considered one of the greatest villains in history for being an extremely racist, xenophobic character with Nazi tendencies. Her sadistic nature, combined with her powers and terrible ideology, show in the series the dangers of extremism and the manipulation of public opinion.

From comics to the big screen, in this completely upside-down fiction series, Earth is inhabited by superheroes who are an inspiration to humanity. However, these protectors have a sinister side that most people are unaware of. If they use their powers for evil, Hughie (Jack Quaid), Billy Butcher (Karl Urban), French (Tomer Capone) and the rest of the team must stop them.

Where to see: Prime Video

And what about you? Who is your favorite villain from movies and TV? Tell us about it. Comment!

See also other features 

The 100 best horror movies of all time

The best movies about revenge

Text revised by Alexandre Marques in 13 / 05 / 2025.

Sources: Vogue, Collider e Glamour