Movies often portray villains as purely evil, but sometimes, their motivations are so compelling that we find ourselves questioning who the real ‘bad guys’ are. Here are ten movie villains who, in a surprising twist, arguably deserved to win.
The EPA from Ghostbusters
In Ghostbusters, the EPA, represented by Walter Peck, is seen as an antagonist for wanting to inspect the Ghostbusters’ hazardous waste storage. However, Peck’s concerns were valid. The Ghostbusters were handling dangerous technology without proper safety measures. As Egon himself admits, their equipment was incredibly risky. Peck was simply trying to ensure public safety, making him a reasonable, albeit disliked, figure.
Tony Perkis from Heavyweights
Tony Perkis, the fitness guru in Heavyweights, is portrayed as the villain for making overweight kids exercise and eat healthily. While his methods were extreme, his intentions were noble. He was trying to improve the health and lives of these children. The campers even torture him, which makes his outrage seem justified.
Ultron from Avengers: Age of Ultron
Ultron’s plan to wipe out humanity in Avengers: Age of Ultron was extreme, but his goal was to protect the Earth from future threats, including the Infinity Stones’ war. Had Ultron succeeded, he might have created a powerful, self-sufficient society capable of defending itself against Thanos. His victory could have led to a stronger, more prepared Earth.
Jurassic Park from Jurassic Park
The true villain in Jurassic Park isn’t the dinosaurs but human hubris. John Hammond’s dream of bringing dinosaurs back to life could have revolutionized entertainment and science. The park’s potential benefits to genetics and scientific advancement were enormous. Only human error sabotaged the plan. With proper management, Hammond’s vision could have made the world a better place.
The Replicants from Blade Runner
In Blade Runner, Replicants are advanced androids used for slave labor. They possess human-like intelligence and emotions, yet they are hunted and executed for seeking freedom. Sympathizing with the slave-catchers, or Blade Runners, seems morally questionable. The Replicants’ fight for basic rights makes them sympathetic figures who arguably deserve their freedom.
Killmonger from Black Panther
Erik Killmonger in Black Panther aimed to use Wakanda’s technology to help disadvantaged people worldwide. While his methods were violent, his goal to end global inequality was admirable. If he had won, his actions could have led to massive technological advancements and the alleviation of suffering on a global scale.
The White Walkers from Game of Thrones
The White Walkers in Game of Thrones are typically seen as the ultimate evil. However, they also demonstrate a unique form of harmony and purpose. Unlike the infighting and selfish nature of humans in Westeros, the White Walkers act in unison. Their victory might have established a more ordered, if cold, society.
Gollum from Lord of the Rings
Gollum’s story in Lord of the Rings presents a curious case. For centuries, he possessed the Ring, and Sauron remained hidden. It was only after Bilbo stole the Ring that the War of the Ring began. Had Gollum retrieved the Ring, it might have stayed hidden, preventing the widespread conflict and saving countless lives.
The Director from Cabin in the Woods
In The Cabin in the Woods, the Facility sacrifices teenagers to appease ancient gods and prevent the end of the world. While their actions are horrific, their intentions are to save humanity. The film’s climax shows that disrupting this ritual leads to global destruction, suggesting that the Director’s actions, however cruel, were necessary.
Everyone but the X-Men From X-Men
The X-Men, with their immense powers, pose a potential threat to society in X-Men. Senator Kelley’s concerns about unregulated mutants are valid. The potential for misuse of their abilities is significant. Characters like Magneto and Xavier possess powers that could easily be used for destructive purposes. A world dealing with the mutant problem might be more secure.
These villains challenge our perceptions of good and evil, prompting us to reconsider the complexities of their actions. Sometimes, the line between hero and villain isn’t as clear as we think.
Which of these villains do you think should have won? Leave your comment below!
