The 10 best Marvel Cinematic Universe villains, including Galactus

Escape or avoid as you may, here they come – the formidable adversaries of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. And here are our top 10 villains from this epic universe.

[Original: Dread it, run from it, destiny arrives all the same; The Chosen Ones of the Marvel Cinematic Universe arrive – and these are the 10 best villains in the MCU.]
[Source: William Shakespeare, Macbeth]

It’s important to note that not every character they played has been well-received. Characters like Maliketh from Thor: The Dark World, Dar-Benn from The Marvels, and Gravik from Secret Invasion come to mind. I think we can all recall these less favorable roles, can’t we?

As a devoted fan, I must admit that the sheer scale of this series, spanning 37 movies and 16 TV shows, not forgetting the Netflix mini-verse, is truly astounding. Yet, what’s equally impressive is its knack for crafting memorable villains, with several actors who have given unforgettable, even iconic performances that have left a lasting impact on their characters.

In other words, since the Fantastic Four have created yet another formidable adversary, let me list some of the top-tier villains this series is known for.

10. Mysterio

Where they appear: Spider-Man: Far From Home
Played by: Jake Gyllenhaal

One could reasonably harbor some doubts about Mysterio appearing in live-action, given that he’s an expert in visual effects and sports a large fishbowl on his head. After all, there might be concerns over whether he would end up looking excessively awkward or comical.

As a gamer, let me tell you, the Spider-Man: Far From Home movie feels like they’ve plucked Peter Parker right off the pages of my comic books! And Jake Gyllenhaal does an outstanding job bringing Mysterio to life, with a mix of brilliance and deceit that keeps me guessing.

As a die-hard fan, I can’t help but see Tony Stark’s actions in a different light. From what I gather, he allegedly stole the limelight for my friend’s groundbreaking holographic tech. To seek justice and get near Spider-Man, he seems to orchestrate catastrophic events, turning himself into the hero. And let me tell you, in one of the MCU’s most stunning moments, Peter is seen battling his terrifying, ever-changing illusions.

9. Galactus

Where they appear: The Fantastic Four: First Steps
Played by: Ralph Ineson

In contrast to other antagonists in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Galactus stands apart as a being beyond comprehension, as Reed Richards describes him as an “enigma of life.” Even the most malevolent and power-obsessed characters within the series struggle to fathom his existence.

The Silver Surfer cautions, “He holds a power as vital as the stars themselves.” One might contend that the risks associated with his existence are more chilling than when Thanos brandishes an Infinity Gauntlet: should Thanos snap his fingers, half the universe remains intact; yet, if Galactus has his way, no being survives.

Ineson delivers a powerful performance that significantly surpassed the previous portrayal (I can’t help but wonder how they allowed such a misstep in 2007), yet there’s a palpable respect for Jack Kirby’s original work in the on-screen interpretation; towering, terrifying, and subtly cunning (“Clever little creatures,” he remarks when the Fantastic Four attempt to deceive him).

8. Ego

Where they appear: Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2
Played by: Kurt Russell

Kurt Russell is recognized as one of the most charismatic and influential actors ever, and director James Gunn chose him for the role of a powerful Marvel villain named Ego, who happens to be a living planet.

In Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, much like many antagonists, he’s portrayed as a protagonist; specifically, Peter’s cosmic father who yearns for him to appreciate their shared heritage. However, this entails distributing his power throughout the universe and dominating “everything until nothing remains but… me.

Russell gives an outstanding performance, yet Ego is equally chilling as a villain – let’s not forget the emotional impact when he told Peter, “I was sorrowful to implant a tumor into her mind.

7. Adrian Toomes/Vulture

Where they appear: Spider-Man: Homecoming, Morbius
Played by: Michael Keaton

In the aftermath of The Avengers’ battle, Michael Keaton’s character, Vulture, earned a living by scavenging debris from the conflict in New York… until Stark and the authorities seized control of his operation.

As for me, I found myself venturing into the shady business of under-the-table weapon trading. I’m not after global domination; I just see it as a lucrative opportunity to pad my pockets.

In one of the franchise’s most dramatic moments, while transporting Peter and his daughter to a school dance, it suddenly dawns on him who Peter really is. “I’m going to kill you… I’m going to kill you for good.” (This version maintains the original tense and dialogue structure but uses simpler language for easier comprehension.)

From a passionate fan perspective, I’d rather steer clear of discussing the finale of Morbius, a movie that seems to have stumbled slightly when it came to its post-credits scene. It wasn’t exactly what I’d call a Marvel highlight or even one for the history books of cinema.

6. Killmonger

Where they appear: Black Panther, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever
Played by: Michael B. Jordan

Killmonger is frequently characterized as a villain, yet his actions are more heroic than they seem. His ambition lies in distributing Wakanda’s remarkable riches and assets globally, empowering oppressed communities to fight back. This objective appears altruistic, and by the film’s end, T’Challa unveils the nation’s true identity to the world.

Although he raises a valid point, his aggression and anger-fueled perspective make him an intriguing adversary.

This version maintains the original meaning while using a more straightforward and natural style of writing.

Additionally, Michael B. Jordan delivers an outstanding performance, showcasing righteous indignation, aggression, and ultimately, a deeply moving portrayal in the film’s climax.

5. High Evolutionary

Where they appear: Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3
Played by: Chukwudi Iwuji

The High Evolutionary is deeply committed to building a utopian society, where he alters supposedly less advanced lifeforms (such as rodents, pigs, and various animals) through extreme, harsh genetic manipulations to elevate their intelligence.

Instead of other villains, this character is utterly unchangeable. Iwuji portrays him as a detestable, loathsome creature – it’s refreshing to see a villain who isn’t burdened with an overused, monotonous past. Can you guess why he’s so wicked? Simply because he chooses to be.

In a chilling display of fury and grandeur, the character unleashes a terrifying outburst. At one moment, he powerfully declares, “There is no deity; it is there that I took control.” Indeed, he embodies the quintessential antagonist – let us delve deeper into his character.

4. Wilson Fisk/Kingpin

Where they appear: Daredevil, Hawkeye, Echo, Daredevil: Born Again
Played by: Vincent D’Onofrio

Right from the debut of his character in Netflix’s Daredevil, it became evident that Vincent D’Onofrio’s Kingpin stood out as a unique kind of Marvel Cinematic Universe antagonist: cold, reserved, meticulous, yet extraordinarily emotional and consistently imposing.

D’Onofrio is an influential force; whenever he walks into a room, regardless of the project he’s involved with, it changes the dynamic of everything around him. He’s always bubbling beneath the surface, ready to erupt and display his anger in shockingly violent manners; Gallo’s destiny in Born Again is particularly bleak.

It’s hard to describe him in a flattering way. He craves affection yet thrives on the advantage that hatred offers. Although he has the potential for kindness, he seems more drawn to wrongdoings and criminal influence. In essence, he embodies the quintessential low-level villain.

3. Loki

Where they appear: Thor, The Avengers, Thor: The Dark World, Thor: Ragnarok, Avengers: Infinity War, Avengers: Endgame, Loki
Played by: Tom Hiddleston

Following an impressive 17-year run of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, it’s hard to ignore the persuasive case that Loki is among the most outstanding characters across the whole saga – even though he may not hold the title of the finest villain.

His character growth stands out remarkably; he is both a god left without a family and the sibling of an Avenger. Despite causing destruction across various civilizations, he strives to understand his significant role in the cosmos.

At his most malevolent, he brought an extraterrestrial race to Earth with aspirations of ruling our planet. At his finest, he aided in the salvation of the TVA (and all of time itself), even sacrificing himself as the linchpin of the multiverse. Originally portrayed as a villain, he was seduced by goodness; if only his brother could see how far he’s progressed.

2. Thanos

Where they appear: The Avengers, Guardians of the Galaxy, Avengers: Age of Ultron, Avengers: Infinity War, Avengers: Endgame
Played by: Josh Brolin

Long ago, in an era we now fondly recall as the MCU, it was Thanos, the colossal Titan, who yielded the Infinity Gauntlet and became the nemesis that turned half the universe’s population into nothing but stardust.

He could be one of the most formidable villains (“Thanos-like threat” is often used for antagonists these days), and it’s advantageous that he’s portrayed by Josh Brolin, who exudes an eerily captivating menace in every scene; composed, perceptive, even when he appears to be utterly insane.

Despite this, his actions seem to validate his belief: Thanos’ claim that the universe is overburdened and facing starvation isn’t necessarily irrational. Even when he eliminates Spider-Man (an act akin to killing a pet dog on screen), it leaves one questioning… could he have been correct?

1. Kilgrave

Where they appear: Jessica Jones
Played by: Daniel Radcliffe

Kilgrave stands out as the most formidable antagonist within the Marvel Cinematic Universe, primarily because he embodies an unrelenting wickedness that is genuinely chilling.

Drawing inspiration from the character known as Purple Man from the comics, he possesses an extraordinary talent to manipulate people’s thoughts and order them as he pleases. This power emerged following years of ruthless experiments by his parents aimed at treating a neurodegenerative disease, which inexplicably bestowed him with supernatural abilities.

Following a youth spent making endless, childish requests that his parents had to fulfill, he transformed into a malicious, disillusioned grown-up, exerting control over every facet of his existence – extending even to those he cares for deeply, like Jessica Jones.

He carries out actions indifferently, whether it’s for entertainment or due to annoyance; at times, he instructs a person to throw steaming-hot coffee on their face, and he finds humor in the memory of telling another individual to “go to hell.

1. Among Tennant’s roles, this is his most impressive performance yet, and it plunges into realms of darkness that the Marvel Cinematic Universe has previously refrained from exploring. The malevolence displayed by Kilgrave transcends any depth, a trait that cannot be attributed to Thanos.

2. Tennant’s portrayal in this role is undeniably his finest, and it ventures into the MCU’s deepest, darkest corners. Kilgrave’s wickedness surpasses any level of depravity we’ve seen from characters like Thanos.

3. In Tennant’s career, this performance stands out as his best, and it delves into the MCU’s most dismal territory. Kilgrave’s evil exceeds the depths that even Thanos has sunk to.

4. Tennant gives an outstanding performance in this role that takes the MCU to its darkest point yet. The depravity exhibited by Kilgrave surpasses the level of villainy we’ve seen from characters like Thanos.

5. Tennant delivers his top-notch performance in this role, pushing the boundaries of darkness that the MCU has previously avoided. Kilgrave’s wickedness outstrips any depravity we’ve seen in characters such as Thanos.

2025-07-23 12:50