9 Villains Who See Themselves as Heroes

The Misunderstood Villains

In the realm of comic book movies, there exists a fascinating dynamic where some villains perceive themselves as the saviors rather than the antagonists. These complex characters operate under the conviction that their actions are righteous and necessary, blurring the lines between heroism and villainy.

Arthur Fleck forcing a smile in Joker

While traditional heroes adhere to moral codes and ethical standards, these villains justify their deeds by believing that the outcomes they seek are for the greater good. Let's delve into the minds of 9 villains who see themselves as the heroes of their own narratives, challenging the conventional notions of good and evil in the cinematic universe.

Joaquin Phoenix as Arthur Fleck Dancing Down Stairs In Joker

Arthur Fleck's Revolutionary Vision

At the forefront is Arthur Fleck, portrayed in the compelling film 'Joker.' This enigmatic character, a struggling comedian in the bleak Gotham City, envisions societal change through radical means. Despite his descent into darkness, Arthur perceives himself as a revolutionary force, sparking a dialogue on the blurred boundaries between heroism and villainy.

Joaquin Phoenix as Arthur Fleck laughing on the bus in Joker

Lex Luthor's Perceived Threat

Enter Lex Luthor, a formidable figure who views Superman as a peril to humanity in 'Batman V Superman: Dawn Of Justice.' His relentless pursuit to safeguard the world from alien influence casts him as a hero in his own narrative, showcasing the complexity of motives that drive his actions.

Lex Luthor looking at Superman in Batman v Superman Dawn of Justice

Zemo's Quest for Justice

In 'Captain America: Civil War,' Baron Zemo embarks on a mission of retribution against the Avengers, holding them accountable for his family's tragedy. Driven by a sense of righteousness, Zemo positions himself as the true hero, challenging the conventional notions of heroism and villainy within the MCU.

Zemo in an airport in Captain America Civil War

General Zod's Noble Intentions

General Zod, as depicted in 'Man Of Steel,' emerges as a conflicted figure striving to protect his people in a hostile world. His belief in salvaging Kryptonian survivors positions him as a hero in his own narrative, contrasting the perceptions of heroism held by Superman and humanity.

Michael Shannon's General Zod looking intensely in Man of Steel

Ozymandias' Vision for Peace

The enigmatic Ozymandias from 'Watchmen' epitomizes the moral ambiguity of a villain with noble aspirations. Driven by a desire for global harmony, Ozymandias justifies his extreme methods as a means to an end, blurring the lines between heroism and villainy in a thought-provoking narrative.

Ozymandias in his costume toasting with a glass of champagne in Watchmen

Killmonger's Quest for Justice

Erik Killmonger, a compelling antagonist in 'Black Panther,' advocates for social change and empowerment through Wakanda's resources. His motives, though noble, lead to a clash with T'Challa, highlighting the complexity of perspectives on heroism and villainy in the MCU.

Michael B Jordan as Killmonger, standing bare-chested and looking menaciningly during a battle

General Ross' Concern for Order

General Thaddeus 'Thunderbolt' Ross, while not a traditional villain, embodies the anti-heroic stance in his quest for control over superpowered individuals. His relentless pursuit of order and regulation positions him as a necessary adversary, challenging the unchecked heroism prevalent in the MCU.

The late William Hurt as General Ross in the MCU

Orm's Environmental Crusade

King Orm of Atlantis, portrayed in 'Aquaman,' wages a war against surface dwellers to avenge the pollution of his underwater kingdom. His claim to the throne and environmental advocacy showcase a villain with a noble cause, blurring the lines between heroism and vengeance in a visually captivating narrative.

Patrick Wilson as Orm the Ocean Master in Aquaman

The Riddler's Justice Campaign

The enigmatic Riddler in 'The Batman' orchestrates a campaign against corruption in Gotham, challenging the city's moral fabric through unconventional means. His quest for justice, albeit twisted, sheds light on the complexities of heroism and villainy in a dark and compelling storyline.

Paul Dano as The Riddler in The Batman.

Thanos' Quest for Balance

Thanos, the formidable antagonist of 'Avengers: Infinity War,' epitomizes a villain convinced of his heroism. Driven by a desire to restore balance to the universe, his genocidal actions pose a moral dilemma, highlighting the thin line between heroism and tyranny in the cosmic narrative of the MCU.

Josh Brolin's Thanos in Avengers: Infinity War looking serious