1. The Mummy 2017，IMDB Rating: 5.4, IMDB Votes: 208233, ID: 2345759 Photo by blogspot.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 In ‘The Mummy’ (2017), Princess Ahmanet harbored an ambitious plan to use Nick Morton as a vessel for Set and seize global control, a scheme that came perilously close to fruition, though the film itself faced criticism for its derivative nature and reliance on star power, despite its intriguing villainous plot.
2. The Nice Guys 2016，IMDB Rating: 7.4, IMDB Votes: 379236, ID: 3799694 Photo by newsfilter.gr, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 In ‘The Nice Guys’ (2016), John Boy’s plan to eliminate all witnesses and retrieve a damning film was clever but ultimately failed due to the protagonists’ resilience. The film’s blend of comedy and action, along with strong performances by Russell Crowe and Ryan Gosling, made it an entertaining watch. The villain’s plan, while well-conceived, was thwarted by the unlikely duo’s determination.
3. The Night Manager 2016，IMDB Rating: 8.0, IMDB Votes: 105008, ID: 1399664 Photo by bandadicefali.it, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Richard Roper’s formidable arms-dealing empire in ‘The Night Manager’ (2016) was nearly unbreachable, but Jonathan Pine’s determined infiltration exposed his illicit operations, leading to the series’ acclaim for its captivating cast, including Tom Hiddleston and Hugh Laurie, and its gripping narrative that showcased Roper’s intricate plan.
4. The Nutcracker and the Four Realms 2018，IMDB Rating: 5.6, IMDB Votes: 37677, ID: 5523010 Photo by wovenbywords.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Sugar Plum Fairy’s devious scheme to conquer the Four Realms in ‘The Nutcracker and the Four Realms’ (2018) was ultimately thwarted by Clara and her companions, with the film’s stunning visuals praised despite its plot’s perceived lack of depth, though the villain’s cunning strategy remained a compelling element.
5. The Other Woman 2014，IMDB Rating: 6.0, IMDB Votes: 151000, ID: 2203939 Photo by popkult.blog.hu, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 In ‘The Other Woman’ (2014), Mark King’s elaborate ploy to embezzle funds and falsely accuse his wife was cleverly devised but ultimately unraveled by the collective power of his betrayed lovers, a narrative boosted by the film’s comedic flair and strong performances from Cameron Diaz, Leslie Mann, and Kate Upton.
6. The Peanuts Movie 2015，IMDB Rating: 7.0, IMDB Votes: 50160, ID: 2452042 Photo by blogspot.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Peanuts Movie brings the beloved characters of Charles M. Schulz to life with a nostalgic charm that appeals to both old and new fans. The film’s villain, the Red Baron, is a classic antagonist whose plan to defeat Snoopy adds a layer of excitement to the story. Despite its adherence to the original comic strip’s innocence, the movie’s lack of innovation might leave some viewers wanting more. However, its heartwarming message and delightful animation make it a joy to watch.
7. The Perks of Being a Wallflower 2012，IMDB Rating: 7.9, IMDB Votes: 553143, ID: 1659337 Photo by blogspot.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 While ‘The Perks of Being a Wallflower’ doesn’t present a conventional antagonist, its poignant coming-of-age narrative masterfully explores the profound internal struggles of adolescence, trauma, and healing, making these personal battles the film’s primary source of conflict and emotional resonance.
8. The Place Beyond the Pines 2012，IMDB Rating: 7.3, IMDB Votes: 292796, ID: 1817273 Photo by blogspot.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 ‘The Place Beyond the Pines’ immerses viewers in a powerful drama examining fatherhood, enduring legacies, and the unavoidable repercussions of one’s choices, with its darker elements personified by corrupt law enforcement and the moral tightropes characters walk.
9. The Post 2017，IMDB Rating: 7.2, IMDB Votes: 163662, ID: 6294822 Photo by oldaintdead.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Post is a riveting historical drama that highlights the importance of press freedom and the courage of journalists. The film’s antagonist is the oppressive government trying to suppress the truth about the Vietnam War. Meryl Streep and Tom Hanks deliver outstanding performances, bringing depth to their characters. The movie’s timely themes and Spielberg’s masterful direction make it a powerful and inspiring watch.
10. The Princess and the Frog 2009，IMDB Rating: 7.2, IMDB Votes: 169436, ID: 0780521 Photo by Wikipedia, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Princess and the Frog is a delightful animated film that brings a fresh twist to the classic fairy tale. Dr. Facilier, the Shadow Man, is a captivating villain whose plan to rule New Orleans with dark magic adds a thrilling element to the story. The film’s vibrant animation, memorable songs, and strong moral lessons make it a standout in Disney’s repertoire. Its celebration of love, friendship, and perseverance is truly heartwarming.
11. The Proposal 2009，IMDB Rating: 6.8, IMDB Votes: 365815, ID: 1041829 Photo by leitalk.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 In ‘The Proposal,’ Margaret Tate orchestrates a high-stakes ruse, coercing her assistant Andrew Paxton into a sham marriage to evade deportation, a plan fueled by desperation and ambition that could have succeeded were it not for the unforeseen emotional entanglements and family dynamics that ultimately unraveled it.
12. The Purge 2013，IMDB Rating: 5.7, IMDB Votes: 242284, ID: 2184339 Photo by blogspot.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 ‘The Purge’ plunges into a chillingly conceivable dystopian future with its annual 12-hour event legalizing all crime, a controversial government strategy designed to curb crime rates and manage population, a concept that is both terrifying and profoundly thought-provoking, pushing the boundaries of morality.
13. The Queen 2006，IMDB Rating: 7.3, IMDB Votes: 116369, ID: 0436697 Photo by Wikipedia, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 ‘The Queen’ delves into the aftermath of Princess Diana’s death, highlighting the royal family’s struggle to maintain their image amidst public outcry. The film’s portrayal of Queen Elizabeth II’s calculated and restrained response to the crisis showcases a different kind of villain plan, one rooted in tradition and duty. Helen Mirren’s outstanding performance brings depth and nuance to the character, making the film a poignant exploration of leadership and legacy.
14. The Secret Life of Walter Mitty 2013，IMDB Rating: 7.3, IMDB Votes: 344327, ID: 0359950 Photo by blogspot.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 In ‘The Secret Life of Walter Mitty,’ the protagonist’s real-life quest for a missing photo negative, driven by a desire for adventure, becomes the central focus, with abstract antagonists represented by an oppressive corporate environment and subtle sabotage attempts, all leading to an inspiring journey of self-discovery.
15. The Shining 1980，IMDB Rating: 8.4, IMDB Votes: 1119578, ID: 0081505 Photo by blogspot.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Stanley Kubrick’s ‘The Shining’ masterfully crafts one of horror’s most iconic villainous plots, where the malevolent influence of the Overlook Hotel gradually drives Jack Torrance to a terrifying descent into madness and violence, leaving an indelible mark on cinematic history.
Unveiling the Masterminds: 15 Films Where Villainous Plans Almost Succeeded
