19 most dramatic and over-the-top Disney villains

What makes a Disney villain memorable? Their unapologetic sense of self? Their ability to sing their evil plans? Or their incorrigible flair for drama?

Generally, it’s all three. Firstly, they have to have a distinctive wardrobe. Whether it is a cape, a crown or a strapless black dress that seems to be part of your actual skin, Disney villains are some of the most stylish and striking dressers out there. It does not do to be caught looking less than what you’re worth, and all villains think they are worth everything. You are what you wear.

Second of all, our animated antagonists should have a catchy, belter of a villain song. From The Lion King’s “Be Prepared” to the self-titled “Gaston,” the better your song, the more memorable the villain.

There are caveats to this, as some villains in this list don’t have a song at all, but what they lack in musical drama, they more than make up for in general wildness and theatrics. That brings us to our final point.

Finally, and crucially to this slideshow, all Disney villains must have an unhealthy penchant for drama. Fortunately, this comes naturally to every character on this list, whether they are trying to usurp the throne or get the lead role in their school play.

They risk everything, and frequently lose it, to achieve their goals, no matter how big or small, and how insane the plan is. Nothing will stop them, not least reason and rationality.

Here, we choose to celebrate those dramatic villains. We celebrate the dreamers, the schemers, and the idiots alike. The Disney heroes work hard, but the villains work harder.