The protagonists dominate the plot, but the antagonist makes it memorable. 2024 was a special year as we saw filmmakers getting creative with the villains in the film and making them more terrifying than ever. As the year ends, let’s remember and celebrate some of the most hair-raising villains who left a mark on our minds during this big screen year. From his cunning mentality to his cruel actions, he terrified the audience this year.
Top 10 Unforgettable Villains of 2024
1. Satan in R. Madhavan (Vanraj Kashyap)
R Madhavan, who has always impressed us with his acting, enthralled us by playing the role of a Tantrik in Shaitan in 2024. His role was horrifying, cruel and dangerous; He was clearly more powerful than the hero during most of the film. He infiltrates Ajay Devgan’s family home and uses their daughter as a pawn to carry out his cunning plans, and his well-intentioned behavior proves his versatility.
2. Aditya Srivastava in Bhaskar
Aditya Srivastava did a brilliant job in Bhashak. He is a dangerous and calculating villain. He plays the role of Bansi Sahu, the owner of a girls’ home in Bihar. But, under this pretext, he is responsible for their sexual exploitation. He leaves a lasting impression whenever he comes on screen, proving why he is one of the most underrated actors in the industry.
3. Arjun Kapoor in Singham Again
Arjun Kapoor as the villain in Singham Again was definitely the biggest surprise. He plays the role of Danger Lanka, a modern Ravana in the cop-drama film that redefines on-screen villainy. From his hair-raising entry to his terrifying looks and attention-grabbing presence, he scares the audience. He is tough enough to take on the tough cops and has a cool demeanor, which makes him the perfect opponent for Ajay Devgan’s Singham.
4. Vikrant Massey in Sector 36
The audience has praised Vikrant Massey as a hero who fights against all evil odds. But, he shocked fans with his role as a cannibalistic, necrophiliac serial killer in Sector 36. The film is based on the Nithari murder case, and Massey, as a cool but terrifying dark villain, sends shivers down the audience’s spine.
5. Slide into woman 2
One of the most talked about villains in 2024 was Sarkata in Stree 2. He was portrayed by actor Sunil Kumar, and was created with CGI to make him more terrifying for the film. He plays the role of a demonic spirit with a severed head who abducts women in Chanderi and holds them hostage. This film is a perfect combination of horror and comedy. Additionally, Sarkata’s terrifying design and horrifying visuals make him an exceptional villain.
6. Jaideep Ahlawat in Maharaj
Jaideep Ahlawat proved his versatility and surprised us with his role as Jadunath Maharaj in Maharaj. He is a cunning spiritual leader who exploits his devotees in the name of spirituality for his own benefit. The actor brings a cool but intimidating presence to the role. He is both a frightening and thought-provoking villain in 2024.
7. Gulshan Devaiah in Ulaj
Gulshan Devaiah was introduced as a Michelin star chef, later revealed to be an ISI agent in Ulaz. His goodness is all deceit, and he starts blackmailing Suhana Bhatia in the film. Devaiah’s transformation from chef to terrorist keeps the audience on the edge of their seats, making him one of the most interesting villains of the year.
8. Jason Shah in Heeramandi
There were many gray characters in Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar, but Jason Shah was the ruthless villain in the show and he impressed us with his performance. He plays Alistair Cartwright, a British police officer with dangerous plans. He tricks Sonakshi Sinha and hatches a conspiracy against Mallikajan and her close ones. He is a dangerous, complex and unpredictable villain who adds more mystery and darkness to the historical drama show.
9. Raghav Juyal in Kill
Raghav has already made fans laugh with his infectious humor and entertained with his dancing skills. But he went back to the right side and stole the show as a blood-thirsty bandit in Kill. He played the role of Fani, a ruthless bandit who is the last person to care about feelings and emotions. Faani is mostly seen in his true incarnation covered in blood after harming others.
10. Sunny Kaushal again in Haseen Dilruba
Who knew that Madhur Abhimanyu played by Sunny Kaushal would turn into a psychopath? He is introduced as a gentleman who grows up for the queen. As the layers are revealed, he is exposed as a psychopath. The performance was exciting and suspenseful, which later added much-needed interest to Rani and Rishu’s story.
Which villain scared you the most in 2024? Let us know in the comments!