17 Movies Where the Villain Has a Better Playlist Than the Hero

Villains often overshadow heroes with their charisma and complex motivations. This dominance frequently extends to the soundtrack where antagonists curate superior musical accompaniments. A great villain playlist can elevate a scene from standard action to memorable cinema. The following films feature antagonists who undeniably steal the show with their impeccable taste in music.

‘Reservoir Dogs’ (1992)

Mr. Blonde provides one of the most chilling musical moments in cinema history during a torture scene. He tunes the radio to K-Billy’s Super Sounds of the Seventies and casually dances to Stealers Wheel. The upbeat tempo of the track contrasts sharply with the horrific violence occurring on screen. This specific needle drop creates a disturbing yet unforgettable cinematic experience that defines the character.

‘American Psycho’ (2000)

Patrick Bateman treats his victims to lengthy monologues about his favorite pop songs before striking. He gleefully analyzes the artistic integrity of Huey Lewis and the News while preparing for murder. The absurdity of his critical analysis highlights the complete detachment from his violent actions. His enthusiasm for Phil Collins and Whitney Houston adds a layer of dark humor to the horrific events.

‘A Clockwork Orange’ (1971)

Alex DeLarge holds a deep reverence for the works of Ludwig van Beethoven throughout his violent rampages. The use of the Ninth Symphony accompanies scenes of chaos and forced rehabilitation with unsettling precision. Kubrick synchronizes the classical compositions to the action to create a ballet of destruction. This sophisticated taste in high art contrasts sharply with the barbaric nature of the protagonist.

‘The Silence of the Lambs’ (1991)

Buffalo Bill dances to an obscure track by Q Lazzarus while preening in front of his video camera. The haunting synth melody establishes a bizarre and eerie atmosphere inside his basement dungeon. This moment provides a glimpse into the delusional world the killer has built for himself. The song has since become synonymous with the terrifying character and his transformation rituals.

‘Blue Velvet’ (1986)

Frank Booth is obsessed with the song In Dreams by Roy Orbison and uses it to intimidate his victims. He demands the song be played during tense confrontations to assert his dominance over the room. The crooning ballad takes on a nightmarish quality when paired with his manic behavior. Lynch uses this musical obsession to underline the instability and perversion of the antagonist.

‘Despicable Me 3’ (2017)

Balthazar Bratt is a former child star stuck in the 1980s who utilizes a keytar as a weapon. His heists are choreographed to hits from Michael Jackson and Madonna that perfectly match his retro aesthetic. The infectious energy of these pop anthems makes his villainous acts incredibly entertaining to watch. He uses the power of nostalgia and dance fights to overwhelm his opponents.

‘Megamind’ (2010)

The titular blue villain understands that presentation is the most important part of being a supervillain. He makes his grand entrance to the heavy rock sounds of AC/DC and Guns N’ Roses. These classic rock anthems distinguish him from the polished and predictable hero Metro Man. The soundtrack perfectly captures his desire to be a bad boy with style and flair.

‘Cruella’ (2021)

Estella transforms into the fashion-forward Cruella to the sounds of the British punk rock revolution. The soundtrack features high-energy tracks from The Stooges and Blondie that match her rebellious spirit. Her chaotic fashion shows disrupt the establishment while accompanied by gritty rock and roll. The music emphasizes her transition from an overlooked grifter to a notorious icon.

‘Léon: The Professional’ (1994)

Corrupt DEA agent Norman Stansfield compares his violent raids to the structure of classical overtures. He explicitly mentions his love for Beethoven and Mozart before engaging in brutal shootouts. The character treats violence as an art form that requires the proper musical appreciation. Gary Oldman portrays this musical obsession with a terrifying intensity that steals the movie.

‘The Guest’ (2014)

David introduces the family to his brooding taste in synthwave and goth rock throughout his stay. He hands a mix CD to the son that creates the atmospheric tone for the entire third act. The pulsing electronic beats match the cold and mechanical efficiency of the killer. This soundtrack became a defining element of the film and influenced the genre significantly.

‘Bronson’ (2008)

Charles Bronson narrates his life of incarceration with an eclectic mix of pop and classical music. The soundtrack juxtaposes the brutality of prison brawls with the synth-pop sounds of the Pet Shop Boys. This artistic choice reflects the theatrical way the prisoner views his own legend. The music transforms his violent outbursts into a surreal stage performance.

‘Face/Off’ (1997)

Castor Troy exudes chaotic energy and revels in his villainy with an operatic flair. The scene where he listens to the Hallelujah Chorus while tying his shoes is purely cinematic villainy. He conducts the chaos around him as if he were leading an orchestra of destruction. The grandeur of the music highlights his immense ego and god complex.

‘Shrek 2’ (2004)

The Fairy Godmother delivers the musical highlight of the film with her rendition of Holding Out for a Hero. She commands the stage with a powerful vocal performance while her son attempts to woo the princess. The high-tempo number outshines every other musical moment in the movie including the hero themes. This sequence proves that the villain often has the most show-stopping number.

‘Kill Bill: Vol. 1’ (2003)

Elle Driver whistles a cheerful tune known as Twisted Nerve while walking through a hospital to assassinate a target. The juxtaposition of the innocent melody with her lethal intentions creates immense tension. This auditory cue signals her presence immediately and remains stuck in the head of the viewer. It stands out as one of the most distinct musical motifs in the film.

‘Sonic the Hedgehog’ (2020)

Dr. Robotnik interrupts his pursuit of the blue blur to perform a dance routine inside his mobile lab. He moves to the track Where Evil Grows while his drones continue the hunt on autopilot. The scene showcases the eccentric personality and narcissism of the genius antagonist. This musical interlude gives the character a distinct charm that the heroes lack.

‘Collateral’ (2004)

Vincent introduces the audience to his refined but cold world through smooth jazz and electronic beats. The club scene featuring Paul Oakenfold creates a suffocating atmosphere of inevitable violence. His appreciation for music in the taxi suggests a complexity beneath his profession as a hitman. The soundtrack mirrors his sleek and professional exterior.

‘Natural Born Killers’ (1994)

Mickey and Mallory Knox travel across the country leaving a trail of bodies to a grungy alternative soundtrack. The film utilizes tracks from L7 and Leonard Cohen to reflect their twisted romance and chaotic minds. The music serves as the pulse of their media-fueled rampage through the American heartland. Their playlist feels like a mixtape from hell that perfectly suits their road trip.

Tell us which movie villain you think has the absolute best music taste in the comments.