The Top 10 Animated Disney Villains

While heroes may have more notoriety in a film, everyone knows the real unsung 'hero' is the villain. Without a striking villain, there is little point for the hero to embark on his journey/avenging mission, and you're left with a poor power balance between the two. It comes as little surprise that some of the most recognisable villains originate from Disney films, as their characterisation and persona is distinctive enough to set them aside from the rest; going down as 'classics' of the animated genre. You, yourself have probably tried to rank Disney villains in the past, so it comes as no surprise that this would be our next feature, considering we've covered the Top 10 Disney Villain songs, Disney Princesses, and indeed, Non-Disney Princesses. This post is strictly for animated Disney villains, for our post covering Live Action, watch this space.

10: Doctor Facilier (The Princess & the Frog)

Well, this is one shadow man we don't want to mess with. This kooky, voodoo dabbling fellow will likely swindle you of all your possessions, and even use black magic to curse you - not exactly someone you'd want to hang out with. Dr. Facilier's talent for manipulation, and his opportunistic nature makes him a far more dangerous villain than some other opponents, as you're never quite sure what kind of scheme he is concocting. And well, y'know, he's got friends from "the other side" on his side. Let's just say Facilier is an all round smooth-talking baddie who utilises his charm to his own ends, and we wouldn't want to pay a visit to his particular establishment in any imagined future. 

9: Gaston (Beauty and the Beast)

Hilarious, ridiculous and overwhelmingly egotistical, Gaston is one of those villains who isn't necessarily depicted as such in his appearance. In fact, his muscular stature, affinity to women and his general demeanour screams 'hero' - that is, until he opens his mouth. If you're a book-reading, intelligent mademoiselle like Belle, then you'd better run for the hills because Gaston and his chest hair is coming for you. Whether it's his five dozen egg habit, his spitting or just overall vain and self-centredness that puts us off, Gaston is truly a villain of monumental stature. We certainly wouldn't want to be around him for too long, but he's so ridiculous that it's sort of entertaining to watch from afar - like 3 villages over, perched on a tree up a hill, far. 

8: The Evil Queen (Snow White)

The original Disney villain, the aptly titled "Evil Queen" certainly did have a particular proclivity for heart-carving. But hey, you've got to give her props for looking fabulous while doing so. Look at that cape swishing; girl's got it down. Sadly, the Queen was not content to just live out her life peacefully, so consumed by envy was she, that she pretty much orchestrated her own downfall - but has gone down in history as one of the most memorable animated villains, while also starting off a trend of 'evil mothers in films' that continues to this day. Poor kids. 

7: Maleficent (Sleeping Beauty)

Raven? Check. Glowing staff? Check. Bad-ass horns and on-point eyeshadow? Double check. Maleficent is the type of villain who knows how to make an entrance. Combined with the fact that she can turn herself into a fire-breathing dragon at will, this makes her pretty difficult to beat in battle. And while we're not entirely convinced that Aurora's beau could have slain such a beast (one man vs. dragon? Talk about dead meat), Maleficent did put up a ferocious fight that earns her a place at number 7. And let's face it, if she's good enough for Angelina Jolie and Kristin Bauer van Straten, she's good enough for us. 

6: Jafar (Aladdin)

Jafar is the type of villain that really needs to get a life. As the Royal Vizier, it was pretty much his job to advise, and screw everyone over. With ambitions to become the Sultan himself, Jafar was a manipulative psychopath who seemed to have no qualms with killing off or enslaving anyone who disagreed with him, utilising his serpent staff. There's no much you can say about Jafar except that he's quite similar to Scar in some ways, although the latter is definitely more charismatic; both are savage, though. 

5: Ursula (The Little Mermaid)

As we arrive at the mid-point, we find darling Ursula lurking in her sea-cave, waiting to "help" the miserable, lonely and depressed. If you ever need more of a sign that a person is a villain, and you're apparently as naive as Ariel, just check to see if they've got two eel side-kicks, tentacles and, oh yeah, magical powers. Has this list taught you nothing? Pretty much every villain has magic (Magic comes with a price, dearie!) and none seem to be all too fond of using it for good. Go figure. Ursula was a fairly blunt and sassy villain, even going so far as to pretty much say Ariel shouldn't trust her in a catchy song-and-dance number. Needless to say, Pat Carroll pretty much nailed this role. 

4: Yzma (The Emperor's New Groove)

One of the more forgotten villains, but every bit as deliciously evil as the rest, Yzma is a rare gem of a character. Her sarcasm and wit remain one of the most loveable things about her, especially when you consider her sidekick is the bumbling (but adorable) buffoon, Kronk. Together, the two will rule the land with their spinach puffs! This buddy film featured some of the most hilarious heroes and villains, and Yzma, with all her decrepidness, was the star. Granted, she looks like a resurrected mummy, but this woman has all the observational skills of a keen eagle, and some inspiring, if elaborate plans. And, naturally, she also concocts potions in her spare time - and they're actually successful! Provided you select the right one, of course. 

3: Hades (Hercules)

So who can triumph over all these villains to secure the number 3 spot on our list? Why, the Ruler of the Underworld himself, of course! Hades, however, wouldn't be Hades without James Woods. This quick-talking, sleazy, satanic deity is a rather stark contrast to original greek mythology, but there's something about him that just elevates him above the rest. He's mean, he's ruthless, and extremely temperamental; he's quick-changing fire hair a sign of his disposition. There is however, nothing quite like seeing Hades freak out and destroy things when situations don't go his way, and in this sense, you can draw parallels between Hades and Kylo Ren, although the former is quite clearly more calculative and sinister. Regardless, he remains one of the Top 10 animated villains because of his excellent characterisation, notoriety and swaggy robe. 

2: Scar (The Lion King)

When it came to selecting the top 2, thoroughly difficult decisions were made. But just missing the top mark is Scar, the most ferocious lion you will ever see, whose trademark scar is but an outwards sign of his afflicted nature. Constantly feeling like Lion #2, Scar is every bit as ruthless and sardonic as you'd expect, and harbours deep resentment towards his brother and nephew. But he does make a good villain, so, apples and oranges. Once again, Jeremy Irons really makes this role.

1: Judge Claude Frollo (The Hunchback of Notre Dame)

Coming in at number 1, there aren't quite enough words in the dictionary to categorise how bad Judge Claude Frollo is. The fact that he's a 'judge' and responsible for dishing out justice is deliciously ironic considering he's never seen justice handed to him in his whole life - but this is what the crux of the character is. That, and his religion, which is utterly terrifying, in the way that he manipulates it to suit his own agenda - does that sound familiar? By far, Frollo was the most applicable villain to real life, which is perhaps what makes him so villainous. Hypocritical, spiteful, perverted and homicidal, Frollo really brings the heat to the villain archetype. And, can we just all take a moment to look at how truly scary those eyes are? He looks like he's possessed. Not to mention, before the film even really starts he's already killed 1 person and sentenced another to a life of misery and seclusion with himself, which is quite impressive, really, in a horrific way. Can someone say Hellfire? 

Well, there you have it, our Top 10 Animated Disney Villains list! If you're sad your fav didn't make our list, then check below to see our 5 Honourable Mentions who just missed out on the coveted spots. Happy villain-ing!

5 Honourable Mentions: 

Shan Yu (Mulan)

Mr. Greyscale himself, Shan Yu sent terrified audiences with his steely gaze, whilst simultaneously making viewers jump out of their seats when he burst through the roof of the Emperor's temple in his pursuit of Mulan. 

Captain Hook (Peter Pan)

This swash-buckling scallywag with a hook for a hand is the stuff out of nightmares, so thank goodness he seemed to be an absolute twit when it comes to devising plans. A more comical but still cruel villain.

Mother Gothel (Tangled)

Continuing on the faux-mother figure is Mother Gothel, essentially and old hag posing as a mother who is quite adept to kidnapping. Manipulative to a girl who just wants a family, Mother Gothel is every bit as despicable as you'd imagine.

Cruella De Vil (101 Dalmatians)

Oh Cruella, how we do love you. Sporting the two tone hair long before Melanie Martinez, Cruella knows style and she will have it - even if it means kidnapping 100(+1) dalmatians to get her fur coat of her dreams. While we love fashion, we think this may be a tad bit too extreme for the average person - maybe just buy faux instead, babe?

Lady Tremaine (Cinderella)

The person who everyone knows of but nobody actually remembers her name, Lady Tremaine is once again the figure of Cinderella's anguish, who forever imprisons her inside and treats her like a slave (sounding familiar, Mother Gothel?), but eventually gets her comeuppance. 

Me Before You (2016) Review

"Live boldly. Push yourself. Don't settle."

What’s a pair of actors to do when you’ve got time off from being the Mother of Dragons and recently got devoured/blown to death in The Hunger Games? Why, star in a romantic film opposite each other, of course! Because nothing says romance like carnivorous mutts and homicidal dragons. Yes, Emilia Clarke rides shakily into view in this dramatic film, upon the lap of a wheelchair-bound man (slightly unconventional mode of transport), as she and Sam Claflin attempt to avoid any cobbled paths that might turn this perfectly pleasant piece of cinema into an utter disaster.

Me Before You centres around Louisa Clark (Emilia Clarke), a woman who lives with her family – sister Katrina (Jenna Coleman), mother Josie (Samantha Spiro) and father Bernard (Brendan Coyle). After being fired from her position at a café, she gains employment as a companion for an affluent disabled man, Will Traynor (Sam Claflin), and simultaneously attempts to revitalise his desire to live, through a journey of bizarre extra-curricular activities, one of which includes attending his former girlfriend’s wedding to her new beau. Watching over Will is the rest of the Traynor family, his mum Camilla (Janet McTeer), and his dad Steven (Charles Dance). Also starring is Matthew Lewis as Louisa’s athletic boyfriend, Patrick.

One of the more impressing elements of the film is its dynamic leading duo: Clarke and Claflin. The former flutters onto the screen, bumblebee tights and all, as the colourfully dressed ‘Lou’, a chatty, smiley ex-waitress who is severely unqualified for most jobs. But this beaming butterfly of a character soars in the capable hands of Clarke, who has both the notoriety and screen presence to attract attention, but also the charisma and sheer contagious energy to keep you entertained. In many ways, Clark without an e is perfect for Clarke with an e.

After having starred in romantic novel adaptations like Love, Rosie, Claflin showcases his expertise in the genre by delivering a confident and engaging performance as a complex man who seems to have lost his passion for life. His chemistry with Clarke is undeniable, as the two wheel around, goof off and take in the world together, being rather adorable in the most charming of ways. What starts off as a very simplistic and questionable plot filled with clichés somehow manages to turn into a reasonably satisfying film in their hands, even if it isn’t quite as heart-wrenching and unique as it tries to be.

Unfortunately, as anticipated, the film is disturbingly glossy and somewhat idyllic, with its fair share of plot holes and cringe-inducing moments of utter cliché, and while its impressive cast tries their best to make up for the lack of real substance, they can’t quite melt away the sheen of superficiality that clings to this picture. All the classic tropes are present; the obnoxiously wealthy (but apparently tragically disabled) bachelor, the woman who tries to change him, the loving parents, the boyfriend who isn’t interested and the best friend (or in this case, sister) who is the shoulder to cry on.

But again, the focus is on the actors and their sheer determination to create something from very little – Jenna Coleman is effortlessly endearing as Katrina Clark, whilst Bates (or Brendan Coyle) attempts to fulfil his ‘follow-your-heart’ dad role, and even Matthew Lewis’ obsessive fanaticism with running (which of course, comes with a plethora of running puns) is hilarious in this context, when lined up with Clarke’s Lou who can barely run a few metres in her leprechaun shoes.

However, all of this does not, and could never possibly, detract away attention from the severe lack of depth the entire production has. It’s like a pair of Lou’s shoes; they’re stylish and beautiful – but they can’t be practical for anything too treacherous so best just stick to short, solid ground and not extend the heel (or plot) into anything too abstract. Consequently, Me Before You is a profoundly average film, that aspires to be something more than it is, but never quite ‘gets it’ – even when elevated by more than admirable performances.

Iron Cast - Destiny Soria [Review]

Book: Iron Cast

Author: Destiny Soria

Published: 11th October 2016

Publisher: Amulet Books

Pages: 384
Source: eArc provided by the publisher via NetGalley

Rating: 4/5 stars

When I first heard about this book, I was very intrigued - individuals with a blood disorder that allowed them to create beautiful visions and illusions, or conjure up vivid memories or emotions - I mean, I was sold. I am so happy to report that this book really lived up to my expectations and I enjoyed it immensely.

The novel follows Corinne and Ada, two unlikely best friends, who are diversely different but share the same condition - they are both hemopaths. Hemopaths are those with a blood affliction that gives them the ability to do some truly bizarre things, as previously mentioned, like create illusions, make themselves appear as another person, or trigger memories or emotions. Corinne comes from a wealthy family with a great level of influence, however she does not care for her family's political views and hides her affliction from them, choosing to seek refuge at a hemopaths club in Boston, called The Cast Iron. Corinne is funny, sarcastic, brave, headstrong, and her plans tend to go a little awry. She protests she is not a nice person, but I'd disagree.

Ada does not come from privilege and is shunned by society for her race; she is forced to cover her hair with a scarf to avoid confrontation, and is often looked down upon and segregated. However, she never feels unequal to Corinne and she is most definitely not relegated to a secondary character, this is very much a story about the two girls, together. Despite her hardships, Ada is caring, resourceful, creative, supportive, and a truly great friend.

One of my favourite elements of this book was the friendship between Ada and Corinne. It was beautiful, and touching, and often it is so rare to find a strong relationship between female characters in literature that does not solely center around men, or result in rivalry. Corinne and Ada always had each other's backs and it was fun to watch their adventures together.

Other notable character mentions include Saint, who is another employee of the Cast Iron. His character development throughout the novel excels at a rapid rate and everything I thought about him at the beginning of the story was brought into question by the end. I loved that you couldn't necessarily guess where things were heading, and in the end, he became one of my favourite characters. Another special mention goes to James and Madeleine, who are actors at a nearby theatre; I loved their relationship dynamic (which is not one you might originally think of), and the parts of the book in which they featured were a real highlight.

There are elements of romance in this book, but they are definitely not central to the plot - they act more as an accompaniment, which is much preferred. The pace is good, with an intriguing opening and solid finish, with plenty of didn't-see-it-coming moments, which are sure to keep you turning the pages.

Another strength of this book is the setting - it's very immersive, and quite unique. Boston comes alive with the excellent writing, and the descriptions of the club, it's patrons, and the asylum in particular are very vivid. It's also set in the 1920's (one of my favourite eras in terms of aesthetics), and the atmosphere feels very in keeping with that time period, particularly with the behaviour of the characters, their motivations, and of course, their clothing (Corinne's wardrobe is especially impressive).

Overall, the setting, characters, and the unique premise of this book ties together nicely, and the author delivers a solid and enjoyable read that is suitably engaging and impressive. The illusions and emotions that the hemopaths are able to conjure and create are described with colourful detail and thought, which makes for a truly immersive read that I'm sure most would enjoy.

Independence Day: Resurgence (2016) Review

"They like to get the landmarks." 

Just in case one wasn’t enough, the creative minds behind invasion epic, Independence Day, are back with a new instalment: Independence Day: Resurgence. Directed by Roland Emmerich and set 20 years after the original events, the UN has created the Earth Space Defence (ESD), a type of early warning system, with the base in Area 51, while forces are assembled on the Moon, Mars and Rhea. Jake Morrison (Liam Hemsworth) is a pilot serving in the ESD, whose fiancée is Patricia Whitmore (Maika Monroe), the former First Daughter and skilled aviator. Serving alongside Morrison is Dylan Dubrow-Hiller (Jessie Usher), the stepson of deceased war-hero Steven Hiller (Will Smith), and other pilots, Charlie Ritter (Travis Tope) and Rain Lao (Angelababy), the latter who is the niece of the Chinese Squadron Commander, Jiang Lao (Ng Chin Han). Familiar faces, David Levinson (Jeff Goldblum), Thomas J. Whitmore (Bill Pulman), and Dr. Brakish Okun (Brent Spiner) are back, as the scientist/computer expert, former President and excitable formerly comatose scientist, respectively.

In this war between alien invaders and earthlings, it’s unclear as to what sort of tone the film is going for. The first half of the film is overwhelmingly ‘doomsday’ and severe, but quickly migrates into the galaxy of comedy, with some random ramblings from characters, pointless technical jargon (seems to be a staple of this type of movie) and uneven segments of humour that detract attention away from the clearly colossal devastation the entire world is experiencing. One minute, you’re watching the entire London Bridge come crashing down, killing millions of people, and the next you’re watching Dr. Okun running around without any pants on, spouting intelligible nonsense, doing his best Rick coma awakening impression from The Walking Dead. Even the characters themselves seem to have no idea what direction the movie is going in, so these disastrous images will often be spliced in between scenes of David and Julius having a tiff or moment, or the latter making some school friends and proceeding to lead a bus full of minors into a war zone. Logic; no one’s got any. Even the scene where the alien is chasing after the school bus is so bad, it’s actually hilarious – and once you accept the bizarreness of everything, you might find some enjoyment in this film as a sort of parody of itself.

However, there are certain elements of Resurgence that are unforgiveable: characterisation, for instance. The film does its best to make you feel – in this case, anything – so, for what can only be presumed as dramatic effect, goes to great lengths to kill off family members of main characters in the most ludicrous and haphazard fashions. As if this wasn’t enough, it then proceeds to have the affecting family members spend about 30 seconds looking sad at a photograph and then moving on as if nothing has happened. Usher’s Dylan is a victim of this, alongside Rain and Patricia, although all put in a valiant effort to make their familial losses seem convincing, but they are not given nearly enough material or written dialogue to work with. Ultimately, they are forced to go into Twilight-mode, communicating only in solemn stares, with the occasional solitary tear chucked in for good measure.

Unsurprisingly, Goldblum’s David provides rare moments of joy and actual intrigue, as Goldblum showcases his charismatic ability and commanding screen presence, even when given very little to actually work with. Meanwhile, Liam Hemsworth is actually a rare delightful addition, adding a bit of spark and determination to a film that seems uncharacteristically lazy. Unfortunately, all characters suffer from cheesy, superfluous dialogue that adds nothing to the production other than taking away valuable minutes of your time, and is predictable and inundated with 4th of July puns.

Whilst there are few redeeming factors of the film, it is not wholly ‘average’, and the visual effects and technological advancements are used to the film’s advantage, with space scenes reminiscent of Guardians of the Galaxy or The Force Awakens; you can tell this is where a large amount of the budget has been spent, and it pays off. As monstrous spaceships collide with historical landmarks you can’t help but feel in awe at the mass and craftsmanship of this spectacle, and this may be useful to distract your attention away from the content of the film.

Ultimately, whilst Resurgence isn’t a “bad” film, per se, it’s just unequivocally average, and that’s not something any blockbuster should strive to be, especially when it has such acting talent and financial capital available to it. This film could be considered to be a combination of good movies and styles, if these ‘good films’ were sucked into an alien gravitational field and then the broken, leftover pieces fell back to earth, and were subsequently haphazardly super-glued back together. It’s sort of the same product, though, just poorly made and lacking any of the original’s charm.  

The Top 10 Alison Lines [From Pretty Little Liars]

Alison DiLaurentis. If there's trouble afoot, you can almost guarantee that Alison's involved somehow. Throughout the six seasons Ali has been a prominent feature, and this 'mean girl' knows how to leave a lasting impression. Starting off as Queen Bee who is pretty darn nasty to her so called 'friends', Alison ruled the roost until Mona came along and kicked her abruptly off her spot. Switching from city to city, but never quite venturing far from Rosewood, Alison has had a few personality changes, seemingly abandoning her meaner side for a more sensitive, guilt-ridden one. After all her wrong-doing, Alison seems to regret her past and her interactions with others, but as hard as she tries, she can never really shed that persona that people remember. Things look pretty sticky for the unfortunate Ali in the Seventh Season, and it begs the question as to whether Ali can redeem herself and live a peaceful life - or if her ending will be abrupt (sorry Emison fans). Whatever the case, it's sure to be explosive - and her fierce nature has given her some real classic, immortal lines over the years. You can check out the other editions of this particular 'Top 10' series, here: Hanna Marin // Spencer Hastings // Aria Montgomery // Emily Fields // Mona Vanderwaal.

10: Actual Cannibal Shia LaBeouf

Seriously, when Alison wants to, she can be a real creep. As clever as this line is, damn, I would not want to be walking down an alley late at night with her around. But let's face it, this early Ali rarely did anything for her 'friends' and more for 'herself', but at least now it's a bit mixed. We never can quite tell whose side she's actually on... [Episode 1x12]

9: The Rules of Slender

Everyone knows you never look behind you as quite clearly, there's going to be some sort of mythological creature that's poised to attack you - and if you don't look, it's like it never caught up with you! Ahhh, the blissful land of ignorance. In this case, the mythological creature is A in a red trench coat or black hoodie. You know, whatever's more appropriate for the weather. [Episode 1x08]

8: Who does?

Well, she's got us there. We have no clue who Alison really is and what type of person she is underneath all the snark and manipulation, but um...maybe she's just a good person? We'll leave that one up to you. The irony of this quote is tops, though. A+ for effort. [Episode 4x24]

7: The Old Removable Floorboard Trick

Seriously though, it's always in the creaky floorboard. Or the secret door. Or, if you live in Rosewood, you could just jack-hammer your way through a wall in a remodelled asylum-turned-hotel. Because that works too. Thanks for the idea PLL! [Episode 2x02]

6: Always

Come on, we've all been there. Sometimes you just get those days where you really just don't wanna be 'yourself' and want to live as someone else. And this is certainly the case for Alison, whose alias Vivian Darkbloom confused everyone in the mid seasons. But hey, she's rocking that brunette look. We're tempted to go out and get ourselves a fancy new wig. Because, reasons. [Episode 2x18]

5: A GAme With Multiple Players

One of the few quotes you can really get behind, Ali was bang on point when she uttered this line in Season 2, and it's only gotten more messed up since then. Season 1 & 2 were all fun and games, but from Season 3 onwards it's more like death and destruction. Garrett, Wilden, Jessica, Charlotte, (sort of) Mona - these latter seasons were not messing around. Do they do mass funerals? [Episode 2x24]

4: Alternate Rosewood? We can't imagine 

Ahhh, let's just sit back and imagine what life could have been like in Rosewood if Ali had just been nice to 'Loser Mona' from the get-go. We'd never have the initial A, which means Uber A may never have come to fruition and perhaps we wouldn't have had Big A? Who knows. There's so many A's now, it's difficult to keep track. Well, there would certainly be a higher population, that's for sure. [Episode 4x16]

3: CAndy Stripers

While we're pretty sure lying is what got everyone into this whole big ball of mess in the first place, Ali's commitment to really good lies does have some validity - but it's knowing when to lie that counts in Rosewood. You don't wanna just go wasting them like limited wishes because then when you need to use one, there not gonna be there anymore. Lessons learned people. Side Note: This Candy Striper malarky is like something out of a horror film - I'm picturing big needles and bloody rotten faces - think Walking Dead meets Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. [Episode 1x11]

2: The One Line You'll Remember For Life (And Death)

OK, let's be real - was there any doubt that this would be our golden number 2 line? By far one of the most memorable - and quotable - lines from the entire season HAS to make its way to number 2 for the sheer superiority of it. But hey, immortality isn't everything, as Alison herself has quite dutifully proven. [Episode 1x08]

1: Better Lock it in Your Pocket, Taking This One to the Grave

Taking cue from the novel of its basis, and indeed The Pierces' song, this iconic quote finally found its way into a flashback episode in Season 2 and we couldn't be happier. Everyone get on your best funeral garb and lets all act out the opening sequence together. Ready now? *Got a secret...* [Episode 2x12]

This concludes our PLL Special of Top 10 (Lines Edition), and who better to round it all off than Alison herself? Feel free to check out the other instalments above, and remember to always block anonymous texts. Or, y'know, don't piss so many people off and lie about things. One or the other. But hey, we wouldn't have PLL if everyone told the truth. So um...silver linings? Stay awesome, bitches. -A.

The Top 10 Mona Lines [From Pretty Little Liars]

It's fair to say, it wouldn't be Pretty Little Liars without Mona. Yes, the first and (arguably) the worst A to ever grace our screens (in a good way), Mona Vanderwaal was underestimated by all, and her reveal as A remains one of the most shocking moments in PLL history. 'Loser Mona' proved she was every bit as ruthless and cruelly vindictive as Ali, never missing an opportunity to spy on, and terrorize, the girls in the earlier seasons. She's been institutionalised, almost burnt in a fire, hit by a car, kidnapped, drugged, fake killed and endured her fair share of own psychological torture (irony, much?), and yet, she still remains one of the most enigmatic and sassy characters on the show. Whatever is going on in Rosewood, Mona seems to be the first to know, and she's always waiting to pop up unexpectedly. Whilst her motives are ultimately unknown, Mona is the injection of life that the show vitally needs - because she can play the 'bad guy', even if she isn't. You can check out the other editions of this particular 'Top 10' series, here: Hanna Marin // Spencer Hastings // Aria Montgomery // Emily Fields // Alison DiLaurentis.

10: Whack-A-Mole

"Frankly, I'd like to take that cane and whack her like a pinata." 

Not one to mince her words, Mona is one of the most captivating characters purely because of how blunt she is. You can certainly count on her to say it like it is, especially when she doesn't have to pretend to be something she's not. In this instance, Jenna is (presumably) the target of her anger and pinata-ing is the game. The only visual this conjures up is the image in The Emperor's New Groove where Yzma is getting whacked by children with sticks after being pushed down a hill, and we sort of love it. [Episode 2x23]

9: MeAn Girls

This scene was very 'mean girls' and in this scenario, would Mona be Regina or Cady? We're not quite sure, but we think it's probably the latter - secretly sabotaging her 'besties' efforts. Of course, this is a high level of irony for Mona, as for the first two seasons (and pretty much the third) she was the one causing all the chaos, but hey, girl can certainly act the part of loving best friend. It's quite chilling, actually. [Episode 1x11]

8: Straight out of Saw

Yep, of course, in true Saw style, Mona co-opts the phrase, and we're 100% certain we do not want to play a game with Mona. We're thinking it would probably be rigged in her favour regardless of the game we're playing. Chess? Gals probably got magnets under the table. Poker? Extra cards. Connect 4? Er...well, she could drug us and we'd wake up and she'd have 4 across. This girl is like Moriarty. She's everywhere and she's not revealing any of her plans. [Episode 3x07]

7: Slice and Dice

"Fear cuts deeper than a sword." 

Well, we actually can't fault her on this one. Although, we're not entirely sure of the applicability - I suppose a sword offers a more immediate death/deep wound, whereas fear can foster over time and prove difficult to heal? Who knows, maybe we're getting too philosophical at this point, but hey, Mona knows how to make those dramatic verses count. Good job, Janel Parrish. [Episode 3x16]

6: Breaking Eggs and Taking Names

"What's the point of breaking your shell if you turn into such a dull omelet?" 

Possibly one of our favourite lines, this absolute burn debuted in season 5 and it's still making an impact now. Shells, omelets, Troy's 'breaking free' verse swimming around in our head; there's nothing we don't love about this.  [Episode 5x18]

5: A Personality a Day Keeps the Doctor Away

Although this only cropped up a few episodes before Mona's ultimate unmAsking, we thought this was ultra delicious especially considering we know that Mona hasn't gotten over it. She's still as bitter as ever, and she's gonna make sure everyone else pays for it. But again - acting! This girl should get out of Rosewood and enroll in the New York Film Academy, asap. Seriously, Mona, your talents would be much better spent on something more constructive and less vindictive. Think of all the people you could amaze with your talents! Alas, twas not meant to be. [Episode 2x19]

4: And Tonight Matthew, I'm going To Be...

We're not entirely sure who this "real Mona" is, but let's face it, does anyone? Does Mona? Who knows. We know she's practically a genius but who is she underneath it all? Perhaps the seventh season will shine some light on everything. Until then, this could be anyone Mona feels like depending on the day. [Episode 3x15]

3: SharknAdo

We're pulling into the home stretch now, and at number 3 is more Emily/Mona messing around. As predicted, Mona is really killing it with these analogies. A toothless shark would be pretty hilarious though. And it could probably still crush you to death/ grind you up in its mouth, so, I mean, it's still pretty scary. I think we can all agree that season 2 Mona was really dishing out some winning lines. Four for you, Miss Vanderwaal. [Episode 2x19]

2: Especially Me!

The snark in this line was indescribable. This must have been a particular fun line to say, especially considering what happened in the last season and she's obviously 100% right. You can't trust anyone in Rosewood, as we have found out time and time again. I mean, look at Alison's conspiring husband, for goodness sake. You're not even safe with doctors, family members, police officers...actually, that's a point. We seriously need to rejig the whole safety procedures in the town, because they quite clearly aren't working. Well, if you need us, we'll be hauled up in a bathroom somewhere (because everyone knows, those are the safest spots, right?).  [Episode 3x03]

1: A isn't for Amateur

Our number 1 Mona quote though, has to be this rare glimpse into what we can only describe as the 'true Mona', where she openly acknowledges that she's a lot of things (and can be called as such) but that she's no amateur. OK, we have to give her that one. An amateur she ain't. This one's a pro. Now if only she could use her skills for good. [Episode 5x07]

And thus concludes this Mona-centric edition of 'Top 10 PLL Lines', stay tuned for the Queen Bee, Miss DiLaurentis' lines coming up very soon, and check out our previous editions, above! Now it's clearly time to channel your inner Mona (minus the stalking, torture, and array of other bad things Mona does) and grab those black leather gloves and hoodie, and fashion your own Bratz doll (get it, because Janel is Jade? Ok, we'll stop) in the style of the PLL girls and hide out in your secret A Lair (code for your bedroom), and take it from there. Just make sure to always initial your replies, this is serious business, after all. -monA.