The Top 10 Once Upon A Time Characters [TV]

Oncers, assemble! Yes, in this edition of Top 10 we are counting down the complex characters from ABC/Disney's Once Upon A Time, so get those extravagant costumes on and take a trip to Storybrooke - just remember to pack your trusty red leather jacket, this could be a bumpy ride. Naturally, there are about a billion (read: less than a billion) different characters from OUAT, so it's unfeasible for us to mention everyone, who has ever existed, but we will do a nice little 5 or 6 Honourable mentions at the end before you all grab your pitch forks.

10: Prince Charming/David Nolan

Surprised? Josh Dallas' Prince Charming comes in at number 10, for a variety of reasons. Starting off in the earlier seasons as a pretty intriguing prince, this charming character caught our attention with his heroic deeds and testing moral choices. Unfortunately, this didn't seem to last, and after the whole Snow/Prince scenarios fizzled out around season 2/3, he became a bit of a cliche - even more so than usual. Seemingly taking everyone to task for their questionable choices, and yet doing some pretty shady deals himself, our love for Prince Charming faded quicker than Regina could crush a heart. Sorry David, we're just not that into you. 

9: Queen of Hearts/Cora Mills

The original dark queen, Barbara Hershey portrays this heartless lady with effortless finesse. Cold, calculated but undeniably complicated, Cora Mills knows what she wants and generally goes out and gets it. Adept at playing both villain and half-hero, you're never quite sure what side Cora generally is on and let's face it, although we can never quite forgive her for killing Daniel/generally being a controlling, homicidal mother, she is a captivating individual. Unfortunately now deceased, she did lead a remarkably elaborate life/death/life (?) and she will forever go down in OUAT history as the original evil queen. 

8: Baelfire/Neal Cassidy

We're noticing a sort of deceased theme here. Unlike Cora, Neal/Baelfire died all the way back in season 3 when the evil witch of the west rocked into town, and we're still not quite over it. Although his death was fairly inevitable, and the romance with Emma seemed to have run its course, he still holds a special place in our glowing red magical hearts since he is Henry's father, after all. And hey, when you've got the Dark One as your father, you deserve a bit of credit for lasting as long as you did. 

7: Snow White/Mary Margaret

Oh, Snow, you'd be so much higher up on our list if you hadn't fallen into such dull plot lines in recent series. Starting off as an all-round badass bandit from the woods, MC Snow was the character we'd all been waiting for. She was no docile damsel but still had all the heart and warmth you'd expect from a compassionate Disney character, and she rocked the Enchanted Forest. Forming a strained but loving relationship with her daughter, and making continual sacrifices, Mary Margaret was more than just your average character, but like David, Ginnifer Goodwin's character seemed to drop off the face of the earth once her on-screen (and real life) baby was born. Writers, what are you doing? Get it together. We can only hope her character is given more exciting storylines and scenarios in season 6. 

6: Henry

Ah, Mister Henry Potter. Er, Henry Mills. This poor troubled but remarkably intelligent adopted kid of the Mayor of Storybrooke certainly had a difficult time growing up with a (surprise, surprise) controlling mother, not to mention the fact he was living in a made-up land. That type of situation really damages a person, you know? But pulling through it, Jared S. Gilmore's character quickly proved to be the moral compass of the entire show, pulling many characters back to reality when it was clear they had lost the plot, and that on its own is commendable. Beloved side-kick of his Sheriff birth-mum, Henry is a versatile gem of a character that just keeps getting better with age. 

5: Belle

Ok, we dare you to say you didn't absolutely adore Emilie de Ravin's Belle when she first twirled onto the scene way back in season one. Go on, we'll wait. Chipped tea cups and beastly relations aside, Belle is quirky, kind, and defiant; not the type of person to let another in need down, or to follow her dreams. Hilariously funny and sweet, you have to give her credit for putting up with Rumple's bizarre dearie antics and actually managing to bring out a better person in him - even just for a short while. 

4: Captain Hook/Killian Jones

Killian Jones started off as one of those characters you weren't really sure would make it past season 2, but he has somehow managed to swash buckle his way through to season 6, and even earned the affections of Miss Swan herself - hold up, what? Yep, if you thought any previous OUAT pairings were weird, this one takes the cake, but it's grown on us a bit. Colin O'Donoghue does have a certain sense of charm and charisma about him, and hey, we can't help but love the old hand-less pirate a bit more as the seasons progress - eyeliner and all. Not to mention, the whole Rumple crocodile business was effortlessly hilarious and exceptionally dangerous at the same time - extra props for managing to be one of the only few people to almost manage to kill the Dark One. 

3: Emma Swan/ Dark Swan

Well, Emma was always going to be high up on the list. After winning our hearts playing the slightly twisted Doctor Cameron in HOUSE (seriously, that girl had issues), Jennifer Morrison turned her sights towards another TV series - OUAT - and we couldn't be happier. The perfect Emma Swan, Morrison has shown her light and dark sides as the character and has plenty of juicy storylines to keep us interested, not to mention perfect on-screen chemistry with her co-stars (Swan Queen, anyone?). Keep on slaying, gal. 

2: The Evil Queen/Regina Mills

Again, give us a reason not to adore Regina Mills. Yes, she is certainly a questionable human-being and by no means a perfect character, but Lana Parrilla injects a certain energy into the role that you wouldn't quite get from anyone else. Sassy, sarcastic and sultry, Regina knows how to play the game and usually comes out top - although recently she's turned her talents towards becoming the 'good guy', and it sort of works for her. Although, we're not quite ready to give up the Evil Queen just yet. It's just such a fun and ferocious character, and Parrilla milks it for all its worth. 

1: Rumplestiltskin/Mr. Gold

Now, I wonder who could manage to top all other Storybrooke inhabitants? Sickly, shiny skin, sporting more leather than can be good for a person, and dancing around like a pixie on acid, it can only be the deliciously deadly Rumplestiltskin, a.k.a. Mr Gold. The first person to make 'dearie' an unnerving come-back, Rumple knows how to manipulate, murder and scheme - and apparently love too - although we're not quite sure of his definition of the latter. Robert Carlyle clearly has great fun playing the character, and his infectious presence makes the mysterious Mr. Gold one of the favourites on the show. Although we may never look that fabulous, one can certainly dream. 

And there we have it! The Top 10 Once Upon A Time characters all neatly rounded up for your consumption. Although, as usual, if your fave hasn't made the list, check out our honourable mentions below for an extra slice of OUAT apple pie in your life.

6 Honourable Mentions: 

Ruby/ Red Riding Hood

Yes, because we couldn't quite narrow it down to 5, we've gone with an even six, and first up is the celestial Ruby, a.k.a Red Riding Hood, a.k.a The Wolf. This ferocious gal doesn't feature often enough in the show (and we could all use a bit more Meghan Ory in our lives), but her free-spirited and adventurous nature attracted our attention from the beginning. One of the few characters in the series shown to be bisexual, and in a relationship with another woman (Dorothy, although we were feeling a Mulan vibe!), Ruby is a unique character who deserves to be mentioned. Plus her friendship with Snow is adorable (snowby anyone?). 

Zelena

OK, let's pretext this with saying at first we weren't all that into Zelena. We liked the original plot with the Evil Queen and the sisterly connection, but then she just got more predictable and slightly annoying, but it's definitely gotten better as the show has progressed, and she's certainly a distinctive character. She's no Elphaba, but Rebecca Mader, you keep on doing you. 

Mulan 

Jamie Chung, sword-fighting, and she's the hero of China? Sign us up, please. Mulan is one of those characters who just has everything. Honour and talent with weaponry, Mulan is the Queen Bee of our hearts, and we love it when she pops up now and again - even if her failed romance with Aurora broke our hearts (can't we just leave Prince Phillip somewhere, pretty please?). We're still waiting for her to show up in season 6, so for now we'll have to make do with our other babes.

Merida 

There really aren't enough red-headed princesses, these days. But don't worry, Merida (Amy Manson) is here to correct that, and this wee lass has been involved in plenty of interesting scenarios with The Dark One, as well as committing several arrow escapades and participating in plenty of Scottish action - more than enough to capture our attention.

Maleficent

On paper, this is a real winner, and it works even better on-screen. Kristin Bauer van Straten as Maleficent? Damn, that is fiery as fuck. Not much needs to be said on this, but Kristin absolutely kills it as one of the infamous wicked fairies, but she's not completely heartless as demonstrated by her whole daughter storyline arc, and this featured one of the most emotional performances in the entire series (oh Snow & Charming, what were you thinking?). Needless to say, no one can slay this dragon.

Cruella

Cruella is like that sassy, extravagant Aunt you don't really know much about, but who makes a point of rocking up in her vintage car decked out in high-end pieces at almost every family occasion. But hey, we love her for it. Completely villainous, a little bit batty, and deliciously dastardly, Victoria Smurfit's Cruella is one of the greats.

The Top 10 Live-Action Disney Villains

As promised, we have delved into the lands of live-action (TV & Film inclusive) disney to search for the most pristine villains, and we have assembled them here for you, right now, in this handy list. It's been said that villains are the most fun to play on screen, and we're pretty convinced with this line-up. This feature follows on from our previous 'Top 10 Animated Disney Villains'. Check out the lucky 10 who made it onto our list below, and 5 Honourable Mentions who didn't quite make the cut, below.

10: Ramsley (The Haunted Mansion)

OK, first of all, who remembers this 2003 bizarre film based off (possibly the best) disney ride of all time? No? Well then, you're seriously missing out. Because this film had pretty much everything: ghosts, musical numbers, gothic sets - and a creepy ass butler. Yep, god knows who hired Ramsley in the first place, but he's putting in some serious effort to look this disturbing. If his usual butler garb wasn't enough, towards the latter part of he film, Ramsley dons a religious outfit complete with book and cane, descending down some steps in true holy fashion. We don't know what exactly is so appealing about Ramsley as a villain, but there's something truly haunting about the way in which Ramsley so effortlessly kills and pops up at random moments to terrify you. I mean, look at those eyes.

9: The Red Queen (Alice in Wonderland)

Helena Bonham Carter as The Red Queen? Yes, please. Aside from nailing this part, the actress' affinity for kooky characters allowed her to portray a perfect Red Queen, complete with massive head just for good measure. Everyone knows all good villains have to have a signature phrase, and "off with their heads!" is certainly the Red Queen's. Treading the line between comical and homicidal, this particular villain is liable to change her mood at the drop of a hatter hat. Is it bad we kind of love her for it? Probably. 

8: Maleficent (Maleficent)

When everyone found out none other than Angelina Jolie was going to be playing malevolent Maleficent, we all pretty much lost our collective minds. And you really can't blame us. Aside from a superb performance, this particular Maleficent was a touch unique and different from the animated version, and seemed to possess more of a soul and emotion than the villainous original. Glowing green powers, fabulous red lipstick and some killer dialogue, this villainess can come to our party anytime. Promise we'll remember to mail out the invitations. 

7: Jadis, The White Witch (The Chronicles of Narnia)

I'm sensing a pattern between incredible actors and memorable villains. Jadis, The White Witch, is no exception. Tilda Swinton managed to capture the icy exterior of the character sublimely, and you get the feeling that she wouldn't hesitate to stab you to death with an ice pick if you pissed her off. So um...we'll just stay way, way, over here, in this beaver dam, and pray she doesn't find us, thanks. Cause y'know, 'aint nobody got time for Tumnus. 

6: Kylo Ren (The Force Awakens)

Whilst he was never going to be the next Darth Vader (soz, Adam), Kylo Ren is a notable villain in his own right. If killing your dad (um, spoiler?) doesn't earn you a spot on the Top 10 villain list, then nothing will, because that was savage, albeit predictable. We're not quite sure what we find more entertaining, his triple lightsaber (because...reasons), his childish fits of smashing things when plans don't go his way, or that swish-tacular cape (*Edna voice* NO CAPES!!). It's all too much for us to handle. Just don't force choke us for putting you at 6, please. 

5: Cruella de Vil/Glenn Close (101 Dalmatians)

While darling Cruella didn't quite make our animated disney villain list, Glenn Close's Cruella was always going to be up there - simply for sheer commitment and maniacal brilliance. She really brought a sense of madness and obsessiveness to the character that wasn't quite conveyed in the original, and let's face it - the 102 Dalmatians Cake Cruella is the funniest thing you will probably ever see (no promises). 

4: Captain Barbossa (Pirates of the Caribbean)

This was a tricky one between Davy Jones and Barbossa, but Geoffrey Rush really sold this character to us. A half-dead Pirate Captain with a side-kick monkey (Abu, anyone?) whose love of food (in this case, apples) rivals that of TWD's pudding-loving Carl? How could you get any better than that, seriously? And then there's the whole scary skeletal curse thing which is just creepy af. Poor guy can't ever have nutella again; that's just sad. But his ferocity and intelligence earns him a deserved place at number 4, and the character only got better as the franchise went on, even if others were lacklustre. 

3: The Evil Queen/Regina (Once Upon A Time)

You'd have to be a pretty big idiot not to put Regina Mills on this list. True, The Evil Queen featured on our previous list, but Lana Parrilla brought a new mood entirely to this bad-ass bitch. Aside from being utterly regal, this Queen is not afraid to physically rip out your heart if it suits her and crush it to death. As if this wasn't brutal enough, she's also partial to curses that erase your memory and trap you inside a world of her creation that doesn't really exist where you all have terrible jobs and there's no happy endings (real life, is that you calling?). Over the seasons of Once Upon A Time, Regina has done some incredibly questionable and manipulative things, but we just can't help but find her fascinating and sort of endearing? I mean, she did have Cora for a mother after all. Regardless, Ms Mills can sit on her throne at number three and be perfectly content. 

2: Rumplestiltskin/Mr. Gold (Once Upon A Time)

That gleeful face, though. If anyone could beat The Evil Queen to top spot, it would be Robert Carlyle's Rumplestiltskin, and he almost manages it. Coming it at number 2 is the incredibly sickly-looking Dark One, who has an addiction to magic, power, and deals. Knowing the price of everything, as both a mischievous magician and a pawnbroker, Mr. Gold can spot something or someone valuable from a mile away, and is seemingly always a step ahead of everyone else. Safe to say if you value your existence, you probably don't want to take a trip anywhere near his residence unless you want to suffer the consequences really, which could quite be anything he fancies at the time. Whilst he does have pretty hilarious mannerisms, this is one guy who is no fool. 

1: The Sanderson Sisters (Hocus Pocus)

Is it cheating if you have an evil trio as opposed to an individual? Probably, but you just can't separate these three beloved sisters, who are every bit as eccentric as you'd expect. Comprised of Winnie, Mary and Sarah, these sassy sisters each have unique qualities that make them some of the best villains in existence. As the leader of the gang, Winifred Sanderson has to keep everything together, and often is the brains of the operation and not afraid to tell her sisters that they're seriously messing up. She's also pretty damn quotable and sarcastic. Mary is the kooky sister who will use a vacuum cleaner as a broom when nothing's left, and fumbles around trying not to anger Winnie (although she's always on hand to make a few witty jokes). Sarah, on the other hand, is flirtatious, borderline desperate, and always on the hunt for someone to 'play with' although we're not really sure in what context. Regardless, the entire gang is so over the top that their villainous antics are both hilarious and seriously depraved; from sucking the life out of children to making people dance for eternity, there's nothing these gals won't do for their youth. All of which makes them spectacular villains who truly shine as a glorious trio (they certainly don't make us sick!). 

That concludes this Top 10 feature, but never fear, there's more honourable mentions below to fire up your broomstick. Just be sure to keep your wits about you, as these villains are poised to strike at any moment. 

5 Honourable Mentions: 

Warden Walker (Holes)

This one's a bit of a oldey, but it's timeless. Want to find long lost treasure that a schoolteacher buried? Why, set up a rehabilitation camp and recruit a bunch of criminal children, of course! And by recruit, we mean pretty much torture, dehydrate and make them dig up holes in a desert fruitlessly. Because nothing says rehabilitation like death! Oh, and always make sure you've got your deadly venomous nail polish on hand in case you need to smack your sidekicks up a little. You know, for motivation. 

Captain Hook (Once Upon A Time)

It's not surprising that Once Upon A Time finds another one of their villains on our list, albeit in the Honourable Mentions. This version of Captain Hook is far more suave and dashing than the original, but every bit as vengeful and cunning. What's a good captain to do when the crocodile/Rumple slices off your hand? Poison him of course! One thing most villains have in common is their tendency towards murder, who knew. 

Long John Silver (Muppets Treasure Island)

Tim Curry and the Muppets? Say it isn't so! Well, it is so, and in this version of Treasure Island, Long John Silver is ruthless and determined to once again find a treasure (money is a real motivator, hey?) and will more than willingly hang a puppet pig and a frog off a cliff to do so. Those are some words we never thought we'd say.

Davy Jones (Pirates of the Caribbean)

If being cursed to be a giant squid man wasn't enough - aside from having tentacles as a beard - then we're betting having to cut out your own heart would be a real mood killer. Poor Davy Jones unfortunately has and has done both, and it's left him a little bit sour. No surprises there. So sour, he rides along the seas and kills plenty of people who cross him, much to the delight of his crustacean crew. Problems, he's got a few.

Sharpay Evans (High School Musical)

A slightly different villain, Sharpay is the typical Queen Bee who wants to rule the singing world of her school and be a star. She's popular, self-centred and manipulative in order to get her own way. Whilst her villainous efforts may be on a smaller scale, she still makes life pretty tough for poor Zac Efron and Vanessa Hudgens. Just let the kids have their musical dance numbers, girl. (Sidenote: 'Bet On It' is a classic).

The Top 10 - Words of Wisdom Quotes from Dr. Gregory House [House M.D.]

Ahh, House. Our favourite sassy head of diagnostics, with a knack for identifying puzzling diseases, but a seriously questionable bed-side manner. Yes, House M.D. was the medical drama for people who didn't usually like medical dramas. Fronted by the incomparable Hugh Laurie as the enigmatic Dr. Gregory House, the show was a huge hit and has amassed fans from all over the globe. But hey - the stellar acting and intriguing illnesses weren't the only pull - the show included some of the best dialogue ever seen on tv, with Dr House proving to be one of the most quotable characters with his quick-witted and snarky comments.

So, we thought we would revisit the classic medical drama and put together for you a list of the top 10 ~words of wisdom~ quotes as spoken by the main man himself. However, due to the true quotability of the show (and how extremely hard it was to pick our favourites) - this will be one in a series of compilation articles on the best lines from House M.D. So although this article focuses on words of wisdom, or general advice given by dear old Greg during the run of the show, other articles will focus on the top 10 clinic patient quotes, top 10 times Cuddy brought her sass A-game, top 10 Wilson quotes, and the top 10 interactions between House and his main team (and these will be linked here once they become available - so keep checking!)

But, without further ado, here is our list of the top 10, best 'words of wisdom' quotes from Dr Gregory House, of House M.D...

10. No work, plz

'People choose the paths that grant them the greatest rewards for the least amount of effort.' (Season 1, Pilot)

Ahh - House, the early years. Back before shit got real, House was a grumpy, brilliant diagnostician (albeit less well known amongst his peers), but he still knew how to deliver some excellent sass and dish out that solid world advice. Here he is explaining the complexity of humanity - that we're all just lazy shits who try to do as little as possible for maximum reward. Too true, House, too true. 

9) Secret Santa

'Gifts allow us to demonstrate exactly how little we know about a person.' (Season 4, Episode 10)

Greg hits the nail on the head in this scene in which he approaches the topic of gift giving. I mean haven't we all received our share of dodgy gifts in our lifetime in which it is clear that 0% thought was given? Another pair of socks, anyone?

8) Road safety

'You can have all the faith you want in spirits, and the afterlife, and heaven and hell, but when it comes to this world, don't be an idiot. 'Cause you can tell me you put your faith in God to get you through the day, but when it comes time to cross the street, I know you look both ways.' (Season 1, Episode 5)

House had a turbulent relationship with religion during the run of the show, and the Season 1 episode 'Damned If You Do' gave us some real insight into his gripes with such beliefs, particularly Christianity. Here, House provides us with some sound road safety advice about not relying on God to have your back in every scenario you encounter in daily life, and we're inclined to believe him in this respect.

7) It's a wonderful life

'Life is pain! I wake up every morning, I'm in pain. I go to work in pain. You know how many times I just wanted to give up? How many times I've thought about ending it?' (Season 8, Episode 21)

We love House best when he's having one of his signature meltdowns over the idiocy of humanity, but this one was a bit too real for us. In this scene, House is having a blast at Taub (who is often on the receiving end of the abuse) about Wilson's decisions regarding his cancer treatment. House doesn't want his friend to give up (and neither do we!) - so we understand his frustrations that culminate in the delivery of this line, providing a frank commentary on dealing with life and suffering. Light-hearted and cheery never was House's ~thing~. 

6) Crime of passion

'Miracle of love? You're over twice as likely to be killed by a person you love than by a stranger.' (Season 1, Episode 5)

House is always on hand to deliver a fun fact or statistic, and this time is no different. Here, House provides a valuable life lesson on how to get away with avoid murder. Well, you know that old saying - there's always a thin line between love and hate.

5) House vs God

'If you talk to God, you're religious. If God talks to you, you're psychotic.' (Season 2, Episode 19)

Another day, another sassing by Dr. House. As usual, God is his target here, and he has no problem pointing out the blurry distinction between religious belief and mental illness. But as we know, House is an equal-rights offender, and religious people are only one drop in the ocean of his sea of insults, or something like that.

4) #Too many feels

'People's brains stop working, when they think they're gonna lose someone they love.' (Season 6, Episode 21)

House is speaking from experience here (*cough*Huddy*cough*) when he delivers some real commentary on the enigma that is love. We feel you, Greg, we feel you. Love can make you do crazy things, like crash a car into someone's front room. (Too soon?)

3) Inception

'Time changes everything. That's what people say, it's not true. Doing things changes things. Not doing things leaves things exactly as they were.' (Season 3, Episode 12)

Not one to stray away from life's big questions, here the good doctor tackles the concept of time, and whether it does actually heal all wounds. Falling firmly on the side of 'no', House instead encourages people to be proactive in their recovery, as opposed to just sitting around waiting to feel better (maybe take some of your own advice there, eh House?)

2) I see your true colours shining through

'People never change. They just become more of who they really are.' (Season 8, Episode 22)

Like Batman taking off his costume to reveal Bruce Wayne, people never change, they only reveal more of what they are underneath, or at least that's House's take on things. Who can say if he's right or wrong, or if these are just the delusional ramblings of a man about to be burnt alive in a house fire. A poignant exploration of humanity or merely the effects of smoke inhalation? You decide.

1) Allergic to the truth

'It's a basic truth of the human condition that everybody lies. The only variable is about what. I don't ask why patients lie, I just assume they all do. Truth begins in lies. I've found that when you want to know the truth about somebody, that someone is probably the last person you should ask. Reality is almost always wrong. Everybody lies. (Season 1, Episode 21)

Well, here it is. We've reached the end of our top 10 countdown, and claiming the number one spot is potentially the most quotable phrase that encompasses the whole programme - everybody lies. Being mentioned countless times throughout the run of the series, the quote was really dissected in the Season 1 episode Three Stories, in which we got a glimpse into how House operates and why he is a big fan of getting his team to break into people's houses and go through their junk - for their own good of course! And whilst House places little faith in humanity, he is often proved to be correct - after all, how many patients in the shows lifespan would have actually ended up causing their own death by withholding the truth of their circumstances from House & Co? We're guessing A LOT. Kudos to you Dr House, your cynicism is much appreciated.



So there we have it! Our top 10 countdown of words of wisdom quotes from Dr. Gregory House of House M.D. is concluded! Do you agree with our choices? What is your number 1 favourite quote or piece of advice given by House? Let us know in the comments & be sure to watch this space for future articles featuring the best lines and dialogue of the A-team of Princeton Plainsboro Teaching Hospital.

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.