The Debate: Which Villain is the Best? Killmonger or Loki?

Deciding whether Michael B. Jordan's portrayal of Killmonger in the Black Panther film is the best cinematic super villain is a passionate topic among comic book enthusiasts and film critics alike. While some fans argue that Loki (played by Tom Hiddleston) deserves a prominent spot on the list due to his complex character, others find Michael B. Jordan's rendition of Killmonger to be exceptionally compelling.

Why Killmonger Stands Out

Kevin Fix, a seasoned SEO expert, reflects, 'He was pretty awesome, but no, I enjoy Loki more; assuming we still count him as a villain. I do, however, find Ultron from The Avengers to be hilarious. Spending 30 seconds on the internet and deciding humanity needs to be wiped out—fucking hilarious! I don’t care what anyone else says. Killmonger, on the other hand, is definitely in my top three, unless we count the Netflix shows, where David Tennant's character Kilgrave makes the list. He’s so fucking evil while still being kinda charming and likable and that’s just impressive.'

The Performance and Character Dynamics

The debate around which villain is the 'best' often hinges on performance and the character's complexity. When discussing these aspects, it’s important to note that while Michael B. Jordan's performance as Killmonger is undoubtedly excellent, it’s also noteworthy that Heath Ledger's Joker in The Dark Knight is often considered one of the greatest portrayals in cinematic history. The contrast between the two films can be striking.

Evil with Charm Factor

One of the arguments in Killmonger's favor is that, despite his violent actions, including murdering his girlfriend, he represents a complex and deeply sympathetic character. His motivations are rooted in a desire to see the world burn, a sentiment shaped by his experiences and bitter disillusionment. Kevin Fix adds, 'Unless we count the Netflix shows, then David Tennant's Kilgrave makes the list. He’s so fucking evil while still being kinda charming and likable and that’s just impressive.'

Character Depth in The Avengers and Defenders

The term "best" can also vary based on the medium, with some considering Loki (played by Tom Hiddleston) as the most sympathetic villain. His portrayal in the MCU doesn’t mince words to make him relatable and complex. Take the scene in the first Avengers film, where he rips a guy’s eyeball out just to prove a point. Yet, despite this, everyone still feels for him because of his daddy issues. Similarly, in Defenders, Kilgrave shows a dynamic range of emotions, which adds to his appeal.'

Comparing on Multiple Fronts

To truly determine which villain is the best, it’s essential to consider multiple factors. Cinematic Performance: If one villain’s acting and portrayal outshine the other, they might be perceived as superior based on the performance alone. Character Depth: A more complex and multifaceted character can be argued as the best, as it resonates on a deeper emotional and psychological level. Relatability: Some viewers might find a villain more sympathetic if their actions and beliefs resonate with parts of their own lives or experiences.

Ultimately, the choice comes down to personal preference. Both Killmonger and Loki have compelling arguments for their candidacy as the best cinematic super villain. Each offers a unique and memorable portrayal that challenges the audience in distinct ways.