[Gallery] The Dark Side of Cinema: 20 Movies Where the Villain Actually Wins

1. Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back 1980，IMDB Rating: 8.7，Douban Rating: 8.4，ID: tt0080684
This month, I decided to revisit one of the most iconic movies where the villain actually wins: Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back. Released in 1980, this sequel to the groundbreaking Star Wars (1977) takes the saga to a darker and more complex level, as the Rebel Alliance faces a devastating defeat by the Galactic Empire.The movie begins with a thrilling battle on the ice planet Hoth, where the rebels are forced to evacuate their base under the attack of Imperial forces led by Darth Vader. Luke Skywalker, who has been contacted by the spirit of Obi-Wan Kenobi, leaves his friends to seek out Jedi Master Yoda on the swampy world of Dagobah. There, he undergoes rigorous training to master the Force and learn more about his destiny. Meanwhile, Han Solo, Princess Leia, Chewbacca, and C-3PO flee from Vader’s pursuit across the galaxy, eventually finding refuge in Cloud City, ruled by Han’s old friend Lando Calrissian. However, they soon discover that Lando has betrayed them to Vader, who intends to use them as bait to lure Luke into a trap.The movie culminates in a dramatic confrontation between Luke and Vader in Cloud City’s carbon-freezing chamber, where Vader reveals that he is Luke’s father and tries to persuade him to join the dark side. Luke refuses and escapes by falling into a ventilation shaft, but loses his right hand and his lightsaber in the process. He is rescued by Leia, Lando, Chewbacca, and R2-D2, who manage to free Han from being frozen in carbonite and delivered to the bounty hunter Boba Fett. However, they are too late to stop Fett from taking Han away. The movie ends with Luke receiving a prosthetic hand and joining Leia, Lando, Chewbacca, C-3PO, and R2-D2 on a rebel cruiser, where they watch as Fett’s ship flies away with Han.The Empire Strikes Back is widely regarded as one of the best movies of all time and one of the best sequels ever made. It is praised for its rich storytelling, compelling characters, stunning visuals, memorable music, and emotional impact. It also introduces some of the most iconic elements of the Star Wars franchise, such as Yoda, Boba Fett, Lando Calrissian, and the famous twist of Vader being Luke’s father. The movie explores themes such as loyalty, betrayal, love, sacrifice, identity, destiny, and morality. It also challenges the audience’s expectations by showing that sometimes the good guys don’t win and that sometimes the bad guys are more complex than they seem.I think The Empire Strikes Back is a masterpiece of cinema and a brilliant example of how a movie can subvert the typical hero’s journey and still be engaging and satisfying. It is not only a great sci-fi adventure film but also a great drama film that delves into the psychology and relationships of its characters. It makes me feel a range of emotions from excitement to fear to sadness to awe. It also makes me think about the nature of good and evil and how they are not always clear-cut or easy to choose. It is a movie that I can watch over and over again and still find something new and interesting every time.If you are looking for a movie that will make you laugh and relax, this is not it. But if you are looking for a movie that will make you think and feel deeply, this is it. The Empire Strikes Back is not only one of my favorite movies where the villain actually wins but also one of my favorite movies of all time.
2. Valkyrie 2008，IMDB Rating: 7.1，Douban Rating: 7.1，ID: tt0985699
Valkyrie 2008 is a thriller film based on the true story of the 20 July plot, a failed attempt by a group of German officers to assassinate Adolf Hitler and overthrow the Nazi regime during World War II. The film stars Tom Cruise as Colonel Claus von Stauffenberg, the leader of the conspiracy, who joins forces with other dissidents such as General Friedrich Olbricht (Bill Nighy), Major-General Henning von Tresckow (Kenneth Branagh), and General Ludwig Beck (Terence Stamp). The film depicts how they plan to use Operation Valkyrie, a contingency plan for maintaining order in case of Hitler’s death, to seize control of Berlin and negotiate peace with the Allies. However, their plot is foiled by various factors, such as Hitler’s survival, loyalist resistance, communication failures, and betrayal. The film ends with the execution of most of the plotters and a voice-over narration by von Stauffenberg’s wife Nina (Carice van Houten), who expresses hope for a better future for Germany.The film is directed by Bryan Singer and written by Christopher McQuarrie and Nathan Alexander. It was released in 2008 to generally positive reviews from critics, who praised the performances, the suspense, the historical accuracy, and the moral complexity of the story. However, the film also faced some controversy and criticism, especially in Germany, where some politicians and relatives of the real-life plotters objected to Cruise’s casting due to his involvement in Scientology, which is regarded with suspicion in Germany. The film also faced some delays and changes in its release date and marketing campaign. The film grossed nearly $201.5 million worldwide against a budget of $75–90 million.The film relates to the topic of 30 fan favorite movies where the villain actually wins, as it shows how Hitler and his regime managed to survive and crush the resistance despite the courageous efforts of the plotters. The film also challenges the conventional notion of heroism and villainy in war movies, as it portrays the plotters as complex and flawed characters who have different motives and opinions about their actions. The film also raises questions about loyalty, patriotism, morality, and justice in times of crisis and tyranny. The film influenced my view of the topic by making me appreciate the bravery and sacrifice of the plotters, who risked their lives for a noble cause that ultimately failed. The film also made me reflect on the ethical dilemmas and consequences of political violence and resistance.
3. La vita è bella 1997，IMDB Rating: 8.6，Douban Rating: 9.5，ID: tt0118799
La vita è bella (Life Is Beautiful) is a 1997 Italian comedy-drama film directed by and starring Roberto Benigni, who co-wrote the film with Vincenzo Cerami. The film tells the story of Guido, a Jewish Italian bookshop owner, who uses his imagination and humor to protect his son from the horrors of a Nazi concentration camp. The film was inspired by the book In the End, I Beat Hitler by Rubino Romeo Salmonì and by Benigni’s father, who survived the Bergen-Belsen camp.The film is related to the topic of 30 Fan Favorite Movies Where The Villain Actually Wins, as it depicts a tragic and realistic outcome of the Holocaust, where the Nazis kill millions of Jews and other victims. The film does not shy away from showing the brutality and cruelty of the camp, but it also balances it with the love and courage of Guido and his family. The film shows that even in the darkest of times, there is still hope and beauty in life.I think the film is a masterpiece of cinema, as it combines comedy and drama in a unique and powerful way. Benigni’s performance as Guido is brilliant, as he portrays a man who is optimistic, creative, and loving, despite the terrible circumstances he faces. He makes his son believe that the camp is a game, where they have to follow the rules and score points to win a tank. He also makes his wife Dora feel his presence by playing music on the loudspeaker and sending her messages. He sacrifices himself to save his son, but he does not lose his spirit or his smile.The film is also a touching tribute to the victims and survivors of the Holocaust, as it shows their resilience and dignity in the face of evil. The film does not glorify or justify the villain’s actions, but it also does not portray them as one-dimensional monsters. It shows that they are human beings who have made wrong choices and have been corrupted by hatred and fear. The film challenges us to think about our own humanity and morality, and how we can choose to live with love or hate.The film is a beautiful and moving experience that will make you laugh and cry. It is a film that celebrates life, even when it seems hopeless. It is a film that reminds us that we can always find joy and meaning in our existence, even when we face adversity. It is a film that teaches us that we can always be heroes for ourselves and for others, even when we face villains.
4. The Crucible 1996，IMDB Rating: 6.8，Douban Rating: 8.2，ID: tt0115988
The Crucible is a historical drama film based on Arthur Miller’s play of the same name, which dramatizes the Salem witch trials of 1692. The film follows John Proctor, a farmer who had an affair with Abigail Williams, a young girl who leads a group of accusers to falsely accuse innocent people of witchcraft. As the hysteria grows, Proctor tries to expose the lies and save his wife Elizabeth, who is also accused. However, he faces the corrupt and powerful Judge Danforth, who is determined to execute anyone who does not confess. The film explores themes such as hysteria, morality, justice, and power.The film is related to the topic of 30 fan favorite movies where the villain actually wins, as it shows how the evil and manipulative Abigail Williams succeeds in destroying the lives of many innocent people, including John Proctor, who is hanged for refusing to lie. The film also shows how Judge Danforth and his court win by maintaining their authority and reputation, even when they are confronted with evidence of their mistakes. The film does not have a happy ending, as the victims are either killed or imprisoned, while the villains escape unpunished.I think The Crucible is a powerful and compelling film that portrays the tragic consequences of mass hysteria and corruption. The film has excellent performances by Daniel Day-Lewis as John Proctor, Winona Ryder as Abigail Williams, Paul Scofield as Judge Danforth, and Joan Allen as Elizabeth Proctor. The film also has a strong screenplay by Arthur Miller himself, who adapted his own play for the screen. The film captures the atmosphere and tension of the Salem witch trials, and makes us question our own values and beliefs. The film is not only a historical drama, but also a political allegory that reflects Miller’s criticism of the McCarthyism era in America, when many people were accused of being communists without evidence. The film is a reminder of how easily fear and prejudice can lead to injustice and violence.I recommend The Crucible to anyone who enjoys historical dramas, or who is interested in learning more about the Salem witch trials. The film is not for the faint-hearted, as it depicts some disturbing scenes of torture and execution. However, the film is also a masterpiece of storytelling and acting that will leave you breathless and moved.
5. Avengers: Infinity War 2018，IMDB Rating: 8.4，Douban Rating: 8.1，ID: tt4154756
This month, I decided to watch and review one of the most popular and controversial movies where the villain actually wins: Avengers: Infinity War. This film is the culmination of a decade-long saga of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, where the Avengers and their allies face the powerful Thanos, who seeks to collect all six Infinity Stones and use them to wipe out half of all life in the universe.I was curious to see how this film tackled the theme of villainy and what it means to be a hero in the face of such a formidable threat. I found some interesting articles that discussed how Thanos is not a typical villain, but rather a complex and sympathetic character who believes he is doing the right thing for the greater good. Some even compared him to an environmentalist or a utilitarian philosopher, who values the balance and sustainability of life over individual rights and emotions. However, I also found some articles that criticized his logic and morality, pointing out the flaws and contradictions in his plan and his actions. Some argued that he is a genocidal maniac who ignores the diversity and potential of life, and that his solution is not only cruel but also ineffective and unnecessary.After reading these articles, I watched the film with a more critical eye, trying to understand Thanos’s motivations and perspectives, as well as those of the heroes who oppose him. I was impressed by the film’s ability to balance a large ensemble of characters, each with their own arcs and conflicts, and to create a coherent and compelling narrative that spans across different planets and genres. The film is full of action, humor, drama, and emotion, as well as stunning visual effects and music. The film also explores some deep and relevant themes, such as sacrifice, morality, destiny, and free will.However, what really makes this film stand out is its shocking and heartbreaking ending, where Thanos succeeds in his quest and snaps his fingers, erasing half of all life in the universe, including many of our beloved heroes. The film does not shy away from showing the consequences and the horror of his act, leaving us with a sense of despair and loss. The film challenges our expectations and our notions of heroism, making us question what it means to win or lose, and what it takes to save or destroy the world.Overall, I think Avengers: Infinity War is a brilliant and bold film that subverts the superhero genre and delivers a powerful and memorable story that stays with you long after you watch it. It is not only a great entertainment, but also a thought-provoking and emotional experience that makes you reflect on your own values and choices. I highly recommend this film to anyone who enjoys action, adventure, sci-fi, or just a good story with complex characters and themes.
6. Se7en 1995，IMDB Rating: 8.6，Douban Rating: 8.8，ID: tt0114369
Se7en is a crime thriller film directed by David Fincher and written by Andrew Kevin Walker. It follows two detectives, Somerset (Morgan Freeman) and Mills (Brad Pitt), who are hunting a serial killer (Kevin Spacey) who uses the seven deadly sins as his motives for his gruesome murders. The film is set in an unnamed, dark, and corrupt city that reflects the moral decay of the society and the characters.The film is one of the fan favorites where the villain actually wins, as it ends with a shocking and tragic twist that reveals the identity and the plan of the killer. The film explores the themes of justice, morality, sin, and despair, and challenges the audience to question their own values and beliefs.The film was influenced by Walker’s experiences of moving from a suburban setting to New York City during a period of rising crime and drug addiction in the late 1980s. He wrote the script as a way of expressing his frustration and anger at the world. Fincher, who had a career setback after directing Alien 3, was drawn to the script for its originality and its uncompromising ending. He insisted on keeping the ending intact despite the studio’s opposition.The film received mixed reviews from critics, who praised Freeman’s performance but criticized the film’s dark cinematography, explicit and implied violence, and bleak ending. However, the film was a surprise success at the box office, grossing over $327 million worldwide. It also received several awards and nominations, including an Oscar nomination for Best Film Editing.The film is now regarded as one of the best thriller, crime, and mystery films ever made. It remains influential in filmmaking, inspiring many imitators of its aesthetic, style, and premise of detectives investigating serial killers with distinctive methods and motives. The film’s title sequence, which depicts the killer preparing for his actions later in the film, is considered an important design innovation and has also influenced later credit sequences, while the film’s twist ending has been named as one of the best in cinematic history.
7. The Dark Knight 2008，IMDB Rating: 9.0，Douban Rating: 9.2，ID: tt0468569
The Dark Knight is a film that explores the theme of good and evil, and how far one is willing to go to achieve justice. The film features Batman, a vigilante who fights crime in Gotham City, and the Joker, a psychotic criminal mastermind who wants to plunge the city into chaos. The film also focuses on Harvey Dent, a district attorney who becomes Batman’s ally and later his enemy.The film is based on the DC Comics character Batman, and is the second installment of Christopher Nolan’s The Dark Knight Trilogy. The film received critical acclaim for its dark tone, complex plot, and performances, especially that of Heath Ledger as the Joker, who won an Oscar for his role.The film begins with a bank robbery orchestrated by the Joker, who kills his accomplices and escapes with the money. Batman, along with police lieutenant Jim Gordon and district attorney Harvey Dent, form an alliance to dismantle the mob that controls Gotham’s underworld. The Joker offers to kill Batman for the mob, but they refuse. The Joker then begins a series of attacks on the city, killing people and threatening to blow up hospitals unless Batman reveals his identity.Batman decides to turn himself in, but Dent takes his place and claims to be Batman. The Joker then kidnaps Dent and his girlfriend Rachel Dawes, who is also Bruce Wayne’s childhood friend and love interest. He sets up a trap for Batman, forcing him to choose between saving Dent or Rachel. Batman goes after Rachel, but the Joker tricks him and sends him to Dent’s location instead. Batman arrives too late to save Dent, who is badly burned on one side of his face. Rachel dies in the explosion.The Joker then frees Dent from the hospital and convinces him to seek revenge on those he blames for Rachel’s death, including Gordon and his family. Dent becomes a vigilante known as Two-Face, who kills people based on the flip of a coin. Meanwhile, the Joker rigs two ferries with explosives, one carrying civilians and the other carrying prisoners. He gives each ferry a detonator for the other ferry’s bomb, and tells them that they have until midnight to blow up the other ferry or he will blow up both.Batman tracks down the Joker and confronts him in a building. He manages to stop him from detonating the bombs, and learns that neither ferry has blown up the other, proving that people can still choose good over evil. Batman then goes after Dent, who has kidnapped Gordon’s family and is holding them at gunpoint. Batman tries to reason with Dent, but he refuses to listen. Dent flips his coin to decide their fates, but Batman tackles him and saves Gordon’s son. Dent falls to his death.Batman decides to take the blame for Dent’s crimes, in order to preserve his image as a hero and inspire hope in Gotham. Gordon destroys the Bat-Signal and launches a manhunt for Batman. Batman flees into the night, becoming a fugitive but also a symbol of sacrifice.
8. Nineteen Eighty-Four 1984，IMDB Rating: 7.1，Douban Rating: 7.7，ID: tt0087803
Nineteen Eighty-Four 1984 is a dystopian drama film based on George Orwell’s novel of the same name, which depicts a totalitarian future society where the Party and its leader, Big Brother, control every aspect of human life. The film follows Winston Smith, a low-ranking civil servant who works at the Ministry of Truth, where he rewrites history to suit the Party’s propaganda. Winston secretly rebels against the Party by keeping a diary of his thoughts and falling in love with Julia, a fellow worker. However, their relationship is discovered by O’Brien, a high-ranking member of the Party who pretends to be a dissident. O’Brien tortures Winston and Julia until they betray each other and accept the Party’s ideology. The film ends with Winston broken and brainwashed, watching Big Brother on a telescreen and loving him.The film is related to the topic of 30 fan favorite movies where the villain actually wins, as it shows how the Party and Big Brother are able to crush any resistance and maintain their absolute power over the people of Oceania. The film is also a commentary on the dangers of totalitarianism, propaganda, surveillance, and psychological manipulation, which are relevant to contemporary issues. The film is widely regarded as one of the best adaptations of Orwell’s novel, and features the last performance of Richard Burton as O’Brien.My review: Nineteen Eighty-Four 1984 is a powerful and disturbing film that faithfully captures the bleak vision of Orwell’s novel. The film creates a convincing atmosphere of oppression and fear, with its dark cinematography, grim production design, and haunting music. The film also benefits from the excellent performances of John Hurt as Winston Smith, who conveys his inner turmoil and desperation, and Richard Burton as O’Brien, who delivers his chilling speeches with authority and charisma. The film does not shy away from showing the brutality and horror of the Party’s regime, especially in the scenes of torture and brainwashing. The film also raises important questions about the nature of truth, reality, freedom, and love, and how they can be corrupted by totalitarianism. The film is not an easy watch, but it is a compelling and thought-provoking one that deserves to be seen by anyone who values human dignity and individuality.
9. The Silence of the Lambs 1991，IMDB Rating: 8.6，Douban Rating: 8.9，ID: tt0102926
The Silence of the Lambs is a 1991 thriller film that follows Clarice Starling, a young FBI trainee who seeks the help of Hannibal Lecter, a brilliant and cannibalistic psychiatrist, to catch a serial killer named Buffalo Bill, who skins his female victims. The film is based on the novel of the same name by Thomas Harris, and is one of the few films to win the Academy Awards in all the major five categories: Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress, and Best Adapted Screenplay.The film is also one of the fan favorites where the villain actually wins, according to various sources. Although Clarice manages to rescue the last victim of Buffalo Bill and kill him in a tense showdown, Hannibal escapes from his captivity and kills his nemesis, Dr. Chilton, who had tormented him for years. The film ends with Hannibal calling Clarice from a payphone in an exotic location, telling her that he is “having an old friend for dinner”, implying that he is about to eat Chilton.The film explores the themes of good and evil, identity and transformation, and the power of manipulation and persuasion. It also challenges the stereotypes of gender and sexuality, as Clarice has to prove herself in a male-dominated field, while Buffalo Bill suffers from gender dysphoria and tries to become a woman by making a suit out of female skin. The film also features some of the most iconic scenes and lines in cinema history, such as the first meeting between Clarice and Hannibal, where he asks her about her traumatic childhood and says “A census taker once tried to test me. I ate his liver with some fava beans and a nice Chianti.”, or the night vision scene where Buffalo Bill stalks Clarice in his dark basement.The Silence of the Lambs is a masterpiece of suspense, horror, and drama, that showcases the brilliant performances of Jodie Foster and Anthony Hopkins, who create a complex and fascinating relationship between their characters. The film also has a lasting impact on popular culture, inspiring many sequels, prequels, parodies, references, and homages. It is widely regarded as one of the greatest films ever made.
10. The Boy in the Striped Pajamas 2008，IMDB Rating: 7.8，Douban Rating: 9.1，ID: tt0914798
This month, I decided to watch and review some of the fan favorite movies where the villain actually wins. One of them is The Boy in the Striped Pajamas, a film adaptation of John Boyne’s novel about a boy’s friendship with a Jewish boy in a Nazi concentration camp.The film follows Bruno, the son of an SS officer, who moves with his family to a rural area in Poland where his father oversees a camp. Bruno is curious and bored, and one day he wanders into the woods and finds a fence that separates him from another boy wearing striped pyjamas. The boy is Shmuel, a prisoner in the camp. Bruno and Shmuel strike up a friendship, meeting secretly at the fence and sharing stories, food, and games. Bruno is naive and ignorant about the true nature of the camp, while Shmuel is hopeful and resilient despite his harsh conditions.The film is a powerful and heartbreaking portrayal of innocence, friendship, and tragedy in the midst of horror. The actors who play Bruno and Shmuel are brilliant, conveying a range of emotions and creating a believable bond between their characters. The film also shows the contrast between Bruno’s privileged and sheltered life and Shmuel’s dehumanized and brutalized existence. The film does not shy away from depicting the cruelty and violence of the Nazis, but also shows some glimpses of humanity and compassion among some of them.The film has a shocking and devastating ending that will leave you speechless and in tears. It is a reminder of the horrors of the Holocaust and the consequences of hatred, prejudice, and indifference. It is also a tribute to the power of friendship and hope in the darkest times.I highly recommend this film to anyone who wants to watch a moving and meaningful story that will challenge your emotions and perspectives. It is not an easy film to watch, but it is an important one that should not be forgotten.
11. The Devil’s Advocate 1997，IMDB Rating: 7.5，Douban Rating: 8.3，ID: tt0118971
The Devil’s Advocate 1997 is a supernatural thriller that explores the themes of temptation, morality, and free will. The film stars Keanu Reeves as Kevin Lomax, a successful Florida lawyer who is recruited by John Milton (Al Pacino), the charismatic and mysterious head of a New York law firm. Kevin soon discovers that Milton is not only a brilliant and ruthless lawyer, but also the Devil himself, who has a sinister plan to use Kevin as his instrument to bring about the apocalypse.The film is based on the novel of the same name by Andrew Neiderman, and draws inspiration from various sources, such as John Milton’s epic poem Paradise Lost, Dante’s Inferno, and the legend of Faust. The film also features several references to biblical stories, such as the Garden of Eden, Cain and Abel, and Job. The film examines the moral dilemmas that Kevin faces as he is seduced by Milton’s offer of wealth, power, and fame, while his wife Mary Ann (Charlize Theron) suffers from terrifying visions and mental breakdowns.The film is a gripping and provocative drama that challenges the audience to question their own values and choices. The film also showcases the impressive performances of Reeves and Pacino, who have a dynamic and intense chemistry on screen. The film has a shocking and controversial twist ending that reveals Milton’s true identity and motive, as well as Kevin’s ultimate fate. The film was a commercial and critical success, earning over $153 million at the box office and winning the Saturn Award for Best Horror Film.
12. Gone Girl 2014，IMDB Rating: 8.1，Douban Rating: 8.7，ID: tt2267998
Gone Girl is a psychological thriller film directed by David Fincher and based on the novel by Gillian Flynn. It tells the story of Nick Dunne, a man who becomes the prime suspect in the disappearance of his wife, Amy, on their fifth wedding anniversary. The film explores the themes of marriage, media, manipulation, and identity through the perspectives of Nick and Amy, who reveal their secrets and lies through flashbacks and diary entries. The film has a twist ending that reveals that Amy is not a victim, but a mastermind who faked her own kidnapping and murder to frame Nick for cheating on her. She returns to him after killing her ex-boyfriend, who helped her escape, and blackmails him into staying with her by claiming to be pregnant with his child. The film received critical acclaim for its direction, screenplay, performances, and score. It was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress for Rosamund Pike, who played Amy. It was also a box office success, grossing over $369 million worldwide. The film is considered a cult postmodern mystery and one of Fincher’s best works.
13. Memento 2000，IMDB Rating: 8.4，Douban Rating: 8.6，ID: tt0209144
Memento is a film that challenges the conventional structure and narrative of storytelling by presenting two sequences of scenes in reverse order. The film follows Leonard, a man who suffers from anterograde amnesia, which prevents him from forming new memories. He uses notes, photos, and tattoos to remind himself of his quest to find and kill the man who raped and murdered his wife. However, as the film progresses, we learn that his condition and his mission are not as simple as they seem.The film is related to the topic of 30 fan favorite movies where the villain actually wins, because it reveals that Leonard is not a hero, but a victim of his own self-deception and manipulation by others. Leonard has been used by Teddy, a corrupt cop, to kill several people who had nothing to do with his wife’s death. Teddy claims that Leonard already killed the real culprit a year ago, but he forgot about it and created a false story to cope with his guilt and grief. Teddy also reveals that Leonard’s wife survived the attack, but died later because Leonard accidentally gave her an overdose of insulin, due to his memory loss.I found this film to be a brilliant and original work of cinema, that explores the themes of memory, perception, identity, and morality in a complex and engaging way. The film keeps the audience guessing and questioning the reliability of the narrator and the characters, as well as their own understanding of the story. The film also evokes sympathy and pity for Leonard, who is trapped in a cycle of violence and confusion, without any hope of closure or redemption. The film is a masterpiece of neo-noir mystery and psychological thriller, that deserves its acclaim and cult status.
14. No Country for Old Men 2007，IMDB Rating: 8.1，Douban Rating: 8.3，ID: tt0477348
No Country for Old Men is a neo-Western crime thriller film by the Coen brothers, based on the novel by Cormac McCarthy. It tells the story of Llewelyn Moss, a hunter who stumbles upon a drug deal gone wrong and a suitcase full of money in the Texas desert. He decides to keep the money, but soon becomes the target of Anton Chigurh, a ruthless hitman who uses a coin toss to decide the fate of his victims. Meanwhile, Sheriff Ed Tom Bell tries to stop the violence and catch Chigurh, while reflecting on the changing nature of crime and justice in his country.The film is one of the fan favorites where the villain actually wins, as Chigurh manages to kill Moss and escape with the money, leaving behind a trail of corpses and chaos. The film explores themes such as fate, free will, morality, greed, and nihilism, and challenges the conventions of the Western genre. The film is widely praised for its direction, screenplay, cinematography, editing, and performances, especially by Javier Bardem as Chigurh. The film won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Adapted Screenplay, and Best Supporting Actor for Bardem.I think No Country for Old Men is a masterpiece of filmmaking that offers a bleak and realistic view of human nature and society. The film is gripping, suspenseful, and unpredictable, with moments of dark humor and irony. The film does not provide easy answers or resolutions, but rather invites the viewers to think and question their own values and choices. The film also showcases the talents of the Coen brothers and their collaborators, who create a vivid and authentic world with minimal music and dialogue. The film is not for everyone, as it can be violent, disturbing, and depressing, but I think it is a powerful and unforgettable cinematic experience that deserves to be seen.
15. The Usual Suspects 1995，IMDB Rating: 8.5，Douban Rating: 8.6，ID: tt0114814
The Usual Suspects is a 1995 thriller film that features one of the most famous plot twists in cinema history. The film revolves around the interrogation of Roger “Verbal” Kint, a con man who claims to be one of the only survivors of a massacre on a ship, where a group of criminals were hired by a mysterious mastermind named Keyser Söze. As Verbal narrates his story, we learn how he and his four accomplices met in a police lineup, pulled off a series of heists, and ended up on the ship, where they were supposed to destroy a shipment of cocaine for Söze. However, things are not what they seem, and Verbal’s story is full of lies and deception.The film is a brilliant example of how to use an unreliable narrator to create suspense and surprise. The screenplay by Christopher McQuarrie is clever and intricate, weaving together flashbacks, clues, and red herrings to keep the audience guessing until the very end. The direction by Bryan Singer is stylish and tense, creating a dark and gritty atmosphere that suits the film’s neo-noir genre. The cast is superb, especially Kevin Spacey, who won an Oscar for his performance as Verbal. He delivers his lines with charm and wit, making us sympathize with his character, even as we doubt his credibility. The other actors, such as Gabriel Byrne, Chazz Palminteri, Benicio Del Toro, and Kevin Pollak, also give memorable performances as the other criminals and the law enforcement agents.The film is not only a thrilling mystery, but also a commentary on the power of storytelling and myth-making. Verbal uses his imagination and intelligence to manipulate his interrogator and escape justice. He also creates a legend out of Keyser Söze, a ruthless and elusive criminal who may or may not exist. The film challenges us to question what we see and hear, and to realize that sometimes the truth is hidden in plain sight.The Usual Suspects is a masterpiece of cinema that deserves its reputation as one of the best films of the 1990s. It is a film that rewards multiple viewings, as each time we can discover new details and appreciate its complexity and craftsmanship. It is also a film that stays with us long after it ends, as we ponder over its final revelation and its implications. The Usual Suspects is a film that proves that sometimes the villain actually wins.
16. Inside Man 2006，IMDB Rating: 7.6，Douban Rating: 7.7，ID: tt0454848
This month, I decided to watch and review some of the fan favorite movies where the villain actually wins. One of them is Inside Man, a 2006 crime thriller directed by Spike Lee and starring Denzel Washington, Clive Owen, and Jodie Foster. The movie follows a bank robbery-turned-hostage situation in Manhattan, where the mastermind Dalton Russell (Owen) executes a perfect heist while being confronted by the hostage negotiator Keith Frazier (Washington) and the mysterious fixer Madeleine White (Foster).What makes this movie stand out from other heist films is the clever and unconventional plot that keeps the audience guessing until the end. The robbers are not after money or jewels, but something much more personal and valuable: a document that proves the bank’s founder Arthur Case (Christopher Plummer) collaborated with the Nazis during World War II and stole gold from Jewish victims. Russell wants to expose Case’s crimes and blackmail him, while White wants to protect Case’s reputation and interests. Frazier is caught in the middle, trying to figure out what is going on and who to trust.The movie also explores themes such as racism, corruption, morality, and justice, through the interactions of the diverse and complex characters. Lee uses his signature style of humor, music, and social commentary to create a dynamic and engaging film that challenges the conventional notions of good and evil. The performances are excellent, especially Owen as the charismatic and cunning Russell, who manages to outsmart everyone and escape with his loot. Washington is also great as the witty and determined Frazier, who eventually uncovers the truth and confronts Case.Inside Man is a smart and entertaining film that subverts the genre expectations and delivers a satisfying twist. It is not only a thrilling heist movie, but also a witty and skillful commentary on society and history. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good crime story with a dose of humor and irony.
17. Saw 2004，IMDB Rating: 7.6，Douban Rating: 8.7，ID: tt0387564
Saw is a 2004 horror film that introduced the world to the twisted games of Jigsaw, a serial killer who tests his victims’ will to live by putting them through gruesome traps. The film is one of the 30 fan favorite movies where the villain actually wins, according to various articles and lists . The film follows two men, Adam and Dr. Lawrence Gordon, who wake up chained in a filthy bathroom with a corpse between them. They find tapes and clues that reveal they are part of Jigsaw’s game, and that Gordon must kill Adam before six o’clock, or his wife and daughter will die. As they try to escape, they learn more about Jigsaw’s motives and methods, and how they are connected to him and his other victims.I watched Saw as part of my blog theme this month, which is 30 fan favorite movies where the villain actually wins. I was curious to see how this film fits into the theme, and how it relates to the concept of villainy and morality. I found some articles that discussed these topics, and how Saw subverts the expectations of the horror genre by making the villain more complex and sympathetic than the typical slasher . Jigsaw is not a mindless killer, but a dying man who wants to teach his victims a lesson about appreciating life. He does not directly kill anyone, but forces them to make choices that can either save or doom them. He also targets people who he believes are wasting their lives or harming others, such as drug addicts, adulterers, or corrupt cops.My opinion of Saw is that it is a clever and original film that delivers a shocking twist at the end. The film is not for the faint of heart, as it contains graphic violence and gore that can make anyone squirm. However, the film also has a strong psychological element that makes it more than just a torture porn flick. The film explores themes such as survival, guilt, redemption, and justice, and challenges the audience to question their own morality and values. The film also has a great cast, especially Cary Elwes and Leigh Whannell as the main protagonists, who convey a range of emotions from fear to anger to desperation. The film also features Danny Glover as a detective obsessed with catching Jigsaw, and Tobin Bell as the voice of Jigsaw himself.I think Saw is a film that deserves its status as a fan favorite where the villain wins, because it offers a different perspective on what makes a villain and what makes a hero. Jigsaw may be a twisted and ruthless killer, but he also has a code and a purpose that make him more interesting and compelling than most villains. He also manages to outsmart and outplay everyone who tries to stop him, and reveals himself to be the mastermind behind everything in the final scene. The film ends with Jigsaw locking Gordon in the bathroom with no way out, while Adam lies dead on the floor. Jigsaw then utters his iconic line: “Game over.”
18. Primal Fear 1996，IMDB Rating: 7.7，Douban Rating: 8.5，ID: tt0117381
Primal Fear is a legal thriller that explores the themes of deception, manipulation, and justice. The film follows Martin Vail, a Chicago defense attorney who takes on the case of Aaron Stampler, a young altar boy accused of murdering and mutilating Archbishop Rushman, a prominent and influential figure in the city. Vail believes that Aaron is innocent and suffers from amnesia, but he soon discovers that Aaron has a hidden personality named Roy, who is violent, cunning, and responsible for the crime. Vail tries to prove that Aaron has dissociative identity disorder and was not aware of his actions, but he faces opposition from the prosecution, led by his former lover Janet Venable, and the corrupt state’s attorney John Shaughnessy, who has a personal vendetta against Rushman. Vail also uncovers a dark secret involving Rushman’s sexual abuse of Aaron and other altar boys, which was recorded on a videotape that becomes a key piece of evidence. In a shocking twist, Vail manages to get Aaron acquitted by convincing the jury that Roy was in control during the murder, but he then learns that Aaron was faking his disorder all along and that Roy is his true identity. Aaron reveals that he planned the murder and the trial as a revenge against Rushman for abusing him and his girlfriend Linda, who committed suicide. He also admits that he killed another altar boy named Alex, who tried to expose him. Aaron thanks Vail for his help and leaves him stunned and speechless.
19. Basic Instinct 1992，IMDB Rating: 7.0，Douban Rating: 7.8，ID: tt0103772
Basic Instinct is a 1992 neo-noir erotic thriller film directed by Paul Verhoeven and written by Joe Eszterhas. It stars Michael Douglas as Nick Curran, a San Francisco police detective who investigates the murder of a wealthy rock star, and Sharon Stone as Catherine Tramell, a seductive and enigmatic writer who is the prime suspect. The film is one of the fan favorites where the villain actually wins, as it ends with the implication that Catherine is the killer and that she will murder Nick as well.The film explores the theme of 30 Fan Favorite Movies Where The Villain Actually Wins by showing how Catherine manipulates Nick and everyone around her with her charm, intelligence, and sexuality. She uses her writing skills to create fictional scenarios that match the real crimes, making her seem innocent and creative. She also plays with Nick’s emotions and desires, making him obsessed with her and unable to resist her. She exploits his weaknesses, such as his addiction to alcohol and drugs, his troubled past, and his professional rivalry. She also frames other people for her murders, such as her ex-lover Roxy and her psychiatrist Dr. Beth Garner, who happen to be Nick’s former girlfriend.The film challenges the conventional expectations of the audience by making them root for the villain instead of the hero. Catherine is portrayed as a charismatic, confident, and independent woman who enjoys her life and does not care about the consequences of her actions. She is contrasted with Nick, who is a flawed, insecure, and dependent man who suffers from his guilt and addiction. The film also subverts the typical gender roles by making Catherine the dominant and aggressive partner in their relationship, while Nick is the submissive and passive one. The film also questions the morality and justice of the law enforcement system, as Nick is corrupted by his involvement with Catherine and fails to uphold his duty as a detective.My review of Basic Instinct is that it is a captivating and provocative film that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats with its twists and turns. The film has a brilliant script, direction, and cinematography that create a tense and stylish atmosphere. The film also has excellent performances from the cast, especially Stone, who delivers a stunning and iconic portrayal of Catherine. The film is not for everyone, as it contains graphic scenes of violence and sex that may offend some viewers. However, for those who enjoy a dark and erotic thriller with a clever and surprising ending, Basic Instinct is a must-see.
20. Nightcrawler 2014，IMDB Rating: 7.9，Douban Rating: 8.3，ID: tt2872718
Nightcrawler is a neo-noir thriller that explores the dark and twisted world of crime journalism in Los Angeles. Jake Gyllenhaal stars as Lou Bloom, a sociopathic con man who becomes a freelance videographer, capturing gruesome and sensational footage of accidents, crimes, and violence. He sells his work to a struggling local TV station, where he forms a manipulative relationship with the news director, Nina Romina (Rene Russo). As Lou becomes more obsessed and ambitious, he crosses ethical and legal boundaries, staging and altering scenes, interfering with police investigations, and endangering himself and his assistant, Rick (Riz Ahmed). The film is a scathing critique of the media’s exploitation of human suffering and the public’s appetite for sensationalism. It also examines the themes of unemployment, capitalism, and moral decay in contemporary society. Nightcrawler is a gripping and disturbing film that keeps the audience on edge with its suspenseful plot, stunning cinematography, and brilliant performances. Gyllenhaal delivers one of his best roles as the charismatic and creepy Lou, who is both fascinating and terrifying to watch. Russo is equally impressive as the desperate and ruthless Nina, who is willing to compromise her integrity for ratings. Ahmed is also memorable as the naive and sympathetic Rick, who becomes Lou’s reluctant partner and victim. The film is written and directed by Dan Gilroy in his directorial debut, who creates a compelling and original story that challenges the viewers to question their own morality and complicity in the culture of violence. Nightcrawler is a film that will haunt you long after it ends.