These 10 Disney Villains Need Big Presences in Villains Land

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As a Disney enthusiast who has grown up with these timeless classics, I can confidently say that each of these villains holds a special place in my heart – and possibly nightmares. Dr. Facilier, with his voodoo magic and snazzy attire, was indeed the last great villain introduced in classic hand-drawn animation. His absence from Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is as puzzling as one of his potions gone awry! A Dr. Facilier’s Magic Shop would be a perfect addition to Villains Land, where we can all get a taste of his mystical brews – just don’t mix them up!

At Disney’s D23 event, one of the exciting announcements was that a “Villains Land” will be added to the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World. Fans have been eagerly waiting for this for years, and their excitement was palpable when the news was shared, causing the loudest cheer from the crowd. As of now, Disney has not given an official name to this land, but we’ll call it “Villains Land” for convenience. The early concept art released shows a darker, more sinister aesthetic that aligns well with their classic fairy tale films – something we can definitely get behind! We’ve compiled a list of ten villains who should have a significant role when the land finally opens its gates.

We should note, we’re only using villains from animated films from Walt Disney Animation Studios. The concept art conveys a medieval feel, so we’re guessing bad guys like Syndrome from The Incredibles or Sid from Toy Story would not fit in. We’re also not including any Marvel or Star Wars villains. They have their own lands to roam. Oh, and for each of these villains, we are specifically looking at their original animated incarnations. No shade, but we go classic over those from any of the live-action adaptations every time.

10. Captain Hook (Peter Pan, 1953)

Occasionally, we adore a timeless Disney villain due to their threatening demeanor or mysterious allure. Yet, when it comes to Captain Hook from Peter Pan, our affection isn’t rooted in fear or intrigue – it’s simply because he’s an endearing blunderer. To put it mildly, he’s more of a comical character than a true villain. However, we can’t deny that his hair and hat make him a fashion icon, even if his style is questionable at best. As for whether he deserves his own attraction, that’s up for debate. But, Disneyland once had Captain Hook’s pirate ship as a restaurant in Skull Rock years ago. Perhaps it’s time to bring back this concept for Villains Land?

9. The Evil Queen (Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, 1937)

Despite not having a traditional recognized name, the wicked stepmother from Snow White’s tale has undeniably become an iconic figure. In 1937, Disney introduced us to Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, their debut animated feature film, setting the stage for all future Disney villains. The green-eyed jealousy, the stylish purple and black outfits, the dramatically arched eyebrows – other villains have taken cues from her in some way. So iconic is she that even her disguise as an old hag is well-known, just like her glamorous self. Perhaps they’ll provide her with a churro stand in Villains Land – it could double as an apple cart too!

8. Chernabog (Fantasia, 1940)

Is Chernabog from Fantasia considered a villain? Given his menacing appearance and actions in the movie, it’s quite clear he plays the role of a villain. Based on Slavic folklore, Chernabog is the God of Darkness, leading an army of the dead to create chaos and terror in the “Night on Bald Mountain” segment of Fantasia. Given his destructive behavior, it seems fair to label him as a bad guy. If there were a place called Villains Land, Chernabog would undoubtedly be a prominent figure there. Imagine if Bald Mountain, from which he takes his name, was part of that land, with the giant standing tall at its summit during the day and revealing his demonic form at night when his wings unfolded! This concept sounds like a fantastic idea, Imagineers.

7. Gaston (Beauty and the Beast, 1991)

Gaston from the story “Beauty and the Beast” isn’t magical or wicked nobility; instead, he’s a self-important, arrogant jerk who thinks he’s irresistible to women. He can be quite annoying, but the ladies from Belle’s village have to tolerate him. Despite his flaws, we like him because he has a catchy song and his blind confidence can sometimes be amusing. Additionally, the pub where he spends time could make an interesting restaurant in a land for villains.

6. Cruella de Vil (101 Dalamtians, 1961)

In contrast to Gaston, Cruella de Vil isn’t endowed with magical abilities or ruling as an evil queen, yet she holds this status within her self-perception. This is what makes her such a captivating, self-absorbed fashion maven. On the surface, her intention to harm innocent puppies for clothing seems despicable and inexcusable. However, her impeccable sense of style cannot be overlooked. While we may not advocate for Cruella having an attraction dedicated to her, it’s reasonable to suggest that one of the more exclusive fashion boutiques in the realm should bear the name “Cruella’s.”

5. Jafar (Aladdin, 1992)

As a devoted Disney enthusiast, I can’t help but reminisce about another unforgettable villain from the Renaissance era – none other than Jafar, the cunning Royal Vizier in Aladdin. His ambition to rule Agrabah and seize that elusive magic lamp is as iconic as his flamboyant style and impressive whiskers.

4. Dr. Facilier (The Princess and the Frog, 2009)

In a more casual and straightforward manner: The enigmatic villain Dr. Facilier from “The Princess and the Frog” was one of Disney’s last iconic hand-drawn villains. Known as the Shadow Man, voiced by Keith David, he had an eerie yet charming presence that captivated us immediately. Just like other memorable Disney villains, he looked sharp in his purple and black attire. It’s peculiar why he isn’t featured in the new Tiana’s Bayou Adventure attraction at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom, but it would be fantastic to see him represented in the upcoming Villains Land. At a minimum, perhaps a Dr. Facilier’s Magic Shop?

3. Scar (The Lion King, 1994)

What makes for a better villain than a seethingly jealous sibling? Besides, when your name is Scar, what else is going to be your career path? Voiced by the iconic Jeremy Irons in The Lion King, Scar committed one of the more heinous acts of any of the animated Disney villains, actually killing the hero’s father. What can we say, Scar went in hard. Seeing as we likely won’t see Pride Rock in Villains Land, we’re not sure where a big imposing cat with hyena lackeys fits in. Hopefully, we should “Be Prepared” for something special in Villains Land for Scar.

3. Ursula (The Little Mermaid, 1989)

In 1989, when “The Little Mermaid” was first released, it had been three decades since Disney introduced a captivating witch character. However, Ursula swiftly became one of the iconic witches in history, not only with her sharp dialogue but also her memorable song “Poor Unfortunate Souls.” Her striking appearance, inspired by the late drag icon Divine, is another reason she’s unforgettable. With black and purple being her signature colors, they certainly made a winning combination. Although she doesn’t have her own attraction in “The Little Mermaid,” let’s hope for a seafood restaurant dedicated to Ursula within the park!

1. Maleficent (Sleeping Beauty, 1959)

As a gaming enthusiast, I’ve got to admit that while Sleeping Beauty isn’t my favorite Disney animated film, it certainly boasts an unforgettable villain in Maleficent. Her design is iconic, her voice performance by Eleanor Audley is top-notch, and let’s not forget the dramatic touch when she transforms into a monstrous dragon!

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2024-08-22 20:33