 "From Viola Davis in Kung Fu Panda 4 to Bobby Deol in Animal: 4 most menacing villains on the big screen in recent times")
2023 and 2024 has been an incredible celebration of cinema and talent. Some of the biggest successes over the past year have also been those that championed not just their protagonists but also their antagonists who made a lasting impact!
Starting the first quarter of 2024 with true hero v/s villiany is none other than Kung Fu Panda 4 . Voicing the role of this edition’s villain - The Chameleon is the legendary Viola Davis. The Kung Fu Panda franchise, which has spanned almost 16 years and has amassed a staggering nearly $2 billion in global box-office success, continues to captivate audiences worldwide. At its core, the saga revolves around the endearing panda, Po (Jack Black), who embodies and imparts profound lessons of self-discovery, overcoming fear and the power of teamwork.
As the Kung Fu Panda franchise embarks on a new chapter with Kung Fu Panda 4 releasing on March 15, let’s get down and celebrate the power of villiany counting down 4 of the most menacing villains who have/will grace the big screen in recent times :
John Abraham for Pathaan
Not only was Pathaan Shah Rukh’s return to the big screen after 4 years, it brought to the fore the fierce John Abraham in an incredible new avatar - the international mercenary Jim. Everything about his being, his aura and demeanour ensured he is a worthy opponent to the incredible Pathaan. His presence in the film not only elevated the viewing experience for audiences but also proved how every hero becomes one courtesy a worthy adversary.
Viola Davis as The Chameleon for KFP4
Joining the roster of these exceptional villains, who created havoc and hysteria at the box office in India with their films, is none other than the legend herself - Viola Davis who makes her debut with animation and voice over as the brand new villain joining the Kung Fu Panda 4 franchise. Chameleon is an intriguing, shape shifting reptile sorceress who is without a doubt one of the most menacing villians in the Kung Fu Panda universe.
Vijay Sethupathi for Jawan
Shah Rukh Khan’s next major outing post Pathan was Atlee’s Jawan which witnessed SRK in a whole new world. Standing strong against the might of Jawan was the quirky yet oh-so-dangerous Kali Gaikwad - an international arms and weapons dealer. Essaying the character of Kali was the incredibly talented Vijay Sethupathi. He was interestingly edgy not just with his look but also his performance.
Bobby Deol in Animal
He came…He saw…He conquered! That’s been the essence of Bobby Deol’s resurgence that was led by his master big screen vehicle - Animal . The film had Ranbir Kapoor essay the leading man’s role with Bobby Deol standing tall as Abrar Haque who knew no limits to his brutality and aggression. Ranbir and Bobby’s on-screen action sequence added a whole new layer and appeal for audiences alike. His performance as a mute mafia kingpin earned him so much applause proving why he truly deserves the title of Lord Bobby!
A DreamWorks Animation, Kung Fu Panda 4 directed by Mike Mitchell, co-directed by Stephanie Ma Stine, is distributed by Universal Pictures (Warner Bros. Discovery) and will be released in India on March 15 in English, Hindi, Tamil and Telugu.