To celebrate the release of Birds of Prey and The Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn available now on digital platforms, we’ve delved into the DC universe to seek out some of the best Female Super Villains that made their way to screen. From their mischievous wit to their mastery of manipulation, the following characters have all been a highlight of the recent DC film adaptations, and the actors’ portrayal deserve acclaim.
HARLEY QUINN, Birds of Prey and The Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn (2020)
Harley Quinn, as portrayed by Margot Robbie, has one of the best character developments of DC female personalities that have made their way to screen. Starting as psychiatrist Harleen Quizel, to then being the Joker’s sidekick, to finally emancipating herself to achieve true freedom, Harley has taken us on a ride. Harley challenges our perspective of what a DC villain encompasses, her character’s depth, wit and ingenuity constantly surprising us along the way. The DC world would definitely be a less vibrant place without her.
TALIA AL GHUL, The Dark Knight Rises (2012)
Talia Al Ghul, also known as Miranda Tate in the Dark Knight Rises, is one of the most manipulative villains in the DC universe and we love it. Do not be fooled by her charm and pleasantries, this character had a tough start to life and will stop at nothing to achieve Gotham’s destruction. We love an empowered female boss, and as the leader League of Shadows, it comes to no surprise that Talia is one of our favourite DC villains.
FAORA-UL, Man of Steel (2013)
Despite being devoid of compassion and moral compass, Faora-UI is probably one of the most gifted warriors with supernatural abilities. We appreciate her tenacity and ambition to terraforming planet Earth into a new Krypton, making her status as one of the most badass on-screen villains well deserved.
POISON IVY, Batman and Robin (1997)
No DC villain roundup would be complete without the inclusion of the one and only Poison Ivy. Formerly known as Pamela Isley, she is transformed into a crafty and seductive eco-terrorist, half-woman and half- plant, after Dr. Jason Woodrue’s failed attempt to murder her. More than just a great style and costume, Poison Ivy is a classic villain which will use all means to reach her ends. We hope to see more of her in future DC film releases.
DOCTOR POISON, Wonder Woman (2017)
Doctor Isabel Maru, also known as Doctor Poison, was the ally of General Erich Ludendorff, who developed mustard gas for Germany during WWI in Wonder Woman (2017). It is undeniable that Doctor Poison’s intelligence is her biggest weapon, and one of the deadliest. Her passion for scientific research, albeit to reach her evil ends, does attract our admiration.
Birds of Prey and The Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn is now available on digital and in 4K UHD, Blu-ray and DVD on the 15th June in the UK. The film will be available on Blu-ray and DVD on the 12th May.
