You Hated Them at First—But These 10 Characters Won You Over

You Hated Them at First—But These 10 Characters Won You Over

Some movie characters start off as loathsome, arrogant, or outright villainous—but by the end, they manage to captivate us. Whether through unexpected vulnerability, depth, or a shocking redemption arc, these flawed figures earned our affection against the odds.

1. Loki

The God of Mischief thrives on lies and manipulation, often putting himself at odds with heroes and entire realms. Yet Loki’s humor, style, and undeniable charisma keep audiences hooked.

As we peel back his layers, we find a character shaped by rejection and jealousy, seeking identity and belonging. His evolution from conniving trickster to reluctant hero makes him a fan favorite in the Marvel universe.

2. Miranda Priestly

Miranda’s biting critiques and sky-high standards create an ice queen persona that’s impossible to ignore. Initially, she seems like the epitome of workplace tyranny.

But glimpses of her vulnerability and the pressures of maintaining power in a cutthroat industry reveal a woman hardened by necessity. Her unapologetic drive and complexity turn her into an unlikely icon of empowerment and resilience.

3. Severus Snape

Severus Snape begins as the archetype of a cruel and bitter teacher, intimidating students with sharp remarks and favoritism. But as the story unfolds, his hidden motivations—rooted in heartbreak, loyalty, and sacrifice—emerge.

His double life as a spy and his deep, unwavering love for Lily Potter recast his gruff exterior in a new light. Ultimately, Snape is a tragic hero whose complex morality and courage leave a lasting impact.

4. Hannibal Lecter

A cultured psychiatrist and a chillingly intelligent cannibal, Hannibal Lecter should be nothing short of terrifying. And he is—but he’s also captivating.

His charm, eloquence, and twisted sense of civility make him strangely endearing, even as he commits horrific acts. We find ourselves fascinated, even admiring his brilliance, despite the monstrous truths that lie beneath.

5. Jack Sparrow

Jack Sparrow stumbles through life with drunken swagger and unpredictable choices. He cheats, steals, and lies—but does it with such flair that we can’t help but cheer him on.

His moral compass may be skewed, but it’s still there, guiding him in moments that matter. Jack’s mix of chaos, charm, and cunning cements him as a lovable rogue who always stays one step ahead.

6. Darth Vader

Towering, masked, and merciless, Darth Vader epitomizes galactic evil. His terrifying presence and brutal methods define him as the saga’s darkest force.

Yet, as we learn about his past as Anakin Skywalker, a tortured soul emerges. His ultimate act of redemption—saving his son at great cost—redeems him in the eyes of many.

Vader’s arc from villain to redeemer makes him one of cinema’s most compelling figures.

7. Tyler Durden

Charismatic, rebellious, and deeply nihilistic, Tyler Durden channels our frustrations with modern life into an explosive ideology. He seduces with anti-establishment charm, only to reveal a destructive, delusional core.

As the film peels back layers of identity and control, Tyler becomes more than an anarchist—he’s a symbol of fractured masculinity and existential dread. You hate him, yet you can’t look away.

8. Regina George

The queen bee of North Shore High rules with manipulation and a dazzling smile. Regina George is every teen movie’s worst nightmare—and most magnetic presence.

But her facade of perfection hides insecurities and the pressure to stay on top. When she falls, and then rises again (in a different form), we realize she’s more than just a plastic villain. She’s iconic, flawed, and oddly empowering.

9. Gollum

Gollum is grotesque, sneaky, and obsessed with the One Ring. His split personality, twisted by centuries of obsession, should render him irredeemable.

But behind the snarls and treachery is a deeply tragic figure—a hobbit-like being who once had hope. His brief moments of sincerity and internal conflict evoke pity and sorrow.

In the end, he’s both a warning and a victim, making his fate heartbreakingly poignant.

10. Jordan Belfort

Jordan Belfort is a narcissistic, greedy stockbroker who indulges in excess and preys on the vulnerable. His rise is steeped in crime and deception.

Yet, Leonardo DiCaprio’s electric portrayal—and the sheer audacity of Belfort’s lifestyle—make him an enthralling figure. His charisma is infectious, even as his actions spiral into moral oblivion.

We hate what he stands for, but we can’t deny the spectacle.