Throughout cinematic history, movies have introduced us to an array of captivating and chilling villains. These nefarious figures often possess a certain charm or wit that, while repellent, draws audiences in, making it hard not to have a twisted fondness for them. On the flip side, another archetype emerges: the coward. These characters are bereft of the allure that true villains carry and instead appear weak and self-serving, often succumbing to pressure and betraying those closest to them. Their reluctance to take a stand or face challenges is what makes their presence in film so infuriating yet impactful, sometimes catalyzing the tragic events that unfold in the narrative.
Unlike charismatic villains, cowards usually evoke disdain rather than intrigue. From treacherous backstabbers to despicable bullies, cinema is rife with characters who embody this lack of courage, and we explore some of the most egregious examples below.
10 Fredo Corleone
The Godfather
Initially, Fredo Corleone elicits some sympathy; however, he ultimately becomes one of the most loathed characters in The Godfather trilogy. Portrayed as the vulnerable link in the Corleone family, Fredo’s insecurities lead him down a dark path where he has multiple opportunities for redemption but tragically chooses cowardice instead. His desperate need for recognition culminates in a betrayal that endangers his own family, turning him into a figure of contempt rather than heroism.
9 Commodus
Gladiator
As the son of a revered emperor, Commodus shoulders the weight of legacy but proves to be a weak leader who lusts for power above all else. Joaquin Phoenix’s portrayal reveals a complex yet deeply flawed character whose cowardice festers in his refusal to confront his insecurities. Instead of embodying the virtues expected of a ruler, he resorts to heinous acts, including patricide, showcasing a lack of moral fortitude that defines his cowardly nature.
8 Cypher
The Matrix
Cypher exemplifies a unique form of cowardice rooted in selfishness rather than fear. In The Matrix, his betrayal of his comrades arises not from desperation but a longing for comfort in ignorance. By choosing to revert to a simulated life at the expense of his crew’s safety, Cypher’s actions highlight how weakness can be even more destructive than outright malevolence, condemning those around him to dire consequences.
7 Donald Gennaro
Jurassic Park
In a perilous situation among genetically engineered dinosaurs, Donald Gennaro’s cowardice reaches new heights. While others confront dangers to protect vulnerable lives, Gennaro’s instinct for self-preservation drives him to abandon two children in a moment of crisis. His gutless exit leads to his demise at the hands of a Tyrannosaurus rex, serving as an ironic twist to his selfish choices.
6 AJ Gilbride
Barbarian
AJ Gilbride, a lesser-known character from the horror film *Barbarian*, embodies emotional cowardice that extends beyond mere physical fear. His character reveals a disturbing inability to face his own failings, leading to a refusal to take accountability for his actions. His selfish instinct prompts him to betray others, showcasing how deep-rooted cowardice manifests itself in various forms, making him a memorable anti-hero of sorts.
5 Beni Gabor
The Mummy
Beni Gabor is a comical yet pathetic coward encountered early in *The Mummy*. After pledging loyalty to treasure hunter Rick O’Connell, he quickly abandons his companion in a moment of peril. His subsequent actions reflect a pervasive trait of betrayal and self-preservation that becomes a defining element of his character throughout the film. From striking cowardly alliances to pleading for mercy when confronted, Beni’s behavior reveals his all-consuming focus on survival.
4 Alfrid Lickspittle
The Hobbit
The cowardice of Alfrid Lickspittle is so acute that it reportedly detracts from the overall quality of *The Hobbit*. A sycophantic figure who shifts allegiances to ensure his own safety, Alfrid’s actions, such as pushing a desperate villager away and disguising himself to avoid battle, starkly underscore his inability to stand up for those in need. His constant attempts to escape from responsibility mark him as one of the most loathed characters in the film.
3 Yon-suk
Train to Busan
Ranked among the most despised characters, Yon-suk from *Train to Busan* exemplifies self-serving cowardice. As a quintessential antagonist during a zombie outbreak, he exhibits a total disregard for human life, prioritizing his safety above all else. His morally bankrupt choices, such as using others as shields, punctuate just how vile and cowardly he truly is.
2 Peter Pettigrew
Harry Potter
In the world of *Harry Potter*, Peter Pettigrew is arguably the most infamous coward among friends. His betrayal of the Potters is not only a gut-wrenching plot twist but also serves as a chilling reminder of how far one will go for self-preservation. By turning against his closest friends to align himself with Voldemort, Pettigrew’s actions unveil a character that embodies the essence of selfish cowardice while leaving a trail of destruction in his wake.
1 Percy Wetmore
The Green Mile
Among Stephen King’s myriad of characters, Percy Wetmore stands out for his profound cowardice. A character who derives pleasure from instilling suffering, he targets the defenseless with his cruel antics as a prison guard. Yet when faced with real danger, his cowardice shines through. Percy’s sadistic behavior is matched only by his willingness to cower when confronted by those who pose a threat to him, showcasing the defining traits of a cowardly villain.