Here are the greatest frenemies in science fiction movies and television. We’ve all had them. People who pretend to be friends but also in some ways an enemy. There’s an old saying “Keep your friends close and your enemies closer.” Sometimes people are both.
Movies and television shows have all kinds of relationships, including frenemies. Frenemies have been a long-running cliche across numerous genres, and fans enjoy a convoluted yet relatable relationship between two evenly matched characters. From heroes who are friends with villains to lovers who are also enemies here are the greatest frenemies in the genre.
1. Londo and G’Kar in Babylon 5
Babylon 5 is set in the mid-23rd century, the Earth Alliance space station “Babylon 5,” located in neutral territory, serves as a significant focal point for political intrigue, racial tensions, and different battles over five years.
Londo Mollari (Peter Jurasik) and G’Kar (Andreas Katsulas) have contrasting perspectives and experiences. Londo is initially portrayed as a cynical, power-hungry Centauri diplomat with sharp humor. G’Kar is a cold and devious Narn diplomat fighting for his people.
Initially hostile, they develop a complex relationship marked by conflict and understanding. As they navigate the station’s complex political landscape, they make significant sacrifices for the station and the galactic community. After G’Kar’s death, the Centauri Emperor Londo honors their relationship by creating statues guarding the capital city. Their shared struggle for freedom and the station’s survival is explored throughout the series. It’s a truly touching storyline.
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It’s available to buy or rent on Amazon
2. Princess Ardala and Buck in Buck Rogers in the 25th Century
“Buck Rogers in the 25th Century” follows Capt. William ‘Buck’ Rogers (Gil Gerard), a 20th-century astronaut, wakes up from 500 years of suspended animation in the 25th century to become Earth’s greatest hero and explore the unexplored depths of space.
Draconian princess, Ardala (Pamela Hensley), develops a strong romantic interest in Buck. Ardala desires to use Buck’s strength to overthrow her father and rule the galaxy, while Buck is resistant due to her Draconian heritage. Ardala is frustrated by Buck’s reluctance and his lack of affection. Buck explains that love isn’t forceful and they don’t have the connection needed for a romantic relationship. Their personalities and political backgrounds clash, leading to their understanding that they cannot have a romantic relationship.
It’s available on Amazon
3. The Doctor and the Master in Doctor Who
The Doctor and Master’s relationship in Doctor Who is complex. Initially, it is a friendship, but later, it becomes a bitter rivalry. The Doctor’s compassion leads to a diverging path, with the Master’s ambition and personal power causing a conflict.
Despite their adversarial roles, they share a unique bond, acknowledging each other’s intelligence and mutual respect. The Doctor sees the Master as a reflection of their potential, while the Master’s ambition pushes the Doctor to their limits. The modern era of Doctor Who highlights the enduring bond between the two characters.
Watch it on Disney+
It’s available on Amazon
4. Jerome Valeska and Bruce Wayne in Gotham
In Gotham, Jerome Valeska’s (Cameron Monaghan) relationship with Bruce Wayne (David Mazouz) is characterized by obsession and rivalry. He sees Bruce as an equal and a challenge, and his actions are driven by a desire to see Gotham destroyed and rebuilt in his image.
Jerome views himself and Bruce as both sides of the same coin, driven by a desire to change Gotham. His brother, Jeremiah Valeska, is obsessed with Bruce, but his relationship is more about wanting to be his friend and show him the truth about the world.
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It’s available on Amazon
5. Oswald Cobblepot and Jim Gordon in Gotham
Oswald Cobblepot (Robin Lord Taylor) and Jim Gordon (Ben McKenzie) have a complicated relationship. One is a criminal mastermind. The other is a dedicated police officer. Initially, Jim sees Oswald with pity and annoyance, while Oswald has a strong emotional attachment to Jim.
Their relationship fluctuates, with periods of camaraderie and trust followed by confrontations and outright conflict. As Oswald’s criminal ambitions grow, his actions often put him at odds with Jim, who enforces the law. Jim’s resistance to reconcile Oswald’s behavior with his moral code is a recurring theme in their stories, showcasing the potential for connection despite conflict and differences.
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It’s available on Amazon
6. Selena Kyle and Bruce Wayne in Gotham
Gotham has another notable set of frenemies. The show also follows the complex relationship between Selina Kyle (Camren Bicondova) and Bruce Wayne (David Mazouz). They form a close-knit partnership after witnessing Bruce’s parents’ murder. Their bond deepens as they navigate Gotham’s dangers, becoming partners in crime and developing a strong romantic interest. Their lives, including Bruce’s transformation into Batman and Selina’s transformation into Catwoman, test their relationship, forcing them to navigate their identities and maintain their connection. Their dynamic evolves throughout the series, providing comfort and support.
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It’s available on Amazon
7. Yelena Belova and Kate Bishop in Marvel Studios’ Hawkeye
Marvel Studios’ Disney+ series, Hawkeye, revolves around Kate Bishop and her interactions with her mentor, Clint Barton (Jeremy Renner). Hailee Steinfeld, who plays Bishop, has better chemistry with Yelena Belova, played by Florence Pugh. Their close relationship, which has been present in the comics and the MCU, is expected to continue in the Disney+ series.
Their chemistry is strong when paired with Bishop. She has a youthful and innocent demeanor. Their playful banter and unique personality make their dynamic dynamic appealing, making them a perfect pairing for a Disney+ series.
Watch it on Disney+
It’s available on Amazon
8. Sylar and Peter Petrelli in Heroes
In the TV series Heroes, Sylar (Zachary Quinto) and Peter Petrelli (Milo Ventimiglia) represent different ways of understanding and interacting with others. Sylar’s analytical approach allows him to steal powers, while Peter’s empathy and connection make him a better ally. Their motivations are self-centered and driven by power and recognition, while Peter’s is altruistic.
Their relationship is marked by conflict and tension, but they deeply understand each other.
Watch it on Peacock
It’s available on Amazon
9. Lister and Rimmer in Red Dwarf
Red Dwarf follows David Lister (Craig Charles) and Arnold Rimmer (Chris Barrie), two begrudging crew members who develop a complex relationship despite their ideological differences. Rimmer, a neurotic and underachieving character, is responsible for a radiation leak that nearly kills the crew.
After the disaster, he’s returned as a hologram by the ship’s computer, Holly, to keep Lister company. Their bond evolves, highlighting their dependence on each other in survival situations.
Watch it on Peacock
It’s available on Amazon
10. Clark Kent and Lex Luthor in Smallville
In the early seasons of Smallville, Clark Kent (Tom Welling) and Lex Luthor (Michael Rosenbaum) had a genuine friendship. Lex initially supported Clark, admired him, and helped others outside the Kent family. However, as Clark’s powers became more apparent, Lex began to perceive him as a threat or a source of power, leading to increased distrust and resentment.
Lex’s ambition and desire for control clashed with Clark’s idealistic nature, straining their friendship. The relationship evolved into a complex, fraught one, characterized by ambition, control, and growing antagonism.
Watch it on Hulu
It’s available on Amazon
11. Quark and Odo in Star Trek: Deep Space Nine
In Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Constable Odo (Rene Auberjonois) and Quark’s (Alexander Siddig) relationship evolves from initial animosity to mutual respect and friendship. Despite their differences, they appreciate each other’s skills and strengths, leading to friendly banter and shared loyalty.
Their friendship evolves into a “love/hate” dynamic, with both appreciating each other’s presence, even in conflict. At the end of the series, when Odo leaves the station, Quark makes an emotional goodbye, showcasing the depth of their connection.
Watch it on Paramount+
It’s available on Amazon
12. Gul Dukat and Sisko in Star Trek: Deep Space Nine
Gul Dukat (Marc Alaimo) and Captain Benjamin ‘Ben’ Sisko’s (Avery Brooks) relationship on Star Trek: Deep Space Nine was complex, ranging from hostility to mutual acknowledgment of each other’s strengths and weaknesses. Dukat viewed Sisko as an obstacle to his ambitions, while Sisko saw him as a dangerous villain.
Their paths were intertwined, with Dukat’s actions affecting the crew and Sisko’s personal life. Dukat’s arc explored themes of power, ambition, and human nature.
Watch it on Paramount+
It’s available on Amazon
13. Bones and Spock in Star Trek: The Original Series
In Star Trek: The Original Series, Dr. Leonard “Bones” McCoy (DeForest Kelley) and Spock’s (Leonard Nimoy) relationship is characterized by contrasting personalities and frequent bickering. McCoy, a human doctor, often represents emotion and common sense, while Spock, a half-Vulcan, embodies logic and reason.
Despite their differences, they are close friends and are aware of each other’s strengths and weaknesses. McCoy serves as a foil to Spock, highlighting the limits of logic and the importance of human emotions. Their friendship and mutual respect are evident beyond their bickering.
Watch it on Paramount+
It’s available on Amazon
14. Natasha and Clint in Marvel Studios’ Avengers: Endgame
In Budapest, Clint Barton / Hawkeye (Jeremy Renner) and Natasha Romanoff / Black Widow (Scarlett Johansson) were sent on a mission. A mission to kill each other. They started as enemies. By Endgame, Natasha and Clint have formed a close, almost familial relationship based on shared experiences and teamwork.
Their bond is characterized by deep trust, loyalty, and a strong bond, with Natasha becoming a surrogate aunt to Clint’s children and Laura’s wife. Their relationship ended with Black Widow sacrificing her life to save Hawkeye and the universe. They were true friends and teammates.
Watch it on Disney+
It’s available on Amazon
15. Steve and Bucky in Marvel Studios’ Captain America: The Winter Soldier
Captain America: The Winter Soldier explores the deep friendship between Steve Rogers / Captain America (Chris Evans) and James Buchanan “Bucky” Barnes (Sebastian Stan), who have been childhood friends since World War II. Bucky is brainwashed by HYDRA, turning him into the Winter Soldier.
Bucky struggles to reconnect with Steve, who he no longer remembers. The Winter Soldier represents Steve’s past, highlighting the cost of war and the lasting impact of trauma. Eventually, Bucky’s memory returns and their friendship is rekindled.
Watch it on Disney+
It’s available on Amazon
16. Bucky and Sam in Marvel Studios’ Captain America: Civil War
In Marvel Studios’ Captain America: Civil War, Bucky Barnes and Sam Wilson (Anthony Mackie) are initially adversaries due to their different allegiances. There’s also a fair amount of jealousy between Steve Rogers’ two best friends. Despite initial disagreement, they develop a growing bond as they navigate the aftermath of the Civil War. They deeply respect each other’s perspectives and abilities, and their shared trauma fosters understanding and camaraderie.
The Disney+ series The Falcon and the Winter Soldier delves deeper into their relationship, exploring the complexities of their bond, the challenges they face, and the eventual development of a strong friendship. Bucky struggles with redemption, while Sam grapples with identity and the mantle of Captain America.
Watch it on Disney+
It’s available on Amazon
17. Quentin Beck and Peter Parker in Spider-Man: Far From Home
“Spider-Man: Far From Home” follows Quentin Beck (Jake Gyllenhaal), who initially appears as a mentor and ally to Peter Parker (Tom Holland). However, this relationship is deceitful, as Beck is revealed to be a villain with an agenda.
He manipulates Peter through illusions and fear. Beck exploits Peter’s emotions, particularly his love for Mary Jane. Beck’s true nature is revealed when he uses Peter’s identity and events to make Spider-Man the villain, framing him for a murder he didn’t commit.
Watch it on Disney+
It’s available on Amazon
18. Xavier and Eric in X-Men (2000)
The war between the mutants first played out in the 2000 film X-Men. Charles Xavier aka Professor X (Patrick Stewart) and Erik Lehnsherr aka Magneto (Ian McKellen) have a complex, often tumultuous relationship characterized by friendship and antagonism. Initially close friends, they shared a desire to improve mutant lives and foster understanding. However, their diverging ideologies led to conflict and antagonism, with Magneto embracing a confrontational approach.
Despite their differences, they maintain respect for each other, fostering moments of collaboration and understanding. Their complex bond suggests potential for redemption and healing, as they work together or reconcile.
Watch it on Disney+
It’s available on Amazon
19. Picard and Dathon in Star Trek: The Next Generation
In Star Trek: The Next Generation, Captain Jean-Luc Picard (Patrick Stewart) and Captain Dathon (Paul Winfield), a Tamarian, form a brief bond through shared adversity and communication. They encounter a dangerous electromagnetic lifeform in El-Adrel IV, breaking the language barrier through shared experience and Picard’s understanding of the “Epic of Gilgamesh.”
Dathon’s sacrifice helps bridge the communication gap between the two cultures, and Picard carries the memory of Dathon and their shared experience with him. This event is commemorated as “Picard and Dathon at El-Adrel.”
Watch it on Paramount+, PlutoTV
It’s available on Amazon
20. Peter and Harry in The Amazing Spider-Man 2 (2014)
The Amazing Spider-Man 2 explores the complex relationship between Harry Osborn (Dane DeHaan) and Peter Parker (Andrew Garfield), a childhood friend who deteriorates due to his father’s abuse and internal struggles.
Harry’s resentment towards his father and his father’s Oscorp experiments leads to a sense of betrayal, ultimately causing Harry’s descent into madness and the revelation of Norman’s “Green Goblin” identity. Harry’s anger and hatred towards Peter lead to a tragic confrontation, destroying their friendship. The story highlights the tragic consequences of a father’s abuse, a son’s resentment, and the dark secrets within Oscorp.
Watch it on Disney+, Netflix
It’s available on Amazon
21. Sarah Connor and the T-800 in Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991)
In Terminator 2: Judgment Day, Sarah Connor’s (Linda Hamilton) relationship with the reprogrammed T-800 Terminator (Arnold Schwarzenegger) transforms from fear and distrust to respect and a surrogate father-daughter bond. Initially distrustful due to her past experiences with Terminators, Sarah gradually appreciates the T-800’s unique reprogramming.
The T-800 acts as a surrogate father figure, and Sarah forms a bond with him, referring to him as “Pops.” Ultimately, Sarah sacrifices the T-800 to protect humanity, symbolizing their evolving relationship and themes of fate, free will, and change.
Watch it on Amazon Prime Video, Paramount+
It’s available on Amazon
22. Batman and Catwoman in Batman Returns (1993)
Batman Returns explores the rivalry and antagonism between Batman / Bruce Wayne (Michael Keaton) and Catwoman / Selina Kyle (Michelle Pfeiffer), driven by their desire for revenge against Max Shreck (Christopher Walken).
Despite their initial conflict, their mutual respect and attraction suggest a potential romantic connection. Despite their opposing goals, they share common goals to improve Gotham City and eliminate corruption. Their contrasting personalities add to the tension and complexity of their relationship.
Watch it on MAX
It’s available on Amazon
23. Thor and Loki in Marvel Studios’ Thor (2011)
The relationship between Thor (Chris Hemsworth) and Loki (Tom Hiddleston) in the Marvel Cinematic Universe is complex. It evolves from rivalry and jealousy to grudging respect and brotherly love. Despite Loki’s attempts to undermine Thor’s destiny, their bond deepens after their mother’s death and Thor’s coronation.
The characters’ early rivalry, Loki’s betrayals, and Thor’s faith in each other’s potential for good lead to a more nuanced bond, which develops through Infinity War. The performances of Chris Hemsworth and Tom Hiddleston in the film showcase this complex dynamic, showcasing the MCU’s hallmark of brotherhood and understanding.
Watch it on Disney+
It’s available on Amazon
24. Anakin Skywalker and Obi-Wan Kenobi in Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith (2005)
In Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith, Anakin Skywalker’s relationship with Obi-Wan Kenobi is shattered by his descent into the dark side. The relationship, once a strong friendship, is shattered by Anakin’s growing disillusionment with the Jedi Order, fear of losing Padmé, and manipulation by Palpatine. Anakin’s desire for power and a seat on the Jedi Council, coupled with his romantic feelings for Padmé, leads him to envy and resent Obi-Wan.
His growing disillusionment with the Jedi Order and Palpatine’s manipulation further strained their relationship. Their final confrontation with Mustafar reveals the deep scar on their bond, highlighting the tragic consequences of Anakin’s descent into the dark side.
Watch it on Disney+
It’s available on Amazon
25. Bruce and Ducard in Batman Begins (2005)
Batman Begins explores the complex relationship between Henri Ducard (Liam Neeson) and Bruce Wayne (Christian Bale), a member of the “League of Shadows.” Ducard offers Bruce martial arts training, but their relationship breaks down when Bruce refuses to embrace the League’s violent justice philosophy. Ducard views Bruce as a disappointment and ultimately betrayal, leading to a final confrontation where Bruce, now a trained fighter, confronts Ducard and the League.
Watch it on Netflix, MAX
It’s available on Amazon
26. Thor and Quill in Marvel Studios’ Avengers: Infinity War (2018)
In Avengers: Infinity War, Thor (Chris Hemsworth) and Peter Quill’s (Chris Pratt) relationship initially clashes due to their differing personalities. Despite initial friction, they develop a sense of respect as they work together to combat Thanos and his forces.
In Thor: Love and Thunder their relationship developed into true camaraderie. Their shared struggles, mutual respect, and humorous interactions add lightheartedness to the intense narrative.
Watch it on Disney+
It’s available on Amazon
So now you know who’s a person who has the attributes of both a friend and an enemy. You’ve found out which superheroes and villains that would rather kiss than fight. Politicians who love to hate each other and everyone in between. Go forth and prosper. And watch your back.
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Which is your favorite frenemy in sci-fi? Are there any we missed? Let us know in the comments below!
