DC has delivered mixed results on the big screen over the years, but a few of its movies either met or exceeded lofty expectations. From Superman to Batman, the comic book franchise is home to some of the most iconic superheroes in history. For decades, DC has released feature-length films centering on its popular characters, though an interconnected universe of projects only came to fruition in recent years. 2013’s Man of Steel launched the DC Extended Universe, however creative troubles and inconsistent quality hindered its success. With the DCEU now a thing of the past, the newly commenced DC Universe paves a hopeful path for DC’s future. Not all of DC’s movies impressed critics or general audiences, but its best hits are still widely loved.
Videos by ComicBook.com
The following four DC movies rank among the franchise’s best pictures thanks to their ability to live up to their immense hype.
4) Superman II
1980’s Superman II faced the daunting challenge of matching 1978’s Superman, but Richard Lester’s movie exceeded the greatness of its predecessor. The sequel sees Clark Kent/Superman (Christopher Reeve) face the Kryptonian villains General Zod (Terence Stamp), Ursa (Sarah Douglas), and Non (Jack O’Halloran) after giving up his powers to lead a romantic life with Lois Lane (Margot Kidder). In his second appearance, Reeve shines brighter than ever in the role, radiating Superman’s lighthearted yet sincere demeanor and proving his brilliance as an action star. Gene Hackman’s Lex Luthor makes an exquisite return even with limited screen time. Superman II‘s extraordinary entertainment value and irresistible charm carry it just above Richard Donner’s original film, which was also adored by fans. To date, Superman II remains a first-rate comic book movie, further evidencing that it emphatically lived up to the hype.
3) Wonder Woman
Wonder Woman’s status as a legendary superhero revered by comic book readers meant that the character’s first DCEU solo movie was the subject of gargantuan expectations. Fortunately, 2017’s Wonder Woman was well worth the wait. The origin story of Diana Prince/Wonder Woman (Gal Gadot), directed by Patty Jenkins, chronicles the Amazonian hero’s adventure in the human world during World War I. Wonder Woman delivers breathtaking action sequences and an uplifting story despite its rocky third act. The film skillfully balances humor with the gloom of its setting, always maintaining a genuine theme of hope at its core. Wonder Woman makes for an amazing viewing experience and never loses its luster after multiple watches. Thus, Jenkins’ movie remains the now-defunct DCEU’s best installment and a superhero title deserving of its hype.
2) Superman (2025)
The highly-anticipated debut of the DCU did not disappoint. James Gunn’s 2025 Superman ushered in a new era of interconnected DC projects with a fantastic sense of energy and hope. In the wake of his first-ever defeat, Superman (David Corenswet) looks to stop the nation of Boravia from invading its neighbor Jarhanpur while working through relationship troubles with Lois Lane (Rachel Brosnahan). Superman isn’t flawless, but one can’t help but get sucked into its zany tone and overwhelming air of joy. Corenswet delivers the Superman performance comic fans had been waiting for, as this version of the iconic hero exudes authenticity, humanity, and determination. Lex Luthor’s (Nicholas Hoult) unbridled villainy and the Justice Gang’s amusing antics add loads more fun to Superman‘s narrative, working together to make one wildly entertaining superhero flick. It’s clear that Superman met the moment and restored DC fans’ faith in the franchise’s movies.
1) The Batman
Batman movies always draw the attention of the masses, and 2022’s The Batman was no exception. Matt Reeves’ movie follows Bruce Wayne/Batman (Robert Pattinson) solving crimes involving The Riddler (Paul Dano), The Penguin (Colin Farrell), and Carmine Falcone (John Turturro) in Gotham City. With the help of Selina Kyle/Catwoman (Zoรซ Kravitz), Batman weaves through a series of mysteries to stop a terrifying plot from decimating Gotham City. Fans were rightfully hyped for The Batman because the movie is a stunning piece of cinema.
A grim tone, absorbing musical score, and layered interpretation of the caped vigilante are just a few of The Batman‘s outstanding qualities. Following in the footsteps of Christopher Nolan’s The Dark Knight trilogy was a tall task, but The Batman brings an even more captivating direction to life. Gripping from start to finish, The Batman relies on its tension and gritty atmosphere to generate the most immersive rendition of Gotham City and superhero action DC has ever seen. Its sequel, 2027’s The Batman Part II, faces an even greater level of hype, and fans can’t wait to see if Reeves, Pattinson, and Co. can once again fulfill expectations.
Superman is now playing in theaters. The rest of these entries are available to stream on HBO Max.
Most Viewed
-
Image courtesy of Netflix -
Image Courtesy of Netflix -
Image Courtesy of Madhouse/WIT Studio -
Image courtesy of Bethesda
