10 Must-See Marvel and DC Variant Characters That Need Live-Action Adaptations!

In recent times, the trend of multiversal storytelling has taken over, breaking the boundaries of traditional single-reality superhero movies like “Spider-Man: No Way Home” and “The Flash.” This newfound freedom allows us to explore multiple realities, alternate timelines, and even twisted versions of familiar characters, as well as reinterpretations of their legacies. However, despite this expanded narrative scope, some of the most memorable and captivating variants from comic book lore are yet to make an appearance on the big screen.

Over time, Marvel and DC have dabbled in scenarios that deviate from the norm by creating different worlds and timeframes. In these stories, familiar characters may undergo transformations that range from extraordinarily heroic to disturbingly dark.

In numerous instances, these variants have gained widespread popularity, often becoming beloved by fans or explosive sensations. They’ve amassed dedicated followings and significantly altered how we perceive iconic figures such as Superman, Spider-Man, and Batman. Many superhero enthusiasts can readily list at least ten variant characters, whose distinct backstories, compelling arcs, and charm make them ideal choices for live-action adaptations.

Fan-Favorite Variant Characters Who Deserve Their Moment on Screen

Spider-Man 2099 (Miguel O’Hara)

Born by Peter David and Rick Leonardi back in 1992, Spider-Man 2099, also known as Miguel O’Hara, originates from the futuristic Marvel Universe of 2099. As a geneticist residing in New York City, Miguel acquires spider-like abilities following an accident at his lab involving genetic modification. Unlike Peter Parker, Miguel’s powers encompass increased strength, retractable claws, the ability to produce organic webbing, and an exceptional talent that mirrors Dracula’s most iconic trait. He employs these abilities to combat oppressive corporations in a dystopian future.

I find Miguel’s unique blend of cyberpunk style and morally intricate narrative distinguishes him from the traditional Spider-Man. His battles against Alchemax Corporation, coupled with his half-Mexican, half-Irish heritage, infuse his character with rich cultural and social dimensions. The gritty charm he exuded in “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse” (voiced by Oscar Isaac), was a standout for me.

Readers are captivated by Miguel’s grittier, more passionate portrayal of Spider-Man. The sleek futuristic suit and his anti-corporate attitude add to his already impressive cool factor. His success in comic books and the animated Spider-Verse films makes him an ideal choice for a live-action debut.

Red Son Superman

In Mark Millar’s 2003 comic book tale “Superman: Red Son”, we find an alternate version of Superman. Instead of landing in Kansas, his spaceship lands in Ukraine, where he is raised under Soviet communist principles. As a result, Kal-El becomes a hero for the USSR, working under Stalin and eventually leading the nation himself.

In a twist on the classic Superman tale, Red Son Superman portrays the Man of Steel as raised in an entirely different environment. This unique upbringing is central to the story, which delves into ideas about power, allegiance, and the repercussions of belief systems. Instead of being seen as invincible, this adaptation provides a complex perspective on the character, making it a compelling watch. The 2020 animated series “Superman: Red Son” showcases his on-screen potential.

Cosmic Ghost Rider (Frank Castle)

Originating from the minds of Donny Cates and Geoff Shaw in 2018, Cosmic Ghost Rider is a future adaptation of Frank Castle, the Punisher, who strikes a bargain with Mephisto upon his demise in combat. Revived as the Ghost Rider, he eventually assumes the role of Galactus’ herald, acquiring the Power Cosmic. This unconventional, cosmos-empowered antihero ventures through time and space, armed with flaming chains and cosmic power.

The character Cosmic Ghost Rider merges the ruthless justice-seeking of the Punisher with the ethereal mystique of the initial Ghost Rider, who could potentially appear in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. His offbeat humor and heartrending background—losing his loved ones and wrestling with his cursed life—give him a chaotic yet fascinating personality.

The Batman Who Laughs

Introduced in Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo’s “Dark Nights: Metal” (2017), The Batman Who Laughs represents a sinister adaptation of Bruce Wayne from an alternate universe, known as the Dark Multiverse. Following an encounter with Joker poison after eliminating his longtime nemesis, this incarnation of Batman transforms into a cruel, Joker-esque antagonist. He then orchestrates the Dark Knights’ conquest of multiple realities under the dominion of deity Barbatos.

This character combines Batman’s strategic brilliance with the Joker’s chaotic wickedness, resulting in a truly terrifying amalgamation. His chilling appearance, featuring pale skin, a spiked visor, and a maniacal grin, complements his ruthless intelligence, making him one of DC Comics’ most indelible figures.

Ultimate Reed Richards (The Maker)

In the 2004 comic book series Ultimate Fantastic Four by Mark Millar and Brian Michael Bendis, Ultimate Reed Richards first appears as a bright young scientist in the Ultimate Universe. Following a sequence of unfortunate events, he transitions into a villain, adopting the identity of The Maker – a cunning mastermind who aims to restructure reality using his intelligence and a colossal supercomputer.

The transition of the Creator from a revered hero to an enigmatic antagonist sets him apart from the typically optimistic Mr. Fantastic; his descent and cunning intelligence that outwits entire cosmic realms contribute to his intricate and multidimensional persona.

Flashpoint Batman (Thomas Wayne)

In the comic book series ‘Flashpoint’ (2011), penned by Geoff Johns and Andy Kubert, it’s Thomas Wayne who assumes the role of Batman in an alternate universe. This transformation occurs when his son, Bruce, is tragically lost in Crime Alley. Grief-stricken, he adopts the bat symbol, employing deadly tactics to combat crime in a grimy Gotham City. In this dark world, he even collaborates with villains to preserve his reality.

Instead of the conventional Batman, Thomas Wayne takes on a darker, more aggressive vigilante role, using firearms and adopting a tragic, vengeful outlook. The Flashpoint Batman was initially planned to appear in Zack Snyder’s DCEU, but this plan didn’t come to fruition.

Injustice Superman

Making his first appearance in the “Injustice: Gods Among Us” comic book series (2013), which was inspired by the video game developed by NetherRealm Studios, this interpretation of Superman, known as Injustice Superman, is a character version of Clark Kent. After being manipulated by The Joker into believing he had to kill Lois Lane and their unborn child, an event that led to Metropolis’s devastation, Injustice Superman transformed into an authoritarian figure.

Overwhelmed by sorrow and anger, he establishes a cruel rule to maintain order, often colliding with heroes such as Batman. The film Injustice: Superman delves into the disastrous effects of a hero’s downfall, turning the emblem of hope into a merciless despot. His heartbreaking transformation, combined with his immense might, generates an engaging storyline with significant cinematic promise.

His significant fame within the “Injustice” series and its animated versions positions him as an ideal choice for a live-action role, providing a more somber interpretation of Superman.

Spider-Gwen (Gwen Stacy)

In the captivating world of comics, I stumbled upon the creation of Jason Latour and Robbi Rodriguez in the Edge of Spider-Verse #2 (2014). This intriguing tale revolves around a character known as Spider-Gwen, otherwise recognized as Gwen Stacy on Earth-65. Unlike Peter Parker, she was bitten by a radioactive spider, leading her to become the crime-fighting Spider-Woman. Yet, beneath her superhero persona, she grapples with the burden of guilt over Peter’s demise.

In a fresh take, Spider-Gwen transforms the character of Gwen Stacy into a punk-rock icon, who sports an eye-catching white-and-pink attire and has a passion for playing drums.

In the Spider-Verse movies and comics, she stands out with her strong individuality and distinctive style. Many fans appreciate her as they find her experiences resonate with their own.

Iron Lad (Nathaniel Richards)

In the comic book series “Young Avengers” #1 (2005), written by Allan Heinberg and Jim Cheung, Iron Lad is introduced as a young Nathaniel Richards from the future who is fated to become the evil Kang the Conqueror. Instead of following his predestined path towards villainy, he journeys back through time, puts on a neurokinetic suit, and establishes the Young Avengers to fight for justice. His state-of-the-art armor and leadership abilities make him a reliable hero, while his link to Kang presents intriguing narrative opportunities for the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

If Jonathon Majors’ Kang isn’t returning to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), it might be an ideal chance for Marvel Studios to introduce Nathaniel Richards as another variant instead. This way, they could replace the character and carry on his narrative in a fresh direction.

Kingdom Come Wonder Woman

In the 1996 comic “Kingdom Come” by Mark Waid and Alex Ross, this version of Wonder Woman is older and battle-scarred, originating from a future where superheroes have grown reckless. Kicked out of Themyscira due to her warrior nature, she now heads a new Justice League, using a magical sword and adopting a more aggressive approach to maintain order.

She’s an experienced, down-to-earth hero who carries an impressive aura. Her unique style and tale are strong enough to make a captivating big-screen premiere.

2025-07-09 22:35