The roots of superhero comics can be traced back to the debut of Action Comics #1 in 1938. Similarly, the beginning of superhero movies can be marked by Superman, who featured in the initial movie adaptation from a DC Comic in 1951 and later made a significant impact with the groundbreaking film that transformed our perspective on these tales – 1978’s Superman.
For quite some time, DC and its array of legendary superheroes such as Batman, Robin, Wonder Woman, and even Aquaman, held a significant influence in Hollywood. However, in recent years, Marvel has grown exponentially in its presence. As the DC Extended Universe winds down and James Gunn’s “Superman” prepares for release, it feels like an opportune moment to review every DC Comics film that has been produced – at least, until I began rewatching them for this article. Unfortunately, the experience became less enjoyable as I went along.
In the list that follows, you’ll find more than 40 full-length films based on comic books. I chose only those that had a cinema release instead of going directly to video, and I also omitted any productions from DC’s imprints such as Vertigo and Wildstorm (except for Watchmen, because the characters have since joined the main DC Comics universe). Additionally, I avoided movie serials. For a deeper dive into lesser-known comic book adaptations like Spy Smasher and Hop Harrigan, you can check out my History of Comic Book Movies column, which covers most of them except for one.
I’ll get around to finishing that some day. In the meantime, here’s my ranking:
Every DC Comics Movie, Ranked From Worst to Best
46. Catwoman (2004)
Halle Berry uncovers that her beauty company’s novel product is hazardous, leading to her being killed by the management as part of a concealment scheme. Cats miraculously revive her, transforming her into the latest incarnation of Catwoman, a historical figure who has roamed the Earth with feline abilities. In this role, Berry’s character Patience Phillips battles crime (occasionally instigating it) using cats’ renowned skills such as agility, graceful landings, basketball prowess, love for jewelry heists, witty whipping, punning about basketball, and an affinity for leather. Just like a real cat, she is playful yet mischievous. Catwoman, directed by Pitof who has a visual effects background, doesn’t stand out among the worst-looking DC movies due to his history. However, it holds a unique position as the most poorly edited film ever made. (The cast wears identical clothing for two consecutive days, suggesting that scenes from different days were combined without reshooting anything.) The oddly amusing decisions and glaring incompetence make Catwoman an irresistible treat for bad movie enthusiasts.
45. Jonah Hex (2010)
The character Jonah Hex from DC Comics is essentially a rugged, scar-faced Western outlaw. A movie adaptation could have been highly successful by simply casting Josh Brolin in a story reminiscent of “Fistful of Dollars” and allowing him to portray an action-packed gunslinger. Regrettably, the film deviated from this approach by endowing Hex with supernatural abilities (he can converse with the deceased) and extravagant, comical weaponry, mirroring the movie’s over-the-top, cartoonish narrative. The only reason it doesn’t rank last on this list is due to its brief running time. Unfortunately, its brevity stems from extensive editing that leaves it nearly incomprehensible. “Jonah Hex” is so exceptionally disastrous that it makes “Wild Wild West” seem like “The Searchers”. And to bring up the “Wild Wild West” and its leading actor…
44. Suicide Squad (2016)
In this movie, if the Suicide Squad didn’t exist, neither would the issue they were summoned to address. The antagonist is a member of the Suicide Squad who rebels, and the main conflict revolves around saving an enigmatic character, who surprisingly turns out to be the founder and leader of the Suicide Squad. In essence, the Suicide Squad in this film serves as both the source and remedy for all the story’s troubles, similar to how Homer Simpson describes alcohol. The film, directed by David Ayer, may have been initially conceptualized in a logical manner, but it was edited into a cinematic mess by the time Suicide Squad hit theaters. A word of advice: Don’t expect the “Extended Cut” to improve the film. The Suicide Squad could not benefit from being longer.
43. Steel (1997)
In this heartfelt yet absurdly comical action film, Shaquille O’Neal steps into the role of a Superman sidekick who temporarily took over the Man of Steel’s position in DC Comics during the 90s. (Superman is noticeably absent, leading to a significant reimagining of Steel’s backstory.) O’Neal certainly embodies the physical presence required for a superhero character, and he seems to be enjoying himself immensely; however, the script is littered with self-aware jokes that often break the fourth wall – such as Shaq repeatedly missing basketball hoops and then casually shrugging, or Richard Roundtree cracking jokes about Steel’s hammer’s handle (the “shaft”). The Steel costume, unfortunately, is poorly designed, making the film feel more like an unsuccessful, lengthy, and unfunny Saturday Night Live sketch rather than a genuine movie.
42. Supergirl (1984)
In the period prior to the 1980s when the original Superman’s well ran out, the creators of the main Superman series introduced this spin-off focusing on Superman’s cousin, Kara Zor-El (Helen Slater). This storyline follows Kara as she leaves Argo City, an unusual city located within Earth’s inner space, which can only be accessed at the bottom of a lake. The plot revolves around Kara retrieving the MacGuffin that powers her home. Since Superman is off in another galaxy according to news reports, don’t expect to see Christopher Reeve except perhaps as a poster on a dorm room wall. The only other evident connection to the same world as the Superman films is a brief appearance by Marc McClure’s Jimmy Olsen. Despite Helen Slater fitting the role well, this movie, titled Supergirl, is largely forgettable unless you are particularly fond of Faye Dunaway’s portrayal of a New Age witch. Boy, does this film feature an excessive amount of that!
41. Green Lantern (2011)
Enthusiasts of comic books often become agitated when adaptations deviate from the original source. One frequently cited example is “Green Lantern,” a film that jams numerous elements of DC’s interstellar police force and their enchanted rings into its 1 hour and 54 minutes runtime. While it incorporates characters like Tomar-Re, Kilowog, Abin-Sur, and Sinestro, the rush to include so much detail leaves little room for character development or screen time for Ryan Reynolds’ Hal Jordan and his Earthly life before or during his transformation into the protector of Sector 2814. Peter Sarsgaard convincingly portrays Hector Hammond, a telekinetic creature with what appears to be a large growth on his forehead resembling a testicle; however, he is less convincing as a contemporary of Blake Lively’s character, Carol Ferris, who is 16 years younger than Sarsgaard, despite their characters having supposedly grown up together.
40. Justice League (2017)
Oh dear. “Justice League” could have served as a triumphant finale to a connected series of tales. Regrettably, it became the low point for what was once a promising cinematic saga. Original director Zack Snyder stepped away during production due to personal matters, and Joss Whedon took charge. The end product lacks the signature feel of either filmmaker. The editing is haphazard, the mood is inconsistent, and the main antagonist is a soulless CGI character with no depth or driving force. (You’d be surprised to learn that he aims to conquer the world, as indeed he does!) Although Snyder’s cut is now accessible on HBO Max, the initial release of “Justice League” will forever stand among the lesser DC films in history.
39. Superman IV: The Quest For Peace (1987)
In a somewhat improved manner than its popular image suggests, the Superman franchise rights were now under Cannon Films, known for their exploitative filmmaking. Consequently, the budget for “The Quest For Peace” was remarkably low – approximately $17 million compared to the $55 million spent on the initial movie about a decade earlier. Regardless of this, Gene Hackman delivers an impressive performance as Lex Luthor, there are entertaining fight scenes, and Christopher Reeve pours all his effort into Superman’s confrontation with his most significant adversary yet: The impending danger of nuclear war.
38. Superman Returns (2006)
Among the standout scenes in any superhero movie is where Superman (Brandon Routh) prevents a plane crash, an exceptional moment. However, the rest of “Superman Returns” seems overly preoccupied with replicating the atmosphere of the first two Superman movies directed by Richard Donner, despite being made decades later without the original cast. This attempt to revive a 20-year-old franchise gives the film a touch of wax museum quality; it’s faithful but somewhat lacking in life. Furthermore, the most intriguing aspect of the story is abruptly introduced as a surprising twist late in the third act, which could have made the entire movie more compelling if it had been the main focus.
37. Batman and Robin (1997)
36. Batman Forever (1995)
In a delicate balance between Burton’s grimy horror and the flashy absurdity of Gotham City as depicted in “Batman and Robin,” we find ourselves in the realm of “Batman Forever.” This film escalates its predecessors’ visual style (With even bigger fins on the Batmobile, more rubbery Bat-muscles!) and acting prowess. Batman engages in life-threatening battles with Two-Face (Tommy Lee Jones) and The Riddler (Jim Carrey). Meanwhile, Jones and Carrey are locked in a fierce battle of their own – a theatrical duel to see who can deliver the most extravagant performance ever on screen. (Carrey wins that round.) Val Kilmer turns in commendable work as Batman; he’s chillier than Michael Keaton, more reserved than George Clooney. We’d love to see more of him in this role, but perhaps not in this specific film.
35. Wonder Woman 1984 (2020)
As a die-hard movie enthusiast, I must admit that this follow-up to the exceptional original “Wonder Woman” felt a bit lackluster, but it was certainly worth it just to see Gal Gadot and Chris Pine’s characters back together again. The plot defied logic and time constraints, but who am I to argue when they make for such an engaging duo? This time around, Diana finds herself going head-to-head with ruthless oil tycoon Max Lord, played by Pedro Pascal, and the formidable Cheetah, portrayed by Kristen Wiig, all set in the vibrant ’80s. There were a few standout superhero moments, such as an exhilarating desert chase scene, but there was also quite a bit of aimless wandering scattered throughout.
34. Shazam! Fury of the Gods (2023)
In this lackluster follow-up, Shazam!: Fury of the Gods, the enchantment is largely absent. The initial Shazam! movie centered around its adolescent superhero, showcasing his inventive exploration of his newly acquired powers. With him now mostly comfortable with his abilities, there’s not a strong enough narrative reason for this sequel, which increases the special effects but stumbles in most attempts at humor. Fortunately, Helen Mirren seems to be enjoying herself in her role as one of the Daughters of Atlas.
33. The Return of Swamp Thing (1989)
32. Constantine (2005)
This modern and wittily humorous supernatural mystery might not resemble the classic “Hellblazer” comics or their gloomy protagonist, which could potentially be a disadvantage if you’re attached to that particular style. However, it offers an engaging experience with its offbeat humor. Keanu Reeves delivers a solid performance, but “Constantine” could have benefited from more Tilda Swinton as the archangel Gabriel.
31. Joker (2019)
I’m not convinced that any number of Oscars can make me believe that Batman’s arch-nemesis’ dismal origin story is anything other than an excessive Scorsese tribute gone awry. Yes, Joaquin Phoenix delivers a powerful and chilling performance as the tragic character Arthur Fleck, but he has shown more depth in other roles, particularly those involving mentally ill loners who resort to violence. Moreover, there have been at least two Jokers on screen that we find more intriguing than this one. I’ll pass, thank you.
30. Joker: Folie à Deux (2024)
It’s tough not to admit a certain level of admiration, albeit reluctantly, for the way this movie deliberately frustrates viewers who found pleasure in Arthur Fleck’s journey from Gotham City villain to hero. Instead of continuing his chaos and turmoil, it focuses on numerous courtroom scenes and grand musical performances. The concept of putting the first film on trial and casting Lady Gaga as a mentally unstable Joker enthusiast is intriguing, but “Folie à Deux” fails to explore these ideas effectively, and the songs (perhaps intentionally) lack impact.
29. Black Adam (2022)
Dividing Black Adam from Shazam results in a gloomy, grouchy anti-hero lacking the contrast of the optimistic Billy Batson. Dwayne Johnson has longed for this role and truly embodies a figure capable of destroying a jet with his bare strength. However, that’s essentially all Black Adam offers; some spectacular visuals amidst a somber superhero backstory, barely hinting at a theme suggesting power corrupts.
Separating Black Adam from Shazam gives us a brooding, ill-tempered anti-hero instead of the cheerful, virtuous Billy Batson. Dwayne Johnson has been eager to play this character for years, and he certainly looks like someone who could demolish an airplane with his bare hands. Yet, Black Adam mainly provides a few bombastic scenes within a dismal superhero origin story, subtly suggesting the idea that power leads to corruption.
Both versions aim to convey the same meaning in more natural and easy-to-read language.
28. Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016)
In the DC Extended Universe, two long-standing comrades have their initial encounter, leading to a fierce fight between them. Ben Affleck’s Batman accuses Henry Cavill’s Superman of the destruction of Metropolis during the incidents of Man of Steel, and he may well be right. However, the intense masculinity-fueled rivalry between these two iconic characters in Batman v Superman often veers into self-parody, with some particularly cringe-worthy moments. Regrettably, a character named Martha will forever struggle to command seriousness following this portrayal.
27. Man of Steel (2013)
Young Clark Kent exclaims, ‘The world’s too vast, Ma!’ In response, his mother says, ‘Then make it manageable.’ Zack Snyder should have taken Ma Kent’s advice. With numerous World Engines, collapsing structures, and hostile Kryptonians, the movie Man of Steel struggles to present the man whose name graces its title effectively. Perhaps Snyder intended this portrayal; instead of depicting him as a beacon of hope, he presents him as an alien who could potentially endanger humanity more than save it. At the very least, this is an unconventional interpretation of the character.
26. Superman III (1983)
In an era where every superhero film must depict a life-or-universe struggle with grandiose stakes and stunning visual effects, there is merit in the simplicity and intentional silliness of a movie like “Superman III.” The film occasionally transitions into a Tati-style comedy, much like an adaptation of a peculiar Metropolis comic book issue. Furthermore, it offers subtle yet poignant critiques of capitalism – a system Superman has frequently confronted since his initial adventures. To top it off, the movie gains credibility by having Superman transform into an antagonist and his first action is correcting the Leaning Tower of Pisa, apparently just to annoy a modest souvenir vendor. What a self-centered superhero!
25. Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom
The DCEU concludes not with a spectacular finale, but rather an Aquaman film – and regrettably, not even the finest Aquaman movie. This jumbled and inconsistent sequel manages to extract some humor from the complex dynamics between half-brothers Arthur (Jason Momoa) and Orm (Patrick Wilson). However, it appears as though they filmed one movie and then pieced together a completely different release in theaters. (One might wonder about Amber Heard’s Mera’s absence, or why Nicole Kidman’s Atlanna is absent for the first 45 minutes, only to reappear suddenly with no prior notice.) It’s not the DCEU ending we desired, but given the DCEU’s overall outcome, it seems fitting.
24. Superman II (1980)
Many viewers hold such deep affection for Terence Stamp’s portrayal of Zod and the iconic line “Kneel before Zod!” that they often overlook the chaotic nature of the rest of the film, which is indeed a disorganized mess. Even aspects that were successful in the original Superman, like the screwball-comedy chemistry between Christopher Reeve and Margot Kidder, seem to falter this time around. The character of Superman becomes so fixated on showing Lois his Fortress of Solitude that he fails to notice three powerful Kryptonians taking over Earth! Isn’t he supposed to have super-hearing? With abilities like magic amnesia kisses, teleportation, and projectile chest emblems at his disposal in this movie, it feels strange that the absence of super-hearing would be an oddity. (It’s worth mentioning that both versions of the film are less than stellar.)
23. Superman and the Mole Men (1951)
The initial DC Comics movie served as a precursor for the 1950’s “Adventures of Superman” TV series, with George Reeves portraying Superman. Although the special effects are generally poor (the imposing “Mole Men” are simply small people dressed in black turtlenecks and bald caps), the narrative effectively conveys Superman’s ethical values, such as his defense of a young, literal character against mob brutality. Furthermore, George Reeves embodies Clark Kent’s essential compassionate integrity better than anyone else on record.
22. Birds of Prey (2020)
If “Suicide Squad” aimed to recreate the offbeat charm of Marvel’s “Guardians of the Galaxy,” “Birds of Prey” strives to emulate Fox’s “Deadpool” within the DC universe. In Margot Robbie’s Harley Quinn, they’ve created their own unconventional, vulgar, and self-referential antiheroine who evolves into a somewhat less villainous character by safeguarding an innocent child with the aid of a motley crew of outcasts. Harley Quinn proves to be an interesting protagonist, and the movie carries a lively punk-rock vibe, but it would be more satisfying if it delved deeper into its characters. The excessive focus on the Joker gives the film an odd, Poochie-like atmosphere, where the characters we’re watching are frequently discussing someone who isn’t actually present in the movie.
21. Watchmen (2009)
Zack Snyder’s reimagining of Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons’ pioneering series is similar to Gus Van Sant’s remake of Psycho: It stays true to the original, yet lacks the spark that makes it truly engaging. The opening credits, depicting how the superheroes of the Watchmen universe might have influenced 20th-century history, remain captivating. However, much of the rest has been surpassed by Damon Lindelof’s more recent and significantly better HBO adaptation.
20. The Flash (2023)
In this movie, “The Flash” was intended to end the journey of the DC Extended Universe, but instead, it serves as a heartfelt tribute to its finest aspects. For instance, Ben Affleck delivers a commendable performance as Batfleck, and there’s a strong sense of connectivity between various DC properties, making this feel less like a solo Flash movie and more like an epic interdimensional team-up film. Ezra Miller does a great job portraying two different Barry Allens, but it’s Michael Keaton who truly shines with his return as Batman, 30 years after his last appearance as the Dark Knight.
19. Swamp Thing (1982)
The trailers proclaimed excitedly, ‘The legend of the comic book lives on!’ Two years before ‘A Nightmare on Elm Street’, Wes Craven directed this adaptation of DC’s renowned horror creature. Ray Wise portrayed the scientist who, due to a terrible lab accident, became a sentient mass of mud. Despite his budget limitations, it’s clear that Craven aimed higher — the Swamp Thing costume was more impressive in the subsequent, less successful sequels. However, Craven’s ‘Swamp Thing’ offers an enjoyable blend of frightening moments, absurdity, and a touch of poetic appreciation for nature.
18. Blue Beetle (2023)
In many ways, the action sequences in “Blue Beetle” seemed reminiscent of other DC and Marvel films such as “Shazam!” and the original “Iron Man”. However, what set it apart from some DCEU projects was its emphasis on the title character’s family. Unlike most superhero stories that revolve around the hero maintaining their secret identity, “Blue Beetle” delved into how Jaime Reyes’ (Xolo Maridueña) life was turned upside down upon discovering a mystical scarab, affecting everyone close to him, especially his memorable grandmother (Adriana Barraza). While Maridueña played a competent Jaime Reyes, I wasn’t the only one who felt that Barraza’s performance was exceptional and wished there was a film where she starred as the superhero instead.
17. Aquaman (2018)
Did James Wan and Jason Momoa transform Aquaman, the DC superhero known for communicating with fish, into an unexpectedly entertaining (with hints of trippy visuals), worldwide journey? ABSOLUTELY YES!
16. Zack Snyder’s Justice League (2021)
15. Teen Titans Go! To the Movies (2018)
Hey fellow film enthusiasts! If you’re into meta-comedy, mark your calendars: The silver screen adaptation of that beloved Cartoon Network series featuring DC’s teen sidekicks is poised to question the essence of superhero movies even more ruthlessly than “The LEGO Batman Movie.” (Oh, and did I mention Will Arnett voices the villain Slade?)
In this tale, Robin bemoans the fact that every DC hero except him seems to be gracing the big screen (he’s spot on!), so his team sets off for Tinseltown. They’re informed that their only chance at a spinoff is if no other heroes exist. Naturally, they do what any outstanding crime-fighters would do: They journey through time to halt Superman, Batman, and the Justice League from ever putting on a cape or mask. And guess who’s playing Superman? None other than the one and only Nicolas Cage! A truly undervalued cinematic gem.
14. Batman (1966)
In between the initial and second season of the Adam West television series, the 1966 movie Batman resembles a collection of the most outstanding moments from that captivating show. It features West and Burt Ward as the spirited duo, the Dynamic Duo, facing off against an array of formidable villains such as Lee Meriwether’s Catwoman, Burgess Meredith’s Penguin, Frank Gorshin’s Riddler, and Cesar Romero’s Joker. Critics who deride Batman for its over-the-top elements might not realize that the show and film are intentionally satirical – mostly poking fun at the two 1940s Batman serials they may never have watched. There are essentially two categories of individuals in this world: those who find it amusing that Batman always carries a bottle of Bat-Shark Repellent, ready for any emergency, and those who are mistaken.
13. The Suicide Squad (2021)
Marvel committed a significant mistake when they temporarily dismissed James Gunn from ‘Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3′. Swiftly, he moved to the competition and revitalized the struggling Suicide Squad franchise, turning it into one of DC’s most captivating properties. Instead of sticking with the chaos Warner Bros. had created previously, Gunn salvaged its top characters such as Margot Robbie’s Harley Quinn and Viola Davis’ Amanda Waller while discarding the rest (apologies to Jared Leto!). To fill those spots, he infused more humor and introduced several fresh faces including Idris Elba’s Bloodsport and John Cena’s Peacemaker, whose superhuman physique (and twisted sense of humor) make him a fitting caricature of overzealous patriotic heroes. Brimming with violence, laughter, and an unexpected beauty, ‘The Suicide Squad’ is the movie that everyone wished the initial Suicide Squad would have been.
12. The Batman (2022)
In Matt Reeves’ gripping and insightful thriller “The Batman,” I found myself once again immersed in the captivating world of Gotham City. As a die-hard fan, I was thrilled to see Robert Pattinson bring his unique take on Bruce Wayne, now two years into his crime-fighting journey as the Caped Crusader. The enigmatic Paul Dano, as the Riddler, presents an intriguing challenge when he begins murdering Gotham City’s elite, creating a chilling puzzle that only Batman can decipher.
What sets “The Batman” apart from other films is its profound exploration of what this iconic character represents to his loyal followers and the fictional citizens of Gotham City. The thoughtful storytelling, particularly in its layered conclusions, rivals the epic grandeur of “The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King.
11. The LEGO Batman Movie (2017)
After being made to watch “The LEGO Batman Movie” about 20 times over two years by my daughter, I might be experiencing Stockholm syndrome, but this film could very well be the funniest superhero movie ever. Will Arnett’s self-centered Batman learns that friends are just as important as family (I can’t shake off that catchy tune), and showcases his muscular physique in a parody that both mocks and honors almost every interpretation of Batman throughout history.
After being forced to watch “The LEGO Batman Movie” many times by my daughter, I might be biased, but this film is possibly the funniest superhero movie out there. Will Arnett’s arrogant Batman learns that friends are like family (that song in my head just won’t go away), and displays his muscular body in a satire that both makes fun of and pays tribute to almost every version of Batman ever made.
10. Wonder Woman (2017)
In this collaboration, the talents of Gal Gadot’s captivating Princess Diana and Patty Jenkins’ powerful action scenes were seamlessly blended. As Wonder Woman, Gadot journeys from her secluded home on Themyscira to the devastated battlefields of World War I Europe, where she encounters a dashing spy (Chris Pine), fights valiantly, and demonstrates impressive combat skills. Playing Diana was a delicate balance — she needed to be both innocent and strong, brave yet not excessively aggressive — but Gadot handled the role masterfully.
9. The Dark Knight Rises (2012)
As a devoted cinema enthusiast, it’s mind-blowing to ponder that the 1966 Batman and The Dark Knight Rises are both about the same fictional character. This just goes to show the extraordinary adaptability of the Batman saga. The Dark Knight Rises served as the exhilarating, yet somewhat overblown finale to Christopher Nolan’s epic Batman trilogy. In striving to surpass The Dark Knight, it might have stretched its limits too far. Nevertheless, if more comic-book films aimed for something greater than mere escape, we’d all benefit significantly.
8. Shazam (2019)
When things looked bleak for the DC Extended Universe, Warner Bros. made a comeback with this creative and unexpected take on the original Captain Marvel, now known as Shazam. Instead of a typical superhero tale, they’ve transformed it into a hilarious body-swap comedy, similar to the movie Big. Asher Angel portrays Billy Batson, an orphan who magically transforms into the powerful but awkward figure of Zachary Levi upon saying the word “Shazam!” This film boasts strong antagonists, a delightful sense of humor, and an impressive action climax filled with unexpected twists. Shazam could very well be the top-notch DCEU movie yet.
7. Superman (2025)
For many individuals, comparing the two Superman films is considered blasphemous. However, I slightly favor Richard Donner’s 1978 classic, but not to an overwhelming extent. The newer Superman movie has a more compelling Lex Luthor (portrayed by Nicholas Hoult as an extremely self-centered and sensitive character), an exceptional supporting cast including Edi Gathegi as the fittingly named Mr. Terrific and Krypto as the mischievous and disobedient superpup.
The movie also features a Superman who is endearingly vulnerable, making him easier to support and believe in. It’s enjoyable, exhilarating, romantic, and even manages to slip in some social commentary. It raises the bar for future DC films, which is exciting since it’s meant to be the first of many in a whole cinematic universe.
6. Batman Begins (2005)
The movie “Batman Begins” offered a welcome shift in tone. It discarded the excess baggage that had burdened the series, allowing the character to reconnect with his modest beginnings. This version introduced us to a fresh Bruce Wayne portrayed by Christian Bale, and a villain with intricate layers, played by Liam Neeson. If Christopher Nolan hadn’t made subsequent films even better, he would still be applauded for creating one of the finest Batman movies to date.
5. Superman (1978)
In a nod to Marlon Brando, Glenn Ford, and those who mispronounce ‘Krypton’, this film could be more impactful if the first 45 minutes were removed entirely, and it began when Clark Kent entered Metropolis. By 1978, audiences were already familiar with Superman’s backstory, so the initial part seemed unnecessary to grasp the rest of the movie. What keeps Superman relevant today, despite its aging special effects, is Christopher Reeve. Few comic book movies boast a performance as compelling as his portrayal of both Clark Kent and Superman, and he excelled in both roles equally well.
4. Batman (1989)
30 years down the line, if Tim Burton’s iconic “Batman” felt like a relic instead of a masterpiece, its influential and groundbreaking impact on Hollywood’s approach to comic book adaptations would still secure it a top spot in my books. However, far from becoming dated, Burton’s Batman remains remarkably relevant. Jack Nicholson’s Joker garnered the limelight back then, and rightly so, as his captivating performances were hard to ignore. But it’s Michael Keaton’s portrayal of Batman that has left an indelible impression on me. As Bruce Wayne, he convincingly played a disturbed oddball (“You wanna get crazy? Come on! Let’s get crazy!”). As Batman, his somewhat rigid movements – a consequence of the unyielding costume – transform him into an imposing, almost ethereal figure that intensifies the chill that runs down your spine whenever he graces the screen.
3. Batman Returns (1992)
In a remarkable turn of events, Tim Burton successfully persuaded Warner Bros. to grant him the opportunity to create a sequel to ‘Batman’, making it more gloomy, eccentric, and somber than its predecessor. This time around, Michael Keaton faces off against two iconic villains from Gotham City: Danny DeVito’s filthy, sewer-dwelling Penguin and Michelle Pfeiffer’s Catwoman, who is draped in vinyl. Unfortunately, ‘Returns’ marks the end of Tim Burton’s Batman series, rather than being the second installment in a five-part saga.
2. Batman: Mask of the Phantasm (1993)
Before “The LEGO Batman Movie,” the animated film “Batman: Mask of the Phantasm” convincingly demonstrated that animation was the perfect format for Batman. Produced by the team behind the acclaimed “Batman: The Animated Series,” “Mask of the Phantasm” distilled all the elements that made that show exceptional – stunning visuals, smooth animations, legendary voice actors – into an almost flawless 75-minute presentation. Over two decades old now, this film has aged gracefully, in part due to the timeless art style of “TAS,” which combined Art Deco architecture with futuristic technology, and was intentionally outdated even in 1993. The romantic tragedies portrayed in live-action Batman movies pale in comparison to Bruce Wayne and Andrea Beaumont’s tale.
1. The Dark Knight (2008)
Christopher Nolan’s “The Dark Knight” continues to be the benchmark for all Batman films, and many superhero movies as well. It offered an impressive amount of action, especially in IMAX format, which it introduced to mainstream cinema for the first time. The film also sparked a lot of deep discussions about morality and philosophy. Quotes from this movie have even become common phrases, such as one that is so powerful and frequently used, it’s surprising it came from a 2008 Batman film. With Heath Ledger’s remarkable portrayal of the Joker, Hans Zimmer and James Newton Howard’s memorable soundtrack, and the iconic style of the Bat-pod, the movie is one outstanding element after another. Over a decade later, “The Dark Knight” still stands unbeaten in its category.
Actors Who Turned Down DC Roles
1. Warren Beatty, Superman
In 1978, the team behind “Superman” initially considered renowned actor Warren Beatty for the role of Superman before settling on Christopher Reeve. Other notable actors were also offered the part. Among them was Beatty, a major star in Hollywood at the time. In an interview in 2017, Beatty confirmed he was approached but felt it wasn’t suitable to convert a comic strip into a movie. As he pondered over the offer, Beatty humorously tried on some underwear to envision himself in a Superman suit. Finding the image too absurd, he quickly contacted the producers to decline the role. Eventually, Beatty would reconsider comic book adaptations; he starred in and directed “Dick Tracy” in 1990, albeit his character did not don Spandex.
2. James Caan, Superman
In the 1970s, James Caan, who was enjoying success with films like The Godfather and Rollerball, also had an opportunity to portray Superman. Interestingly, Mario Puzo, author of The Godfather, was a co-writer for the Superman screenplay. However, this association wasn’t enough to convince Caan to accept the role. He later mentioned that the script he read seemed too humorous or playful for his preference.
3. Pierce Brosnan, Batman
In the past, before assuming the role of James Bond, Pierce Brosnan almost played another famous character – Batman. In a Reddit discussion some time ago, he shared that he had a meeting with Tim Burton about the part but felt he couldn’t be serious about a man wearing his underpants over his pants. Now, looking back, he acknowledges his dismissal of superheroes as “foolish.” Interestingly, Brosnan is now set to appear as Doctor Fate in Black Adam, although it remains unclear whether this character will wear his undergarments outside his trousers.
4. Madonna, Catwoman
During the early 1990s, when Tim Burton was preparing to cast ‘Batman Returns’, Madonna’s acting career was at its zenith. He proposed that Madonna take on the role of Catwoman, a seemingly ideal blend of actress and character. However, Madonna declined the offer. Later, in an interview with Jimmy Fallon, she expressed her regrets saying, “Turning down Catwoman was pretty fierce.” It was Michelle Pfeiffer who eventually played the part, and she undeniably lived up to the fierceness of the role.
5. Leonardo DiCaprio, Robin
If Leonardo DiCaprio had taken on the role of Robin in Batman Forever as Joel Schumacher intended, his career might have unfolded differently. However, since that didn’t happen, we can only speculate. We do know that Schumacher wanted DiCaprio for the part and even met with him about it. In a later interview, DiCaprio himself admitted to having the meeting but expressing no interest in playing the role. When asked if he felt lucky for turning down the part, DiCaprio merely chuckled.
6. Jude Law, Superman
In the time leading up to the 2006 release of “Superman Returns”, another extensive search for an actor to play Superman commenced. Actors on Warner Bros.’ list included Jude Law, who was enjoying a string of critically acclaimed films such as “The Talented Mr. Ripley”, “A.I. Artificial Intelligence”, “Cold Mountain”, and “Closer”. The production contacted Law, but he expressed reluctance to Stephen Colbert, stating that he “didn’t want to go there.” Despite this, he agreed to try on the Superman suit. In the mirror, he felt as if he had become Superman, only to quickly decide against it. He unzipped the costume, saying, “No way!” instead, Brandon Routh took over the role from Christopher Reeve.
7. Josh Hartnett, Superman AND Batman
As a devoted cinephile, I can’t help but reflect on the intriguing tale of Josh Hartnett, a promising actor in Hollywood during the early 2000s. In a fascinating twist, Hartnett was given an opportunity to portray Superman in “Superman Returns,” but he declined a three-film contract worth approximately $100 million. Remarkably, this wasn’t a one-time event; Hartnett also turned down the chance to play Batman in Christopher Nolan’s “Batman Begins.” Years after making these decisions, Hartnett admitted to Playboy that turning down Nolan was a misstep. He confessed, “I’ve definitely said no to some of the wrong people.” His reasoning? Fatigue and a desire for more personal time with friends and family, which, as it turns out, isn’t always celebrated in our industry.
8. Paul Walker, Superman
Due to his popularity from “The Fast and the Furious,” Paul Walker was a highly sought-after young actor when casting began for “Superman Returns.” He even had the chance to play the new Superman, but he turned down the role following a discussion with Richard Donner, who had directed Christopher Reeve’s “Superman” and worked with Walker on “Timeline.” When asked if he should take the role, Walker recalled that Donner advised him not to do it just for the money, but only if he truly wanted to. Walker was concerned about being solely remembered as Superman, and Donner’s response essentially confirmed his decision not to star in “Superman Returns.
9. Will Smith, Superman
In much the same way as Paul Walker declined an opportunity to portray Superman due to concerns about the potential impact on his career, Will Smith also passed up the role in “Superman Returns” back in 2008. He shared with MTV that he was offered the Superman part, but upon reading the script, he exclaimed, “There’s no way I’m playing Superman! I’ve already played Jim West [of ‘Wild Wild West’], and you can’t keep tampering with white people’s heroes in Hollywood!” Eventually, Smith did take on a DC character, appearing as Deadshot in David Ayer’s “Suicide Squad,” which provided a somewhat satisfying resolution to the story.
10. Heath Ledger, Batman
Initially, Christopher Nolan had planned for Heath Ledger to play Batman in ‘Batman Begins’, offering him the role as a young Bruce Wayne. However, Ledger declined, stating that he would never be part of a superhero film. Eventually, Ledger was impressed with Nolan’s unique approach in ‘Batman Begins’ and agreed to portray the Joker in ‘The Dark Knight’, for which he received widespread recognition.
11. Matt Damon, Harvey Dent
In an alternate scenario, Heath Ledger could have portrayed Batman instead of the Joker in “The Dark Knight”, while Matt Damon might have played Two-Face rather than Aaron Eckhart. Damon mentioned to MTV that a scheduling conflict was the reason he couldn’t star in the movie or discuss it with Christopher Nolan. Later, Damon complimented Eckhart’s performance and acknowledged that the film didn’t suffer without him. This hypothetical situation is a fascinating Hollywood “what-if” that Uatu the Watcher might ponder over.
12. Keanu Reeves, Dr. Manhattan
Keanu Reeves had agreed to star in a DC film, portraying the title character in the 2005 movie “Constantine,” when Zack Snyder offered him the role of Doctor Manhattan in his film adaptation of “Watchmen.” However, the opportunity with “Doctor Manhattan” did not come together for Reeves. The role eventually went to Billy Crudup. More recently, Reeves has expressed interest in revisiting DC, stating that he would be thrilled to star in another “Constantine” production if Warner Bros. showed interest.
13. Jon Hamm, Green Lantern
In the annals of acting, there’s no doubt that Jon Hamm, famously known for his role in ‘Mad Men’, bore a striking resemblance to the Hal Jordan character from the Green Lantern comics. Given this likeness, it comes as little shock that Warner Bros. pursued Hamm for the role. However, Hamm himself declined the offer. In a later interview, he explained, “They made quite an effort to recruit me, but I just shrugged and said, ‘That’s not what I’m looking for.'” Hamm confessed his preferences lean more towards reading superhero stories rather than watching them on screen, stating, “Those aren’t the kind of films I typically enjoy.” Interestingly enough, he seems to have a different view when it comes to TV adaptations, as Hamm has lent his voice to several comic-book series, such as Invincible and M.O.D.O.K., where he even played Tony Stark in multiple episodes.
14. Jake Gyllenhaal, Rick Flag
In the running for the role of Rick Flag, the super-soldier character from the movie “Suicide Squad”, was Jake Gyllenhaal. The fact that he didn’t take the part was notable enough to be reported by Variety. Before Gyllenhaal was considered, Tom Hardy was initially thought of for the part. Eventually, Joel Kinnaman stepped into the role, and later reprised it in the 2021 sequel. Instead, Gyllenhaal chose to join the Marvel Cinematic Universe, portraying Mysterio in “Spider-Man: Far From Home”.
15. Charlize Theron, Wonder Woman
In a turn of events that Charlize Theron found less than pleasant, Warner Bros. didn’t offer her the role of Wonder Woman, but instead approached her to play Wonder Woman’s mother in the movie. This unexpected proposition was shared on an episode of “Watch What Happens Live,” where Theron expressed her disappointment as it symbolized ageism in Hollywood. She had initially believed she was being considered for the lead role, only to be told later that the part was for Wonder Woman’s mother. At the time of this offer, Theron was 40 years old, which makes her ten years older than Gal Gadot and ten years younger than Connie Nielsen, who eventually portrayed Queen Hippolyta in the 2017 film.
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2025-07-11 22:33