One of the initial superheroes to be thought up, Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster unveiled Superman to the world for the first time in “Action Comics” #1 back in 1939. This marked a pivotal shift in popular culture that has endured till today. Since then, this Steel-strong character has been translated to various screens numerous times – live-action TV series, animated series, and blockbuster films. Intriguingly, his first on-screen portrayal occurred as part of a theatrical serial just nine years after his comic book debut.
Initially, early television series portrayed Superman and his universe quite differently than we’re accustomed to today. However, over time, movies have grown more expansive, daring, and truer to their original stories. Improvements in special effects have allowed viewers to believe a man could actually fly, and the latest cinematic version of Superman, titled merely “Superman,” raises the bar even further.
If you’re pondering over diving into a marathon of Superman films, you might feel perplexed about where to start. Worry not, we’ve got your back with an optimal viewing sequence! So, gaze upwards! Beyond the heavens! It’s neither a bird nor a plane — it’s simply… the ideal way to watch all the Superman movies sequentially! (Hint: It’s not by their original release dates.)
- “Superman” (2025)
- “Superman: The Motion Picture” (1978)
- “Superman II” (1980)
- “Superman Returns” (2006)
- “Superman III” (1983)
- “Superman IV: The Quest for Peace” (1987)
- “Supergirl” (1984)
- “Man of Steel” (2013)
- “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice” (2016)
- “Justice League” (2017)
- “Zack Snyder’s Justice League” (2021)
- The Superman Serials (1948-51)
Why is this the correct order to watch
Starting a franchise with over a dozen installments can often leave newcomers unsure about where to start, especially when it involves multiple reboots, resets, and unsuccessful cinematic universes like that of Superman. If you’ve never watched a Superman movie before, you might find yourself even more puzzled since several actors have portrayed the world’s most iconic superhero on the big screen, each in film series created during distinct cinematic eras. To help today’s fans who may not be well-versed in the history of Superman on film, we propose our suggested viewing order as the optimal way to experience the Man of Steel’s big-screen adventures.
To be honest, “perfect” might be an exaggeration. However, the sequence we suggest for you to watch the “Superman” movies is carefully planned with one goal: to make sure you appreciate every film in Superman’s cinematic legacy as much as possible. While not all Superman films have been exceptional, each one has something extraordinary about them. By arranging them in a way that highlights their best features, we aim to bring out these qualities and foster an appreciation for even those movies that aren’t top-notch.
Superman (2025)
It might appear unusual, but we suggest you watch James Gunn’s “Superman” before Richard Donner’s “Superman: The Motion Picture,” not because it’s the newest or highest-rated, but because it is being praised for accurately portraying Superman’s comic book adventures on screen.
In this adaptation, we find ourselves not delving into Superman’s birth or early years, but rather stepping straight into Metropolis where Clark Kent (David Corenswet) is well-established as the city’s top hero. However, his actions during a foreign conflict put him at odds with other superheroes and even the U.S. government. Simultaneously, Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult), a powerful businessman, creates Ultraman, a masked rival to Superman, as a means of challenging his dominance.
In an attempt to build a fresh cinematic realm, “Superman” decides to set his story in a world teeming with characters such as Green Lantern (Nathan Fillion), Hawkgirl (Isabela Merced), Mr. Terrific (Edi Gathegi), and Metamorpho (Anthony Carrigan). This diverse cast contributes to a vibrant setting perfectly suited for a 21st-century Superman movie. For those new to the franchise, this could be an excellent starting point, especially considering it’s one of the best Superman films from recent times. To top it off, even Krypto the Superdog makes an appearance, adding the perfect finishing touch.
Superman: The Motion Picture
After experiencing what many consider the top live-action Superman of our times, let’s travel back to 1978 and check out the film that started it all: “Superman: The Motion Picture.” Though nearly five decades have passed, this superhero movie continues to be impactful, often referenced by directors like James Gunn as a source of inspiration. It introduced John Williams’ timeless theme and demonstrated to viewers that comic books could transform into movies for everyone, not just children.
In “Superman: The Movie,” the classic origin tale unfolds as baby Kal-El is sent from a dying planet Krypton by his father, Jor-El (played by Marlon Brando). He arrives in Kansas, where we follow his adolescence in Smallville and his discovery of his extraordinary powers. As he matures, he relocates to Metropolis and dons the superhero costume. We encounter Lex Luthor, his main adversary, for the first time on screen, while Christopher Reeve delivers a portrayal that has influenced every actor playing Superman since then.
Watching ‘Superman: The Motion Picture’ might feel a bit old-fashioned if you’re used to modern superhero films from the 2000s. Some scenes could even come off as humorous now. However, it was this movie that brought Superman to life on the big screen, and it continues to be one of the finest comic book adaptations ever produced.
Superman II
1980 marked the release of “Superman II”, a sequel directly following “Superman: The Movie”. In this film, three Kryptonian antagonists, previously banished to another realm by Jor-El at the beginning of the first movie, break free from their confinement and arrive on Earth. Equipped with extraordinary abilities similar to Superman’s, they wreak havoc in the sequel.
In the opening scene, Clark Kent expresses his affection for Lois Lane and decides to relinquish his superpowers to live an ordinary life with her. However, when the trio of Kryptonians – General Zod (Terrance Stamp), Ursa (Sarah Douglas), and Non (Jack O’Halloran) – appear, intent on ruling Earth using their powers, Superman comes to understand that sacrificing his life as Clark Kent might be necessary to protect the world.
Discussing the selfless acts true heroes often undertake for the common welfare, “Superman II” stands out as a unique sequel that surpasses its predecessor. Particularly when viewing the Richard Donner version, expertly pieced together by the iconic director himself and released in 2006.
Superman Returns
Instead of suggesting you watch “Superman III” after “Superman II,” you might be surprised to learn that it was Bryan Singer who rebooted the franchise in 2006 with “Superman Returns.” This film serves as a sequel directly following “Superman II” and, in an unexpected turn of events, disregards the happenings of “Superman III” and “Superman IV: The Quest for Peace.” In this new movie, Brandon Routh, Kate Bosworth, and Kevin Spacey step into the roles of Superman, Lois Lane, and Lex Luthor.
In “Superman Returns,” Kal-El follows through on his mission: he spends five years exploring space in search of Krypton, his home planet, before returning to Earth after completing his cosmic journey. However, things are not as he left them; it appears that the world has progressed without him. Lois Lane, who was once his love interest, is now engaged to Richard White, the nephew of Perry White, and they have a child together. Meanwhile, Lex Luthor, having been released from prison, resumes his nefarious activities.
Instead of delivering the usual large-scale action that spectators anticipated, “Superman Returns” offers an abundance of emotional depth and compelling human storylines instead. It serves as a heartfelt tribute to Christopher Reeve’s portrayal of Superman, with Routh delivering a powerful performance as the Man of Steel.
Superman III
While “Superman III” (1983) may not have lived up to the greatness of its predecessor “Superman II,” it still offers unique appeals. Its main flaw lies in the studio’s decision to make the series more comedic, as demonstrated by the inclusion of comedian Richard Pryor. In this film, Pryor portrays Gus Gorman, a computer expert who unknowingly becomes involved in a villain’s plan to bring harm to Superman.
Ross Webster (played by Robert Vaughn) is the villain, a rich businessman who seeks to seize all global oil reserves in order to weaken governments. The movie also delves deeper into Clark Kent’s past, introducing his former high school girlfriend Lana Lang (Annette O’Toole), and examining Clark’s personal struggle between his life as Superman and other aspects of his identity.
Despite its occasional cheesiness, “Superman III” contains some noteworthy moments, such as the iconic scene where Superman splits into two and battles his evil counterpart, and the thrilling finale involving Webster’s wife turning into a sentient computer. Despite its flaws, the movie offers a glimpse of ’80s superhero filmmaking and serves as an illustration of how far Superman films have progressed.
Superman IV: The Quest For Peace
Let’s be straightforward: “Superman IV: The Quest for Peace” is a disappointing film in the Superman series. We’ve included it here for die-hard fans seeking a comprehensive look at Superman’s big-screen journeys. Even those involved with the movie have expressed regret, as Christopher Reeve, who played Superman, referred to it as “a disaster from beginning to end” and claimed it negatively impacted his career. Its low-budget special effects, peculiar characters, and illogical storyline make its flaws evident.
The movie almost didn’t happen due to Reeve’s lack of interest in extending the series. However, when assured it would delve into a genuine social matter – nuclear arms control – Reeve consented to reprise his role. Interestingly, Lex Luthor returns as the antagonist, this time engineering Atom Man, a super-powered “superhero,” specifically crafted to eliminate Superman permanently.
It’s worth giving “Quest for Peace” a watch due to its completeness, and it could be enjoyable in a “so-bad-it’s-good” kind of way. Moreover, being the last film where Christopher Reeve portrayed Superman, his most famous role, and featuring Gene Hackman as Lex Luthor, it’s a significant movie, providing a peek into what could have been, even if its overall quality is questionable.
Supergirl
Between “Superman III” and “Superman IV: Quest for Peace,” a spin-off titled “Supergirl” was introduced, starring Helen Slater. While it isn’t crucial to watch this film in sequence with the others as its content doesn’t affect any subsequent films, it does contribute significantly to the Superman storyline of the 1980s, with only a fleeting mention of Superman.
In the series “Supergirl”, we introduce Kara Zor-El, our title character who assumes the human identity of Linda Lee. We follow her story from her home planet Krypton, where as a teenager she managed to survive the destruction by entering a spatial anomaly. Later, we discover that she boarded a rocket ship to Earth in search of a powerful artifact crafted by a Kryptonian sorcerer named Zaltar (portrayed by Peter O’Toole). Unfortunately, this artifact falls into the hands of Selena (played by Faye Dunaway), a merciless Earth sorceress who intends to harness its power to dominate our planet.
The movie “Supergirl” tried too hard to appeal to young girls with its excessive cheesiness and camp (not the enjoyable kind), making it a disappointing superhero film. Despite this, it’s amusing to watch esteemed actors like O’Toole and Dunaway putting on exaggerated performances.
Man of Steel
After watching “Superman IV: The Quest for Peace” and “Supergirl” one after another, you might be tired of the quirkiness in ’80s Superman movies. But here’s some fantastic news: it’s now time to play “Man of Steel,” directed by Zack Snyder in 2013. This movie focuses on intense action sequences – something that was notably absent in earlier big-screen Superman stories. From beginning to end, it’s a thrilling ride with numerous moments that demand your attention.
In ‘Man of Steel’, Superman gets a modern-day makeover, portraying him as a reluctant hero who’s been concealing his extraterrestrial identity. However, when global issues escalate beyond control and the menacing Kryptonian villain, Zod, surfaces, Clark Kent is compelled to don the Superman suit to protect Earth. The antagonist, General Zod, played by Michael Shannon, aims to reshape Earth into a new version of Krypton that he intends to rule.
The movie, starring Henry Cavill as the main character Superman, boasts outstanding performances from its talented cast. At its peak, “Man of Steel” truly embodies a blockbuster film, offering thrilling action scenes and stunning visual effects. While it may fall short on emotional depth, it more than compensates with an exhilarating comic book experience.
Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice
After watching “Man of Steel,” I can’t help but urge fellow fans to delve straight into its sequel, “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice.” Despite being met with some critical backlash and stirring up debate among us enthusiasts, it delivered on a promise we’ve been yearning for since the dawn of time – pitting Superman against none other than Batman. It was all part of a strategic blueprint to bring the universe of DC Comics superheroes to life on the big screen, and with an extended role for Wonder Woman, along with sneak peeks of the Flash and Aquaman, it certainly achieves that goal.
In this movie, we meet Bruce Wayne, portrayed by Ben Affleck, initially skeptical and critical of Kal-El (Superman) following the destruction caused during his battle with General Zod in “Man of Steel”. He’s been led to believe that Superman is the enemy due to manipulations by cunning businessman Lex Luthor (Jesse Eisenberg). However, Batman soon realizes that Kal-El isn’t his adversary. Interestingly, Luthor creates a sinister duplicate of Superman in an attempt to eliminate him, considering Superman a danger to global peace.
Instead of the “Man of Steel,” “Batman v Superman” presents a more ominous and raw storyline, delivering intense violence to viewers in some instances. However, it struggles with coherence in other parts, making for an uneven viewing experience.
Justice League
The upcoming “Justice League” movie may not be a standalone Superman film, but it serves as the culmination of the narrative set up by the past two Zack Snyder movies. Superman (Kal-El) plays a significant role in shaping the team’s tale. Intriguingly, the film was initially released in two distinct versions; we advise starting with the version that Joss Whedon completed first. Although it’s less refined than Snyder’s cut, it offers a more visually appealing widescreen format instead of 4:3 and has a shorter runtime, making it more accessible for viewers.
Following the events of “Batman v Superman,” Superman has perished. When an oppressive alien named Steppenwolf comes to Earth seeking an ancient artifact, it incites Batman, Wonder Woman, Aquaman, Flash, and Cyborg to unite against him and his troops, who aim to wreak havoc worldwide. However, they soon realize that their collective strength is insufficient to defeat Steppenwolf. To save the planet, they must devise a strategy to bring Superman back from the dead.
A collection of unconnected events, a story bursting with too many details, and one-dimensional characters contributed to the flop of “Justice League” at the box office. However, if you’re seeking some intense superhero team-action sequences, both the original and Snyder’s extended version of the film deliver on that front.
The Superman serials
After watching all full-length Superman movies, it’s worthwhile to delve into the past for more viewing. Way before Christopher Reeve, and even before the 1952 TV series starring George Reeves, Kirk Alyn portrayed Superman on the big screen. These were produced as short films released in theaters, telling three stories across a total of 15 episodes. These were actually the first live-action adventures for Superman.
In 1948, Alyn took on the role of both Clark Kent/Superman in a 15-episode series named merely “Superman.” Spanning 244 minutes, this serial chronicles the complete tale of Kal-El, from his flight from Krypton to his upbringing on the Kent farm, and eventually his relocation to Metropolis for his escapades as Superman. Here, he encounters a wicked adversary, The Spider Lady. Two sequential series, “Superman and the Atom Men” and “Superman and the Mole Men,” were produced in 1950 and 1951 respectively.
As a devoted admirer, I can’t help but acknowledge the profound impact the Superman serials had on shaping what came afterwards. While they may have occasionally strayed from the original storyline, they undeniably contributed to transforming this iconic figure into a familiar face in every home.
Is there another way to watch the Superman movies?
Watching the “Superman” movies in the sequence we suggest doesn’t guarantee it will be your favorite order. Since preferences vary among individuals, what works best for us might not work as well for you. Even though our suggestion aims to offer maximum enjoyment, it was made assuming you haven’t watched any of these films before.
If you’re already well-versed in Superman’s earlier films or simply prefer the charm of classic cinema, a release order viewing might suit you better. This means starting with the original serials, followed by the Christopher Reeve films, then a brief detour to Bryan Singer’s interpretation, and finally Zack Snyder’s and James Gunn’s works in that order. So, the sequence would be: serials, Christopher Reeve movies, Bryan Singer, Zack Snyder, James Gunn.
- The Superman Serials (1948-51)
- “Superman: The Motion Picture” (1978)
- “Superman II” (1980)
- “Superman III” (1983)
- “Supergirl” (1984)
- “Superman IV: The Quest for Peace” (1987)
- “Superman Returns” (2006)
- “Man of Steel” (2013)
- “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice” (2016)
- “Justice League” (2017)
- “Zack Snyder’s Justice League” (2021)
- “Superman” (2025)
Regardless of the sequence you choose to watch the Superman films, always bear in mind this fact: He isn’t a bird nor an airplane… instead, he’s simply the most exceptional superhero ever created.
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2025-07-12 04:32