The 10 Best Marvel Animated Movies Of All Time

Adapting comic books into animation is a perfect match because, at their core, both comics and cartoons are narrative illustrations. For instance, Marvel Comics characters such as Captain America, Iron Man, Spider-Man, the Hulk, and others have been entertaining fans on television through animated shows since the airing of “The Marvel Super-Heroes” in 1966.

It might come as a shock, but the initial animated Marvel comic book adaptation didn’t make its debut until 1980. A significant surge in animated Marvel movies didn’t occur until the mid-2000s. Since then, numerous acclaimed Marvel animated films have emerged, even garnering several Best Animated Feature Academy Awards.

Marvel’s animated movies offer a wide range of genres, from action-packed superhero battles to gothic horror narratives about the ruler of vampires, and lighthearted tales featuring a rotund healthcare robot for families. While every Marvel animated film has its merits, those listed below have been praised by both critics and fans as some of the most exceptional. Based on an average score from Rotten Tomatoes and IMDb ratings, these are the top 10 best Marvel animated movies ever made.

Dracula: Sovereign of the Damned

Even hardcore Marvel fans might be astonished to discover that the first Marvel animated film wasn’t centered around Spider-Man or Captain America, but rather focused on the ruler of vampires: Dracula. Released in 1980, “Dracula: Sovereign of the Damned” was produced by Toei Animation, a studio known for creating beloved anime series like “Sailor Moon” and “One Piece.” This animated film is based on Gene Colan and Marv Wolfman’s popular comic book series “The Tomb of Dracula,” which updated Bram Stoker’s legendary villain to the lively 1970s.

In the story “Lord of the Accursed,” Dracula angers the devil when he develops feelings for a mortal woman named Domini, who was intended to be Satan’s bride by an evil cult. Incredibly, Dracula and Domini give birth to a son named Janus, who plays an unexpected role in the struggle between good and evil. At the same time, a group of three vampire hunters – Quincy Harker, Rachel Van Helsing, and Frank Drake, yet another living relative of Dracula – plan to eliminate the eternal vampire for good.

With its gothic overtones, a detonating wheelchair, and the indelible image of Dracula sinking his teeth into a juicy burger, “Dracula: Master of the Cursed Realm” promises an entertainingly gory experience.

Cast: Ryō Ishihara, Hiroko Suzuki, Kazuyuki Sogabe
Director: Minoru Okazaki
Rating: N/A
Runtime: 91 minutes
Where to watch: N/A

Ultimate Avengers: The Movie

The comic series “The Ultimates,” written by Mark Millar and Bryan Hitch, offered a revolutionary (yet highly debated) modern take on the classic Avengers team, first introduced in 1963. This reinterpretation presented the superhero group with captivating, cinematic flair for the 21st century. Although “The Ultimates” laid the foundation for the 2012 live-action “Avengers” movie, the 2006 animated film “Ultimate Avengers: The Movie” is a more authentic and accurate portrayal of the storyline.

The movie “Ultimate Avengers” starts in 1945, where Captain America confronts the Third Reich that has been secretly invaded by the shape-shifting extraterrestrials called the Chitauri. After being frozen at the ocean’s depth for several decades, Captain America is discovered and revived by SHIELD. He then gathers a squad consisting of Black Widow, Iron Man, Giant-Man, Wasp, and Thor. However, Hulk’s urgency to reproduce Captain America’s super soldier serum might bring forth a danger more formidable than the Chitauri.

In the animated adaptation of “The Ultimates,” some harsh aspects are softened: Ultimate Hulk shows less aggressive sexual behavior, and the relationship between Wasp and Ant-Man is strained rather than physically abusive. However, it maintains the intense visuals and action, transforming the story into a thrilling adventure.

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Cast: Justin Gross, Grey DeLisle, Michael Massee
Director: Curt Geda, Steven E. Gordon, Bob Richardson
Rating: PG-13
Runtime: 72 minutes
Where to watch: DVD/Blu-ray

Planet Hulk

The majority of films in this collection focus on earthbound escapades of beloved superheroes, but “Planet Hulk” ventures into outer space – literally. This animated film is inspired by the 2006-2007 Marvel Comics series written by Greg Pak and illustrated by Carlo Pagulayan and Aaron Lopresti. In this version of events, the green titan swaps his worn purple pants for a sword and sandals.

The movie opens with Iron Man exiling Hulk from Earth because of his destructive outbursts. Subsequently, Hulk’s spaceship crashes on the extraterrestrial planet Sakaar, as portrayed in “Thor: Ragnarok.” He is then captured by the evil Red King’s troops and forced into gladiatorial combat. On Sakaar, Hulk allies with other captive aliens Miek and Korg, forming part of a group known as the Warbound. However, his struggle isn’t just about regaining his freedom; he might be the hero foretold to save the entire planet – if he can surpass the Red King’s potent lieutenant, Caiera, who stands in his way.

Additionally starring fan-adored character Beta Ray Bill, “Planet Hulk” offers a thrilling deviation from the common superhero narrative set on Earth. Soaring into the domain of sci-fi pulp, “Planet Hulk,” truly packs a punch!

Cast: Rick D. Wasserman, Lisa Ann Beley, Mark Hildreth
Director: Sam Liu
Rating: PG-13
Runtime: 81 minutes
Where to watch: DVD/Blu-ray

Doctor Strange

Prior to the 2016 release of “Doctor Strange” in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, a vibrant and quick-paced animated feature titled “Doctor Strange” from 2007 served as an introduction for viewers. The character, Stephen Strange, is a gifted yet arrogant surgeon who had grown emotionally distant towards his patients following the demise of his sister April. An unforeseen supernatural experience results in a car accident, leaving Doctor Strange with severely injured hands.

According to the counsel of a cryptic individual named Wong, Stephen embarks on a healing journey in Tibet and learns sorcery under the spiritual tutelage of the potent Ancient One. As he strives for spiritual growth, another magic practitioner, Mordo, strays from this path, instead opting for violence as he endeavors to vanquish beings from the sinister Dark Dimension.

Everything culminates in an astonishing face-off against the malevolent Dormammu, where Stephen’s past patients’ destinies hang in the balance. The animation in “Doctor Strange” breathes life into some eerie creatures – watch out for the sinister flying mouths – all while providing a storyline that delves profoundly into the troubled mind of a hero striving for redemption.

Cast: Bryce Johnson, Paul Nakauchi, Kevin Michael Richardson
Director: Jay Oliva, Dick Sebast, Patrick Archibald
Rating: PG-13
Runtime: 76 minutes
Where to watch: DVD/Blu-ray

Ultimate Avengers 2: Rise of the Panther

Ultimate Avengers 2 – Emergence of the Black Panther”

This sequel to “Ultimate Avengers: The Movie”, set in the same year, takes the series on an exciting new journey straight to the land of Wakanda, home of the Black Panther. After the events of the previous film, the Chitauri persistently seek power on Earth, resulting in the death of King T’Chaka. His son, T’Challa, ascends to the throne and takes on the powerful role of the Black Panther. However, he initially rejects the Avengers’ help when he learns that Captain America had fought but failed to kill the Chitauri leader during World War II.

In the movie “Ultimate Avengers 2: Rise of The Panther,” fans of the Avengers comics and movies will find numerous surprises, such as a fresh romantic relationship for Captain America and a startling self-sacrifice by one of the team’s most prominent heroes. Furthermore, the animation is skillfully employed in the action sequences, where the Avengers deliver severe retribution to the menacing, shape-shifting villains from an alien race with blue blood.

Cast: Justin Gross, Grey DeLisle, Michael Massee
Director: Will Meugniot, Dick Sebast, Bob Richardson
Rating: PG-13
Runtime: 73 minutes
Where to watch: DVD/Blu-ray

Next Avengers: Heroes of Tomorrow

Historically, most comic book characters make their first appearance on the printed page before transitioning to animation. However, there are exceptions like Harley Quinn from DC Comics and X-23, a Wolverine clone, who debuted in “Batman: The Animated Series” and “X-Men: Evolution” respectively. Both of these original characters eventually found their way into mainstream comics, paving the way for newer characters such as those introduced in 2008’s “Next Avengers: Heroes of Tomorrow.

In a grim scenario, Ultron, an overpowered AI with dictatorial tendencies, eliminates the Avengers along with his robotic army. Thankfully, Iron Man manages to save the offspring of these heroes, who are then nurtured in a hidden subterranean facility for a number of years. These youngsters, imbued with superpowers, grow up to be the Next Avengers: James Rogers (the son of Captain America and Black Widow), Azari (the son of Storm and Black Panther), Henry Pym Jr. (the son of Ant-Man and the Wasp), and Torunn Thorsdottir (the daughter of Thor and Sif). Will they be able to restore the world and honor their parents’ remarkable legacy?

In a fun and enjoyable manner, “Next Avengers: Heroes of Tomorrow” was particularly designed for younger Marvel enthusiasts. Notably, following its release in 2008, the Next Avengers characters made their comic book debut in issue #1 of “Avengers” (volume 4) in 2010.

Cast: Noah Crawford, Brenna O’Brien, Aidan Drummond
Director: Jay Oliva
Rating: PG
Runtime: 78 minutes
Where to watch: DVD/Blu-ray

Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse

2018’s “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” is more than just an exceptional animated Marvel film; it’s widely regarded as one of the greatest superhero movies ever produced. This groundbreaking animation was the first to feature Spider-Man, and it serves as a heartfelt tribute to this iconic web-slinging hero, whose legacy extends over six decades and encompasses numerous interpretations in comic books, TV shows, live-action films, and even ice cream bars.

“Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” (2018) is not just one of the best animated Marvel movies; it’s considered among the greatest superhero films ever made. This movie was the first to star Spider-Man and pays homage to this hero who has a history spanning six decades, with various appearances in comic books, TV shows, live-action films, and even ice cream bars.

In ‘Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse,’ we have a fantastic starting point for viewers and the origin story of the fresh new Spider-Man from our neighborhood, Miles Morales. After being bitten by a radioactive spider, young Miles acquires abilities like his universe’s Peter Parker. However, he witnesses the grim demise of this Spider-Man at the hands of the villain, Kingpin. As fate would have it, Miles gains an unlikely mentor in an aged Spider-Man from another dimension, Peter B. Parker; together with other Spider-folk from various dimensions, they band together to thwart Kingpin before he wreaks havoc on their realities.

Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” is a breathtaking demonstration of comic art brought to reality. It blends 2D and CGI animation with artistic influences from anime, film noir, and even “Looney Tunes”. This groundbreaking animation was honored as the best animated feature at the 91st Academy Awards, and it’s only surpassed by its sequel, “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse.

Cast: Shameik Moore, Jake Johnson, Hailee Steinfeld
Director: Bob Persichetti, Peter Ramsey, Rodney Rothman
Rating: PG
Runtime: 117 minutes
Where to watch: DVD/Blu-ray

Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse

Across the Spider-Verse” serves as the second installment in a trilogy that began with “Into the Spider-Verse.” This film is set to be concluded by “Beyond the Spider-Verse.” “Across the Spider-Verse” significantly increases the pace and visual allure demonstrated in the first movie.

After several months have passed since Miles Morales saved the world, the movie finds him assuming the role of Spider-Man but grappling with issues in his private life. Miles rekindles a connection with his cross-dimensional sweetheart, Gwen Stacy, who then introduces him to the Spider Society, a team of Spider-beings dedicated to safeguarding the multiverse. However, a dispute with the leader of the Spider Society, Miguel O’Hara, leads to disastrous events affecting Miles and his loved ones.

Through the Spider Realms”

description: Buckle up for an exhilarating journey filled with nonstop action, laughter, and hidden gems – until the final jaw-dropping twist! Fans eagerly anticipating the concluding chapter of this revolutionary trilogy will undoubtedly rewatch “Through the Spider Realms” multiple times to catch every moment of Spidey’s thrilling escapades.

Cast: Shameik Moore, Hailee Steinfeld, Brian Tyree Henry
Director: Kemp Powers, Justin K. Thompson, Joaquim Dos Santos
Rating: PG
Runtime: 140 minutes
Where to watch: Netflix

Hulk Vs.

Numerous animated movies on this list explore significant themes like unity, sorrow, affection, and rehabilitation. The 2009 production titled “Hulk Vs.” poses an intriguing query that has long puzzled the comic book community: “Which character could potentially defeat the Hulk in a physical confrontation?

As a die-hard fan, I can’t contain my excitement when I talk about “Hulk Vs.”! This action-packed extravaganza offers fans like me not one, but two epic battles for the price of one. It merges the thrilling duels “Hulk vs. Wolverine” and “Hulk vs. Thor” into a single, massive cinematic clash.

In “Hulk vs. Thor,” the cunning trickster god Loki orchestrates a confrontation between Hulk and his brother, the powerful Thor in Asgard. However, things spiral out of control when Loki’s sorcery splits the enraged Hulk from his human persona, Bruce Banner.

In “Hulk vs. Wolverine,” Weapon X dispatches Wolverine on a mission to apprehend the Hulk. But when two antiheroes collide, they’ll need to band together to overcome an alliance of formidable adversaries that includes Sabretooth, Lady Deathstrike, Omega Red, and Deadpool!

Collaboratively made with Madhouse, the renowned Japanese animation studio responsible for “Ninja Scroll” and “One-Punch Man”, “Hulk Vs.” justifies its PG-13 rating through its intensely choreographed (and exceedingly gory) fight scenes that will thrill ardent Marvel enthusiasts.

Cast: Fred Tatasciore, Bryce Johnson, Steve Blum
Director: Frank Puar and Sam Liu
Rating: PG-13
Runtime: 82 minutes
Where to watch: DVD/Blu-ray

Big Hero 6

2014’s “Big Hero 6” is a groundbreaking film in several ways: It was the first Disney animation to center around Marvel Comics characters, the first Marvel movie entirely made using computer-generated imagery (CGI), and the inaugural Marvel production to receive the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature.

Big Hero 6″ is a vibrant and captivating modern take on an under-the-radar Marvel superhero group, initially introduced by Steven T. Seagle and Duncan Rouleau in a miniseries back in 1998. This animated movie is set in the futuristic, fictional city of San Fransokyo, where we meet Hiro Hamada, a sharp but uninspired teen who gains control of Baymax, his deceased brother Tadashi’s healthcare robot. Alongside Tadashi’s friends – Go-Go Tomago, Wasabi, Honey Lemon, and Frederick Frederickson IV – Hiro and Baymax embark on a mission to protect their city from the mysterious villain Yokai, who wears a mask.

The unique Marvel film “Big Hero 6” surpassed its source material, comics, to establish a thriving media empire with numerous offshoots. The first offspring was a sequel TV show that broadcast from 2017-2021 and brought back many original voice actors. Later, the lovable mascot Baymax (brilliantly voiced by Scott Adsit) had two series of short animated episodes: “Baymax Dreams” in 2018 and “Baymax!” in 2022.

Cast: Scott Adsit, Ryan Potter, Daniel Henney
Director: Don Hall and Chris Williams
Rating: PG
Runtime: 102 minutes
Where to watch: Disney+

2025-03-01 15:44