As a lifelong comic book enthusiast who’s also spent countless hours delving into the rich tapestry of film history, I find myself utterly smitten by these two cinematic gems that have dared to push the boundaries of their respective genres.
It’s quite amusing, given that action and intense violence are the mainstays of this genre, how many superhero films opt for a PG-13 rating or lower. Logically, the financial aspect plays a role – it’s an expensive genre, and profits need to be recovered. Yet, when executed skillfully, R-rated superhero movies can be highly lucrative and receive critical acclaim. The argument could be made that these films offer a more realistic portrayal of violence, either for heightened emotional impact, exploring deeper themes, or simply for increased audience enjoyment.
Instead of focusing on Rotten Tomatoes ratings, this list organizes and evaluates the top twelve R-rated superhero films based on their cultural influence and enduring legacy. These movies were initially met with mixed reviews, often surprising audiences and critics who didn’t anticipate the eccentric and unconventional nature of their comic book adaptations. This collection spans a variety of genres, including comedy, drama, and action, offering a unique perspective on superhero films. Although ranked from worst to best, each film is an exceptional demonstration of the creative possibilities within superhero cinema when directors are given freedom.
12. Deadpool 2
The original “Deadpool” marked a significant shift in the realm of superhero films: It was a rebellious, humorous, self-referential movie that demonstrated the genre could abandon its traditional seriousness and still be profitable. Essentially, it was more of an experience than just a film; much like “Shrek” did to American animation 15 years earlier, it celebrated chaos and rule-breaking, finding humor not only in the jokes but also in the audacity of the humor itself. Interestingly, similar to “Shrek”, the “Deadpool” series improved in its second installment. Once the novelty and shock value were no longer factors, the filmmakers focused on crafting a solid movie independently.
In summary, though both “Deadpool” films share comparable critical ratings on platforms like Rotten Tomatoes and Metacritic, a closer look at the reviews reveals that “Deadpool 2” surpassed its predecessor in terms of quality. Critics such as Vox praised it as a “superhero movie so meticulously crafted and incredibly entertaining that even Deadpool himself might struggle to find flaws,” while Den of Geek asserted that the sequel was “larger, funnier, and superior” to the original.
11. The Old Guard
2020 saw a shift in perception for Netflix original action movies, as Gina Prince-Bythewood, renowned for her work in romantic dramas like “Love & Basketball,” broke the mold by directing a superhero film on Netflix. This production stood out with its deep emphasis on emotional depth and character development, while still delivering high-quality, intensely choreographed action scenes suitable for any ardent action movie enthusiast.
Based on graphic novels by Greg Rucka and Leandro Fernández, “The Old Guard” follows a team of unique individuals who possess extraordinary regenerative abilities, making them effectively immortal. Over centuries, they have fought together for diverse causes throughout history, now operating as benevolent mercenaries, taking on missions to aid those in need. Their leader, Andromache of Scythia (Charlize Theron), has grown weary and disillusioned from her long exposure to humanity’s darker side. She must find the strength to mentor U.S. Marine Nile Freeman (KiKi Layne) when she discovers her powers and joins their ranks as the latest member.
As a devoted fan, I can wholeheartedly affirm that the film has been hailed by many as a peak achievement in the superhero genre, offering depth and emotional resonance like no other. To put it simply, watching it, I found myself yearning for those previous movies with their interconnected universes and meticulously crafted, carefully maintained worlds. Instead, ‘The Old Guard’ invites me to envision a different realm – one where comic-book films are as skillfully produced and visually stunning as this masterpiece.
10. The Suicide Squad
In David Ayer’s “Suicide Squad,” there was a seed of a fantastic idea. An unorthodox superhero movie with a chaotic vibe, driven by energetic pop music and disregarding conventional decency and propriety, could have provided an exhilarating experience. Regrettably, it did not live up to expectations. However, the concept had enough potential to warrant a second attempt, and as expected, under James Gunn’s direction, “The Suicide Squad” delivered all that we had hoped its predecessor would (which is fortunate, since David Ayer has abandoned his plans to release his original “Suicide Squad” cut).
As a gamer, I can tell you that in “The Suicide Squad”, it’s just me (Joel Kinnaman as Rick Flag), Jai Courtney as Captain Boomerang, the powerful Amanda Waller played by Viola Davis, and of course, the captivating Harley Quinn, portrayed by Margot Robbie. This film serves as a fresh start, disregarding the past to focus on a genuine narrative, even sneaking in some thought-provoking anti-imperialist undertones. Critics were thrilled not only by James Gunn’s knack for delivering pure entertainment, but also his skillful use of the R rating. As the AV Club put it, “It was high time someone burst that bubble.” “The Suicide Squad” is a wild, over-the-top, and irreverent ride, all done with a grin on its face.”
9. Punisher: War Zone
In 2008, Lexi Alexander’s “Punisher: War Zone” offered an unparalleled portrayal of the gritty comic book vigilante film as a brutal, immoral, self-destructive fortress of fear. The intensity of its violence and the constant overwhelming force of its tone make even the most mature Marvel films appear tame in comparison, not to mention the character’s subsequent adaptation for Netflix.
Alexander perceives Frank Castle (Ray Stevenson) as essentially a serial killer who just so happens to target criminals, rather than any facade of moral authority. The movie, in refusing to sugarcoat vigilantism, provides viewers with ample amounts of raw aggression, showcased through over-the-top actions such as explosive punches and mid-air missile detonations.
The result is as disturbing to watch as it is transfixing. Although reviled by reviewers upon release, “Punisher: War Zone” has since become a cult favorite and has grown in critical stature, with Giant Freakin Robot writing in 2024: “Reality is something ‘Punisher: War Zone’ is rejecting at nearly every turn. Its tongue is jutting through its cheek and that’s what makes it such a hoot, but audiences weren’t really vibing with that [in 2008].”
8. Dredd
2012 saw Pete Travis and Alex Garland’s “Dredd” release during a period of minimal cinematic activity, which may be one reason why a sequel was never produced. This overlooked gem from the 2010s, known for its unique and impactful portrayal of a superhero, deserved more recognition. It drew heavily on the original “Judge Dredd” comic strips by John Wagner and Carlos Ezquerra, not just as a blueprint to follow, but as a rich source of inspiration for its vibrant excess, biting wit, and incisive satire. The film aimed to reflect the mirror-like critique of superhero cinema that the comics offered for superhero comics, and it’s hard to imagine an adaptation more faithful to this mission.
In a dark future portraying an oppressive United States, where judges wield unquestioned authority in the crime-ridden metropolis known as Mega-City One, the film “Dredd” showcases the partnership between Judge Dredd (Karl Urban) and psychic rookie Cassandra Anderson (Olivia Thirlby). They collaborate to bring down Ma-Ma Madrigal (Lena Headey), a powerful drug lord who profits from a mind-altering substance called “slo-mo.” Each character delivers captivating, larger-than-life performances, and the movie shines across all aspects – but it’s the audacity that truly stands out. As NPR put it, “Dredd” is not just a clever choice for September entertainment, but also a joyously bold, visceral, almost flawless action film.”
7. Darkman
Before Sam Raimi pioneered the structure of contemporary comic book movies with his “Spider-Man” films, he demonstrated a grittier version of cinematic superheroes through “Darkman.” This paved the way for mature superhero films like Christopher Nolan’s “Dark Knight” series. Notably, what sets “Darkman” apart, beyond its historical significance, is that its central character was self-conceived by Raimi.
Despite Sam Raimi’s style reminding us of the vivid and flexible world of comics such as “The Shadow,” the inspiration for Dr. Peyton Westlake, also known as Darkman (played by Liam Neeson), reaches deeper into his past: His gruesome disfigurement and fluctuation between nobility and cruelty are reminiscent of classic Universal monsters. As is typical with Raimi, these visual references don’t stop at just that, extending to elements like German expressionism and the surreal paintings of René Magritte.
However, unlike a typical visually stunning superhero movie, this one stands out as deeply emotional and powerful. Liam Neeson and Frances McDormand, portraying Julie Hastings, Westlake’s girlfriend, deliver exceptional performances that depict the struggle of a broken man fighting for his soul. The film received positive reviews in 1990 and has since gained even more respect among critics. In 2024, The Movie Isle stated: “Darkman demonstrates that Raimi, early in his career, had full command over the medium of filmmaking, regardless of budget or film style.”
6. Constantine
Back in 2005, it seemed like the mainstream critics weren’t quite ready for Francis Lawrence’s “Constantine”. To modern movie enthusiasts, the idea of Keanu Reeves starring in an action-horror film with complex Christian mythology and Tilda Swinton as the angel Gabriel might sound like a masterpiece. However, during those mid-2000s, such creative boldness wasn’t always met with favor from the dominant cultural mindset. As expected, “Constantine” received harsh criticism upon its initial release. Audiences were slightly more forgiving, but their response was still modest, earning the film a decent $230 million worldwide against a budget of $100 million.
Despite undergoing changes in DC’s film slate, “Constantine” has earned cult status and is still rumored for a sequel due to its unique appeal. If you can appreciate it on its quirky, grandiose merits, it’s simply an exceptional movie. Initially, critics might have missed out on its campy and operatic charm, but today, that charm shines brighter than ever in the current blockbuster scene. In fact, Rotten Tomatoes published an editorial in 2020 expressing regret for the film’s poor rating, with Rafael Motamayor stating that “with comic book-inspired films tending to follow a standard formula nowadays, we look for style and distinctive visions more than ever. In this regard, it’s hard to find a more intriguing interpretation of the comic book horror narrative than John Constantine’s story, the freelance exorcist.”
5. Birds of Prey
Many movies suffered due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but Cathy Yan’s “Birds of Prey” was particularly unfortunate. This movie is a shining example of cinematic brilliance, bursting with energy and charm that makes it an irresistible crowd-pleaser, potentially making it a legendary word-of-mouth success for DC Films if only circumstances had allowed it to sustain its box office performance beyond its disappointing, underestimated opening. The silver lining is that we still have “Birds of Prey” itself – a superhero film that’s been the most enjoyable in years, perhaps even decades. It’s challenging to find another film since “The Incredibles” with the same level of wit, narrative skill, and visual sparkle.
As a woman who has spent most of my life navigating through a world that often seems to work against us, I must say that “Birds of Prey” is a breath of fresh air. With its all-star female cast led by Margot Robbie, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Jurnee Smollett, Rosie Perez, and Ella Jay Basco, this film offers a much-needed representation of powerful women taking control. Ewan McGregor’s villainous character adds an extra layer to the story, creating tension that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
4. Blade
It seems we share similar sentiments about Marvel Studios’ “Blade,” as its uncertain release might cause concern. The Mahershala Ali-led Marvel Cinematic Universe project’s future is unclear, but the original film will forever hold a special place. Frankly, it’s challenging to envision a new movie surpassing the original in terms of portraying this iconic character. Stephen Norrington’s “Blade” was instrumental, not only in introducing mainstream audiences to Marvel Comics and launching a successful trilogy but also in revolutionizing what Hollywood superhero films could achieve.
For the first time, we hadn’t witnessed a character in a movie as exceptional as Wesley Snipes’ Blade. He was cool beyond measure, standing tall like royalty, dressed with the flair of a fashion runway model, stoic and quick-witted like a film noir detective, yet gallant, reliable, and morally upright like a matinee hero. Before “The Matrix” and the wave of horror-infused dark fantasy blockbusters in the 2000s, “Blade” portrayed its human-versus-vampires narrative with the same flair as a renowned ’90s music video director would visualize a pulsating trip hop track. It brought to life breathtaking cyber-Gothic imagery that seemed to appear out of thin air, giving them an emotional depth that was hard to explain.
It’s no shock that, looking back, the film seems to have a unique charm. On the 25th anniversary of the movie, The Observer remarked: “When you gaze into those reflective sunglasses, it’s tough not to ponder if superhero movies might have been more appealing before they fully defined their identity and smoothed out the rough edges.”
3. Logan
In the 2010s, numerous superhero movies aimed for a somber, dramatic tone and exaggerated grit, but frequently lacked substance. This period, marked by an explosion of superhero films, also saw their transformation into a commercial enterprise, prioritizing broad appeal over artistic depth. Attempts at seriousness were often unconvincing within such populist boundaries. However, “Logan” bucked this trend.
In the follow-up to 2013’s “The Wolverine,” the narrative expanded upon the theme of Wolverine (portrayed by Hugh Jackman) as a tormented, nomadic samurai, pushing this idea even further. This film largely discarded the continuity from previous “X-Men” movies to present a primarily self-contained story that commences with Logan and a Charles Xavier, suffering from dementia (played by Patrick Stewart), living in seclusion during a dystopian future. As the potential last remaining X-Man, Logan is reluctantly compelled back into action and violence to safeguard a young mutant girl (Dafne Keen). Every second of this task is deeply distasteful to him.
From the somber, Western-style setting emerges the most poignant superhero film ever made, a groundbreaking work that garnered its first Oscar nomination for screenwriting. The R rating plays a crucial role: as AV Club stated, “Logan” is “a comic book adaptation that treats its characters and themes with gravity, elevating the genre beyond spectacle to something akin to art, even poetry. It’s mature in more aspects than just age.”
2. Tank Girl
It was too extreme, too bold, too loud, too LGBTQ+ for its era, and perhaps still is today.
In the past when films with an anti-system, anti-establishment theme could thrive in Hollywood, “Tank Girl” was a groundbreaking movie that tells the story of Tank Girl (Lori Petty) and Jet Girl (Naomi Watts). They join forces to combat the Water & Power corporation that dominates their post-apocalyptic world. Initially snubbed by both audiences and critics in 1995, “Tank Girl” has since earned cult classic status within the superhero genre. It has influenced a variety of subsequent movies such as “Birds of Prey,” “Kick-Ass,” and “Mad Max: Fury Road.”
Megan Carpentier noted, while reviewing the movie again after more than two decades, that it seemed designed to resonate with women, not just for them to identify with it from afar. She explained that this film demonstrated to some of us back then why representation was crucial; and even 25 years later, it underscores why it remains important today.
1. RoboCop
Paul Verhoeven excels in creating satirical films that are so close to reality they often go unnoticed as such. Films like “Starship Troopers” or “Showgirls” may be more well-known, but the political subversion and subtle audience criticism in “RoboCop” is particularly intense. This is because “RoboCop,” despite being his most mainstream work, carries a strong impact, and the irony isn’t any less potent due to its broader appeal.
In 2024, many viewers may not fully grasp that RoboCop’s actions, enhanced by cyber technology, are meant to depict a chilling vision of Reagan-era neoliberalism, where heavily privatized law enforcement serves as the epitome of corporatism and militarism dominating every aspect of public life. This is one of the most iconic sci-fi films from the 1980s that perfectly encapsulates the era. Over the past five decades, no other superhero film has delved so deeply into the genre’s inherent conservatism or analyzed the link between crimefighting and the preservation of capitalist systems with such keen insight.
It’s not surprising that the movie was elevated to such a renowned classic status. As Paste magazine noted when they ranked “RoboCop” the 12th-best sci-fi film ever made, Verhoeven masterfully portrayed Detroit’s decay in a tangible, intense, and deafening manner, infusing it with themes about the boundaries of human identity and the irony of consumer culture. Instead of viewing the dystopian future Detroit as the battleground where the working class would fight against the wealthy elite, he highlighted RoboCop, or Murphy, as the battlefield within himself.
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2024-08-24 14:31