Unveiling the Most Anticipated Non-Marvel/DC Comic Book Movies of 2025!

by

For more than ten years, superhero films held an uncontested reign at the box office, almost becoming synonymous with it. The Marvel Cinematic Universe grew into a colossus, setting the pace for Hollywood with its serialized grandeur, post-credit surprises, and ever-expanding multiversal complexity. Meanwhile, DC struggled to find its footing, occasionally imitating Marvel’s approach, other times abandoning it entirely. It appeared as though comic book movies could never flop. They transcended the realm of films, transforming into billion-dollar spectacles, corporate-funded cultural phenomena.

Over the last few years, it appears the very basis has been shaken. The latest installment of Captain America: Brave New World, however, seems destined for a flop at the box office, given the pattern of decreasing success from both Marvel and DC. Initially enamored by the cinematic universes, viewers now show signs of weariness. Martin Scorsese’s controversial opinion that superhero films are like amusement parks is no longer just a debate point—it’s starting to mirror reality, even as the studios themselves admit it. In this period of doubt, the terrain is changing rapidly.

The demise of the traditional storytelling approach has created an opportunity for fresh narratives. Unfamiliar tales such as graphic novels, independent comics, and lesser-known properties, which don’t rely on interconnected universes or mandatory franchise structures, are now gaining prominence. The forthcoming lineup of adaptations offers a delightful mix of the unusual, spanning various genres and artistic styles, ranging from the dreamlike cyberpunk landscape of The Electric State to the brutal philosophical exploration of BRZRKR. As Marvel and DC take time to adjust, 2025 appears to be the year that non-superhero comic book films will shine—a time when the battles aren’t about preserving the multiverse, but rather about demonstrating that this genre can still captivate us with unexpected twists.

9
‘The Old Guard 2’ (2025)

In 2020, Netflix’s film “The Old Guard” turned out to be a surprising success, combining intense action sequences with an unanticipated exploration of immortality’s emotional aspects. This movie is adapted from the comic by Greg Rucka and Leandro Fernández. The plot revolves around a band of ancient warriors who have covertly influenced history for centuries. In “The Old Guard 2,” a new immortal (KiKi Layne as Nile) joins the group, and an old adversary resurfaces, promising to delve further into the struggles and deceit associated with eternal existence while escalating the conflicts on the battlefield.

Immortal Warriors Return for Round Two

In the second installment, Charlize Theron reprises her role as Andromache of Scythia, a seasoned leader who’s been through battles, joined by a team that has already demonstrated their ability to bring this unique story to life. The upcoming film is expected to emphasize more on the emotional depth drawn from Rucka’s comic and maintain the raw, gritty action that made the original movie noteworthy. In an era dominated by superpowered characters, The Old Guard 2 continues to provide a distinctive take—characters who can’t die yet have everything at stake.

8
‘Rogue Trooper’

Hailing from the iconic 2000 AD comics, the same British anthology that introduced us to Judge Dredd, emerges Rogue Trooper – a science fiction war tale about a genetically enhanced super-soldier on a mission to track down the one who betrayed his squad. Crafted by Gerry Finley-Day and Dave Gibbons, Rogue Trooper unfolds in the poisonous expanse of Nu-Earth, where soldiers are chemically altered for an unending conflict. However, when his comrades fall in battle, Rogue goes rogue, carrying with him the digital personas of his fallen brothers-in-arms – embedded in his helmet, weapon, and backpack as artificial intelligence.

A Bio-Engineered Soldier Seeks Revenge in a War-Torn Future

The movie is being directed by none other than Duncan Jones, who previously worked on “Moon” and “Warcraft”. His talent for creating intricate sci-fi stories makes him an ideal choice for this project. With its blend of intense action sequences, gritty world development, and dark wit, “Rogue Trooper” could become the next significant dystopian war film. Unlike the superheroes from Marvel and DC, Rogue is a battle-hardened soldier who has been betrayed, giving him a tragic yet captivating persona as the protagonist.

7
‘The Electric State’

In the imaginative realm depicted by Simon Stålenhag’s illustrated novel The Electric State, audiences are whisked away to an alternate 1997, a world where a teenage girl and her mechanical ally traverse a desolate America filled with decaying tech relics and ominous war machines. Their westward journey reveals the chilling remnants of a society that thrived on virtual reality and government secrets. This realm is a haunting tapestry of forgotten dreams and faded futures, beautifully rendered by Stålenhag in his distinct blend of nostalgia and subtle dystopia.

A Sci-Fi Road Trip Through a Ruined America

Based on the direction of filmmakers Joe and Anthony Russo, who also helmed “Avengers: Endgame,” and featuring Millie Bobby Brown, Chris Pratt, and Ke Huy Quan in leading roles, “The Electric State” is anticipated to be one of the visually stunning films in 2025. Unlike conventional comic book adaptations, this film combines intimate storytelling with grand sci-fi spectacle, offering a refreshing change from typical superhero stories. With its road trip narrative and poignant themes, it might stand out as one of the most distinctive and hauntingly beautiful adaptations of the year.

6
‘BRZRKR’

If John Wick were to be eternally alive, you’d have BRZRKR. This comic, co-created by Keanu Reeves and Matt Kindt, presents an immortal combatant called B, who has battled through countless wars, destruction, and bloodshed over the centuries. Longing to unravel his own origins but unable to die, he accepts dangerous government assignments in return for assistance in revealing his past’s secrets. The live-action adaptation, starring and produced by Reeves, promises an action-packed film filled with mythology, contemplation on existence, and dread.

Keanu Reeves Goes Full Berserker Mode

Unlike characters like Marvel’s Wolverine or DC’s Lobo, BRZRKR is a gritty, adult-oriented action tale with a somber undertone. Reeves, who has excelled in portraying characters burdened by their past (John Wick, The Matrix), seems tailor-made for the part. Given the comic’s excessive violence, the movie could be a spiritual sequel to The Northman or Gladiator—a raw, unyielding investigation into war and endurance. It represents the kind of adaptation that feels like the opposite of a superhero film: less about fate and righteousness, more about blood, fury, and the burden of immortality.

5
‘Irredeemable’

Exploring a world weary of perfect superheroes, the story Irredeemable delves into the thought-provoking question: what if the most powerful hero transformed into the most formidable villain? This narrative is based on the comic by Mark Waid and chronicles the descent of Plutonian, a seemingly invincible, adored superhero who turns against mankind, causing massive carnage in a divine fury. As his former comrades frantically try to halt him, they unearth startling secrets about his past and the factors that led to his breaking point. Unlike many superhero deconstructions, Irredeemable doesn’t merely ponder if power corrupts; it explores what transpires when someone who was meant to be our savior completely abandons us.

When Superman Goes Bad, Who Can Stop Him?

In a world of films where hero narratives have become predictable, Irredeemable seems like the perfect remedy. Unlike shows like The Boys, which lampoons corporate superhero society, or Joker, which dwells in psychological realism, Irredeemable occupies a larger-than-life space – it’s an epic tragedy, a devastating unraveling of power. With director Jeymes Samuel (The Harder They Fall) at the helm, Irredeemable promises to combine operatic storytelling with Western elements and superhero symbolism, creating something that feels both grandiose and unsettlingly personal.

4
‘Spawn’

Todd McFarlane’s character, Spawn, has always held a distinctive position within the comic book realm, being too grim for conventional superheroes and too visually captivating to be dismissed. Previously adapted into a 1997 film and later an acclaimed HBO animated series, now Spawn is set to receive the big-screen adaptation it has long warranted, with McFarlane himself leading the project. The narrative revolves around Al Simmons, a black ops assassin who was deceived and killed, only to be reborn as Spawn, a Hellspawn warrior embroiled in a cosmic conflict between Heaven and Hell. Equipped with grotesque yet potent abilities, Spawn grapples with maintaining his humanity while meting out retribution against those who wronged him.

Hell’s Antihero Rises Again

For quite some time, the revamp of ‘Spawn’ has been under production. With Jamie Foxx playing Spawn and Blumhouse Productions supporting it, this film seems to be heading towards a darker, horror-influenced direction. Unlike the polished superhero movies from Marvel and DC, ‘Spawn’ is aiming to explore its supernatural horror foundations, delving into the macabre and the brutal. If executed effectively, this movie could potentially stand out among comic book films by not just providing entertainment but also creating a truly unsettling experience – more akin to ‘The Crow’ or ‘Blade’, rather than anything in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

3
‘Red Sonja’

For many years, Red Sonja has been synonymous with bravery, legend, and an emblem of the sword-and-sorcery genre. Now, after a long wait, she’s set to reappear on the big screen once more. Originating from the mind of Robert E. Howard and later gaining popularity through Marvel and Dynamite Comics, Red Sonja tells the tale of a fierce redhead warrior who seeks vengeance against those responsible for the destruction of her home. Known for her formidable fighting abilities and indomitable spirit, Red Sonja is a character that represents raw strength and endurance in a realm controlled by oppressors and beasts.

The Return of Sword-and-Sorcery’s Fiercest Warrior

Featuring Matilda Lutz in the lead role (as seen in “Revenge”), the reboot of Red Sonja seems poised to revive the thrilling, action-packed fantasy genre reminiscent of Conan the Barbarian. Unlike the 1985 version with Brigitte Nielsen, this new adaptation is said to delve into the grimier, darker aspects of Sonja’s world. In a time when fantasy has been primarily shaped by political dramas similar to Game of Thrones, Red Sonja might offer something longed for by viewers – raw, unadulterated adventure.

2
‘Masters of the Universe’

For those who spent their childhood in the ’80s, Masters of the Universe holds a special place beyond being mere toys – it’s an evocative journey down memory lane. Originally brought to life as a 1987 live-action film starring Dolph Lundgren, the tale of He-Man is set for a highly anticipated comeback, this time under the creative direction of Aaron and Adam Nee from The Lost City. The story will revolve around Prince Adam, a warrior hailing from the planet Eternia, who assumes the powerful form of He-Man to safeguard his realm against the malevolent Skeletor. With its blend of sci-fi, fantasy, and high-octane action, Masters of the Universe promises an unparalleled spectacle that could outshine other contemporary comic book adaptations.

By the Power of Grayskull, He-Man Returns

The unique charm of Masters of the Universe lies in its audacious quirkiness, featuring villains with talking skulls, cosmic conflicts, and a protagonist who battles wearing only a loincloth and armed with a mystical sword. With Nicholas Galitzine (The Idea of You) set to play He-Man, this reboot promises to retain the vibrant, dramatic spirit of the original while incorporating contemporary visual effects and narratives. Unlike the gloomy, somber superhero movies that currently rule Hollywood, Masters of the Universe could become an exceptional find in the comic book movie realm: a high-octane, fantastical journey that doesn’t succumb to self-importance.

1
‘One Punch Man’

One Punch Man, a creation by artist ONE, stands out among contemporary superheroes for its clever subversion of genre norms. This manga and webcomic focus on Saitama, an incredibly powerful hero who can vanquish any foe with just one punch. Ironically, this ability doesn’t fill him with empowerment but instead leaves him feeling bored and seeking meaning in life. The series combines outrageous action scenes with biting satire, mocking the conventions of shonen anime and superhero narratives while providing some of the most thrilling fight sequences in recent animation. Since 2020, a live-action version has been under development at Sony, with Rick and Morty writers Dan Harmon and Heather Anne Campbell involved, and Justin Lin (Fast & Furious 9) speculated to direct.

The Live-Action Adaptation That May (or May Not) Happen

Although much talk circulates around the project, there’s not much news about One Punch Man, causing some people to wonder if it will ever begin. The task of transforming its distinctive blend of self-deprecating humor and action-packed excitement into a live-action film is enormous—can Hollywood manage to portray Saitama’s effortless triumphs as absurd while still delivering thrilling action? If executed well, it could mark a significant milestone for anime-to-film adaptations, demonstrating that high-budget manga adaptations can succeed. However, until more developments occur in production, One Punch Man remains an intriguing, yet questionable, prospect on the roster of upcoming comic book movies.

Read More

2025-03-03 00:38