Top 20 Greatest Comic Book Movies EVER
Top 20 Comic Book Movies EVER
Top 10 Darkest Comic Book Movies
The genre doesn’t get any better than this! Welcome to WatchMojo and today we’ll be counting down our picks for the top 20 comic book movies EVER. For this list, we’re looking at the greatest films ever made that were based on comic books or graphics novels - including both the superhero and non-superhero variety. We’re limiting our picks to one entry per film series or (in the case of the MCU) one entry per titular hero or team.
#20: “Sin City” (2005)
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This anthology film, based on the Frank Miller graphic novel series of the same name, follows interrelated members of the criminal underworld in the fictional Basin City. Filmed primarily in black and white, but with selective use of color, “Sin City” is a highly stylized neo-noir crime movie populated by crooks, murderers and gangs that you hate to love and love to hate. While not for everyone, “Sin City” is an excellent adaptation of its source material. The gratuitous violence makes some scenes hard to stomach, but the grim-yet-engrossing storytelling and arresting visuals are sure to keep your eyes glued to the screen.
#19: “Watchmen” (2009)
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Given that it’s an adaptation of one of the most celebrated graphic novels of all time, “Watchmen” had a lot to live up to when it finally hit the big screen in 2009. Set in an alternate history of the 20th century, where costumed vigilantes were real and involved in world events, “Watchmen” is mostly faithful to its source material, though the few departures were understandably polarizing. Actually, pretty much everything about the film is polarizing, but that’s Zack Snyder for you! Regardless of its shortcomings, the movie has gorgeous cinematography and many of the characters feel as if they’ve stepped right off the page. Even if it doesn’t satisfy hardcore fans, or creator Alan Moore, “Watchmen” remains a groundbreaking comic book adaptation.
#18: “Snowpiercer” (2014)
Based on the French graphic novel, “Le Transperceneige”, “Snowpiercer” is set after a climate engineering disaster leaves the world a frozen wasteland. With nowhere else to go, the world’s last humans survive aboard a train that circles the globe. The film follows the exploited and mistreated workers in the tail section as they rise up against the wealthy elite who live in luxury in the frontmost cars. “Snowpiercer” combines engaging action and occasional horror elements with timeless commentary on inequality, and does so using visuals as varied as each new car. Directed by “Parasite” director Bong Joon-ho, the film landed on many year end lists.
#17: “Black Panther” (2018)
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The first Marvel Cinematic Universe movie on our list, “Black Panther” expanded the world of the MCU in a major way. It follows the titular superhero and king of the Wakanda as he navigates a coup and learns what it means to be king. “Black Panther” crafts a gorgeous and inventive land that feels fully fleshed out from the moment we see it. The technologically-advanced African country of Wakanda is truly a pleasure to explore and easy to get lost in. The film also features a strong cast, and a particularly compelling antagonist in Killmonger, who easily ranks among the MCU’s best to villains date. Although “Black Panther” may have a few questionable CGI moments, it’s still worthy of its hype.
#16: “Wonder Woman” (2017)
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There aren’t many female led superhero films out there, but “Wonder Woman” is easily the best of them; here’s hoping that it’s joined by many more! The movie follows Amazon warrior and demigoddess Diana, who after meeting an American pilot and spy, leaves her island home of Themyscira to end World War I. Despite a somewhat divisive third act (and a disappointing lack of invisible jets), “Wonder Woman” is a fantastic movie. Boasting stellar action and two very charming lead actors, it’s full of heart and contains a powerful message on the costs of war. The “No Man’s Land” scene, in particular, was highlighted as being among 2017’s best cinematic moments.
#15: “Guardians of the Galaxy” (2014)
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An entertaining mixtape of a movie,“Guardians of the Galaxy” follows a disparate group of criminals and ne’er do wells who, thrown together by circumstance, must work together to thwart the villainous Ronan, a Kree zealot who seeks an object of incredible power. Well-known for its classic rock soundtrack and hilarious humor, “Guardians of the Galaxy” also has some fantastic action and a surprising amount of heart to be found from its loveable, roguish heroes. If you’re looking for a comic book movie that’s sure to put a smile on your face, you’re hard-pressed to find a better option than “Guardians of the Galaxy”.
#14: “Joker” (2019)
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Despite its title and the reputation of its central character, “Joker” is a surprisingly serious film. It depicts the life of clown and aspiring comedian Arthur Fleck, who struggles with severe mental illness. Overwhelmed by the hand he’s been dealt and the uncaring society in which he attempts to survive, his life spirals out of control before our very eyes. Although set in the 1980s, “Joker” is very much a film about contemporary societal concerns, from government cutbacks, to the plight of the mentally ill. With its timely themes, gorgeous cinematography, and a haunting, Oscar-winning performance by Joaquin Phoenix, “Joker” will stay with you long after you’ve watched it – like a good joke…or a bad one.
#13: “Deadpool” (2016)
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This R-rated superhero film follows the titular irreverent and self-aware mercenary mutant on a quest for vengeance. His target? Ajax, the man responsible for disfiguring and (ironically) giving him the abilities that make Wade Wilson such a lethal threat. “Deadpool” may follow plenty of the typical superhero beats, but it does so with a ton of tongue in cheek humor and over the top violence. The film helped take comic book movies to places more mature and (quite often) immature, than they had previously been. It changed the genre by generating greater interest in R-rated superhero movies, and did so with all the subtlety of Deadpool’s hand on Colossus’ metal privates.
#12: “X2: X-Men United” (2003)
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There are many great films in the “X-Men” franchise that we were tempted to discuss, the excellent “X-Men: Days of Future Past” being a top contender. But for us, the high water mark of the main series is “X2: X-Men United.” The film follows the X-Men as they do battle with a secret government agency with sinister plans for mutants, forcing them to team up with their former foes to protect their kind. The franchise’s frequent metaphor of mutants as a marginalized group has rarely been better executed than in this film, and the many action sequences remain memorable and exciting to this day.
#11: “Batman” (1989)
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As tempting as it was to include this film’s sequel, “Batman Returns,” many would argue that director Tim Burton went a little too… “Tim Burton-y,” with that one to top its predecessor. By contrast, 1989’s “Batman” helped shape the modern superhero movie as we know it today. Not only was it among the first successful superhero origin stories, but it also highlighted the role that heroes and villains have in shaping each other, with both the Joker and Batman causing the conflict between them through their actions. Featuring great performances all around and just enough of its director’s trademark whimsical darkness, “Batman” is an absolute classic.
#10: “V for Vendetta” (2005)
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This dystopian movie is set in a fascist version of Great Britain, ruled by the Norsefire Party through fear and oppression. The film follows a young woman named Evey, who, after being rescued by a masked vigilante, known only as V, is pulled into his revolutionary efforts. Having been subjected to horrific experiments by Norsefire himself, V seeks to destroy the regime and inspire widespread revolt. “V for Vendetta” may not have the subtlest commentary, but it’s still an excellent movie, with some truly spine-tingling sequences that will elicit horror, excitement, and awe. Plus, its real-world influence on anti-establishment movements can’t be overstated. It’s certainly a movie that won’t soon be forgotten.
#9: “Thor: Ragnarok” (2017)
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After the death of his father and the return of the goddess of death to Asgard, god of thunder Thor must fight his way back from exile to protect his home. “Thor: Ragnarok” is a marked departure from its predecessors in the best way, featuring much more action and humor than past instalments. Although some fans and critics felt that the humor verged on being excessive, there’s no denying that this film was a blast start to finish. Featuring a bright aesthetic and beautifully realized locales that feel like they’re lifted straight out of the comics, “Thor: Ragnarok” is like a raging fire for the eyes…or a smoldering one. The metaphor isn't super clear, but it’s great!
#8: “Superman: The Movie” (1978)
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The granddaddy of the modern superhero film, “Superman: The Movie” has all the hallmarks of the genre that helped popularize. Origin story? Check. Love interest who’s in need of rescue, but can also match wits with the hero? Check. Villain who occasionally upstages the protagonist with how entertaining they are? Check! Although the movie can feel a bit dated and cheesy at times, that’s part of its charm - as well as the charm of its wholesome hero! Clark Kent may be the Man of Steel, but it’s his forthright and kind nature that inspires us, and has helped “Superman” remain one of the greatest comic book movies ever made.
#7: “Spider-Man 2” (2004)
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Don’t get us wrong – the original Sam Raimi “Spider-Man” is a great film in its own right. But if we’re talking about the best comic book movies, “Spider-Man 2” is undeniably more deserving of the spot. In this beloved sequel, Peter Parker wrestles with his dual identity as Spider-Man and also faces off against supervillain Doctor Octopus, a man he once admired. The exploration of its central hero is one of the best in the franchise and the film’s action sequences are not just spectacular, they’re also some of the most iconic in all of superhero cinema. Oh, and who could forget the memes? [broll: “Pizza time!”]
#6: “Iron Man” (2008)
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The film that launched the Marvel Cinematic Universe is one of the all-time greats! The story of Tony Stark’s redemption from selfish weapons manufacturer to a slightly less selfish superhero may feel familiar now, but that’s only because this film made such a colossal impact. Driven by Robert Downey Jr.’s pitch-perfect performance as Tony Stark, “Iron Man” has a swagger and confidence that’s hard to match. The action is simply marvelous. Then there’s the excellent dialogue, which makes it almost impossible to believe that the script wasn’t finished at the time of shooting. That’s right – they improv’d their way to one of the best comic book movies ever made!
#5: “Captain America: The Winter Soldier” (2014)
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As great as the spectacle and emotional conflict of “Captain America: Civil War” is, its predecessor is even better. The second Captain America solo film follows Steve Rogers as he tries to unravel a conspiracy inside of S.H.I.E.L.D., while also combatting a menacing assassin, both of which have ties to his past. A deft blend of superhero movie and espionage action film, “Captain America: The Winter Soldier” has timely themes, a great ensemble cast led by Chris Evans, and some truly exceptional fight scenes and set pieces that still make our jaws drop - even after multiple viewings.
#4: “Logan” (2017)
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This western inspired “X-Men” movie follows an older and embittered Wolverine as he’s pulled into one last adventure. After encountering a young girl pursued by a sinister organization, Logan makes it his personal mission to get her to safety. Bleak, uncompromising, and yet oddly hopeful, “Logan” is a violent and tragic film that not only pulses with action, but hits you right in the feels with some of the saddest moments of any comic book movie. In a genre so rife with origin stories, “Logan” manages to be so impactful by showing how heroes end. While the result isn’t always easy to watch, it’s definitely worth it.
#3: “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” (2018)
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The only animated movie to make our list, “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” is an outlier in more ways than one. This film takes the familiar story of Spider-Man and turns it upside down, inside out, expertly parodies it and celebrates it all at the same time. Watching Miles Morales learn to become a new kind of wall crawling hero along with all the other Spider-People he encounters is an absolute treat that surprises and delights throughout. And did we mention how freaking gorgeous the movie is?! If any film captures the essence of comic book art and translates it onto the big screen, it’s this one!
#2: “Avengers: Endgame” (2019)
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There were several great “Avengers” movies we considered for this spot on our list. The original “Avengers” raised the stakes for the whole MCU with its unprecedented crossover. Then “Infinity War” did the same, but on an even bigger, more frightening scale. But “Endgame” is the best of the best in our view. The conclusion and climax of the first 22 movies in the Cinematic Universe, “Avengers: Endgame” managed a daunting task masterfully, while also being poignant, action-packed, and hilarious throughout. We laugh, we cry, and we cheer, no matter how many times we watch it. Before we get to our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions: “A History of Violence” (2005) “Scott Pilgrim vs. the World” (2010) “Hellboy” (2004) “The Death of Stalin” (2017) “Dredd” (2012)
#1: “The Dark Knight” (2008)
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With “Endgame” at number 2, there was only one film that could take our top spot! As great as the other parts of Christopher Nolan’s trilogy are, “Batman Begins” and “The Dark Knight Rises” can’t quite measure up to “The Dark Knight” – after all, the whole trilogy is named after it! What more can we say about this film that hasn’t been said already? “The Dark Knight” is a battle between Batman and the Joker for the very soul of Gotham City. Practically every scene and line of dialogue has left a mark on pop culture. It’s not just one of the best comic book movies ever made, it might be one of the best movies, period!
