10 Great DC Movies to Watch After Superman

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If you share our enthusiasm for the cheerful, hopeful vibe of Superman, it’s likely that your interest in DC superheroes has been renewed and you can’t wait for more positive DC films. Unfortunately, James Gunn’s next DC Universe installment, Supergirl, won’t be in cinemas until a year from now. However, there’s plenty of full-length DC content to keep both new and longtime fans excited until Supergirl graces our screens on June 26, 2026. Over the years, from animation to live-action, DC has established a significant presence in the film industry.

Not every film from DC’s superhero roster maintains the same optimistic tone as Superman. Movies such as Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice and Joker Folie à Deux might dampen the cheerful aura that follows Superman, leaving you yearning for an MCU production quicker than one can utter “grimdark”. Fortunately, we’re here to guide you towards the more upbeat DC productions. Here are ten terrific DC films to explore when you’ve had your fill of Superman excitement.

1) Superman: Man of Tomorrow

If you’re a fan of Superman and were hoping for a fresh perspective on his origins, then the 2020 animated movie Superman: Man of Tomorrow might be just what you’re looking for. This film didn’t get much attention from many fans, which is unfortunate because it offers an engaging contemporary take on Superman’s origin story.

This animated film, titled “Superman: Man of Tomorrow “, showcases the vocal skills of Darren Criss (as Superman), Alexandra Daddario (as Lois Lane), and Zachary Quinto (as Lex Luthor). The story follows a young Clark Kent, who is yet to become Superman, as he grapples with the choice between concealing his powers or revealing them to protect humanity. Notable DC characters such as Martian Manhunter and Lobo also make appearances in this film. Known for its high-quality animation, “Man of Tomorrow” serves as an excellent companion piece to Kal-El’s latest big screen journey.

2) Batman: Mask of the Phantasm

Without a doubt, “Batman: Mask of the Phantasm” stands out among all of Batman’s theatrical appearances. It’s essentially a movie adaptation from “Batman: The Animated Series”. This film serves as an ideal link between the light-hearted portrayal of Batman (1966) and the gritty depictions in Christopher Nolan’s Dark Knight saga and “The Batman”.

Similar to how Superman has his unique take on the Man of Steel, Batman: Mask of the Phantasm alters the Batman lore by introducing a past love for the Caped Crusader, smoothly weaving her into his origin story. The film offers a rich blend of romance, humor, suspense, thrilling action sequences, and the iconic performance of Mark Hamill as the Joker. Voiced brilliantly by Kevin Conroy, Batman: Mask of the Phantasm serves as an ideal model for how the Dark Knight should be depicted when he eventually enters the DC Universe.

3) Birds of Prey (and the Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn)

A rating of R doesn’t automatically mean a more somber or intense viewing, as demonstrated by “Birds of Prey (and the Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn)“. While director David Ayer initially presented Margot Robbie’s Harley Quinn in the grim 2016 film “Suicide Squad“, it was Kathy Yan who set the character loose in a vibrant, sugary-hued Gotham City.

This Harley doesn’t rely on characters like the Joker or Batman to establish her identity; instead, she connects with a street-food breakfast sandwich and a group of other unconventional female superheroes. If you appreciate the dynamic energy that Superman exudes but crave a touch more edgy wit, then “Birds of Prey” is the film for you.

4) Superman: The Movie

To fans who think David Corenswet plays the finest live-action Man of Steel since Christopher Reeve, it makes perfect sense to watch “Superman: The Movie” from 1978 next, after watching Superman. Although this film is nearly half a century old now, Christopher Reeve’s initial appearance as the Big Blue Boy Scout remains one of the best.

In simpler terms, even though some parts of the movie look outdated now, and it may seem a bit cheesy compared to current standards, Christopher Reeve’s portrayal of Superman still feels fresh. For numerous fans, Reeve embodies Superman so perfectly that no other actor, like David Corenswet, is expected to change that perception any time soon.

5) The Lego Batman Movie

Among the many delightful aspects of Superman, it stands out as a refreshing change after the grimness of the Dark Knight trilogy and the bleakness of Batman v. Superman. Essentially, it was like James Gunn assuring everyone that DC could bring enjoyment back to live-action films once more. However, enjoyable doesn’t quite capture the level of fun that Superman provides; a decade prior, DC had already mastered the art of true fun with The Lego Batman Movie.

In a fun twist, Arnett portrays Batman with his signature wit from the 2014 film “The Lego Movie“, adding layers of complexity even amidst the movie’s generally whimsical atmosphere. The result is an endearing, playful take on Batman that serves as a refreshing contrast to the typical serious portrayals seen in mainstream films.

6) DC League of Super-Pets

For people who adore animals, the most endearing aspect of Superman was the affectionate, super-powered dog named Krypto. If you’re among those captivated by this playful pup, you might be interested in watching DC League of Super-Pets. This 2022 animated movie features Dwayne Johnson voicing Krypto, the Super Dog, alongside frequent collaborator Kevin Hart as Ace, a regular dog who acquires superpowers unexpectedly.

In DC League of Super-Pets, the focus shifts from Superman, Batman, and other members of the Justice League to their superpowered pets who become the main characters. Interestingly, this is the only movie where Keanu Reeves plays Batman, a role that seems perfect for him, considering his previous work in The Matrix.

7) Superman /Batman: Public Enemies

If you’re eagerly anticipating David Corenswet’s Superman joining forces with Batman, similar to how he worked with the Justice Gang, we have the perfect film for you: Superman/Batman: Public Enemies. However, if you’re hoping for a confrontation between the two comic book legends as depicted in Batman v. Superman, I regret to inform you that this movie focuses on a Batman and Superman who are not just teammates but true friends. In this storyline, a newly elected Lex Luthor falsely accuses Superman of murder and places a billion-dollar bounty on his head. It’s now up to Batman to assist Superman in clearing his name while battling an assortment of classic villains, all eager to claim Luthor’s reward money.

With Kevin Conroy and Tim Daly returning to their roles from “Batman/Superman: The Animated Series,” watching “Superman/Batman: Public Enemies” will satisfy the craving for a team-up until director James Gunn decides who will play Batman in the DC Universe.

8) Batman: Assault on Arkham

While Batman: Assault on Arkham may bear Batman’s name, it’s essentially a Suicide Squad film, arguably the finest of its kind if I might say so myself. Unlike David Ayer’s Suicide Squad, this movie successfully achieves what was intended but fell short. It seamlessly integrates Task Force X, The Joker, and Batman into one narrative without making it feel overly crowded or disjointed. Remarkably, it also tells a captivating PG-13 Suicide Squad tale that never appears diluted or devoid of bite.

In essence, “Assault on Arkham” and “Superman” aren’t closely linked; each stands alone as an impressive DC film, maintaining a lighter tone without being overly dramatic, which is enough for us to include them in our recommended list.

9) Superman II

While “Superman: The Movie” is truly fantastic, it lacks one essential element that made the recent “Superman” series so enjoyable – thrilling fight scenes. Fortunately, the timeless “Superman II” compensates for this with a group of Kryptonian villains who provide ample opportunities for Superman to demonstrate his fighting prowess.

In some instances, the most captivating Superman tales revolve around the character resolving challenges without needing a single fight. However, it would be dishonest not to admit that watching him deliver a powerful punch to an overbearing supervillain is still quite gratifying on occasion.

10) Teen Titans Go! To the Movies

Teen Titans Go! To the Movies” cleverly blends authentic superhero action with a humorous critique of the genre, camouflaging itself as a comedy filled with slapstick humor and random humor – just like the TV series “Teen Titans Go!” is known for. Yet beneath its humorous exterior lies a wealth of obscure DC Universe references, such as a witty nod to the Challengers of the Unknown. Moreover, it exhibits a level of foresight reminiscent of “The Simpsons,” showcasing a joke about an “Alfred” movie, featuring Batman’s butler, a whole year before the television series “Pennyworth: The Origin of Batman’s Butler” was introduced.

The animated film, titled “Teen Titans Go! To the Movies,” offers a hilarious, witty, somewhat rebellious adventure. It pairs wonderfully as a double bill with another laugh-out-loud, slightly subversive film, namely “Superman.

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2025-07-29 21:41