Every Superman Movie, Ranked by Rotten Tomatoes Score

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Superman is one of the most well-known and beloved characters to appear on the big screen, with each movie release generating tremendous anticipation. Christopher Reeve significantly boosted Clark Kent/Superman’s fame in the film industry, starring in four movies spanning the 1970s and 80s. Later, Director Bryan Singer and actor Brandon Routh collaborated on a Superman reboot during the 2000s. Eventually, Henry Cavill stepped into the prestigious role for the DC Extended Universe throughout the 2010s.

Currently, James Gunn is introducing DC’s latest chapter with his “Superman” film featuring David Corenswet in the lead role. Rotten Tomatoes, a platform that compiles critical reviews, has assessed eight live-action Superman films. These scores span a broad spectrum, ranging from less than 20

1. Superman IV: The Quest for Peace (1987) – 15 2. Superman III (1983) – 46 3. Superman II (1980) – 75 4. Superman Returns (2006) – 64 5. Man of Steel (2013) – 55 6. Superman: The Movie (1978) – 83 7. Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016) – 27 8. Justice League (2017) – 40

8) Superman IV: The Quest for Peace (1987)

The Quest for Peace” has received the lowest ratings among all Superman films on Rotten Tomatoes. This film, being the last one from Christopher Reeve’s tenure as Superman, presents Superman tackling the issue of nuclear disarmament. However, unlike its intriguing premise, the movie was poorly received by most critics. Often described as unimaginative, low-budget, and confusing, it failed to meet the high standards set by its previous installments. Unfortunately, in this film, the performances of Reeve as Superman, Gene Hackman as Lex Luthor, and Margot Kidder as Lois Lane aren’t as captivating as before. Consequently, “Superman IV: The Quest for Peace” is generally considered a disappointing conclusion to the series.

Rotten Tomatoes score: 14

7) Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016)

Despite not being a standalone Superman film, Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice marks the first significant appearance of Henry Cavill’s Superman since his introduction in the DCEU. Directed by Zack Snyder, this movie tells the story of a confrontation between Ben Affleck’s Batman and Superman, instigated by Jesse Eisenberg’s Lex Luthor. The anticipation for Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice was high among DC fans, but unfortunately, less than half of the critics found the film impressive. Critics pointed out that inconsistent tone, pompous dialogue, and excessive CGI-heavy action sequences hindered the movie from reaching its full potential. While some admired the film’s effort to portray superheroes with weight and seriousness, this was not enough to counterbalance the criticisms of its flaws.

Rotten Tomatoes score: 28

6) Superman III (1983)

In a shift from earlier installments, Superman III garnered slightly improved ratings but not by a wide margin. In this third adventure of Superman, played by Christopher Reeve, the Man of Steel confronts wealthy tycoon Ross Webster (Robert Vaughn) and his computer whiz sidekick Gus Gorman (Richard Pryor). Critics found Superman III‘s unoriginality and excessive humor to be significant drawbacks, although a few praised the film’s endearing qualities. However, a confusing narrative hindered what could have been a worthwhile addition to the series. Overall, it appears that the appeal of the Reeve-led films was starting to wane among audiences with Superman III.

Rotten Tomatoes score: 31

5) Man of Steel (2013)

In the movie “Man of Steel,” Henry Cavill’s portrayal as Superman sparked mixed reactions among viewers. Directed by Zack Snyder, this first installment in the DC Extended Universe serves as a classic origin story for Superman, delving into the destruction of his home planet Krypton and Clark Kent’s journey to become a hero on Earth.

Critics who appreciated “Man of Steel” commended its thrilling action sequences, realistic atmosphere, and Cavill’s compelling performance as Superman. On the other hand, some critics were less enthusiastic, arguing that the film’s somber tone didn’t accurately depict Superman and that it failed to distinguish itself from typical superhero narratives.

Despite being over a decade old, discussions about “Man of Steel” remain heated, which suggests that it hasn’t completely lost its relevance, unlike some other films on this list with lower ratings.

Rotten Tomatoes score: 57

4) Superman Returns (2006)

Brandon Routh assumes the character of Superman in the film “Superman Returns,” a self-contained reboot of the iconic superhero’s tale. After being away from Earth for five years, Superman returns to discover a transformed society and a Lex Luthor still determined to destroy him. A promising development after earlier letdowns, “Superman Returns” was praised by Rotten Tomatoes critics with a “fresh” overall rating. The film’s impressive direction by Singer, stunning visual effects, and Routh’s performance as the lead hero were among the many commendable aspects cited by reviewers. Sadly, despite being widely regarded as the launch of a new Superman series, it never received a sequel.

Rotten Tomatoes score: 72

3) Superman (2025)

Critics have hailed the latest Superman movie as one of the best ever produced. In Gunn’s version of Superman, we plunge headlong into a vibrant universe populated by metahumans, with Corenswet’s Superman at the forefront, grappling with the fallout from his intervention in global politics. Simultaneously, Lex Luthor, played by Nicholas Hoult, hatches a plot to undermine him. The film has received widespread praise for its exceptional acting, spearheaded by Corenswet’s Superman, Rachel Brosnahan’s Lois Lane, and Hoult’s Lex Luthor, among others. The movie’s emotional depth and comic-book atmosphere have also been recognized as key strengths. Gunn’s DC Universe has gotten off to a strong start, with Superman introducing an intriguing cast of characters and a lively narrative to the silver screen.

Rotten Tomatoes score: 83

2) Superman: The Movie (1978)

In a nutshell, among Superman movies reviewed on Rotten Tomatoes, Richard Donner’s “Superman: The Movie” holds the second-best critic rating. This film introduces Christopher Reeve as Clark Kent/Superman for the first time, chronicling his journey from Krypton’s arrival on Earth to his romantic encounters with Lois Lane, rivalries with Lex Luthor, and iconic heroics. The movie offers a timeless and exciting portrayal of Superman, with critics praising Reeve as an ideal Superman, Hackman’s compelling Luthor, and Kidder’s captivating Lois Lane. Additionally, the humor and action scenes in “Superman: The Movie” were appreciated by reviewers. This classic superhero film has become a must-see, and its high Rotten Tomatoes score is testament to its enduring appeal.

Rotten Tomatoes score: 87

1) Superman II (1980)

In a nod to “Superman: The Movie,” its sequel, “Superman II,” is often hailed as the superior Superman film by Rotten Tomatoes. The returning trio of Reeve, Hackman, and Kidder bring their characters, Superman, Lois Lane, and Perry White, back to life. In this installment, Superman faces off against a group of Kryptonian villains, all while trying to protect Earth. “Superman II” is often praised for its emotional resonance, thrilling action sequences, and stunning visuals. The film gives Clark Kent/Superman a richer character development and expands the franchise’s universe more than the first movie. Critics have generally adored “Superman II,” and no other Superman film has surpassed its excellence.

Rotten Tomatoes score: 88

Superman is now playing in theaters.

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2025-07-18 22:42