The 10 Best Comic Book Movies of the Last 10 Years

It seems like comic-book films dominate Hollywood these days, with studios like Marvel, DC, Dark Horse, and independents producing them almost exclusively. While this isn’t entirely accurate, it certainly feels as though they are the only types of movies being made. Comic-book movies have become a staple in cinemas, appearing everywhere from multiplexes to streaming platforms, much like tacky carpets and that enticing artificial butter dispenser next to the napkins and straws.

There’s a sense of burnout when it comes to superhero movies, as suggested by numerous discussions online. Although Marvel has slipped slightly from their peak during the “Infinity Saga,” and DC, let’s be honest, has had its ups and downs for about two decades now, there have still been some fantastic to excellent comic book adaptations over the past ten years. These movies have given us some of the most exhilarating, visually stunning, and simply enjoyable titles in the subgenre’s impressive history. (Any fans of “Superman and the Mole Men” here???)

The following list showcases the top films from the past decade, featuring productions by both Marvel Studios (House of Ideas) and DC Comics (Distinguished Competition), along with some exceptional adaptations of independent graphic novels. You can catch up on them all at home, in case you somehow missed out on one of the second-largest movies ever made in cinema history. Following the list, you’ll find ten more noteworthy mentions that are definitely worth watching.

The 10 Best Comic Book Movies of the Last 10 Years (2015-2024)

10. The Batman (2022)

In Matt Reeves gripping and intelligent take on the Batman saga, Robert Pattinson portrays a relatively new Caped Crusader, Bruce Wayne, as he grapples with Paul Dano’s Riddler. This villain is murdering Gotham City’s elite in a series of sinister puzzles that only the Dark Knight can unravel.

Previously, Batman films have tackled the character’s gravity, but none have delved as deeply into what the character symbolizes for both his devoted followers and the fictional citizens of Gotham City. This level of contemplation is reminiscent of the profound conclusions drawn in ‘The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King’.

9. Nimona (2023)

In contrast to the blockbuster live-action superhero films, numerous exceptional comic book adaptations in recent times take animated form. For instance, the clever film “Nimona,” adapted from the graphic novel by Noelle Stevenson, stands out. The movie follows the title character (Chloë Grace Moretz), a shapeshifting misfit residing in a quasi-futuristic medieval realm, who teams up with another outcast (Riz Ahmed) to vanquish villains who have taken over their kingdom. With its mischievous humor, engaging animation, and potent message for young viewers about embracing themselves as they are, “Nimona” is an enjoyable testament that heroes can take on various forms—even within a single body.

8. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 (2023)

James Gunn expertly concluded his Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy, delivering a movie that masterfully combines elements typical of Marvel productions: Thrilling action sequences, quirky sci-fi visuals, and characters who evoke genuine emotions, making us deeply invested. For instance, Rocket Raccoon, initially a minor character with limited comic book appearances, was transformed by Gunn into one of Marvel’s most profound and sorrowful heroes in Guardians Vol. 3. After a series of average Marvel Cinematic Universe films, Gunn effortlessly rekindled the old Marvel enchantment. Unfortunately for Marvel enthusiasts, he later moved back to DC.

7. Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017)

Hardly any Marvel film is as enjoyable to revisit as “Homecoming”. It boasts compelling characters, thrilling web-slinging sequences, and an unexpected street vendor requesting Spider-Man to perform a flip (which he does with ease). Aren’t you captivated?!? Tom Holland has been a true blessing for Spider-Man enthusiasts; he excels in both the witty, acrobatic Spiderman and the heartbroken Peter Parker. Among his Marvel movies, “Homecoming” showcases his finest performance.

6. Logan (2017)

For Hugh Jackman and solo Wolverine films, the third attempt truly paid off with “Logan.” This film brought out the full, bloody, tragic version of its title character. As it was the franchise’s first R-rated movie, it offered a much darker, intense journey fitting for the story of the hero’s last days. The movie also addressed the issue of overcrowding often seen in main X-Men movies by focusing on only a few key characters, including an exceptional Patrick Stewart as an aging Professor X struggling with mental decline and thus control of one of the most powerful weapons worldwide. Marvel wisely chose not to reverse the ending of “Logan” in films like “Deadpool & Wolverine.” The final scene featuring the “X”… that’s a truly memorable moment.

5. The LEGO Batman Movie (2017)

For a while, my eldest daughter’s preferred movie was “The LEGO Batman Movie.” I can’t count how many times we watched it in two years. It’s safe to say this: “The LEGO Batman Movie” is one of the most enjoyable films from the past decade. With numerous visual jokes, puns, and references to lesser-known Batman history, not to mention Will Arnett’s brilliantly arrogant voice as LEGO Batman, it’s a movie I’ve endured many children’s movies over the last ten years; some were amusing, some were disappointing. However, “The LEGO Batman Movie” stands out as the funniest. Instead of making fun of the character or comics, it is a heartfelt tribute to everything that makes the Dark Knight iconic.

4. Avengers: Endgame (2019)

In no other superhero film has there been a greater challenge than “Avengers: Endgame”. It needed to tidily conclude one of the most monumental cliffhangers in cinematic history, neatly tie up numerous plotlines from over 20 previous Marvel Cinematic Universe films, and still manage to be an enjoyable movie on its own. Remarkably, they achieved this feat. Amazingly, all those Easter eggs didn’t hinder the narrative or the action, nor did they detract from the emotional finale of Robert Downey Jr.’s journey as Tony Stark.

3. Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse (2023)

Broadening the scope of “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse,” this daring sequel introduces Miles Morales to Spider-Man 2099 and his “Spider Society,” a group dedicated to safeguarding the multiverse from “anomalies” such as the Spot, a new villain capable of opening interdimensional gates on demand. While “Into the Spider-Verse” was visually stunning, “Across the Spider-Verse” promises to be even more impressive and bold. (Spider-Gwen’s realm appears as if a watercolor painting come alive; Spider-Man India originates from a “Mumbattan” that swirls with hues of yellows and greens.) The downside to “Across the Spider-Verse”? It’s the first half of a two-part story, and at times it feels like just that.

2. Black Panther (2018)

The utopian world of Wakanda, showcased in the movie “Black Panther,” seems even more impactful today than it did in 2018 for several reasons. This Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) masterpiece owes much to the vision and skill of director Ryan Coogler, who breathed life into the world of Wakanda and assembled a talented cast to bring its inhabitants to life. The remarkable Chadwick Boseman portrayed Black Panther with a balance of toughness and sensitivity, grappling with his sense of duty yet steadfast in his commitment to safeguard his kingdom. Unfortunately, Boseman’s passing means we won’t get to witness the future journey of King T’Challa or see how he would respond to challenges from adversaries like M’Baku (Winston Duke) and Erik “Killmonger” Stevens (Michael B. Jordan). Fortunately, we can always revisit this captivating, action-packed film.

1. Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (2018)

In a departure from the norm, where quantity often fails to match quality, “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” might just be the epitome of Spider-Man movies. (Or at least it held that title until “Across the Spider-Verse” was released) and arguably the best. Featuring a vast ensemble of web-slinging heroes, such as Miles Morales, Gwen Stacy, and Peter B. Parker (who feels strikingly relatable), this movie also makes a powerful and unapologetic use of Stan Lee and Steve Ditko’s moral viewpoint from the original “Amazing Spider-Man” comics of the 1960s. The film beautifully animates their idea that anyone can be a hero, transforming it into a stunning tribute to these noble ideals.

Notable Recognition:

* Atomic Blonde
* The Old Guard
* Shazam
* Spider-Man: Far From Home
* Spider-Man: No Way Home
* The Suicide Squad
* Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Rampage of the Mutant Mayhem
* Teen Titans Go! Big Screen Adventure
* Thor: Ragnarokk
* Wonder Woman

Distinguished Mention:

* Atomic Blonde
* The Old Guard
* Shazam
* Spider-Man: Far From Home
* Spider-Man 2 (No Way Home)
* The Suicide Squad
* Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem
* Teen Titans Go! Movie
* Thor: Ragnarok
* Wonder Woman

Terrible Movies That Won Academy Awards

1. Suicide Squad (2016)

It’s quite astonishing that a movie, with its plot and construction seemingly lost on many viewers, managed to snatch the award for Best Makeup and Hair Styling at the Oscars. Thankfully, it didn’t take home the prize for Best Editing.

2. The Wolfman (2010)

Prior to Universal’s flawed Dark Universe, they made a botched effort to reboot their classic monsters with a delayed werewolf movie starring Benicio Del Toro, which was critically panned except for Rick Baker’s makeup. Therefore, the Best Makeup win is understandable, but it’s unfortunate that this film, despite being an Oscar winner, didn’t live up to expectations in other aspects.

3. Alice in Wonderland

In a surprising turn of events, this rather lengthy, real-life adaptation of the beloved Disney animated film even managed to snatch up two Academy Awards – for its exceptional Costume Design and Art Direction.

4. The Golden Compass (2007)

Initially, this expensive children’s movie was intended to start a series of films. However, that plan didn’t come to fruition. Nevertheless, it managed to secure the award for Best Visual Effects at the Oscars. Check out that armored polar bear!

5. Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest (2006)

Among the most disheartening follow-ups I’ve encountered throughout my life was the one that won the 2006 Oscar for Best Visual Effects. To put things in perspective, it could always be worse – they might have awarded an Oscar to “On Stranger Tides” instead.

6. Lemony Snicket’s A Series of Unfortunate Events (2004)

The children’s film won the award for Best Makeup. Frankly, wasn’t it relatively easy to transform Jim Carrey into an odd character?

7. Pearl Harbor (2001)

In a different wording, Michael Bay’s movie “Pearl Harbor” received the Academy Award for Best Sound Editing. That very year, it was also nominated for six Razzie Awards. Interestingly, it didn’t win any because it was competing against the infamous film “Freddy Got Fingered“.

8. How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)

In another instance, Jim Carrey clinched the title for Best Makeup once more. The Academy could not resist the captivating allure of Jim Carrey, adorned with heavy makeup.

9. The Ghost and the Darkness (1996)

The Best Sound Effects Editing of 1996, hands down.

10. Dick Tracy (1990)

In the year 1991, Warren Beatty’s film Dick Tracy earned two Academy Awards: one for Art Direction and another for Makeup. If fortune had favored it, it might have also taken home the award for Best Costume Design, but that honor went to Cyrano de Bergerac instead.

11. Innerspace (1987)

As a child, Innerspace, which was arguably Amblin’s least strong production from the 1980s, was a movie I really wanted to enjoy. With its interesting theme, talented cast, and impressive special effects, it seemed like something I should appreciate. Interestingly enough, that year it won an Oscar for Best Visual Effects.

12. The Woman in Red (1984)

In a less-frequented corner of cinematic history, Gene Wilder’s enigmatic film garnered an Academy Award for Stevie Wonder’s timeless pop hit “I Just Called to Say I Love You.” This melody, which triumphed in the Best Original Song category, is a tough number to dispute.

13. Thank God It’s Friday (1978)

As a die-hard cinephile, I can’t help but express my disbelief when a film like “The Last Dance,” which won the coveted Oscar for its music (specifically Donna Summer’s disco anthem), finds itself in my least favorite movies list. Leonard Maltin, a fellow movie enthusiast, has even gone as far as to call it the worst picture ever to receive such a prestigious award. (This was likely before the release of “Suicide Squad.”)

14. Earthquake (1974)

I enjoy watching well-made disaster films, but “Earthquake” doesn’t quite fit that category for me. However, it did win an Oscar for Best Sound, and its sound design was groundbreaking; the movie was presented in a format called “Sensurround,” creating an immersive experience where theaters seemed to tremble alongside the film.

15. Song of the South (1946)

As a movie enthusiast, I must admit that this piece isn’t delving deeply into Disney’s most infamous film (for more in-depth analysis, check out our other piece). However, it’s worth noting that the Academy Awards did recognize one timeless aspect of the film – the enchanting tune “Zip-a-Dee-Doo-Dah.” It’s a classic that continues to resonate even today.

2025-04-08 18:25