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The quality ofDC’s live-action movies has been spotty over the years, to say the least. Many of them range from beloved classics to widely panned snooze-fests. However, fans can’t go wrong with these solid entries when looking to relax on a weekend afternoon or after a long day’s work.
8The Dark Knight (2008)
Christian Bale’s tenure as the Dark Knighttends to be remembered fondly by Batman fans. Out of Christopher Nolan’s vaunted trilogy,The Dark Knightis often cited by fans and critics as the best of the bunch. Whereas some superhero movies tend to cram too much material into their already-bursting plots,The Dark Knightis a tight, satisfying story that loses none of its impact after subsequent viewings.
Furthermore, Heath Ledger’s portrayal of theJokerstands out as one of the best in film. No matter how many times fans may have seen it, getting bored while watchingThe Dark Knightprobably won’t happen too often!
It’s hard to justify 2016’sSuicide Squadas a great movie. Comic book fans who want a more entertaining adaptation of their favorite band of anti-heroes should check out 2021’sThe Suicide Squadinstead. The movie allows more obscure characters from DC to take center stage, including Peacemaker, King Shark, and the second Rat Catcher, alongside familiar faces like Harley Quinn.
The Suicide Squaddoesn’t lack explosive action and violence, checking those boxes handily. Fans who enjoy this movie can then transition into thePeacemakerspinoff series, also on HBO Max, starring John Cena, for even more over-the-top fun.
6Superman: The Movie (1978)
Even though several actors have donned the red cape, it’s hard to beat Christopher Reeve in the role ofSuperman/Clark Kent.Superman: The Movieis a DC classic, featuring huge Hollywood names that include Marlon Brando, Gene Hackman, Margot Kidder, and many more.
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Despite its age,Superman: The Moviewas one of the most expensive movies ever produced for its era (at an estimated $55 million). It was also nominated for three Academy Awards and spawned several sequels. As one of the most definitive takes on Superman, this movie is essential.
5Batman (1989)
Batman(1989) is one of DC’s most important movies. It reignited interest in the Caped Crusader and brought the character ofBatmanto mainstream audiences like never before. Regardless of whether or not viewers are wholly sold onMichael Keaton’s interpretation, there’s no denying that this film is entertaining.
Part of that entertainment comes from Jack Nicholson’s portrayal of the Joker, who just about manages to steal every scene. For fans who abhor the overabundance of camp present in later films likeBatman ForeverandBatman & Robin, this movie strikes a good balance between seriousness and levity.
4Joker (2019)
Speaking of the Joker, it was only a matter of time before this iconic villain starred in his own movie. Luckily,2019’sJokerdidn’t disappoint. Joaquin Phoenix is startlingly believable as thebeleaguered Arthur Fleck, a man who eventually transitions into the homicidal antagonist that DC fans know very well.
Unlike most other entries on this list,Jokerisn’t about thrilling action set-pieces. It’s a slow burn that skillfully never manages to become dull. Witnessing Arthur’s descent will keep viewers glued to the edges of their seats. Those searching for an uplifting, feel-good story should probably look elsewhere.
3V For Vendetta (2005)
V for Vendettais an adaptation of Alan Moore’s 1988 graphic novel of the same name. It was originally published under DC’sVertigoimprint, which focused on more adult-oriented stories. Both the movie and the graphic novel depict a horrific dystopian world where brutal totalitarianism has become reality.
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One man, simply known as V, ignites a revolution against this tyranny. The film stars several big names, including Natalie Portman, Hugo Weaving, Stephen Rea, Stephen Fry, and John Hurt. For something more thought-provoking than what standard superhero movies are typically known for,V for Vendettais a prime choice.
2Wonder Woman (2017)
After thedisappointing release ofBatman V Supermanin 2016,Wonder Woman(2017) felt like a breath of fresh air. The movie takes place during World War I and revolves aroundWonder Womanleaving her Amazonian homeland in order to stop thegod of war, Ares, from destroying mankind.
With a cast of likable characters, a moving story, and plenty of action, it’s easy to enjoy this movie, especially when one takes into account the underwhelming nature ofWonder Woman 1984.
1The Batman (2022)
One of HBO Max’s most recent DC entries isThe Batman. The film sees Robert Pattinson at the helm, depicting a younger Batman who has only been fighting crime for two years. The main antagonist of the movie is the Riddler, a mysterious individual who starts murdering Gotham City’s most influential figures.
The Batmanmay be a bit on the long side regarding runtime but offers an intriguing premise nonetheless. Any dedicated Batman fan would be remiss if they skipped out on this one, which focuses on themore detective aspects of the character.
