Superhero films dominated the 2010s and many studios took advantage of this trend. Although the genre is no longer as revered as it once was, it remains incredibly popular, becoming so dominant thanks to the MCU, which began with Iron Man in 2008. Since then, they have racked up some of the most impressive superhero films of all time, including Avengers: Endgame And Black Panther.
However, the superhero genre isn’t limited to the MCU; there are many more DC, other Marvel franchises, and third-party superhero films. This is why This list will highlight eight superhero movies that are better than anything the MCU has donebased on originality, writing, acting, critical acclaim, fan opinion and overall quality. These superhero movies are the best of the best, arguably even bigger than Avengers: Infinity Waroften considered the pinnacle of the MCU.
8
“Wonder Woman” (2017)
This may be a controversial entry, but Wonder Woman is better than most, if not all, MCU films. Featured Gal Gadotthis film is the character’s first modern live-action feature film, detailing his origin story. When a man lands on Themyscira, Diana learns that there is a war in the outside world and she leaves her home to fight for good and justice. However, she realizes that the one pulling the strings is Ares (David Thewlis), the god of war.
Most fans won’t agree with this, but the MCU hasn’t produced much that can top Wonder Womanespecially when it comes to female superheroes. The film is mature and subtle in its humor, avoiding sarcastic one-liners that spoil the flow of a scene. Additionally, it focuses on World War I and Wonder Woman’s role in it. This unique approach created an original story that is both intriguing and well-delivered. Additionally, the no man’s land scene was absolutely amazing and Gadot showcased her best acting.
7
“Spider-Man: Through the Spider-Verse” (2023)
Animated films are becoming more and more popular and the superhero genre has already produced a handful of hits, like Spider-Man: Through the Spider-Verse. Fans can expect to see the prequel later, but for now, this film takes place years later, with Miles establishing himself as Spider-Man. When he learns that an organization of Spider-People runs the multiverse, they disagree on one point, leading to a mad rush to stop Miles.
It may be Marvel, but it’s not the MCU, and maybe that’s why Through the Spider-Verse was entitled to such freedom. The humor and endearing characters create a comforting atmospherebut the plot and villains added intrigue. The Spot is a fascinating character and fans can’t wait to see what else he does in the final film. However, the real reason for its excellence lies in its animation and art, an explosion of creativity and details which constitutes one of the the greatest animated films of all time.
6
“Superman” (1978)
James GunnIt is Superman is the change fans needed, but it’s no better than anything the MCU has done. However, the first Superman the film, on the other hand, was revolutionary and essential. It tells the origin of the character, how he arrived on Earth, the fate of Krypton, his life in Smallville and his debut as Superman (Christopher Reeve). However, notorious criminal Lex Luthor (Gene Hackman) has a devious plan that Superman must stop.
Superman may be dated by today’s standards, but many aspects hold up, and some elements are even better than the modern superhero film. This movie looks like it came straight out of a comic bookwith a sharp story and weirdly cheesy moments that fans can’t help but love. Superman is an essential element of the superhero genre, in some way inventing the modern-day superhero film. It’s a great origin story and stays true to the themes of the characters.
5
“The Incredibles” (2004)
This list is pretty much just Marvel and DC, but one third-party superhero movie snuck in: The Incredibles. After falling in love and starting a family, two superheroes stay out of the spotlight, hiding their powers and those of their children from the world. But when a new threat slowly destroys superheroes, the Parr family relives their golden days and comes out of retirement to save the day.
If anyone can make a better superhero movie than Marvel, it’s Pixar, who created a defining film of genre and animation. Although it is a children’s film, The Incredibles East a mature deconstruction of the superhero genredrawing on its family themes and its ethical message. This beloved, Academy Award-winning film features a relatable story for all ages with well-written characters, creating a new story that is better and much more original than anything the MCU has done so far. The Incredibles is an animated masterpiece and an impeccable superhero film.
4
“Spider-Man 2” (2004)
Quite a few of the films on this list are Spider-Man films, which makes sense since he’s one of the most famous superheroes. So far, no other live-action adaptation of the character has surpassed Spider-Man 2. When a failed experiment transforms the brilliant scientist Otto Octavius (Alfred Molina) in the deranged supervillain Doctor Octopus, he blames Spider-Man (Tobey Maguire) for failure. Spider-Man must deal with this new villain, his struggling love life, personal doubts, and a best friend who hates his alter ego.
Spider-Man has an excellent cinematic history, and Spider-Man 2 is undoubtedly the best, fusing essential storylines into a seamless superhero film. The action is fun, but the character development and personal issues are fascinating to watch, especially with one of the best villains in any superhero movie, brought to life with unbridled enthusiasm by the mighty Alfred Molina. Tom Holland was an excellent Spider-Man, but none of his films moved fans as much Spider-Man 2 a, being really one of the defining films of the genre.
3
“Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” (2018)
This list just mentioned that Spider-Man 2 is the best film for the character, but if it’s not that, then it definitely is. Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse. This animated classic follows Miles Morales becoming the new Spider-Man after the death of Peter Parker. However, he can learn to play the hero with the help of Spider-People from alternative universes. As he helps them return to their world, Kingpin stands in their way to achieve his dastardly goals.
There’s simply no other way to say it: Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse is a modern masterpieceshowcasing some of the best anime fans will ever see with unique visuals, stunning creativity and stunning details. In addition, it tells a relevant, funny, impactful and essential story. Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse isn’t just better than the MCU; he can also be the best superhero or animated filmperiod.
2
“Logan” (2017)
The X-Men franchise is rich in incredible films and stories, truly making up one of the best parts of Marvel cinema history. However, only one X-Men movie is certainly better than anything the MCU has done, and that’s Logan. Set in a barren future, mutants are persecuted, but Logan (Hugh Jackman) finds meaning in protecting a little girl and helping her find sanctuary. However, their mission is not easy, as they are chased along the way.
Logan East the final farewell to the X-Men universeculminating in a tragic farewell and a masterfully crafted bittersweet finale. This impactful ending featured Jackman’s best performances as Wolverine and Patrick Stewart like Charles Xavier – worthy of an Oscar, some would even say. Fans can finally see Wolverine in some R-rated actionwhich was a bloody masterpiece. However, the writing, tone and emotion present in Logan are more nuanced than anything the MCU could do.
1
“The Dark Knight” (2008)
Some fans may think that most superhero movies are better than the MCU, and others might think that none are, but there’s no denying that The Black Knight is one of the best films ever made. A new type of evil strikes Gotham City, with the Joker (Big health book) trying to prove his twisted philosophy by torturing Batman (Christian Balé) and try to make him the bad guy.
Christopher Nolan is one of the greatest directors of all time, so if anyone had to make the best superhero movie, it would be him. The Black Knight stars the greatest villain in cinema historya flawless character from acting to writing to cultural relevance. This exciting story is a roller coaster of suspense, action, drama and intrigueproving to be the most fascinating superhero film. The Black Knight it’s much better than the MCU has or ever will, and frankly, it’s unlikely any superhero movie will be better than it.
