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Dad's Top
20 CGI-Aided Superhero Films - Ranked!
Countdown from #20 to #1.
This
includes Dad's spoiler-free Mini-Preview!
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Honorable
Mention |
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Green Lantern
(2011)
In brightest day,
in blackest night
Director: Martin Campbell, rated PG-13
  Starring:
Ryan Reynolds, Blake Lively, Peter Sarsgaard, Mark Strong, Angela Bassett, Tim
Robbins, Temuera Morrison, Geoffrey Rush, Michael Clark Duncan, Taika Waititi,
Clancy Brown
DML Rating:
★★★★★★☆☆☆☆
- above average
"I know that humans
aren't as strong as other species, or the smartest.
We're young,
we have a lot to learn. But we're worth saving." - Hal Jordan
Why watch this? The
CGI effects are amazing!
Plot Summary:
Hal Jordan is a cocky test pilot who is chosen by an alien ring
to become the first human member of the Green Lantern Corps, an
intergalactic peacekeeping force. He initially struggles with
the responsibility of wielding the ring's immense power, as he
faces skepticism from the other, more experienced Green
Lanterns. Meanwhile, a powerful cosmic entity fueled by fear
threatens to destroy the universe, forcing Hal to confront his
own doubts and embrace his destiny as a hero.
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Dad's Preview: Green Lantern underperformed
as critics panned it, so a lot of people
steered clear. It always boils down to story, and this film's
plot simply tried to do too much: The origin story, the GL
Corps, Sinestro, Parallax, Hammond - over-stuffed in a bad way. There are,
however, some incredible moments: it was perfectly cast
(especially Mark Strong as Sinestro); the ring's creations from
Hal's mind are incredible; Hal's first trip to Oa, where he
meets the members of the Green Lantern Corps, is one of my
favorite super-hero film moments EVER! This could have been
a launch point for a Justice League movie, but a bad box office
killed all sequels, and sent Reynolds running to Marvel Studios
to play
Deadpool (2016).
It's a big "coulda been". That said, it's still
entertaining and worth a look. |
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DC Entertainment,
De Line Pictures;
Warner Bros. Pictures
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Top 20
CGI-Aided Superhero Films
#20 Top |
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Spider-Man: Brand New Day
(2026)
The world has
forgotten Peter Parker, but he hasn't forgotten them.
Director: Destin Daniel Cretton, Rated PG-13 for sci-fi violence
Starring:
Tom Holland, Zendaya, Sadie Sink, Jacob Batalon, John Bernthal,
Florence Pugh, Tramell Tillman, Marisa Tomei,
Mark Ruffalo, Michael Mando
DML Rating:
★★★★★★★★☆☆
- great
"You would have loved
her. Just because we lost someone it doesn't mean we have to do
this alone. I mean... we can't. Believe me. I've been trying. It
doesn't work." – Peter Parker, speaking about May Parker
Why watch this? This
fourth film is new, in an old, familiar way.
Plot Summary:
Four years ago, Dr. Strange made the world forgot Peter Parker's
identity. Peter now lives a life of deep isolation as a
full-time, street-level Spider-Man, while watching his former
friends move on without him. The loneliness begins to trigger an
unpredictable, physical evolution in his powers. Meanwhile, he
must navigate an unstable city to confront a dangerous
mind-controlling threat.
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Dad's Preview:
Super-hero fatigue. This often-discussed phenomenon
magically goes away when filmmakers tell good stories. I
loved that Brand New Day feels like Spider-man is
starting over. People don't remember his true identity.
His costume is a wonderful return to simplicity. He's
also changing, making the journey from teen to adult, a
phase that isn't easy for anybody. As expected, the CGI
effects are eye-popping incredible. There is an adequate
amount of interjected Spidey-humor. What I enjoyed most?
This story really felt like I was reading a comic book,
unfettered and fun. Heroes and villains alike make
natural appearances that don't feel forced. We also meet
someone very powerful, who helps usher in the next phase
of the MCU. |
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Columbia Pictures,
Marvel Studios,
Pascal Pictures;
Sony Pictures Releasing
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Top 20
CGI-Aided Superhero Films
#19 Top |
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Zack Snyder's Justice League (2021)
Us United
Director: Zack Snyder, rated R for super-hero
violence, language
Starring:
Ben Affleck, Henry
Cavill, Amy Adams, Gal Gadot, Ray Fisher, Jason Mamoa, Ezra
Miller, Jeremy Irons, Diane Lane, J. K. Simmons, Joe Morton
DML Rating:
★★★★★★★★☆☆
- great
"I don't care how many
demons he's fought in how many hells. He's never fought us.
Not
us united." –
Bruce Wayne
Why watch this? This
may be the one good thing that came out of COVID-19.
Plot Summary:
Since the death of Superman (from
Batman
v Superman (2016)), three intergalactic Mother Boxes on
Earth have begun to reactivate. Darkseid, who rules the war
planet Apokolipse, needs these boxes to become supremely
powerful. To Earth, he sends his brutal lieutenant, Steppenwolf, to take possession of the boxes by any means necessary. However,
Earth's heroes are also making plans to find the boxes. This
includes Wonder Woman and Batman, but they will need some major
help. This leads to finding newcomers Barry Allen (the Flash), Arthur Curry
(Aquaman), and Victory Stone (Cyborg).
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Dad's Preview:
It was rumored that director Zack Snyder had filmed a very
different movie than
Justice League that opened in theaters
in 2017, which was mostly hot garbage (thanks to WB executives
mucking it up). When COVID hit, Snyder promised his fans that
he'd re-make this film HIS way, and sure enough... he did. This
four-plus hour effort is superb. We get much better origins for
Cyborg and Flash, Steppenwolf's CGI is unreal. It was truly a
labor of love by the director, cast and crew. It's the reward
that loyal DC fans deserved, and may be the one positive thing
to come from that pesky virus. |
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Access Ent., DC
Films, Atlas Ent., The Stone
Quarry, HBO MAX;
Warner Bros. Pictures
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Top 20
CGI-Aided Superhero Films
#18 Top |
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Hellboy II: The Golden Army
(2008)
Believe it or
not - he's the good guy
Director: Guillermo del Toro, rated PG-13
Starring: Ron
Perlman, Selma Blair, Doug Jones, Jeffrey Tambor, John Hurt,
Anna Walton, John Alexander, James Dodd, Luke Goss, Anna Walton
DML Rating:
★★★★★★★★★☆
- near perfect
"I'm not gonna kill him,
Abe. But I am gonna kick his ass." - Hellboy
Why watch this?
It's almost as good as the original. It has more wonderful
creatures.
Plot Summary:
Hellboy and the Bureau for Paranormal Research and Defense (BPRD)
face a new threat when an elven prince breaks an ancient truce
between humans and mythical creatures. This prince, driven by a
desire to reclaim the world for his kind, seeks to reassemble a
magical crown that can awaken the unstoppable Golden Army, a
formidable force designed to eliminate humans. Hellboy, Liz
Sherman, Abe Sapien, and the newly introduced ectoplasmic agent
Johann Krauss must race against time to stop the prince and
prevent global devastation.
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Dad's Preview:
This sequel, which many feel is better than the original, takes
our red, kitten-loving demon into a fantastical underworld
filled with monsters, elves and beings of all kinds. Trolls,
witches and magic are everywhere. There are twists, and some of the villains may not be who we think they are.
Regardless, it nice to see Ron Perlman again as our favorite
hell-born super-hero. The effects are amazing. It's a ton of
hellish fun. |
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Relativity Media,
Lawrence Gordon/Lloyd
Levin Prod.,
Dark Horse Ent.;
Universal
Pictures
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Top 20
CGI-Aided Superhero Films
#17
Top |
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The Avengers (2012)
Avengers Assemble!
Director: Joss Whedon, rated PG-13 for super-hero violence
Starring: Robert
Downey Jr., Chris Evans, Mark Ruffalo, Chris Helmsworth,
Scarlett Johansson, Jeremy Renner, Tom Hiddleston, Samuel L. Jackson
DML Rating:
★★★★★★★★★☆
- near perfect
"You know, the last time I
was in Germany and saw a man standing above everybody else,
we
ended up disagreeing." Captain America
Why watch this?
The first great super-hero team-up film. It does not disappoint.
Plot Summary: Nick
Fury, the director of the agency S.H.I.E.L.D. assembles a team
of Earth's mightiest superheroes to combat a mischievous and
powerful being, Loki, who threatens the Earth. This team must
overcome their individual differences and learn to work together
to stop the emerging threat and his alien army from enslaving
humanity.
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Dad's Preview:
As a DC Comics fan, I was initially a little sad that Marvel's The
Avengers was the first "team-up" movie to hit the big
screen. I resisted...
yet
Marvel Studios (helmed by producer Kevin Feige) won me over, and
it is truly a good thing. The
set-up started way back in 2008 during the post-credits of
Ironman
(2008).
The planning, the build-up, all led us to this pivotal moment in
comic film history. You have to love a studio with a plan. The
powerful Loki is
an excellent villain for the team to take on... and
finally... Marvel
got the Hulk right! |
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Marvel
Studios; Walt Disney Studios Motion Pics
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Top 20
CGI-Aided Superhero Films
#16 Top |
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The Wolverine (2013) The fight
of his life will be for his own.
Director: James Mangold, rated PG-13 for sci-fi
violence
Starring: Hugh
Jackman, Hiroyuki Sanada, Tao Okamoto, Rila Fukushima, Famke
Janssen, Will Yun Lee
DML Rating:
★★★★★★★★★☆
- near perfect
"Your grandfather
called me a ronin, a samurai without a master. He said I was
destined to
live forever, with no reason to live." -
Logan
Why watch this?
This is the best Wolverine on film, and Jackman is perfect.
Plot Summary:
Here our weary X-man heads to Japan to connect with
an old acquaintance. This uncovers a sinister plot involving a
man he saved during World War II, just as the atomic bomb
exploded in Nagasaki. In Tokyo he meets, Yashida, a CEO dying of
cancer who wants to transfer Logan's healing powers into his own
body, thus freeing The Wolverine from the never-ending
curse that keeps him from dying.
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Dad's Preview:
This film really stands out from all of Jackman's other works as
Wolverine (before
Logan (2017)
that is). He is such an interesting, conflicted, anti-heroic
character to begin with, and that's why we all love him. This
plot, with Logan operating alone outside of the X-Men, gives us
a more personal, deep-dive into his character and history. The
Japanese setting is excellent to contrast Logan against the code
of the Ronin warriors, as they are very similar. As
expected Jackman gives his all as the gruff mutant, yet there
are
also tender moments, as he develops feelings for the beautiful
Mariko. If you are looking for a super-hero flick that is a cut
above the rest, this
is it. |
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Marvel Ent.,
Donners' Co., TSG Ent.;
20th Century Fox
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Top 20
CGI-Aided Superhero Films
#15 Top |
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Superman (2025)
IT BEGINS
Director: James Gunn, rated PG-13
Starring:
David Corenswet, Rachel Brosnahan, Nicholas Hoult, Edi Gathegi,
Nathan Fillion, Anthony Carrigan, Isabela Merced, Skyler Gisondo, Sara Sampaio,
Wendell Pierce, Mikaela Hoover, María Gabriela de Faría, Alan Tudyk (voice)
DML Rating:
★★★★★★★★★☆
- near perfect
"Your choices, your
actions, that's what makes you who you are." -
Jonathan Kent to Clark
Why watch this?
James Gunn's official start to a new DC Universe is
exceptional in all the right places.
Plot Summary: Clark
Kent has been Superman for three years. There are already other
super-heroes on Earth. He works at the Daily Planet, and the
gang is all there: Lois Lane, Jimmy Olsen, Cat Grant and Perry
White. Superman takes a beating at the hands of a metahuman
called The Hammer of Boravia. This appears to be backlash from
Superman's interference in a Middle Eastern conflict between
Boravia and Jarhanpur, where he prevented a war. Meanwhile, Lex
Luthor, as usual, appears to be involved in all things against
the Man of Steel.
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Dad's Preview:
After Warner Bros. ended the Snyder-verse, the reins were handed
over to quirky director James Gunn (Guardians
of the Galaxy,
Suicide Squad), and he wisely opted to not rehash
Superman's origin story. This film is spectacular. As expected, it is
packed with action, special effects, and thrilling scenes. What
really surprised me was the careful attention paid to the tender
moments that help the viewers see the human side of an
alien being who possesses enough power to, frankly, scare
people. The moments with his pooch Krypto, Lois and his parents
are heart-warming. The most important aspect is that this
film gets the essence of Superman right - no matter what, he
will not kill - EVER. This is the Superman that the
Iron Giant
wanted to be. Some will say this film is over-stuffed -
disregard that negative noise. I could not get enough of it, and
wanted more. And more is coming...
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DC Studios, Troll
Court Ent., The Safran Co.;
Warner Bros. Pictures
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Genres:
Action-Comedy,
Action-Sci-fi,
Action-Superhero,
Animation-CGI,
Fantasy-High,
Romance-Sci-fi,
Sci-fi-Adv,
Sci-fi-Extraterrestrial,
Thriller-Political
Dad's Genres:
Are you afrAID?,
Pet
Sounds,
Slime-Time,
SNL-Alumni |
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Top 20
CGI-Aided Superhero Films
#14 Top |
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Watchmen
(2009)
Someone's
killing our super heroes.
Director: Zack Snyder, rated R for
frightening scenes, nudity, violence
Starring: Malin
Akerman, Billy Crudup, Matthew Goode, Carla Gugino, Jackie Earle
Haley, Jeffrey Dean Morgan, Patrick Wilson, Matt Frewer
DML Rating:
★★★★★★★★★☆
- near perfect
"I have witnessed events so
tiny and so fast they can hardly be said to have occurred at
all. But you,
Adrian, you're just a man. The world's smartest
man poses no more threat to me
than does its smartest termite." –
Dr. Manhattan
Why watch this?
Snyder films are so stylistically unique, and this one is
remarkable.
Plot Summary: Set in
an alternate 1985 at the height of the Cold War, the film opens
with the murder of a former costumed hero known as The Comedian.
This event prompts the vigilante Rorschach, who is still
actively fighting crime, to investigate a potential conspiracy
targeting other former superheroes. As Rorschach reconnects with
his former masked allies, they uncover a much larger and darker
plot that could have catastrophic consequences.
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Dad's Preview:
Zack Snyder developed this film from the uber-successful comic graphic
novel by the brilliant
Alan Moore. Some fans were very critical of the film's
adaptation, however it does work. There are great effects, interesting
heroes and a
rock solid, complex plot. I particularly love J. E. Haley's portrayal
of the dark, disturbed Rorschach, an anti-hero, fighting to
maintain his sanity in a violent world.
This super-hero saga is not for kids. Rather, it's a very
gritty film, where the plot is allowed to take us
into new, mature and interesting directions. |
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Paramount
Pics, Legendary Pictures, DC Ent.,
Lawrence Gordon/Lloyd
Levin Prod.,
Cruel and
Unusual Films;
Warner Bros. Pictures
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Top 20
CGI-Aided Superhero Films
#13 Top |
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The Fantastic Four: First Steps
(2025)
Prepare 4 Launch.
Director: Matt Shakman, Rated PG-13
Starring:
Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Joseph Quinn,
Ralph Ineson, Julia Garner, Natasha Lyonne, Paul Walter Hauser,
Sarah Niles, Mark Gatiss
DML Rating:
★★★★★★★★★☆
- near perfect
"I'm not sacrificing
my son for this planet, but I won't sacrifice this planet for my
son." - Sue Storm
Why watch this?
THIS is the Fantastic Four
Jack Kirby would have wanted. Slick and retro with a dash of
innocence.
Plot Summary: Set in
a retro-futuristic 1960s, the film follows the Fantastic Four –
Reed Richards, Sue Storm, Johnny Storm, and Ben Grimm – as they
navigate their celebrity status and family dynamics after
gaining superpowers from a space mission. When the Silver Surfer
arrives to announce Earth's impending destruction by the
planet-consuming Galactus, the team must confront this cosmic
threat.
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Dad's Preview:
As Marvel films ushers in a new Phase, their first offering
reflects some wise choices. First, they are bringing one of the
most endearing super-teams back into the fold: The Fantastic
Four. Second, they appear to be heading in a different direction
with a softer tone and more old-fashioned modes of storytelling
(Similar to DC's recent
Superman
reboot). Finally, the message-pandering
that overwhelmed many of the
post Endgame films, appears to be gone (thank goodness). There is
a perfect blend of humor and action, the actors were stellar,
and the end leaves us wanting more. We can't ask for more
than that. |
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Marvel
Studios; Walt Disney Studios Motion Pics
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Top 20
CGI-Aided Superhero Films
#12 Top |
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Thor: Ragnarok
(2017)
Thunder Will
Reign.
Director: Taika
Waititi, rated PG-13
Starring: Chris
Hemsworth, Tom Hiddleston, Cate Blanchett, Idris Elba, Jeff
Goldblum, Tessa Thompson, Karl Urban, Mark Ruffalo, Anthony
Hopkins
DML Rating:
★★★★★★★★★☆
- near perfect
"I don't hang with the
Avengers anymore. It all got too corporate." -
Thor
Why watch this?
This takes the Thor story in a fresh, and funnier,
direction. I instantly loved it.
Plot Summary:
Imprisoned on a distant planet, Thor must escape a gladiatorial
contest against the Hulk to return to Asgard. Upon his return,
he faces his powerful and ruthless sister, Hela, who seeks to
destroy his home world and its civilization. To save his people,
Thor must confront Hela and prevent the cataclysmic event known
as Ragnarök.
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Dad's Preview:
Kevin Feige, to keep new ideas coming, decided to turn Thor over
to upstart, quirky, director Taika Waititi. It proved to be a wise move. This
film is bright, light and so much more fun than the second Thor
film. Our blonde hunky Asgardian hero is transported to a slave planet,
where he unexpectedly encounters an old friend... The green, raging Hulk,
who has been missing. After a massive
battle in the gladiator arena, the two devise a plan to get themselves back
home to Earth, and back to the Avengers. |
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Marvel Studios;
Walt Disney Studios
Motion Pictures
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Top 20
CGI-Aided Superhero Films
#11 Top |
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Black Panther
(2018)
HERO. LEGEND. KING.
Director: Ryan Coogler, rated PG-13 for super-hero
violence
Starring:
Chadwick Boseman, Michael B. Jordan, Lupita Nyong'o, Danai
Gurira, Martin Freeman, Daniel Kaluuya, Letitia Wright, Winston
Duke
DML Rating:
★★★★★★★★★☆
- near perfect
"You can't let your
father's mistakes define who you are. You get to decide what
kind of king you are going to be." -
Nakia
Why watch this?
Boseman is perfect as the capable, wise defender of Wakanda.
Plot Summary: After
the death of his father, prince T'Challa returns home to the
technologically advanced nation of Wakanda to assume the throne
and become its king. However, T'Challa's leadership is
challenged by a powerful enemy from Wakanda's past, forcing him
into a formidable conflict. To protect his nation and its
secrets, T'Challa must harness the power of the Black Panther
and unite his allies to face this threat.
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Dad's Preview:
This is an excellent origin story that elevates an African
American hero to front and center in the Marvel Universe. This exciting film is rich and colorful, featuring the African
perspective. I thoroughly enjoyed every minute. Sadly, Chadwick Boseman,
a bright star with a brighter future, passed away from colon
cancer at age 43. Peacefully rest, shining star. |
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Marvel Studios; Walt Disney
Studios
Motion Pictures
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Top 20
CGI-Aided Superhero Films
#10 Top |
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Captain America: Civil War (2016)
United
we stand. Divided we fall
Directors: Anthony and Joe Russo, rated PG-13 for
super-hero violence
Starring: Chris
Evans, Robert Downey Jr., Scarlett Johansson, Sebastian Stan,
Anthony Mackie, Don Cheadle, Jeremy Renner, Chadwick Boseman,
Paul Bettany, Elizabeth Olsen, Paul Rudd, Emily VanCamp, Tom
Holland, Frank Grillo, William Hurt, Daniel Brühl
DML Rating:
★★★★★★★★★☆
- near perfect
"I saw young Americans
killed by the very weapons I created to defend them and protect
them.
And I saw that I had become part of a system that is
comfortable with zero-accountability." - Tony Stark
Why watch this?
This faithful adaptation could be called Avengers 3. It's
that awesome!
Plot Summary:
Political concerns about the Avengers' previous actions lead to
a push for government oversight, dividing the team into two
factions led by Captain America and Iron Man. This escalating
conflict is complicated by the re-emergence of Captain America's
friend, Bucky Barnes, as the Winter Soldier, who is framed for a
bombing. As these disagreements escalate, the former allies
engage in an intense confrontation.
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Dad's Preview:
This is definitely one of my favorite MCU action films. The Avengers,
America's greatest heroes,
are divided over signing a government-mandated accord that limits their ability to
freely operate. This schism instantly makes half of heroes criminals.
Lots of action and awesome new characters (Spider-Man - hell
yeah!) keep this fine story
unique and fresh! Plus...Finally! We get to meet the Black Panther! |
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Marvel
Studios; Walt Disney Studios Motion Pics
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Top 20
CGI-Aided Superhero Films
#9 Top |
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Wonder Woman
(2017)
Power. Grace. Wisdom. Wonder.
Director: Patty Jenkins, rated PG-13 for super-hero
violence
Starring: Gal Gadot,
Chris Pine, Robin Wright, Danny Huston, David Thewlis, Connie
Nielsen, Ewen Bremner, Eugene Brave Rock, Saïd
Taghmaoui
DML Rating:
★★★★★★★★★☆
- near perfect
"I'm going, Mother. I
cannot stand by while innocent lives are lost. If no one else
will defend the world from Ares, then I must. I have to go." -
Diana Prince
Why watch this? It's
more than a great super-hero film... Diana is a superb role model.
Plot Summary:
Princess Diana, raised on the hidden island of Themyscira,
trains as an Amazonian warrior. When an American pilot crashes
on her shores during World War I, he reveals a devastating
conflict consuming the outside world. Convinced she can stop the
war and believing the god Ares is responsible, Diana leaves her
home to join the fight, discovering her true heroic destiny.
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Dad's Preview:
It embarrassingly took Hollywood this long to get one of
their key female super-heroes right. Thank god it was Wonder Woman!
This origin story of Diana Prince is a wonderful epic. The
scenes in Themyscira are beautiful and poignant. The footage
from World War I is powerful. Since her debut in
Batman
v Superman, Gal Gadot has catapulted into international
stardom. Watching this transports me back to my childhood,
where my heroes came alive, and stood for good!
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DC Films, RatPac-Dune
Ent., Atlas Ent.,
Cruel and Unusual
Films;
Warner Bros.
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Top 20
CGI-Aided Superhero Films
#8 Top |
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Logan
(2017)
ONE LAST TIME.
Director: James Mangold, rated R for language,
super-hero violence
Starring: Hugh
Jackman, Patrick Stewart, Richard E. Grant, Boyd Holbrook,
Stephen Merchant, Dafne Keen
DML Rating:
★★★★★★★★★★
- perfect
"Nature made me a
freak. Man made me a weapon. And God made it last too long." -
Logan
Why watch this?
...it is a poignant finale for one of film's great super-hero personas.
Plot Summary:
In 2029, a worn-down Logan, aka Wolverine, cares for an ailing
Professor Charles Xavier in a secluded hideout near the Mexican
border. Their quiet existence is upended when a young mutant
girl, Laura, with powers akin to Logan's, seeks his protection
from pursuing dark forces. Reluctantly, Logan and Xavier embark
on a dangerous journey to escort Laura to a rumored safe haven.
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Dad's Preview:
Hugh Jackson did it the right way. He won the role of Marvel's
Wolverine and made it
his own. He respected the part, and never disappointed the fans.
This is a wonderfully violent send-off thanks to Jackson and
Patrick Stewart, reprising his role as Professor X. It started with them, and
should end with them. I'm sad to see him retire. I'll miss that
scowl. It was a great ride. Thank you, Hugh!
(Update - Hugh's back in the new
Deadpool
& Wolverine (2024).) |
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Marvel Ent.,
Kinberg Genre, Hutch Parker Prod.,
The Donners' Co.,
TSG Ent.;
20th Century Fox
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Top 20
CGI-Aided Superhero Films
#7 Top |
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The Dark Knight
(2008)
Why So
Serious?
Director: Christopher Nolan, rated PG-13 for intense
violence, scary scenes
Starring:
Christian Bale, Heath Ledger, Michael Caine, Gary Oldman, Aaron Eckhart, Maggie
Gyllenhaal, Morgan Freeman, Eric Roberts
DML Rating:
★★★★★★★★★★
- perfect
DML Top 50
#20 -
Dad's Full (Spoiler) Review
and Deep Dive of The Dark Knight
"Some men aren't looking
for anything logical, like money. They can't be bought, bullied,
reasoned,
or negotiated with. Some men just want to watch the
world burn." – Alfred
Why watch this?
This Nolan effort set a new, grittier standard for comic book films.
Plot Summary:
Following the events of
Batman
Begins (2005), the emergence of a criminal mastermind
known as the Joker throws Gotham City into a state of chaos and
anarchy. Batman, along with Lieutenant Jim Gordon and District
Attorney Harvey Dent, try to combat the escalating threat, but
the Joker's unpredictable nature challenges their methods and
forces Batman to confront his own beliefs. The film explores the
fine line between hero and vigilante as Batman faces his most
personal and challenging struggle yet.
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Dad's Preview:
This iconic action crime masterpiece has so much: great action sequences,
compelling characters, twists and turns, heroes and villains.
Bale continues perfection in the dual role of millionaire Bruce
Wayne and the crusading Batman. Then there's
Heath Ledger's Joker - his defining career performance. The actor
received the Best Actor award after his death at the young age of 28. If this is not the
best super-hero film ever
made, it's in the top three. |
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Legendary
Pictures, Syncopy;
Warner Bros. Pictures
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Top 20
CGI-Aided Superhero Films
#6 Top |
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Spider-Man 2
(2004)
This summer a
man will face his destiny. A hero will be revealed
Director: Sam Raimi, Rated PG-13 for Sci-fi violence
Starring: Tobey
Maguire, Kirsten Dunst, James Franco, Alfred Molina, Rosemary
Harris, Donna Murphy
DML Rating:
★★★★★★★★★★
- perfect
"I believe there's a hero
in all of us, that keeps us honest, gives us strength, makes us
noble,
and finally allows us to die with pride, even though
sometimes we have to be steady, and give up the thing
we want
the most. Even our dreams." – Aunt May Parker
Why watch this?
This is the best Spider-Man film EVER - Spidey vs. Doctor Octopus!
Plot Summary:
Two years after becoming Spider-Man, Peter Parker struggles to
balance his superhero responsibilities with his crumbling
personal life, leading him to question his commitment to being a
hero. Meanwhile, a brilliant scientist, Dr. Otto Octavius,
suffers a devastating accident, transforming him into the
villainous Doctor Octopus. Spider-Man must then confront this
new threat, all while battling the potential loss of his
relationship with Mary Jane.
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Dad's Preview:
Director Sam Raimi understood Spider-Man. The second film shows
it. Maguire hits the right mix
of immature school boy and quirky-quipping hero. The CGI is
amazing, and really necessary, to make this kind of movie work. I
was pleasantly surprised by Molina's stellar performance as the
villain-in-conflict, Doctor Octopus. It's not easy to elicit
sympathy for a bad guy, but Molina more than pulls that off. I
rank this right up there with
The Dark Knight
(2008). |
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Columbia Pictures,
Marvel Ent., Laura
Ziskin Prod.;
Sony Pictures Releasing
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Top 20
CGI-Aided Superhero Films
#5 Top |
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Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014)
In
heroes we trust.
Directors: Anthony and Joe Russo, rated PG-13 for
super-hero violence
Starring: Chris
Evans, Scarlett Johansson, Sebastian Stan, Anthony Mackie,
Samuel L. Jackson, Robert Redford, Cobie Smulders, Frank Grillo,
Emily VanCamp, Hayley Atwell
DML Rating:
★★★★★★★★★★
- perfect
"Even when I had nothing, I
had Bucky." - Steve Rogers
Why watch this?
This is one of the best of the MCU movies - it's awesome on every
level.
Plot Summary: A
deadly new assassin, code named Winter Soldier, is causing a lot
of problems. Cap enlists help from Black Widow and Falcon to
stop him. Cap learns that the soldier is none other than his
best friend, Bucky Barnes, who somehow has been turned into a
killing machine. It will take all the heroes Cap can muster to
rescue Barnes, un-brainwash him, and find out who is
responsible.
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Dad's Preview:
This is the ninth Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) film and you can really feel
the filmmaking team at Marvel hitting its stride with these story arcs and
characters. True to form, the film is non-stop, sporting incredible
action sequences, a few very good plot twists, and the emergence
of hero called The Falcon.
It is one of the best super-hero films I can recommend.
It has everything: compelling heroes, nasty villains, engrossing
conflicts, incredible stunts and a ton of heart. |
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Marvel
Studios; Walt Disney Studios Motion Pics
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Top 20
CGI-Aided Superhero Films
#4 Top |
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Hellboy (2004) From the
Dark Side to Our Side
Director: Guillermo del Toro, rated PG-13
Starring: Ron
Perlman, John Hurt, Selma Blair, Doug Jones, Jeffrey Tambor,
Rupert Evans, Karel Roden, Biddy Hodson, Corey Johnson, Kevin
Trainor
DML Rating:
★★★★★★★★★☆
- near perfect
"In the absence of light,
darkness prevails. There are things that go bump in the night,
Agent Myers.
Make no mistake about that. And we are the ones who
bump back." – Professor Broom
Why watch this? It's
a great comic book hero adapted to film. Pearlman is
awesome!
Plot Summary:
Raised by a professor after being summoned to Earth by Nazis
during World War II, a demon named Hellboy now works for a
secretive government organization known as the Bureau for
Paranormal Research and Defense. Alongside his fellow unique
agents, Hellboy must protect the world from various supernatural
threats that emerge from the shadows. However, his skills and
fiery personality are truly tested when a powerful, resurrected
sorcerer from his past returns with a sinister plan that seeks
to unleash the apocalypse.
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Dad's Preview:
Being a comic book reader, I found my way to
Mike Mignola's
Hellboy. I read one story arc and was hooked. I
love how Hellboy is written: his macabre origin, the occult influence,
everything. This movie dropped in theaters and was a
huge hit. I couldn't be happier. Sure, you have to get over the
fact that he's red and has horns growing out of his skull. After
that, it's a big bowl of fun. Ron Perlman is an American
treasure. This film also introduced me to (now Oscar-winning)
director Guillermo del Toro. |
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Revolution
Studios, Lawrence Gordon/Lloyd
Levin Prod.,
Dark Horse Ent.;
Columbia Pics
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Top 20
CGI-Aided Superhero Films
#3 Top |
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X2: X-Men United
(2003)
The time has come for those who are different to stand
united
Director: Bryan Singer, rated PG-13 for sci-fi
violence
Starring: Patrick
Stewart, Hugh Jackman, Ian McKellen, Halle Berry, Famke Janssen,
James Marsden, Rebecca Romjin-Stamos, Brian Cox, Allan Cumming,
Bruce Davison, Anna Panquin
DML Rating:
★★★★★★★★★★
- perfect
"You are a god among
insects. Never let anyone tell you different." – Magneto
Why watch this?
It outdoes the original film with a better story and stronger
performances.
Plot Summary: When
an assassination attempt on the President of the United States
occurs, seemingly by a mutant, it ignites a new wave of
anti-mutant hysteria. The X-Men find themselves targeted by
Colonel William Stryker, a military scientist with a past
connection to Wolverine, who has discovered Professor Xavier’s
school and plans to use a modified Cerebro to launch a
devastating attack on the mutant population. Faced with an
existential threat, the X-Men are forced to form an uneasy
alliance with their old adversary, Magneto.
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Dad's Preview:
The original
X-Men (2000) was pretty darn good, but this film is better
and more fun. X2 finds the two opposing mutant factions (The X-Men
and Magneto's band of baddies) heading for a climactic final
battle. The cast members are more comfortable in their roles. The
concept regarding mutant acceptance into the world continues to be
explored, and we are introduced to the new "mutant cure". How
this plays out will change the X-Men forever. |
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Marvel Ent. Group,
The Donner's Co.,
Bad Hat Harry Prod.;
20th Century Fox
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Top 20
CGI-Aided Superhero Films
#2 Top |
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Iron Man (2008)
Get ready for a different breed of heavy metal hero.
Director: John Favreau, rated PG-13 for sci-fi
violence
Starring:
Robert Downey Jr., Terrence Howard, Jeff Bridges, Shaun Toub, Gwyneth Paltrow,
Faran Tahir, Leslie Bibb, Clark Gregg
DML Rating:
★★★★★★★★★★
- perfect
"I saw young Americans
killed by the very weapons I created to defend them and protect
them.
And I saw that I had become part of a system that is
comfortable with zero-accountability." – Tony Stark
Why watch this?
This kicked off the MCU and brilliantly cast Robert Downy Jr. as
Ironman.
Plot Summary:
Following his kidnapping and escape from a terrorist group using
a makeshift armored suit, brilliant industrialist Tony Stark
returns home and vows to change his ways. He devotes his
resources to perfecting this technology to fight global threats
and protect the innocent. However, he soon discovers a dangerous
conspiracy within his own company, forcing him to confront a
powerful adversary in his new role as Iron Man.
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Dad's Preview:
This amazing origin film kicked off a film series that would eventually lead to
The
Avengers (2012), and the
Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).
In the role seemingly made for him, Downey excels as the
eccentric, quirky,
millionaire genius Tony Stark, the ideal man to invent
an amazing iron suit. Even as a DC comics kid, I was drawn to
Marvel's Iron
Man, whose suit was cool as heck. Thanks to some incredible CGI
regarding said suit, this stellar film more than lives up to any
expectations. |
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Marvel Studios;
Paramount Pictures
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Top 20
CGI-Aided Superhero Films
#1a Top |
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Avengers: Infinity War (2018)
An
entire universe. Once and for all.
Directors: Anthony and Joe Russo, rated PG-13 for
super-hero violence
Starring: Robert
Downey Jr., Chris Hemsworth, Mark Ruffalo, Scarlett Johansson,
Chris Evans, Benedict Cumberbatch, Don Cheadle, Tom Holland,
Chadwick Boseman, Josh Brolin, Paul Bettany, Chris Pratt,
Elizabeth Olsen, Zoe Saldana
DML Rating:
★★★★★★★★★★
- perfect
"I offered a solution... With
all six stones, I could simply snap my fingers;
they would all
cease to exist.
I call that... mercy." – Thanos
Why watch this?
Its span and scope are huge, yet it still has a lot of intimate
moments.
Plot Summary: A
powerful being known as Thanos seeks to collect six ancient and
incredibly powerful artifacts called the Infinity Stones. He
believes that by using the stones to eliminate half of all life
in the universe, he can save it from inevitable destruction. The
Avengers and their allies across the galaxy must band together
to stop him, leading to the ultimate confrontation for the fate
of existence.
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Dad's Preview:
Marvel teased Thanos, a very powerful intergalactic entity, for awhile.
This film is the awesome pay off. Josh Brolin is excellent as the
massive, purple
tyrant, who is certainly evil, yet actor Josh Brolin gives him enough
intelligence so that we can almost sympathize with
his plan. I must point out Captain America, in black, sporting
a full beard - made fans scream in the theaters. As the film builds, all the Marvel heroes and teams
are assembled on Earth for a huge final battle to save the planet. The ending,
which is perfectly setup, is
a brutal gut-punch that leaves you wanting the next film all the
more. |
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Marvel
Studios; Walt Disney Studios Motion Pics
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Top 20
CGI-Aided Superhero Films
#1b Top |
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Avengers: End Game (2019)
Avenge
the fallen.
Directors: Anthony and Joe Russo, rated PG-13 for
super-hero violence
Starring: Robert
Downey Jr., Chris Hemsworth, Mark Ruffalo, Scarlett Johansson,
Chris Evans, Benedict Cumberbatch, Don Cheadle, Tom Holland,
Chadwick Boseman, Josh Brolin, Chris Pratt
DML Rating:
★★★★★★★★★★
- perfect
"I think you look great,
Cap. As far as I'm concerned, that's America's ass." - Scott
Lang
Why watch this?
The perfect ending for the MCU's Phase Three.
Plot Summary: After
the devastating events of
Avengers: Infinity War (2018), the remaining Avengers
must find a way to reverse Thanos' actions and restore balance
to the universe. With the help of allies and a potential new
method, they embark on a crucial mission to undo the chaos
caused by the Mad Titan. This final stand will determine the
fate of the universe and conclude a long-running story arc.
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Dad's Preview:
I can't say enough about this film, and those that preceded it.
This amazing conclusion may be remembered as the last great Marvel Studio film.
Our defeated heroes discover a way to reverse the damage done by Thanos
in
Avengers:
Infinity War (2018).
However, it only requires a little time travel. No problem! Back
in time they venture to find the Infinity stones and restart our
universe. But can humanity and their allies stop the legions of Thanos a second time? The ending will blow you away! Frankly, I
am not sure how another super-hero film top this event - it is
the new high water mark. |
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Marvel
Studios; Walt Disney Studios Motion Pics
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