Comics are the most creative and imaginative way of storytelling. For decades now, the films have been trying to recreate the same magic and imagination of the comics on the big screen, but only a few succeeded in the task. There are many movies based on the comics, there are screen adaptations of the famous graphic novels. But not every film has done justice to its source material. Not every film has accurately portrayed the characters of the comic book. Only a few film adaptations has completely justified its source comic book and done something splendid.
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Comic-book genre has grown very rapidly and it rivals almost all others in terms of box-office records and positive reception. Comic book films do a very good business. The best part is that comic book films are for all ages.
But which is the best comic-book film of all time? What are the best comics-to-screen adaptations of all time? We did a research, gathered together the 10 best comic book films based on their popularity, critical reception, story-telling and justification of the comic book characters. These comic adaptations range from children’s friendly entertainment cinema, to pure adult thought-provoking cinema.
So now let’s take a look at the 10 Best Comic Book Movies Of All Time!
The Dark Knight (2008)
You either die a hero, or live long enough to see yourself become the villain.
This is undoubtedly the greatest superhero film of all time. The Dark Knight received eight Academy Award nominations, the only superhero film to have won two Oscars. This film is much deeper and intelligent, it pulls the viewer in with an examination of Bruce Wayne’s pysche and dilemma over whether he’s doing more harm than good as Batman. How the incorruptible Harvey Dent descends into the darkness. Heath Ledger’s performance of a psychotic Joker makes this film special.
The Avengers (2012)
The Avengers. That’s what we call ourselves.
The film is based on the ever-popular Marvel comic book series “The Avengers,” first published in 1963. Mightiest heroes of earth come together and fight as a team against the evil Loki and his alien army. This movie has everything that you love about superhero comics. It has an evil villain, brave heroes, action, humor and a story-telling that will keep you on the edge of your seats.
Iron Man (2008)
I am Iron Man.
Robert Downey Jr. was born to play Tony Stark. After Robert Downey’s performance, it’s now next to impossible imagining someone else playing that character. He brought Tony Stark to life with Marvel’s “Iron Man” in 2008, he accurately portrayed the character with the signature charm, wit, intelligence, that the fans expected to see in the film. It was Iron Man which kick-started the MCU.
Watchmen (2009)
Who watches the Watchmen?
Watchmen is the only graphic novel to make Time’s 100 Best Novels list. And the film is a very faithful adaptation of the novel, it is definitely one of the most most underrated comic book films of all time. Watchmen takes place in an alternate world reality where the superheroes are a part of everyday society, their presence changed the history of America. The film takes on the psyche of superheroes with depth and realism. How sometimes even the superheroes need to be saved.
Spider-Man 2 (2004)
Who am I? I’m Spider-Man, given a job to do.
Heroism and sacrifice, that’s what every superhero movie is about. Being a hero is not as easy as it sounds, everyone desires superpowers, but what would you do once you have it? Like Uncle Ben said, with great power, comes great responsibility. The responsibilities of Spider-Man has taken a strain on Peter Parker, he is worn out, to the point where he temporarily loses his powers, and then he realizes that people need him and regains the identity of Spider-Man.
Sin City (2005)
Turn the right corner in Sin City and you can find anything.
Based on the Frank Miller novel of the same name, Sin City tells the story of different people, how they are caught up in a violent corruption, and their paths cross. This isn’t just an adaptation of a comic book, it’s more like a comic book brought to life. In the world of Sin City, where everything is black and white, except the blood which is red.
Hellboy (2004)
We like people for their qualities but love them by their defects.
Story of a demonic beast who becomes a superhero, known as Hellboy. Hellboy and his team ‘Bureau of Paranormal Research and Defense’ protects the world by fighting the various supernatural and paranormal threats. It is not only based on the comic book, but also feels like a comic book. The movie not only has a brain, but also a heart, it is a definitely a delight for the comic book fans.
The Crow (1994)
It can’t rain all the time.
This film is mostly remembered for the tragic accidental death of Brandon Lee during the shooting of the film. The Crow tells the story of Eric Draven, a rock musician who comes back from the dead to avenge his own death and the murder and rape of his fiancée. The film has gained a strong cult following, the success of the film inspired several sequels.
Superman (1978)
The movie that makes a legend come to life.
This was the first time we saw Superman on the big screen with the modern-day special effects, so this movie will remain special. Christopher Reeves portrayal of Superman basically captures the essence of the iconic character, it’s how imagine Superman to be when you read the comics. The film is packed with action, drama, romance, great visual effects. Do watch the classic if you haven’t.
Scott Pilgrim vs. the World (2010)
An epic of epic epicness.
Scott Pilgrim has everything; Comedy, action, romance, video games, music. This film is for every geek out there! You could watch it over and over again, but never get bored of it. To win the heart his girlfriend, Scott must defeat his new girlfriend’s seven evil exes.