Hey, fellow Metropolis enthusiasts and Krypton fanatics! Get ready to fly higher than a speeding bullet, because we’re about to embark on an epic journey through the cinematic universe of the one and only Man of Steel. Superman isn’t just *the* most famous superhero in history; he’s a symbol of hope, truth, and justice that has captivated audiences for decades, leaping from the pages of DC Comics to the silver screen in a spectacular fashion.
From groundbreaking live-action spectacles that made us believe a man could fly, to animated masterpieces that explore the deepest corners of his mythos, the varied adventures of Kal-El have consistently inspired and entertained. We’ve seen countless actors don the cape, each bringing their unique interpretation of how to bring Superman to life, cementing his place as a cornerstone of popular culture. The enduring appeal of the various Superman film series — both live action and animated — is a testament to the character’s powerful mythos and his status as a symbol of hope.
So, buckle up, because as a new cinematic universe officially launches with the release of James Gunn’s Superman, and the excitement to watch Superman is as high as ever, it’s the perfect time to look back at the films that truly soar. We’re talking about those cinematic appearances that come *so close* to perfection, they might as well be wearing a red cape themselves. Get ready to rediscover what makes these Superman movies truly special and why they deserve a spot in your re-watch rotation!
1. **Superman: The Movie (1978)**
This is the one that started it all, folks, introducing Superman to the masses on the silver screen in a way no one thought possible. Director Richard Donner, along with star Christopher Reeve, brought this landmark project to life. Reeve, with his earnest portrayal, shone as both the powerful hero and his mild-mannered alter ego, Clark Kent, paving the way for decades of Superman movies to follow. It was a true game-changer.
Beyond just telling Superman’s origin story, this film achieved the seemingly impossible: making audiences truly believe in the spectacle of Superman flying. Reeve’s iconic performance perfectly captured the “earnest, uncomplicated goodness” of the character that truly brought the comics to life. Paired with Margot Kidder‘s Lois Lane, they created a cinematic chemistry that remains a benchmark for the genre, giving us a love story to root for.
Even with the film’s age and the ever-evolving world of special effects since the late-’70s, this masterpiece remains Certified Fresh. As Detroit Free Press’ Susan Stark wonderfully put it, “What was fun in the comic books, what is still fun in the comic books 40 years later, is also fun in the movie.” It’s a timeless tribute to an American pop culture icon that deftly blends humor and gravitas.
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2. **Superman II (1980)**
Superman literally flew into the ’80s with Christopher Reeve, Gene Hackman, and Margot Kidder once again leading the charge! This second installment really ups the ante, putting Superman up against the formidable Kryptonian villain General Zod, brilliantly played by Terence Stamp. Richard Lester joined in to direct after a contentious production period with original director Donner, bringing his own flair to the sequel.
Sure, some critics noticed that the film mixed in plenty of humor along the way that sometimes bordered on slapstick, but that absolutely did not stop them from loving this Certified Fresh gem. Many fans and critics alike even say that it’s an improvement upon the first, which is high praise indeed when you consider how beloved its predecessor is! It truly felt like a confident stride for our hero.
The reasons for its enduring appeal are crystal clear: strong acting and a fun story make it shine. LA Times’ Sheila Benson perfectly highlighted that “Christopher Reeve and Margot Kidder give their roles a careful delineation, and they have the support of a delightful script.” It’s a sequel that meets, if not exceeds, the standard set by its pioneering predecessor, delivering action and heart in equal measure.
Product on Amazon: Superman: The Movie (1978) (4K Ultra HD) [4K UHD]
Brand: WARNER BROS
Binding: Blu-ray Product Group: DVD
Price: 18.99 USD
Rating: 4.7 Total reviews: 6191
Genre: Action & Adventure
Format: 4K
Initial release date: 2018-11-06
Language: English
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3. **Superman (2025)**
Get ready for a fresh take, because James Gunn’s Superman is here, and it’s kicking off an entirely new chapter for the DC Universe! Starring David Corenswet as our beloved Clark Kent / Superman, alongside Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane and Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor, this film is already soaring high, coming in both Certified Fresh on the Tomatometer and Verified Fresh on the Popcornmeter. This is the future, folks, and it looks bright!
What’s truly exciting is that this isn’t an origin story; it makes the bold assumption that its audience is already familiar with many aspects of the character. The film immediately dives deep into a world where the “Last Son of Krypton” has already faced both praise and criticism. While it might feel like James Gunn has attempted to cram nearly a century of comic book history into one film, it’s remarkably grounded as a story about an immigrant child destined to save a planet that doesn’t entirely trust him.
This movie is being hailed as the “most empathic depiction of the character ever,” showing David Corenswet’s Clark Kent struggling with how his heroic ambitions could be misperceived and ostracized by a fiercely divided civilization. Nicholas Hoult gives a magnificent, “scenery-chewing performance” as a modern Lex Luthor, brilliantly using his connections and even “literal Internet monkeys” to turn Superman into a public enemy. It’s a masterclass in modern villainy!
Gunn delivers a “fun, goofy, irreverent, and heartfelt motion picture overflowing with empathy and kindness.” While the abundance of cheeky humor can, at times, deflate the earnestness of emotional exchanges, the film never apologizes for its geekiness. It develops an iteration of reality that still feels remarkably lived-in, serving as a “strong encapsulation of the ideology and experience that shaped the character” and a promising first step within Gunn’s ambitious plan for the DCU. Get ready for a new era of amazing Superman tales!
Product on Amazon: Superman (4K Ultra HD + Digital)
Brand: WB
Binding: Blu-ray Product Group: DVD
Price: 29.95 USD
Rating: 3.9 Total reviews: 129
Genre: Action & Adventure, Fantasy, Science Fiction
Format: 4K
Contributor: Anthony Carrigan, David Corenswet, James Gunn, Nicholas Hoult, Rachel Brosnahan
Language: English
Runtime: 2 hours and 9 minutes
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4. **Superman Returns (2006)**
Nearly two decades after the original series’ last installment, director Bryan Singer brought us Superman Returns, a film that came with plenty of expectations and, for the most part, managed to live up to them spectacularly! Brandon Routh donned the red cape, perfectly capturing the essence of the Man of Steel, with Kate Bosworth starring as Lois Lane. This isn’t an origin story, but a poignant look at Superman as he returns to an Earth that may have moved on without him, which is just heartbreaking and compelling all at once.
This film offered a brilliant deconstruction of the theory that an optimistic character couldn’t exist in the modern world, serving as a direct continuation of the ending of “Superman II.” It cleverly chose to ignore the two subsequent Reeve films entirely, creating a clear narrative path. Superman returns to find Lois Lane has become a cynic and Lex Luthor has been released from prison, presenting a truly challenging new world for our hero.
BBC.com’s Neil Smith absolutely nailed it, saying, “Logical progression, intelligent reappraisal, and nostalgia trip all in one, Superman Returns is better than we dared hoped.” It features a brilliant opening rescue sequence that reminds you exactly why you fell in love with Superman. While it’s much more of an atmospheric drama than a typical big-budget spectacle, this choice allows for incredible emotional depth.
Routh’s impression of Reeve is spot on, and many side characters, like Frank Langella’s Perry White and Sam Huntington’s Jimmy Olson, are wonderfully cast. The film openly questions the idealism of the character’s inception and touches on the metaphorical ramifications of depicting a God-like figure in a post-9/11 world. Despite lacking some of the comic charm of Donner’s originals, “Superman Returns” manages to revel in the inherent wonder the character inspires, all while building to a spectacular work of entertainment in its third act. It’s a truly underrated gem that deserves another look!
Product on Amazon: Superman Returns [DVD] [2006] [Region 1] [US Import] [NTSC]
Binding: DVD Product Group: DVD
Price: 18.58 USD
Rating: 5.0 Total reviews: 1
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5. **Batman and Superman: Battle of the Super Sons (2022)**
Okay, animated movie fans, get ready for some serious cuteness and action! Directed by Matt Peters, this animated installment is a pure delight, revolving around the Caped Crusader’s son, Jonathan Kent (voiced by Jack Dylan Grazer), who discovers on his birthday that his dad is, in fact, Superman! But wait, there’s more – he also has superpowers of his own! And what’s better than one super son? Two super sons, as he ends up teaming up with the son of Batman, aka Damian Wayne (voiced by Jack Griffo).
The adventure just escalates from there, throwing in a fantastic mix of new and familiar characters along the way to keep things interesting and thrilling for its many adoring fans and critics. This movie proudly holds a perfect 100% on the Tomatometer, a testament to its undeniable charm and engaging story. It’s the kind of film that instantly brightens your day and reminds you why these characters are so beloved.
Luke Y. Thompson from SuperHeroHype perfectly summed up its appeal, saying, “It’s only 79 minutes long and the story is so simple that it’s impossible to spoil. And the film remembers, crucially, that comics are fun. Or they should be.” This film is a fantastic reminder that superhero stories can be lighthearted, joyous, and utterly captivating, especially when they focus on the next generation of heroes. It’s a vibrant, action-packed adventure that truly captures the fun spirit of comics!
6. **Superman: Unbound (2013)**
Here’s another animated hit that’s an absolute must-watch for any Superman fan! Directed by the talented James Tucker, this film features Matt Bomer doing an incredible job as the voice of Superman, as he faces off against the formidable Brainiac, voiced by the legendary John Noble. The stakes couldn’t be higher, as our Man of Steel battles to save the Kryptonian city of Kandor, which has been miniaturized and held aboard Brainiac’s menacing ship.
This film has truly stood out, earning its place as one of the most well-received animated flicks on this list. And let me tell you, that’s really saying something, considering this list is absolutely filled with all-stars of the Superman cinematic universe! Its success is a testament to its compelling storyline, stellar voice acting, and impressive animation quality that keeps you glued to the screen.
Mike McGranaghan from Aisle Seat gave it high praise, noting that it “Feels cinematic, despite the fact that it wasn’t made for the big screen.” This speaks volumes about its production value and ambitious storytelling. It’s a film that manages to convey a grand, epic scale typically reserved for theatrical releases, all within the animated format. If you want top-tier animated Superman, this one delivers big time!
Product on Amazon: McFarlane Toys – DC Multiverse Batman Armored Suit (Batman V Superman: Dawn of Justice) 7in Action Figure
Brand: McFarlane Toys
Binding: Toy Product Group: Toy
Price: 29.95 USD
Rating: 4.8 Total reviews: 200
Features:
1. Incredibly detailed 7” scale figure based on the DC MULTIVERSE
2. Designed with Ultra Articulation with up to 22 moving parts for full range of posing and play
3. BATMAN (ARMOR SUIT) as featured in BATMAN v SUPERMAN: DAWN OF JUSTICE
4. Includes 2 alternate hands, cloth cape and figure display base
5. Includes collectible art card with character art on the front and character biography on the back
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7. **The Death of Superman (2018)**
Prepare for an animated installment that packs a serious punch and features a truly stacked cast, bringing one of the most iconic comic book storylines to life! We’ve got Jerry O’Connell as Superman, Rebecca Romijn as Lois Lane, Rainn Wilson as Lex Luthor, and Rosario Dawson as Wonder Woman – talk about an all-star lineup! This time, Superman unites with the Justice League to take on the monstrous Doomsday, culminating in an epic showdown in the heart of Metropolis.
This film truly delivered what fans had been craving, and the critics agreed, giving it an impressive 93% on the Tomatometer. It’s a powerful, emotional, and action-packed adaptation that doesn’t shy away from the weighty implications of its source material. You’ll be on the edge of your seat from start to finish as the titans clash in a battle for the ages, and the fate of the world hangs in the balance.
Sheraz Farooqi of CinemaDebate perfectly articulated its brilliance, stating, “The Death of Superman gives fans what they want. A strong Superman story, a great adaption of an iconic comic, awesome DC cameos and and homages to the works of the past.” It’s a testament to how an animated film can honor beloved lore while delivering a compelling, visually stunning narrative that deeply resonates with both longtime fans and newcomers alike. Truly unmissable!
Alright, super fans, if you thought the first batch of Superman movies was mind-blowing, get ready, because we’re just getting started! We’re diving even deeper into the incredible cinematic world of the Man of Steel, exploring some truly groundbreaking animated features, unique alternate reality takes, and those compelling modern interpretations that redefine what it means to be Superman. These films aren’t just entertainment; they’re innovative storytelling at its finest, showcasing incredible character depth and proving that Kal-El’s legacy is as vibrant and dynamic as ever. Let’s soar ‘Beyond the Mainstream’ and uncover more gems!
Product on Amazon: The Death of Superman [Blu-ray/DVD] [Graphic Novel] 2018
Binding: Blu-ray Product Group: DVD
Price: 16.99 USD
Rating: 4.6 Total reviews: 3460
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8. **Superman: Man of Tomorrow (2020)**
Kicking off our next set of amazing Superman stories is the fantastic ‘Superman: Man of Tomorrow.’ This animated hit from director Chris Palmer introduced us to Darren Criss as the voice of Superman, and let me tell you, he absolutely nailed it! The film also featured Alexandra Daddario as Lois Lane and Zachary Quinto as Lex Luthor, bringing a fresh and exciting vibe to these iconic characters.
This movie tells the origin story of a young Clark Kent who’s just starting out as an intern at the Daily Planet, all while secretly learning how to become the protector Metropolis needs. It’s got high scores on both the Tomatometer and Popcornmeter, which means critics and fans alike were totally on board with this modern retelling of Clark’s early days.
Flickering Myth’s Ricky Church perfectly captured its appeal, stating, “Fans who are well versed in Superman will enjoy this modern retelling while those who are completely new to the character will likely become a fan after viewing this.” It’s truly a win-win, offering something for everyone, whether you’re a seasoned Krypton expert or just starting your journey with the Man of Steel. This is definitely a must-add to your watch list if you want to see how Clark first truly embraced his destiny!
9. **Superman: Red Son (2020)**
Now, prepare yourselves for a mind-bending, alternate reality adventure with ‘Superman: Red Son’! This Fresh animated flick, directed by Sam Liu, asks one of the most intriguing ‘what if’ questions in comic history: What if Superman’s rocket had landed in the USSR instead of rural America? The result is a portrayal of the Man of Steel as a Soviet hero, and it’s absolutely captivating.
Jason Isaacs, who you might remember from ‘White Lotus Season Three’ (shoutout!), lends his voice to Kal-El in this unique take, with Amy Acker as Lois Lane and Diedrich Bader as Lex Luthor. The concept alone is enough to hook you, but the execution really takes it to another level, making you rethink everything you thought you knew about Superman.
CNN.com’s Brian Lowry hit the nail on the head, noting that “What Red Son does, in an effective and perhaps unexpectedly timely way, is consider the extent the flag to which one pledges allegiance defines and shapes the man.” It’s a powerful exploration of identity, allegiance, and how different circumstances can profoundly alter a hero’s path. This film is a brilliant example of how innovative storytelling can truly redefine a classic character for new generations.
Product on Amazon: Superman: Whatever Happened to the Man of Tomorrow?: The Deluxe Edition (2020 Edition)
Binding: Kindle Edition Product Group: Digital Ebook Purchas
Price: 9.99 USD
Rating: 4.8 Total reviews: 360
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10. **Superman vs. The Elite (2012)**
Get ready for some serious philosophical battles with ‘Superman vs. The Elite,’ an animated movie directed by Michael Chang that delves into what it truly means to be a hero. This film introduces us to The Elite — Manchester Black, Coldcast, Menagerie, and Hat — a group of superpowered individuals who initially appear as helpers but quickly become a massive challenge for our Man of Steel.
Frequent Superman voice actor George Newbern returns to handle the lead role, bringing his signature earnestness to the character as he grapples with these new, more ruthless heroes. The Elite believe in a more aggressive, permanent solution to villainy, putting them directly at odds with Superman’s unwavering moral code and his belief in second chances.
Jeffrey M. Anderson from Common Sense Media praised it as “An exceptional animated superhero movie. It’s violent and has some adult subject matter, but it also has a strong, thoughtful story and worthwhile messages.” This film isn’t just about punching bad guys; it’s a deep dive into ethics, justice, and the heavy responsibilities that come with immense power, making it a truly thought-provoking watch for any fan.
11. **The Batman-Superman Movie (1998)**
Before there was a live-action crossover, ‘The Batman-Superman Movie’ swooped in during the late ’90s to give fans an epic animated team-up! This gem lets both the Caped Crusader and the Man of Steel shine equally as they face off against two of their greatest foes: the Joker and Lex Luthor. And get this, it even features Batman starting to date Lois Lane – talk about a twist!
The voice cast for this movie is absolutely legendary, featuring Tim Daly as Clark Kent, Kevin Conroy as Bruce Wayne, Dana Delany as Lois Lane, Clancy Brown as Lex Luthor, and the iconic Mark Hamill as the Joker. Their performances alone make this film a must-watch, capturing the essence of these characters in a way that truly resonates with fans.
Felix Vasquez Jr. from Cinema Crazed raved, “It’s a treat to see Warner cross over both properties with an entertaining and action packed adventure, and years later it’s still a raucous and entertaining action film and spin off.” This movie is a vibrant, action-packed blast from the past that perfectly showcases the incredible dynamic between DC’s two greatest heroes, proving that some team-ups are just meant to be!
Product on Amazon: Superman vs. The Elite [DVD] (2012)
Binding: Product Group: DVD
Price: 21.18 USD
Rating: 4.6 Total reviews: 1011
Features:
1. Format: Animated, Color, Dolby, NTSC, Subtitled, Widescreen
2. Language: English, French, Spanish
3. Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
4. Region 1 (U.S. and Canada only); Number of discs: 1
5. Rated: PG-13; Run-time: 76 minutes
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12. **All-Star Superman (2011)**
If you’re looking for an animated film that’s truly reflective and deeply emotional, then ‘All-Star Superman’ is your ticket! Based on the acclaimed comic book series by Grant Morrison and Frank Quitely, this movie stars James Denton as the voice of Superman as he faces an unprecedented challenge after a rescue mission to the sun exposes him to lethal radiation.
This poignant story sees Superman grappling with his own mortality, pondering his future, and making peace with his legacy, all while still trying to save the world. With Anthony LaPaglia as the voice of Lex Luthor and Christina Hendricks as Lois Lane, the film explores profound themes of heroism, sacrifice, and what it truly means to be human — or, in this case, Kryptonian.
Jeffrey M. Anderson of Common Sense Media highlighted its thoughtful nature, saying, “Veteran superhero director Sam Liu sustains the thoughtful, reflective mood of the movie throughout.” It’s a film that resonates long after the credits roll, offering a beautiful and heartfelt tribute to the enduring spirit of Superman. Prepare for a deeply moving experience that showcases the Man of Steel’s inner strength.
13. **Zack Snyder’s Justice League (2021)**
Now, let’s talk about a cinematic event that truly brought the fans together and made history: ‘Zack Snyder’s Justice League.’ This is the director’s cut of the 2017 film, precisely as Snyder intended it before he had to step away during post-production. After the original release received a less-than-stellar reception, a massive fan movement led to this incredible four-hour epic!
This version is a significant improvement, offering a more complete and coherent narrative, especially with characters like Cyborg finally getting their deserved backstory and emotional arc. The sheer scale and ambition of Snyder’s vision are on full display, providing a much richer experience for those who rallied behind the #ReleaseTheSnyderCut movement.
As Ty Burr from the Boston Globe aptly put it, “A major improvement when all is said and done, and Snyder has conclusively proved his point.” This director’s cut truly lives up to the hype, delivering an expansive and visually striking narrative that satisfies the loyal fans who willed it into existence, giving us the Justice League film we deserved.
Product on Amazon: All-Star Superman
Brand: WB
Binding: DVD Product Group: DVD
Price: 5.8 USD
Rating: 4.6 Total reviews: 933
Genre: Action & Adventure
Format: Animated, Color, Dolby, Multiple Formats, NTSC, Widescreen
Language: English
Runtime: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Features:
1. DVD
2. Standard Edition
3. Eco Amaray Case
4. Standard Edition
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14. **Man of Steel (2013)**
Rounding out our list is the film that jump-started the DC Extended Universe (DCEU) and offered a bold, grittier new take on Superman: ‘Man of Steel.’ Directed by Zack Snyder, this movie served as a reboot of the Superman film series and depicted his origin story for a new generation, with Henry Cavill making his debut as the iconic hero.
The film boasts an absolutely star-studded cast, including Amy Adams as Lois Lane, Michael Shannon as General Zod, Diane Lane as Martha Kent, Kevin Costner as Jonathan Kent, Laurence Fishburne as Perry White, and Russell Crowe as Jor-El. It delivered an intense, action-packed vision of Superman’s early days and his first major confrontation with another Kryptonian.
While critics had some divided opinions, particularly about its “grittier, more violent take,” as The Atlantic’s Christopher Orr noted, “There’s plenty to like in Snyder’s hectic, rowdy film.” It undeniably left a lasting cult impression on a significant subsection of the comic book movie audience, setting a new tone for DC films and giving us a Superman who grappled with the weight of his powers and destiny in a more conflicted world.
Wow, what an incredible journey through the cinematic skies of Superman! From the groundbreaking animated features that explore alternate realities and complex moral dilemmas, to the powerful and sometimes controversial modern interpretations that redefine our hero, it’s clear that the Man of Steel continues to evolve and inspire. Each of these films, in its own unique way, showcases the innovative storytelling and profound character depth that keep Superman flying high in our hearts and on our screens. So, grab your capes and prepare for a re-watch, because these almost-perfect Superman movies are always ready to remind us why we believe a man can fly!”
Product on Amazon: Man of Steel (Two-Disc Special Edition DVD)
Brand: WARNER BROS
Binding: DVD Product Group: DVD
Price: 9.95 USD
Rating: 4.6 Total reviews: 27457
Genre: Action & Adventure
Initial release date: 2013-11-12
Language: English
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