For decades, Superman has captured our imaginations, appearing on the big screen in varied adaptations. It took nearly 40 years from his comic debut to his first live-action blockbuster. Fast forward to today, and with the latest entry directed by James Gunn, there have been nine modern Superman films. As we look ahead, the possibility of more decades of Superman stories seems promising. But before that happens, it’s time to compare and rank the films we have.
In this article, I’m ranking the nine modern live-action Superman films, including the streaming version of one that appeared not long ago. I’ve chosen to skip over some classic serials from the 1950s, as I haven’t seen them, but I hear they’re worth a watch if you ask our friends at Screencrush. What do you think of these rankings? Feel free to share your thoughts!
More Than Honorable Mention: Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story
Before I dive into the rankings, I want to highlight the touching 2024 documentary about Christopher Reeve, not included in my list but worth mentioning nonetheless. It beautifully encapsulates the real-life magic surrounding the iconic Superman actor. If you’re a fan, don’t miss out on this heartfelt portrayal. Watch it here.
10. Superman III
9. Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice
Imagine being told as a child that a Batman versus Superman movie would be made and that it would be disappointing. Unfortunately, that’s what happened. The film struggles with its overwhelming scope, trying to introduce Batman and Wonder Woman alongside multiple villains. It feels more like an ensemble of missed opportunities than a cohesive story.
8. Justice League
Staying within the Snyderverse, I admit I’m one of the few who don’t completely dislike Justice League. While it has its disjointed moments, the thrill of seeing so many beloved heroes together offers a unique excitement. Despite its flaws and the superior Snyder cut that followed, the theatrical version delivers a fun, albeit uneven, experience.
7. Superman Returns
Often forgotten in conversations about Superman films, Superman Returns features Brandon Routh in the titular role and serves as a sequel to the earlier Reeve films. Directed by Bryan Singer, it aims for nostalgia but struggles with its identity, placing itself in a confusing spot. However, commendably embracing John Williams’ iconic score contributes to its charm.
6. Superman IV: The Quest for Peace
While I’ve previously labeled this film as bad, I find it more enjoyable than some of its counterparts. It attempts to dive into meaningful themes with a returning Margot Kidder as Lois Lane and Gene Hackman as Lex Luthor. Despite its shortcomings, you can sense the ambition behind the project, even if it doesn’t translate fully to screen.
5. Zack Snyder’s Justice League
This four-hour version provides a fuller look at Snyder’s vision, giving each hero more depth. The payoff is more significant, and despite its extended runtime, the narrative flow feels more coherent. While it won’t please everyone, it redeems some prior missteps and enriches Superman’s story.
4. Man of Steel
In 2013, I described Man of Steel as a significant reboot, presenting an engaging and humanistic take on Superman. The casting of Henry Cavill and Amy Adams, alongside a strong supporting cast, contributes to its success as an origin story. It captures the conflicted essence of a hero growing into his role, even if it takes creative liberties.
3. Superman (2025)
While it’s still fresh, James Gunn’s latest Superman delivers a unique approach that could resonate better with audiences over time. It’s challenging to assess its long-term impact just yet, but it holds promise and might prove to be a favorite as we reflect on it more.
2. Superman II
Often viewed as a continuation of a single epic story, Superman II builds on the foundation laid in the first film. With rich performances from the main cast, this entry enhances the superhero narrative significantly. The thrilling encounters with General Zod elevate the action, creating a memorable viewing experience.
1. Superman: The Movie
There’s no question that Richard Donner’s 1978 masterpiece remains unmatched. It beautifully conveys Superman’s origin story with grandeur and depth. Its groundbreaking special effects still impress, and the character-driven storytelling leaves an enduring legacy. Superman: The Movie stands out as a classic that defines the superhero genre.
What other fan-favorite Superman films are out there? If you’re curious about upcoming releases, visit Moyens I/O for the latest updates and insights!