Summary
- Animated superhero movies offer unique storytelling opportunities and are a vital part of the genre.
- DC excels in mature animated films like ‘Batman: Assault on Arkham’ with rich themes and narrative.
- ‘The Incredibles’ showcases a fun yet compelling superhero story, focusing on family and morals.
Animated superhero movies have been a cornerstone of comic book adaptations for decades, with the very best offering unique storytelling opportunities that live-action films often cannot. Both Marvel and DC have made significant contributions to the animated genre, with a wide array of films based on their biggest franchises. These range from adaptations of beloved comic storylines to original tales that capture the essence of their iconic characters.
DC, in particular, has a long history of successful animated movies, often praised for their fidelity to the source material and mature themes. The animated Batman movies have been especially praised. While more prolific in the live-action arena with the MCU timeline, Marvel has also made its mark with a few standout animated features. The blend of rich animation, voice acting, and deep narrative exploration makes animated superhero movies a distinct and vital part of the superhero genre.
Related Every Upcoming DC Movie In 2024 And Beyond
Here’s every new DC movie confirmed as in development by WB for 2024 and onwards, including release dates and where they belong in the franchise.
10 Batman: Assault On Arkham
Set Between The Video Games Batman: Arkham Origins And Batman: Arkham Asylum
Batman: Assault on Arkham Where to Watch
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Based on DC Comics’ universe, Batman: Assault on Arkham is an animated film directed by Jay Oliva and Ethan Spaulding. Set between the events of Batman: Arkham Origins and Batman: Arkham Asylum, the story follows the Suicide Squad, a team of criminals assembled by Amanda Waller, as they infiltrate Arkham Asylum to retrieve vital information. Batman becomes involved, posing a significant challenge to both the criminals and their government handlers.
Director Jay Oliva , Ethan Spaulding Release Date August 12, 2014
Batman: Assault on Arkham earns its place as the tenth-greatest animated superhero movie by delivering a thrilling, high-stakes narrative that shifts the focus from Batman to the Suicide Squad. Set in the same universe as the Batman: Arkham video games, though not canon, Assault on Arkham offers a fresh and gritty take on Gotham’s underworld. It features a team of villains led by Deadshot as they embark on a dangerous mission inside Arkham Asylum.
What sets Assault on Arkham apart is its dark, mature tone and its willingness to dive deep into the psyches of its antiheroes. The movie expertly balances character-driven moments with intense, well-choreographed action sequences, making it a standout in the DC Animated Universe. Though Batman plays a significant role, it’s the dynamic between the members of the Suicide Squad that truly drives the story. While certainly not perfect, Assault on Arkham is a noteworthy superhero entrant.
9 Batman Beyond: Return Of The Joker
Set In The Batman Beyond Universe
Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker 1
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Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker is an animated superhero film set in the futuristic Gotham City. The movie follows the new Batman, Terry McGinnis, mentored by an aging Bruce Wayne, as they encounter a menacing return of Batman’s deadliest foe, the Joker. The film delves into the mystery behind the Joker’s reappearance and its connection to the original Batman’s past, featuring Kevin Conroy and Mark Hamill reprising their iconic roles.
Director Curt Geda Release Date December 12, 2000
Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker is a standout film that brilliantly expands on the Batman Beyond series. Set in a future Gotham where Bruce Wayne has passed the mantle of Batman to Terry McGinnis, the film reintroduces the Joker, who was believed to be dead. What follows is a dark, gripping tale that explores the dynamic between the new and old Batmen – as well as the twisted legacy of the Joker.
While Return of the Joker might not be as universally acclaimed as other Batman animated films, it boasts near-perfect performances from Kevin Conroy as Bruce Wayne and Mark Hamill as the Joker. The movie explores themes of legacy, identity, and the enduring impact of trauma, all while delivering action-packed sequences and a shocking twist that cements its place as one of the best animated superhero films.
8 The Incredibles
Released By Disney Pixar
The Incredibles 6
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Pixar’s The Incredibles tells the story of a super-family forced to conceal their powers. Years after superheroes were outlawed, the superpowered Parr family live a normal life. However, after his secret vigilante work uncovers a conspiracy that points to the rise of a new supervillain, Mr. Incredible must rely on the help of his wife Elastigirl and their children, Violet and Dash, to save the world from the evil Syndrome.
Director Brad Bird Release Date November 5, 2004
Though not a comic book movie, The Incredibles is one of the most fun and dynamic superhero movies ever made. Released by Pixar in 2004, this film takes a lighter, more humorous approach to the superhero genre while still delivering a compelling story about family, responsibility, and the challenges of living up to one’s potential. The Parr family, each member with unique superpowers, navigates the complexities of everyday life while secretly battling villains in a world where superheroes have been outlawed.
Unlike many other superhero movies, The Incrediblesdoesn’t rely on dark themes or intense action to keep viewers engaged. Instead, it uses its vibrant animation and witty dialogue to create a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. The movie’s blend of humor, heart, and action makes it accessible to audiences of all ages, setting it apart from more serious entries in the genre.
7 Batman: Mask Of The Phantasm
Set In The Batman: TAS Universe
Batman: Mask of the Phantasm 3
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Batman: Mask of the Phantasm is the first movie in Bruce Timm, Eric Radomski, and Paul Dini’s DC Animated Universe, serving as a prequel to Batman: The Animated Series. It pits the Dark Knight against a mysterious vigilante known as the Phantasm, who forces Bruce Wayne to confront his crime-fighting crusade and his traumatic past. Iconic DC voice actors Kevin Conroy and Mark Hamill return as Batman and Joker, respectively.
Director eric radomski , Bruce W. Timm Release Date December 25, 1993
Batman: Mask of the Phantasm is often hailed as one of the greatest Batman movies ever. Released in 1993 as a continuation of the critically acclaimed Batman: The Animated Series, the film delves deep into Bruce Wayne’s past, examining the emotional struggles that shaped his journey to becoming the Dark Knight. The story revolves around a mysterious new vigilante, the Phantasm, who begins systematically eliminating Gotham’s crime bosses, leading Batman to confront a tragic love from his past.
While the animation style might seem slightly dated by today’s standards, Mask of the Phantasm remains an incredible achievement. It blends noir-inspired visuals from Batman: TAS with a complex, mature narrative comprising themes of loss, vengeance, and the sacrifices required of Batman. Kevin Conroy delivers a powerful performance as Bruce Wayne/Batman, and the film’s exploration of his internal conflict offers one of the most nuanced portrayals of the character ever.
6 The Dark Knight Returns Part 1
Based On Frank Miller’s Graphic Novel
Batman: The Dark Knight Returns, Part 1 Where to Watch
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Based on the dark and gritty graphic novel, The Dark Knight Returns Part One is an animated action film set in the same world as Batman: Year One. The film follows a retired Batman following the death of the last Robin ever taken under his wing, Jason Todd. Two-Face, having been released and supposedly reformed, and a sudden wave of major crimes forces Bruce Wayne to don the cowl once more as an aged and far more brutal Batman, but even takes on a new Robin protege named Carrie Kelley.
Director Jay Oliva Release Date September 25, 2012
The Dark Knight Returns Part 1 is a thrilling and faithful adaptation of Frank Miller’s iconic graphic novel. Set in a dystopian future where Bruce Wayne has retired from his role as Batman, the story follows his return to the cape and cowl as Gotham descends further into chaos. The film captures the grim tone of the source material, portraying an older, more cynical Batman who is forced to confront the brutal reality of a city overrun by crime.
While Part 1 is less bombastic than its sequel, it sets the stage for the epic conclusion by carefully building tension and reintroducing key characters like Harvey Dent and Carrie Kelley, the new Robin. The film’s animation style is reflective of the graphic novel’s bleak aesthetic, while the voice acting, particularly Peter Weller as Batman, adds depth to the character’s weary determination.
5 Spider-Man: Into The Spider-Verse
Based On Miles Morales
Spider-Man Into the Spider-Verse 13
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In the first animated Spider-Man film released in theaters, Miles Morales, a teenager who idolizes Spider-Man, gains Spider-Man powers of his own. While learning to use his new abilities, Miles crosses parallel dimensions and teams up with the different versions of Spider-Man from those dimensions to stop a threat to all reality.
Director Bob Persichetti , Peter Ramsey Release Date December 14, 2018
Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse is a groundbreaking animated film that redefined what superhero movies could be. Released in 2018, the movie introduced audiences to the Spider-Verse, bringing together different versions of Spider-Man from various dimensions. The story centers on Miles Morales, a teenager who becomes Spider-Man in his universe and must team up with other Spider-heroes to stop a threat that could destroy all realities.
Into the Spider-Verse’s novel approach to animation combined traditional techniques with cutting-edge technology, creating a visually stunning experience that feels like a comic book come to life. The storytelling is equally innovative, with a fast-paced narrative that balances humor, heart, and action. Into the Spider-Verse is captivating from start to finish, establishing a unique tone that sets it apart. The only minor weakness is that it needs to establish the multiverse and a new Spider-Man, so it cannot dive into the fun as quickly as the sequel.
Related What’s Next For Miles Morales? Everything We Know About Spider-Man: Beyond The Spider-Verse
Miles Morales and his allies will return for a third Spider-Verse adventure following the exciting ending of Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse.
4 Batman: Under The Red Hood
Based On DC Comics
Batman: Under the Red Hood 4
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A mysterious vigilante called the Red Hood shows up in Gotham City, implementing one method that Batman does not: the Red Hood kills his targets. Batman and Nightwing are hot on the Red Hood’s trail, but Batman makes a surprising revelation about the vigilante’s identity.
Director Brandon Vietti Release Date July 27, 2010
Batman: Under the Red Hood is one of the most emotionally resonant and captivating entries in the Batman animated filmography. The movie adapts the “Under the Hood” storyline from the comics, in which Batman confronts a mysterious vigilante wreaking havoc on Gotham’s criminal underworld. The story takes a heartbreaking turn when it is revealed that the Red Hood is Jason Todd, the former Robin who was brutally murdered by the Joker and has now returned from the dead, seeking revenge.
Under the Red Hood perfectly combines intense action with deep emotional stakes. The relationship between Batman and Jason is explored with great nuance, highlighting the pain and guilt that Bruce Wayne carries over Jason’s death. The voice acting is stellar, with Bruce Greenwood delivering a powerful performance as Batman and Jensen Ackles bringing a tragic complexity to the role of Jason Todd.
3 Justice League: Flashpoint Paradox
Set In The DC Animated Movie Universe
Justice League: The Flashpoint Paradox (2013)
Justice League: The Flashpoint Paradox revolves around Barry Allen, known as The Flash, who inadvertently creates an alternate timeline after going back in time to prevent his mother’s murder. Directed by Jay Oliva, the film features an altered reality where the Justice League is replaced by conflicting heroes and villains, with cataclysmic consequences. This animated feature showcases the complexities and ramifications of time travel within the DC Universe.
Director Jay Oliva Release Date July 30, 2013
Justice League: The Flashpoint Paradox is a standout entry in the DC animated movie universe, offering a thrilling and grim adaptation of the “Flashpoint” storyline. The film follows Barry Allen, the Flash, as he wakes up in an alternate timeline where the world is on the brink of destruction. In this reality, Thomas Wayne is Batman, Wonder Woman, and Aquaman are at war, and Superman is a government experiment. The movie is a dark and twisted take on the DC universe, with a gritty tone that sets it apart from other animated superhero films.
One of the most compelling aspects of Flashpoint Paradox is its exploration of the consequences of time travel and the ripple effects of Barry’s actions. The film’s portrayal of alternate versions of beloved characters is both fascinating and unsettling, especially the brutal version of Batman played by Thomas Wayne. In many ways, it is a superior rendition of DC’s live-action The Flash.
Related 10 Best Batman Moments You’ve Missed Out On If You Only Watch The Live-Action Movies
Many of the greatest Batman scenes ever adapted from DC Comics have not appeared in any of the live-action movies, but animated shows and movies.
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2 The Dark Knight Returns Part 2
Based On Frank Miller’s Graphic Novel
Batman: The Dark Knight Returns, Part 2
Batman: The Dark Knight Returns, Part 2 is an animated film directed by Jay Oliva. The story continues Bruce Wayne’s emergence from retirement as Batman to confront new threats. Set in a dystopian Gotham City, Batman faces challenges from familiar foes, the government, and the media. Voiced by Peter Weller as Batman, the film delves into themes of justice and heroism against a backdrop of societal unrest.
Director Jay Oliva Release Date January 3, 2013
The Dark Knight Returns Part 2 is the explosive conclusion to the two-part adaptation of Frank Miller’s seminal graphic novel. Picking up where Part 1 left off, this film continues the story of an older Bruce Wayne as he comes out of retirement to restore order to Gotham City. The stakes are raised as Batman faces off against his greatest enemies, including the Joker and, ultimately, Superman, in a battle that will determine the fate of Gotham.
The Dark Knight Part 2 is the superior half of the adaptation, delivering on the setup of Part 1 with a gripping narrative and intense action sequences. The film does an exceptional job of capturing the epic scale of the original comic, from the brutal showdown with the Joker to the climactic battle with Superman. The voice acting, animation, and direction all come together to create a powerful and memorable film that stays true to the source material.
1 Spider-Man: Across The Spider-Verse
Based On Miles Morales
Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse 14
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Miles Morales returns in Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, the sequel to Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse. With his identity still safe but “grounded” by his parents, Miles Morales is visited by his friend from another dimension, Gwen Stacy. Inviting him on a new adventure, Miles jumps at the opportunity but is seemingly accosted by an unknown assailant on his journey. Miles and Gwen will unite with new and old Spider-Heroes to face a villain of immeasurable power.
Director Joaquim Dos Santos , Kemp Powers , Justin K. Thompson Release Date June 2, 2023
Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse is the pinnacle of animated superhero cinema, surpassing all expectations set by its predecessor, Into the Spider-Verse. This film takes everything that made the original a groundbreaking success and amplifies it – delivering a richer, more complex narrative, visually stunning animation, and a deeper exploration of the multiverse. The story thrusts Miles Morales into a whirlwind of adventure, as he meets countless Spider-Man variants, each uniquely animated to reflect their distinct universes.
The emotional stakes are incredibly high, with Miles grappling with the responsibilities of being Spider-Man and the complexities of his identity and destiny. The film’s pacing allows for both intense action sequences and meaningful character development, making it more than just a visual spectacle. The voice acting is top-notch, and the soundtrack perfectly complements the film’s dynamic energy. Across the Spider-Verse masterfully balances humor, heart, and heroism, making it the best animated superhero movie ever created.
Upcoming DC Movie Releases
- Joker: Folie a Deux
Release Date October 4, 2024
- Superman (2025)
Release Date July 11, 2025
- Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow
Release Date June 26, 2026
- The Batman Part II
Release Date October 2, 2026