I was convinced superhero movies went downhill after “Endgame.” Marvel films lost that heroic spark. Shows like “Moon Knight” and “WandaVision” were really good, but many of the newer movies felt flat. I also never got into DC, so I wasn’t expecting much from them.
But this summer changed my mind. It’s been a great year for all movie genres, but superhero fans especially enjoyed two great movies, “Fantastic Four” and “Superman.”
I was first excited for “Fantastic Four,” mainly because Pedro Pascal was in it. I’ll never turn down a movie with him. But the story itself blew me away. The retro 50s/60s vibe mixed with futuristic touches created a world that felt familiar but still unique. You can’t help but fall in love with the Fantastic Four as a family. You can tell they aren’t perfect, especially as new parents and caregivers. But their struggles and arguments make them more real. The movie also asked a tough ethical question: Is it worth sacrificing one life to save everyone else? The characters’ reactions felt honest and believable, and the way the whole world came together at the end was powerful. You could sense they were desperate but also hopeful that things would work out.
“Superman,” meanwhile, surprised me. As someone who’s never been a big DC fan, I was skeptical, especially with Henry Cavill being replaced by David Corenswet. But Corenswet killed it. Like “Fantastic Four,” the movie focused on Superman’s humanity, his passions, and his family. And Krypto the superdog added a needed comedic touch. I will say, “Superman” had a better villain than “Fantastic Four.” Nicholas Hoult’s Lex Luthor was evil, manipulative and full of pure hatred for Superman. They didn’t try to make him likable, and it worked.
I honestly can’t pick a favorite. Both films tapped into what made superhero comics so timeless. They save the world, but they’re still human. If this is where superhero movies are headed, I’m excited for this new era of heroes.
Opinion articles express the views of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the entire Owl staff or of the university as a whole.
