Ranking the Best DC Movies: From Dark Knights to Superheroes!

Since the release of "Batman Begins" in 2005, DC movies have become a staple in the superhero genre. With their unique approach to storytelling and complex characters, DC movies have captured the hearts of audiences around the world.

In this article, we will take a closer look at the DC movies released since 2005 and rank them in order from worst to best.

From Dark Knights to Superheroes: A Definitive Ranking of DC Movies!

1. "Green Lantern" (2011)

Starting off our list is "Green Lantern," a movie that was highly anticipated but ultimately fell flat. The film follows Hal Jordan, a test pilot who becomes the first human to join the Green Lantern Corps, a group of intergalactic warriors who use power rings to create anything they can imagine.

The movie suffered from poor writing, bad CGI, and a lack of chemistry between the actors. It was a critical and commercial failure, and plans for a sequel were canceled.

2. "Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice" (2016)

Next up is "Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice," a movie that was heavily criticized for its convoluted plot and dark tone. The film follows Batman and Superman as they clash over their differing ideologies, but are eventually forced to team up to stop a common enemy.

Despite strong performances from Ben Affleck and Henry Cavill, the movie was widely panned for its messy plot and underdeveloped characters. It did manage to make a decent profit at the box office, but was a disappointment compared to the high expectations set by its marketing campaign.

3. "Suicide Squad" (2016)

"Suicide Squad" follows a team of villains who are recruited by the government to carry out dangerous missions in exchange for reduced prison sentences. The movie had a great concept and an all-star cast, but suffered from poor writing and editing.

The characters were underdeveloped and the plot was confusing, leading to a messy and unsatisfying film. However, Margot Robbie's performance as Harley Quinn was a standout and helped set the stage for her own spin-off movie.

4. "Justice League" (2017)

"Justice League" was meant to be the culmination of the DC Extended Universe, bringing together Batman, Wonder Woman, Aquaman, The Flash, and Cyborg to fight the evil Steppenwolf. 

However, the movie was plagued by production issues and a last-minute change of directors, resulting in a messy and disjointed final product. Despite this, the film had some redeeming qualities, including strong performances from Gal Gadot and Jason Momoa, and some thrilling action sequences.

5. "Man of Steel" (2013)

"Man of Steel" was the first movie in the DC Extended Universe and marked the beginning of a new era for Superman. The film tells the origin story of Clark Kent, from his birth on the planet Krypton to his adoption by the Kents and his eventual discovery of his powers.

While the movie was criticized for its dark and brooding tone, it was also praised for its stunning visuals and strong performances from Henry Cavill and Michael Shannon.

6. "Wonder Woman 1984" (2020)

"Wonder Woman 1984" was a highly anticipated sequel to the critically acclaimed "Wonder Woman" (2017), but unfortunately did not live up to its predecessor. The film takes place in the 1980s and sees Diana Prince (Wonder Woman) fighting against two villains who have gained magical powers.

While the movie had some fun moments and strong performances from Gal Gadot and Kristen Wiig, it suffered from a convoluted plot and a lack of emotional depth. The film also received criticism for its inconsistent tone and overuse of CGI.

7. "Shazam!" (2019)

"Shazam!" follows the story of Billy Batson, a teenage foster kid who gains the ability to transform into an adult superhero (played by Zachary Levi) by saying the word "Shazam!" The film takes a more lighthearted approach to the superhero genre, with a focus on comedy and heart.

While the film was not a box office smash, it was a critical success and praised for its fun tone, likable characters, and heartwarming themes about family and belonging.

8. "Aquaman" (2018)

"Aquaman" tells the story of Arthur Curry (played by Jason Momoa), the half-human, half-Atlantean prince who must claim his rightful place as king of the underwater kingdom of Atlantis.

The film had a grand scope, with breathtaking visuals and thrilling action sequences, but was criticized for its over-reliance on CGI and weak villain. However, Jason Momoa's charismatic performance and the film's unique world-building made it an enjoyable watch for fans of the superhero genre.

9. "Batman Begins" (2005)

"Batman Begins" marked the start of Christopher Nolan's acclaimed Dark Knight trilogy, and is often credited with revitalizing the Batman franchise after the disastrous "Batman and Robin" (1997). The film tells the origin story of Bruce Wayne (played by Christian Bale), from his childhood trauma to his journey to become the Dark Knight.

While the film was praised for its grounded approach to the superhero genre and strong performances, it was also criticized for its slow pace and lack of action. Nonetheless, "Batman Begins" set the stage for the iconic sequels that followed.

10. "Joker" (2019)

"Joker" is a standalone movie that explores the origin story of the iconic Batman villain. The film follows Arthur Fleck (played by Joaquin Phoenix), a failed comedian who descends into madness and becomes the Joker.

The movie received critical acclaim for its gritty tone, powerful performances, and commentary on mental illness and society. However, it also received criticism for its controversial depiction of violence and the Joker's sympathetic portrayal. Nonetheless, "Joker" was a bold and thought-provoking addition to the DC movie universe.

11. "The Dark Knight Rises" (2012)

"The Dark Knight Rises" concluded Christopher Nolan's Dark Knight trilogy, with Batman (Christian Bale) facing off against the villainous Bane (Tom Hardy) and a city in chaos. 

The film had a grand scale and some impressive action sequences, but was criticized for its convoluted plot and underutilization of some characters. Despite this, the film was praised for its strong performances, emotional depth, and satisfying conclusion to the trilogy.

12. "Wonder Woman" (2017)

Finally, we come to "Wonder Woman," a movie that was a game-changer for the DC Extended Universe. The film tells the origin story of Diana Prince (Gal Gadot), the Amazonian warrior princess who becomes the hero Wonder Woman.

The movie received critical acclaim for its thrilling action sequences, strong performances, and empowering themes of female empowerment and compassion. It was a box office success and helped set the stage for the future of the DC movie universe.

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Conclusion

DC movies have had their ups and downs over the years, with some major successes and some major disappointments. However, what sets the DC movies apart from their Marvel counterparts is their willingness to take risks and explore complex themes and characters.

Whether you prefer the gritty realism of "The Dark Knight" or the fun and lightheartedness of "Shazam!," there is a DC movie for everyone.