10 Worst Superhero Movies That Aren’t from Marvel or DC
Superhero movies have exploded in popularity, with larger-than-life characters dominating theaters. While Marvel and DC often lead the charge, other studios have tried their own spins on the genre, sometimes with disastrous results.
These films, free from the Marvel or DC banners, still managed to flop spectacularly. Here’s my ranked list of the 10 worst superhero movies from outside those universes, counting down from the least bad to the absolute worst.
10. Spawn (1997)
Michael Jai White plays a resurrected antihero in this dark, gritty adaptation of Todd McFarlane’s comic. The ambition is there, but the dated CGI and messy plot make it a chore.
John Leguizamo’s wild performance as the villain can’t overcome the film’s cheap look and uneven tone. It’s a cult classic for some, but a disaster for most.
9. The Meteor Man (1993)
Robert Townsend stars, directs, and writes this tale of a teacher gaining powers from a meteor to fight crime. Its heart shines through, but the low budget and uneven tone hold it back.
The sitcom-like vibe and dated effects make it feel like a stretched-out TV episode. Even with James Earl Jones in the cast, it’s a sweet but forgettable attempt.
8. My Super Ex-Girlfriend (2006)
Uma Thurman plays a superheroine who gets revenge after a breakup in this failed rom-com. The idea could’ve worked, but the humor feels forced and the stereotypes are tired.
Luke Wilson and Eddie Izzard can’t lift the weak script or shoddy visuals. It’s a movie that tries to blend romance and superpowers but crashes on both fronts.
7. Zoom (2006)
Tim Allen leads as a washed-up hero mentoring kid superheroes in this family-friendly dud. The concept had potential for fun, but the bland story and outdated CGI kill the vibe.
Courtney Cox and Chevy Chase add star power, but the predictable plot and weak action scenes bore. It’s a superhero film with no energy or charm.
6. The Specials (2000)
This low-budget comedy follows a quirky superhero team on their day off, starring Rob Lowe and Jamie Kennedy. The mockumentary style aims for humor but feels flat and aimless.
The cast tries hard, but the thin plot and cheap production values don’t help. It’s a niche idea that never finds its footing or audience.
5. Superhero Movie (2008)
Drake Bell stars in this parody of superhero films, targeting hits like ‘Spider-Man.’ Spoofs can be great, but this one relies on lazy gags and recycled humor.
Leslie Nielsen brings some charm, but the script lacks cleverness or originality. It’s a comedy that fails to deliver laughs or memorable moments.
4. Max Steel (2016)
Based on a toy line, Ben Winchell plays a teen who merges with an alien robot to become a hero. The premise sounds exciting, but the execution is a cliché-ridden mess.
The effects look cheap, and the story feels like a rip-off of better teen hero films. Even fans of the toys found little to love here.
3. The Spirit (2008)
Frank Miller directs this take on Will Eisner’s comic, with Gabriel Macht as a masked crimefighter. Its over-the-top visuals aim for ‘Sin City’ style but feel cartoonish and hollow.
Samuel L. Jackson and Scarlett Johansson can’t save the flat dialogue or muddled plot. It’s a bold attempt that falls apart spectacularly.
2. Sky High (2005)
This teen comedy follows a kid at a superhero school, starring Michael Angarano and Kurt Russell. The lighthearted tone wants to be fun, but the predictable story and cheesy effects flop.
Despite a solid cast, including Mary Elizabeth Winstead, the film feels like a low-rent TV movie. It’s a missed chance at something fresh and exciting.
1. Steel (1997)
Shaquille O’Neal stars as a soldier turned armored hero in this action misfire. The concept, inspired by a non-DC comic, had potential, but the execution is painfully clunky.
The effects are laughable, and the story lacks depth or stakes. Even Shaq’s charisma can’t save this forgettable mess.
Which of these superhero flops surprised you the most, or did I miss an even worse one? Share your take in the comments!