‘Superman’ Lands Among the Highest-Rated DC Movies on Rotten Tomatoes – Here Are the Top 20

DC Comics has delivered a wide array of superhero films, from dark, gripping thrillers to vibrant, family-friendly adventures. Rotten Tomatoes’ Certified Fresh ratings help us pinpoint the cream of the crop, showcasing movies that have impressed critics with their bold stories and memorable characters.

This article ranks the top 20 DC Comics movies, all holding Certified Fresh status, based on their Tomatometer scores. These films highlight the diversity of DC’s cinematic world, blending action, emotion, and stunning visuals. Let’s dive into the list, starting with the lowest score and building up to the highest.

20. V for Vendetta (2005) – 73%

In a grim future London ruled by a fascist regime, ‘V for Vendetta’ follows the enigmatic V, played by Hugo Weaving, as he ignites a rebellion. Natalie Portman’s Evey transforms from bystander to ally, anchoring the film’s intense themes of freedom.

James McTeigue’s direction delivers striking visuals and a provocative story, though some find its political edge divisive. The iconic Guy Fawkes mask and explosive finale make it a memorable DC adaptation.

19. Batman (1989) – 77%

Tim Burton’s ‘Batman’ set a new tone for superhero films with its dark, gothic Gotham. Michael Keaton’s Bruce Wayne battles Jack Nicholson’s wild Joker, whose chaotic energy dominates the screen.

The film’s haunting style and bold design redefined Batman for a generation. While Nicholson’s performance overshadows at times, its eerie charm cements it as a DC classic.

18. Blue Beetle (2023) – 78%

‘Blue Beetle’ stars Xolo Maridueña as Jaime Reyes, a teen who gains powers from an alien scarab. Angel Manuel Soto’s direction infuses the film with humor, heart, and Mexican-American culture, making it a fresh superhero tale.

Maridueña’s charm carries the movie, though its plot stays simple. Its vibrant energy and family focus make it a standout in DC’s modern lineup.

17. Birds of Prey (and the Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn) (2020) – 79%

Margot Robbie’s Harley Quinn leads ‘Birds of Prey,’ a fast-paced, colorful romp where she joins forces with a fierce female crew against a Gotham villain. Cathy Yan’s direction embraces Harley’s chaotic vibe with stylish flair.

The ensemble, including Jurnee Smollett and Mary Elizabeth Winstead, adds spark, though the story can feel disjointed. Its bold energy makes it a fun DC gem.

16. Road to Perdition (2002) – 82%

Sam Mendes’ ‘Road to Perdition,’ a DC graphic novel adaptation, follows Tom Hanks as Mike Sullivan, a mob enforcer fleeing betrayal with his son. Paul Newman’s nuanced performance as a crime boss adds weight to this somber drama.

The film’s gorgeous visuals and emotional father-son bond elevate it. Its deliberate pace may not suit all, but its depth makes it a unique DC offering.

15. Batman Returns (1992) – 82%

Tim Burton’s ‘Batman Returns’ amps up the darkness, with Michael Keaton’s Batman facing Danny DeVito’s grotesque Penguin and Michelle Pfeiffer’s captivating Catwoman. The film’s gothic tone and quirky humor shine.

Pfeiffer and DeVito steal scenes, though the plot can feel crowded. Its bold style and iconic characters make it a fan-favorite DC sequel.

14. Batman: Mask of the Phantasm (1993) – 83%

‘Batman: Mask of the Phantasm’ is an animated gem, with Kevin Conroy’s Batman tackling a mysterious vigilante and past heartbreak in a noir-styled Gotham. Mark Hamill’s Joker adds menace to this tragic tale.

Eric Radomski and Bruce Timm’s direction delivers mature storytelling and sleek visuals. Its emotional heft rivals live-action Batman films, earning it a top DC spot.

13. Superman (2025) – 85%

James Gunn’s ‘Superman’ stars David Corenswet as Clark Kent, balancing his Kryptonian roots with his life as a Daily Planet reporter. With Rachel Brosnahan’s Lois Lane and Nicholas Hoult’s Lex Luthor, it blends action, humor, and heart.

Critics praise its hopeful tone and Corenswet’s earnest performance, earning an 85% Tomatometer score and 96% Popcornmeter from over 500 verified ratings, though some note an overstuffed plot. It’s a strong start for the new DC Universe.

12. The Batman (2022) – 85%

Matt Reeves’ ‘The Batman’ casts Robert Pattinson as a young Bruce Wayne, hunting a killer in a gritty, rain-soaked Gotham. This noir thriller, with Zoë Kravitz’s Catwoman and Colin Farrell’s Penguin, feels raw and intense.

Pattinson’s brooding performance anchors the film, though its length challenges some. Its ambitious scope and dark style rank it among DC’s boldest.

11. Batman Begins (2005) – 85%

Christopher Nolan’s ‘Batman Begins’ reinvents Batman with Christian Bale as Bruce Wayne, trained to fight crime by Liam Neeson’s mentor. The film explores Bruce’s origins with a grounded, psychological lens.

Bale’s intensity and Michael Caine’s warm Alfred shine, setting a new standard for superhero films. Its smart narrative and action make it a DC cornerstone.

10. Superman: The Movie (1978) – 86%

‘Superman: The Movie’ stars Christopher Reeve as the Man of Steel, sent from Krypton to save Earth. Richard Donner’s direction blends humor, heart, and spectacle, making it a cultural touchstone.

Reeve’s charismatic performance and the film’s nostalgic tone captivate, earning an 86% Tomatometer score, though some effects feel dated. Its joyful spirit makes it a DC legend.

9. The Dark Knight Rises (2012) – 87%

Christopher Nolan’s ‘The Dark Knight Rises’ concludes his Batman trilogy, with Christian Bale’s Bruce Wayne facing Tom Hardy’s brutal Bane. The film explores sacrifice and redemption in a sprawling epic.

Anne Hathaway’s Catwoman adds flair, though some find the plot complex. Its ambitious scope and emotional payoff make it a powerful DC closer.

8. A History of Violence (2005) – 88%

David Cronenberg’s ‘A History of Violence,’ a DC graphic novel adaptation, stars Viggo Mortensen as Tom Stall, whose quiet life crumbles after a violent act exposes his past. The film probes themes of identity and brutality.

Mortensen’s chilling performance and Cronenberg’s taut direction grip viewers, though its darkness isn’t for all. This unconventional DC story stands out for its raw power.

7. Superman II (1980) – 88%

‘Superman II’ pits Christopher Reeve’s Superman against Kryptonian villains led by General Zod, while balancing his love for Lois Lane. Richard Lester’s direction mixes action, romance, and light humor.

Reeve’s warmth carries the film, despite some campy moments. Its thrilling battles and heartfelt story make it a cherished DC classic.

6. The LEGO Batman Movie (2017) – 89%

‘The LEGO Batman Movie’ is a riotous take on the Dark Knight, with Will Arnett’s hilarious Batman learning to work with others. Chris McKay’s direction packs in clever gags and vibrant animation.

The film’s humor and surprising heart appeal to all ages. Its playful spin on Batman lore makes it a top DC animated hit.

5. Shazam! (2019) – 90%

‘Shazam!’ delivers pure joy, with Zachary Levi as a teen who transforms into a superhero. David F. Sandberg’s direction blends humor and warmth, following Billy Batson’s journey in a foster family.

Levi’s goofy charm and the film’s light tone make it a delight. Its focus on fun and family sets it apart in DC’s universe.

4. The Suicide Squad (2021) – 90%

James Gunn’s ‘The Suicide Squad’ is a chaotic, bloody blast, with Margot Robbie’s Harley Quinn, Idris Elba’s Bloodsport, and John Cena’s Peacemaker on a wild mission. Gunn’s sharp humor and bold style shine.

The ensemble’s chemistry and over-the-top action make it a standout. Its anarchic vibe cements it as a modern DC favorite.

3. Teen Titans GO! to the Movies (2018) – 92%

‘Teen Titans GO! to the Movies’ is a clever animated comedy, with the Teen Titans chasing stardom in a meta Hollywood adventure. Voiced by Greg Cipes and Scott Menville, the team delivers laughs aplenty.

Peter Rida Michail and Aaron Horvath’s direction hides sharp wit in silly fun. Its charm and intelligence make it a surprising DC gem.

2. Wonder Woman (2017) – 93%

Gal Gadot’s ‘Wonder Woman,’ directed by Patty Jenkins, follows Amazon princess Diana in World War I, fighting to save humanity. Gadot’s powerful performance and the film’s earnest tone inspire.

The action thrills and the story resonates, though the ending feels standard. Its celebration of heroism makes it a DC icon.

1. The Dark Knight (2008) – 94%

Christopher Nolan’s ‘The Dark Knight’ is a gripping crime saga, with Christian Bale’s Batman facing Heath Ledger’s mesmerizing Joker. The film dives into chaos and morality with unmatched intensity.

Ledger’s iconic performance and Nolan’s masterful direction redefine superhero cinema. Its depth and stellar cast make it DC’s finest hour.

Which DC movie tops your list, or did I miss a favorite? Share your thoughts in the comments!