Fans Rank the Top 10 Superhero Movies of All Time

Superhero movies are more popular than ever, even though many high-profile directors and actors often criticize them for lacking artistic value. In reality, most viewers aren’t seeking deep artistic experiences when picking a movie; they’re looking for entertainment.

This is clearly reflected in our next list. Tons of fans voted on Ranker for their favorite superhero movies of all time. The list features plenty of action, comedy, and all the expected favorites. Let’s find out which movie received the most votes.

10. ‘Deadpool’ (2016) (8731 Votes)

The first ‘Deadpool’ movie garnered massive attention for several reasons. It stood out from typical superhero films with its blend of action, comedy, and irreverence. The R-rating allowed for a mature and unrestricted portrayal, resonating well with adult audiences. Ryan Reynolds’ performance as Deadpool was widely praised, with many fans feeling he was born for the role.

Despite its edgy humor, ‘Deadpool’ was highly regarded, securing an extraordinarily high ranking on a list featuring over 160 superhero movies.

9. ‘Iron Man’ (2008) (15907 Votes)

The movie that started it all… 16 years later, the MCU boasts over 30 films. This movie also revitalized Robert Downey Jr.’s career, propelling him back to the pinnacle as Hollywood’s favorite star.

8. ‘Thor: Ragnarok’ (2017) (15910 Votes)

No one could have predicted that Taika Waititi would deliver both one of the best and one of the most controversial MCU movies. ‘Thor: Ragnarok’ was the perfect blend of heartfelt storytelling, action, and comedy, revitalizing Thor’s franchise, which had previously been marked by mediocre films.

7. ‘Captain America: Civil War’ (2016) (17846 Votes)

‘Captain America: Civil War’ is the gold standard for MCU movies. It was celebrated for its impressive execution, delivering an engaging superhero blockbuster while exploring complex moral dilemmas. Notably, it was the first MCU movie that dared to pit superheroes against each other.

6. ‘Logan’ (2017) (17928 Votes)

Wolverine has made numerous appearances across various projects, and he’s set to return in the upcoming ‘Deadpool & Wolverine.’ However, the standout portrayal of the character comes from James Mangold’s ‘Logan.’ The film earned praise for its emotional depth, thoughtful depiction of superhero action amidst violence, and its departure from genre conventions.

5. ‘Captain America: The Winter Soldier’ (2014) (17978 Votes)

‘Captain America: The Winter Soldier’ earned acclaim for various reasons. Critics lauded its suspenseful and politically astute storyline, as well as its excellent integration within the Avengers canon. The film was praised for prioritizing old-school action, character development, and suspense over CGI spectacle. It’s often likened to the ‘Metal Gear Solid’ video-game franchise, exploring themes of sacrificing personal freedoms for perceived security.

4. ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ (2014) (18144 Votes)

The high ranking of ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ genuinely surprised me. However, Gunn achieved something remarkable with the team: he turned relatively unknown characters into a billion-dollar franchise.

3. ‘The Avengers’ (2012) (186799 Votes)

The most ambitious crossover ever. Critics praised the genuine and well-developed character interactions, despite the fantastical setting. “The Avengers” stood out as a superior entry in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, thanks to its engaging script, strong performances, humor, and well-executed action sequences.

2. ‘Avengers: Infinity War’ (2018) (18731 Votes)

‘Infinity War’ accomplished what few superhero crossovers do: effectively handling a vast ensemble of Marvel characters. Each hero and heroine had their moment to shine without overcrowding or confusion. The film’s uncertain ending, reminiscent of “The Empire Strikes Back” cliffhanger, marked it as a high point in the MCU.

1. ‘The Dark Knight’ (2008) (22373 Votes)

‘The Dark Knight’ stands as the sole DC movie on this list, yet it claims the top spot. Its influence on the superhero genre and filmmaking at large is profound. Setting a new standard for storytelling, character depth, and thematic exploration in superhero films, it left an indelible mark. Additionally, it introduced us to one of the most iconic live-action portrayals of the Joker, further embedding the character in mainstream culture.

What’s your take on the list? Share your thoughts in the comments below!