15 Marvel Characters That Deserve Their Own Movie

The Marvel Cinematic Universe has brought countless comic book characters to life, turning lesser-known names into global icons. With over 80 years of stories, Marvel’s roster is packed with heroes and anti-heroes who haven’t yet had their chance to shine solo on the big screen.

I’ve picked characters whose unique powers, rich backstories, or untapped potential make them perfect for their own films. From cosmic champions to street-level vigilantes, these heroes could bring fresh energy to the MCU.

Nova

Richard Rider, the cosmic hero known as Nova, is a human granted incredible powers by the Nova Corps, Marvel’s space-faring police force. His story begins when a dying Corps member passes on a helmet that gives him superhuman strength, flight, and energy projection. Think of him as Marvel’s answer to Green Lantern, but with a gritty, working-class edge.

A Nova film could explore his rise from a regular teen to a galactic protector, especially after Thanos destroys his homeworld, Xandar, in ‘Avengers: Infinity War’ (2018). The mix of cosmic battles and personal growth would make for a thrilling space epic. Fans have been clamoring for Rider’s debut, and his ties to the Guardians of the Galaxy could set up exciting crossovers.

Captain Britain

Brian Braddock, aka Captain Britain, is a nerdy aristocrat turned mystical champion of the United Kingdom. Chosen by the wizard Merlyn after a near-fatal accident, he wields superhuman strength and a magical amulet, protecting Britain and beyond. His ties to the X-Men through his sister, Betsy Braddock (Psylocke), add depth.

A solo film could lean into a multiverse-spanning adventure, blending Arthurian lore with superhero action. Picture a story where Braddock battles threats across dimensions, with cameos from Excalibur team members. His British flair and unique origin would offer a fresh take on the MCU’s hero lineup.

Spider-Woman

Jessica Drew, Spider-Woman, isn’t just a female Spider-Man. Her powers—super strength, bio-electric blasts, and pheromone manipulation—stem from a childhood experiment gone wrong. Her ties to SHIELD and HYDRA give her a complex, spy-thriller vibe.

A Spider-Woman movie could dive into her covert operations, exploring her struggle to balance heroism with her shadowy past. After her animated role in ‘Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse’ (2023), a live-action debut feels overdue. Olivia Wilde was once linked to a Sony project, so there’s hope for her MCU arrival.

Moon Knight

Marc Spector, Moon Knight, is a former mercenary resurrected by the Egyptian god Khonshu to become a vigilante. His multiple personalities and supernatural powers—like enhanced strength under the moon—make him a dark, complex hero. He starred in the gritty series ‘Moon Knight’ (2022).

While his show was a hit, a big-screen outing could amplify his cinematic potential. Imagine a film delving deeper into his psychological struggles, with high-stakes action against a mystical villain. Oscar Isaac’s intense performance proved Moon Knight can carry a solo project with edge.

Squirrel Girl

Doreen Green, Squirrel Girl, might sound like a joke with her squirrel-like agility and ability to communicate with rodents, but she’s defeated heavyweights like Thanos. Her upbeat personality and meta humor shone in comics like ‘Unbeatable Squirrel Girl’.

A Squirrel Girl film could be a lighthearted, self-aware comedy, perfect for the MCU’s shift toward varied tones after ‘She-Hulk: Attorney at Law’ (2022). Her quirky powers and knack for outsmarting villains would make for a fun, family-friendly adventure. Milana Vayntrub was once cast for a shelved series, hinting at her potential.

Namor

Namor, the Sub-Mariner, is Atlantis’s mutant king, torn between protecting his underwater kingdom and clashing with the surface world. His super strength, flight, and aquatic abilities make him a powerhouse. He debuted in ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’ (2022), played by Tenoch Huerta.

A solo Namor film could explore his anti-hero journey, diving into Atlantis’s lore and his tense relationships with heroes like the Fantastic Four. Universal’s rights to his solo projects are tricky, but a miniseries or team-up film could showcase his regal intensity and unique world.

Gambit

Remy LeBeau, Gambit, is a charming mutant thief from New Orleans who charges objects with explosive energy. His past with the Thieves’ Guild and later X-Men membership give him a rogue’s edge. He had a brief role in ‘X-Men Origins: Wolverine’ (2009) and in ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ (2024).

A Gambit movie could blend heist thrills with mutant action, focusing on his redemption arc. Fans have long wanted a proper adaptation, especially after Channing Tatum’s passion for the role. His Cajun flair and kinetic powers would light up the screen in a standalone story.

Silver Surfer

Norrin Radd, the Silver Surfer, is a cosmic wanderer who sacrifices his freedom to serve Galactus, only to rebel and protect Earth. His silver board and energy manipulation make him visually stunning. He appeared in ‘Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer’ (2007), voiced by Laurence Fishburne.

A solo film could reimagine his origin, tying him to the upcoming ‘Fantastic Four’ (2025). Picture cosmic visuals and a heartfelt story of redemption. His ties to the Fantastic Four and cosmic MCU arcs make him a prime candidate for a blockbuster.

Blue Marvel

Adam Brashear, Blue Marvel, is a former Marine turned superhero after a reactor explosion grants him godlike strength and energy powers. As a Black hero in the 1960s, he faced racism that forced his retirement, adding real-world weight to his story.

A Blue Marvel film could tackle his struggle with identity and power, blending cosmic action with social commentary. His ability to rival Sentry in strength makes him a heavy hitter for the MCU. A TV series might also suit his layered backstory, exploring America’s complex history.

Sentry

Sentry, aka Robert Reynolds, is Marvel’s troubled Superman, with near-limitless strength and a dark alter ego, The Void. His mental health struggles and mysterious origins add depth. He’s rumored to appear in ‘Thunderbolts*’ (2025), played by Lewis Pullman.

A Sentry film could explore his dual nature, balancing epic battles with psychological drama. His raw power and inner conflict would make for a gripping, mature MCU story. If his ‘Thunderbolts*’ role lands well, a solo project could cement him as a fan favorite.

Beta Ray Bill

Beta Ray Bill, a monstrous-looking alien, proves his worth by wielding Thor’s hammer, Mjolnir, and later his own, Stormbreaker. His superhuman strength and warrior spirit make him a cosmic hero. He had a cameo in ‘Thor: Ragnarok’ (2017).

A solo film could trace his journey from outcast to champion, exploring the Nine Realms. His unique design and ties to Thor’s mythology would bring a fresh cosmic angle. Fans love his underdog story, and a movie could showcase his epic battles.

Yelena Belova

Yelena Belova, a Black Widow trained in the Red Room, is Natasha Romanoff’s fierce “sister.” Her spy skills and sharp wit shone in ‘Black Widow’ (2021) and ‘Hawkeye’ (2021), played by Florence Pugh. She’s set to return in ‘Thunderbolts*’ (2025).

A Yelena film could follow her post-‘Black Widow’ mission to free other Widows, blending espionage with emotional depth. Pugh’s charisma makes her a standout, and a solo story could explore her quest for purpose. Her grounded action would fit the MCU’s street-level vibe.

Cloak and Dagger

Tyrone Johnson and Tandy Bowen, Cloak and Dagger, are teen runaways with powers—teleportation and light daggers—tied to a dark experiment. Their bond and gritty Manhattan setting drove their series ‘Cloak & Dagger’ (2018-2019).

A movie could reboot their story, focusing on their troubled pasts and crime-fighting partnership. Their unique powers and interpersonal drama would offer a darker, grounded MCU tale. A film could expand their world, introducing new villains and deeper emotional stakes.

Brother Voodoo

Jericho Drumm, Brother Voodoo, is a Haitian hero who channels mystical powers as the Sorcerer Supreme. His voodoo-based magic and connection to spirits make him stand out. He’s yet to appear in the MCU but has a rich comic history.

A Brother Voodoo film could blend horror and magic, exploring Haitian folklore and colonialism. His spellbinding powers would add diversity to the MCU’s mystic lineup. A solo project could spotlight his rise as a protector, with vibrant visuals and cultural depth.

X-23

Laura Kinney, X-23, is Wolverine’s clone daughter, with his healing factor and claws. Dafne Keen’s fierce performance in ‘Logan’ (2017) and recently in ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ (2024) made her a fan favorite. She’s a mutant with a brutal yet heartfelt story.

An X-23 film could follow Laura’s journey as a young hero in the MCU’s mutant era. Her mix of raw action and emotional growth would resonate with fans. Keen’s return could anchor a gritty, character-driven story, building on her ‘Logan’ legacy.

Which Marvel hero do you want to see star in their own movie, or did I miss a hidden gem? Drop your picks in the comments!