Top 10 Black Superhero Movies as Ranked by Fans

In the past, comic books and superhero movies lacked diversity, but times have changed for the better. Now, there’s more diversity in this beloved genre of fiction.

That’s why fans have gathered vote for the top 10 superhero movies that highlight black superheroes. Some results may surprise you, while others were expected.

10. ‘X-Men’ (2000)

‘X-Men’ does not center exclusively on a black superhero, but it prominently features Storm, portrayed by Halle Berry. This was a significant moment as Storm is one of the most powerful and prominent black superheroes in the Marvel Universe. She has since become a central figure in the X-Men series, known for her ability to control the weather.

9. ‘Captain America: The Winter Soldier’ (2014)

‘The Winter Soldier’ doesn’t solely focus on a black superhero, but it did introduce Sam Wilson as Falcon to the MCU. This was a pivotal moment because, as many know, Sam Wilson eventually takes on the mantle of Captain America. He’s slated to star in his own movie next year titled ‘Brave New World.’

8. ‘Meteor Man’ (1993)

‘Meteor Man’ marks the first non-DC and non-Marvel movie on this list, but it won’t be the last. Starring Robert Townsend, this superhero comedy, though more modest compared to today’s blockbuster films, made history as one of the earliest movies centered on a black superhero.

7. ‘Hancock’ (2008)

I have a mixed relationship with ‘Hancock.’ While I loved the premise, I was disappointed that the story didn’t continue or explore more origins. Despite being “critically mauled” upon release, ‘Hancock’ still ranked quite high.

6. ‘The Incredibles’ (2004)

‘The Incredibles’ includes Frozone, Bob’s best friend who can create ice from humidity, voiced by Samuel L. Jackson. However, I’m not convinced this movie should be on this list, and I would personally omit it altogether. This ranking is one I strongly disagree with.

5. ‘Spawn’ (1997)

Spawn isn’t your typical superhero, but it remains iconic. Michael Jai White portrayed Al Simmons, aka Spawn, marking one of the earliest depictions of a black antihero on-screen. Despite critical panning, the film is legendary for its impressive use of practical effects. Personally, I’d still rank it below Spider-Verse, though.

4. ‘Spider-Man: Into The Spider-Verse’ (2018)

This movie deserves a higher spot on this list. ‘Into The Spider-Verse’ significantly advanced African-American representation in animated superhero media and revitalized the Spider-Man franchise overall. Miles Morales, who is more popular among younger audiences than Peter Parker, is the son of an African-American father and a Puerto Rican mother from Brooklyn, New York. His background makes him an African American Latino, offering a dual representation in the superhero world.

3. ‘Blade II’ (2002)

‘Blade II’ saw Wesley Snipes returning to reprise his role as Eric Brooks and enjoyed success at the box office. However, despite following a similar formula to its predecessor, it didn’t quite capture the same success and charm. This may explain its lower ranking.

2. ‘Blade’ (1998)

No explanation needed here. The original ‘Blade’ movie got everything right: the action, the star power, the dark and gritty atmosphere—it set the gold standard for comic book adaptations of its time. Marvel filed for bankruptcy in 1996, but ‘Blade’ (1998) set them on the path to redemption—not just financially, but also in the eyes of Hollywood and the public. Not only was ‘Blade’ a financial success, but it also laid the groundwork for making an obscure character mainstream, leveraging an actor’s strengths, and creating relatable superhero stories.

1. ‘Black Panther’ (2018)

‘Black Panther’ wasn’t just a film; it became a cultural phenomenon, marking a significant moment for African-Americans who finally felt represented in the MCU. It inspired social movements and even became the subject of memes. Chadwick Boseman’s portrayal left an indelible mark in the cinematic universe, despite his untimely passing from colon cancer.

The movie not only impacted the MCU but also resonated beyond it, bringing awareness to Wakanda’s rich culture and significance. In my view, it deserves a higher ranking.

You can check out the full list on Ranker.

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