While comic book adaptations are not always true to the source material, in some cases they improve on it. The criteria for judging a genre this diverse are naturally difficult to select, as many of these films are great for different reasons, but in general terms, what makes an adaptation great is its cultural impact, its credible narrative, and of course, how faithfully it follows the creator’s vision. Below we include our list of the best of the best.
(Author’s note: Only live-action films were considered for these rankings for various reasons.)
21. Unbreakable (2000)
Shyamalan’s greatest work is a comic book put to the screen. Only because Unbreakable is not actually based on a comic book drops it to 21st on this list.
Despite its slow and deliberate pace, Unbreakable is a masterpiece of the superhero sub-genre, combining all of the essential elements of one. The hero, portrayed subtly and perfectly by Bruce Willis, progresses from a man who has no purpose to a man who realizes and ultimately fulfills his purpose. His invulnerability and sense ability are combined with a longing to save people which propels him to fulfill his destiny. This journey is mirrored by his opposite, Elijah Price (Samuel L. Jackson), a man who suffers from a disability which makes him extremely vulnerable to injury. Price’s character progression, much of which takes place off screen, illustrates the perfect counterpart to Willis’s David Dunn. With excellent supporting performances by Robin Wright Penn and Spencer Treat Clark, this film is nearly flawless.
20. Watchmen (2009)
Zach Snyder adapts one of the most critically acclaimed graphic novels of all time with much success. Although the story was not identical to the original, that is the case for most adaptations, as translating an identical story would be as uninteresting as it is difficult. Snyder delivers an exciting mystery with unexpected twists that create a truly original film (for those who have not read the graphic novel). The recreation of an alternate version of history incorporates much of what we remember about those times, while introducing fantastic events in time that only happen in the story. Overall, Watchmen is an exciting, funny, and thought provoking look at the world and the super-heroes that may have been.
19. Hellboy II: The Golden Army (2008)
An excellent follow-up to Guillermo del Toro’s great Hellboy, this master of fantasy improves on the original in one aspect, but fails to top it in all others. The one improvement of Hellboy II over the original is the absence of an agent as a main character. Those agents are fit for killing in every scene, like ‘red-shirts’ in the original Star Trek.
In Hellboy II, Del Toro delivers great fantasy, replete with colorful characters and a compelling (if plot-hole filled) story. The primary villain is sympathetic and endearing in parts, but is also intimidating, even for the son of Satan. The main flaw of the film, however, is the character and relationship depth of Hellboy (Ron Pearlman) and Liz Sherman (Selma Blair) which falls short of the complexity and compassion of the first installment.
18. Dick Tracy (1990)
Warren Beatty delivers a visually stunning, if shallow, interpretation of the 1930s era detective. This film, which seems to have visually inspired Robert Rodriguez’s Sin City, attempts to draw from the color palette of the comic that inspired the film. The style and mood of the film could be characters themselves, as they steal the spotlight from every scene. These two aspects of the film are crucial to any comic book inspired film, and so Dick Tracy deserves a spot on this list.
17. Batman (1989)
The first modern Batman, made iconic by Tim Burton, seemed destined to be the standard for all future Batman films. Burton created a haunting and dark (he’s pretty good at that) Gotham City which was memorable and popular enough to spawn three sequels. Jack Nicholson also seemed to epitomize the role of the Joker. The odd flaw of the Joker in this film is his origin seemed to imply that he was some sort of combination of the Joker and Two Face. Despite that, Nicholson as the Joker was both funny and fearsome, which was ideal for the character. Lastly, Keaton was strong as Batman, a role that he seemed born to play.
16. Incredible Hulk (2008)
An exciting ‘re-imagining’ which followed Ang Lee’s slow and thoughtful Hulk, The Incredible Hulk delivers on the comic action that most fans were looking for from the prior film. Capitalizing on the story arc of the wandering Bruce Banner on a quest to cure himself, this version is a welcomed departure from origin stories that have been in vogue. Character takes a back seat to the action, but is still present as the relationships between Banner, Betty Ross and General Ross are convincing and touching.
15. 300 (2006)
This phallic filled mangasm is an excellent adaptation of the fantastic interpretation of a true and amazing event in history. Its likeness to the true events could be summed up in about 1 sentence, however, 300s ability to kick ass is undeniable. Catapulting Gerard Butler, and his CGI abs, to A-list status, this film is everything it promised to be, even if that wasn’t everyone’s idea of a good time.
14. Tank Girl (1995)
Tank Girl is for girls what 300 is for guys, an exciting, fun, and just plain weird story, complete with kangaroo-men (including the likes of Ice Tea). A great cast, which includes Lori Petty, Naomi Watts, Ice Tea and a menacing Malcolm McDowell makes this adventure a fun, ridiculous ride. The main flaw of the film is the cheesy revelation of the rippers, which were far more intimidating when they were subtle background heroes/villains.
The biggest standout of Tank Girl is the incredible soundtrack, which is perhaps the best on this list. The great use of music to illustrate mood is highlighted by Portishead’s Roads during the sensual ‘sand shower’ scene which is the highlight of the film.
13. Flash Gordon (1980)
Campy fun and old school special effects are the hallmark of this cult classic. Unforgettable one-liners like “Flash, Flash, I love you, but we only have fourteen hours to save the Earth!” and “Flash Gordon, Quarterback, New York Jets” make this sci-fi adventure a must-see for comic fans. One-liners aside, the story follows the ridiculous premise of a star quarterback who uses his leadership and football skills to save earth from an evil emperor who uses the universe as his playground. This evil dictator, portrayed by screen legend Max von Sydow, manages to bungle the execution of his prisoners in ‘James Bond villain’ fashion.
Aside from bad acting and cheesy writing (see: Go Flash go, go Flash go!), the soundtrack is sweet, as it features songs and music created entirely by Queen for the movie.
12. Batman Returns (1992)
Tim Burton’s second foray into Gotham City features Danny DeVito as the tortured villain Penguin and Michelle Pfeiffer as the villain/hero Catwoman. Michael Keaton returns as a sobered, stoic interpretation of the caped crusader. Also, Christopher Walken also proves that it doesn’t take a tragic disfigurement to be a villain in Gotham city. Walken briefly provides an evil businessman counterpoint to Bruce Wayne’s philanthropic characterization.
Bruce Wayne’s and Batman’s relationship with Catwoman’s many personalities creates a welcomed complexity that is lost in the Burton produced Batman’s which followed Returns. However, the star, as is the case with most great Batman films, is the villain. DeVito’s Penguin is on the verge of winning the movie audience over to his side (like he does the people of Gotham), before his sadistic inclinations get the better of him.
11. Spiderman (2002)
The origin story of Spiderman, created by cult legend Sam Raimi, was the first modern comic book adaptation which appealed to mass audiences as much as it did comic book fans/fanboys. Its box-office success was not a mirage, as the story is exciting and fun and never takes itself too seriously. The discovery and development of the hero’s powers and his ensuing trip into professional wrestling start the action and fun, and it rarely slows or stops for the following two hours.
10. Hellboy (2004)
Guillermo del Toro’s second attempt at a comic franchise was Hellboy, and he started it with a bang. This introduction to Red was both exciting and heartfelt. The careful development of this young demon hell-spawn into a sensitive and loving soldier for goodness and his struggle against his nature is a major triumph of this film. This growth is paralleled by Liz Sherman’s frustration and ultimate acceptance of her abilities and culminates in the flourishing of their relationship. This relationship was the most memorable aspect of this film and was worth the watch alone.
9. Iron Man (2008)
Marvel Studios first independent film was a success for both critics and fans. Due credit should be given to Jon Favreau’s excellent direction, but in Iron Man, Robert Downey Jr. steals the show as Tony Stark. His portrayal was perfect as Stark was funny, charismatic, and flamboyant. His transition from womanizing playboy warlord to womanizing playboy peacekeeper is as entertaining as it was seamless.
Jeff Bridges delivers a stellar performance as usual (The Dude abides), leading a tremendous supporting cast. The jury is out on whether the sequel delivers in the way other marvel sequels have (see: X-men, Spiderman, and The Incredible Hulk), but the first installment has everything a comic book movie should have; great music, action, FX, comedy, and a compelling story.
8. Spiderman 2 (2004)
In Spiderman 2, Sam Raimi managed to top his previous performance. Though the now maligned Spiderman 3 may have tarnished the memory of Spidey for many fans, this thought provoking look into Spiderman’s inner struggle was the perfect follow up to the original. The loss of his powers, a story from the comics, was a prime example of how important Peter Parker’s confidence and mental strength to his identity as Spiderman.
The biggest improvement over the first, however, is Alfred Molina as Doc Ock who was more intimidating and compelling as a villain. The pureness of his motivation, even if ill advised, made him far more sympathetic as a villain than the Green Goblin, who seemed only motivated by greed.
7. Sin City (2005)
Three graphic novels wrapped into one film noir. Robert Rodriguez and Frank Miller adapted books in Miller’s interconnected series which includes three vignettes, each of which feature both sinister underworld figures and antiheros. The film is unmistakably original, duplicating individual panels from the graphic novel complete with black and white scenes and deep color accents. The visual style undoubtedly inspired 300, and will continue to inspire other comic adaptations that wish to stay true to the look and mood of their originals.
My personal favorite story is based on the graphic novel The Hard Goodbye. Mickey Rourke is perfect for the role of Marv, playing a dimwit brute, who’s love sustains him through stabbings, gun-shots, and electrocution.
6. X2: X-Men United (2003)
The epitome of what an X-Men movie can and should be, X2 incorporates an ensemble cast of characters with a variety of powers to create a story that is touching and replete with social context. The original X-Men film established many of the characters well, including the Martin Luther King Jr.-like Professor X (Patrick Stewart) and the Malcolm X-like Magneto (Ian McKellen). These mutant characters come together to fight a common enemy who hopes to begin and end a war with mutants by destroying all of them. However, each of the unique abilities of the X-Men and their rivals who team with them allow them to overcome dire odds.
The truly amazing aspect of this film the sheer quantity of developed characters and complex relationships successfully jammed into one film. Nightcrawler (Alan Cumming), Wolverine (Hugh Jackman), Jean Grey (Famke Janssen), Mystique (Rebecca Romijn), and the aforementioned leaders are all characters that could carry the film on their own. These characters interrelate and converse in ways that allow the audience to delve into their psyche in ways never imagined a comic book/superhero film could before it.
5. V for Vendetta (2005)
For many fans, V for Vendetta was a timely warning of the dangers of fear driven politics. For others, it was a fantastic revenge story with action, humor, and stylized violence. For everyone, it was an entertaining story of a Guy Fawkes masked avenger V (Hugo Weaving), who was as easy to cheer as any hero in cinema. Overall, it is entertaining in every way imaginable; visually and mental stimulating.
Aside from the action that everyone is likely to enjoy, the highlights of the film are the flashbacks which provide a sobering look at a burgeoning dictatorship as it manipulates a democratic system into a totalitarian system. The fear-based propaganda depicted allows the audience to grasp and understand the how such a transition of government could actually occur.
4. Oldboy (2003)
Quite possibly the most original and greatest revenge film ever made, Oldboy haunts the viewer long after it is finished. The film only mentions The Count of Monte Cristo once, but the method and patience of revenge in this story is as close to that book as any. The darkness that pervades this film and its ending has made it controversial, however its composition is artfully and skillfully done making it required viewing.
One of the most interesting facets of the film is the lesson told by one of its reoccurring quotes, “Be it a rock or a grain of sand, in water they sink as the same.” The lesson here is that the smallest action or ill against another can be as damaging and impactful as a large one. One lapse of judgment, whether it be gossip or some other trivial harm, can come back to haunt you … and in Oldboy, it does.
3. Batman Begins (2005)
Batman’s origin story is the best on this list. The thorough telling of Bruce Wayne’s adolescent provides the audience of a deep understanding of the internal struggle that he goes through starting with his parents’ death and leading to his creation of Batman. Wayne’s rejection of high society is a perfect introduction to his exposure to the underworld. It also presents a backdrop of his later troubles in pretending to be ‘Bruce Wayne the playboy’ while hiding his true self, Batman.
The greatest triumph of the film is captivating and ‘realistic’ plot. Christopher Nolan’s decision to create a believable world in which Batman and his villains live is bold, especially considering the history of Gotham City as fantasy world. The execution of a believable, sympathetic Bruce Wayne as well as a noble Ra’s Al Ghul was virtually flawless.
2. A History of Violence (2005)
David Cronenberg’s masterpiece features the subtle tail of a man who has escaped a life of organized crime coming to terms with his history. Impeccably acted, A History of Violence pulls the viewer into a world where Tom Stall (Viggo Mortensen) is in hiding in the Midwest, but after an incident of heroism becomes publicized, he becomes reacquainted with his former gangster colleagues. His family is stunned to discover the truth about his past and he is forced to confront it in order to protect them.
A History of Violence is really a family story, but is interrupted with scenes of gruesome violence that is a reflection of Stall’s past. The degree of violence and the manner in which he dispatches his enemies help frame his new simple life and the choices he has made to leave his old life. His family’s struggles are expertly and realistically portrayed making the film a study of a family in trauma. Notably, a cameo by William Hurt would have stolen the show had the film not been flawless.
1. The Dark Knight (2008)
For many people, The Dark Knight would be an easy choice for the top of this list, but after careful consideration of all the options, I finally decided that it was an easy choice for a good reason. As mentioned above Christopher Nolan’s take on the Batman story has a realistic edge. This realism is a stark contrast to the Tim Burton inspired series, but actually manages to capture the true intent of the original Batman comic. This film completes Batman’s decent to becoming a truly ‘dark’ knight. The masked vigilante is not only wanted for taking the law into his own hands, but for breaking the law himself. Only those close to Bruce Wayne and Commissioner Gordon will ever know the truth.
That Batman had to become a ‘dark’ knight as a result of the chaos created by Heath Ledger’s Joker is the real climax of this story. The Joker manages to create an impossible situation that Batman and others must navigate in order to protect society and their loved ones. Because his motivation is unknown, he becomes a true threat that cannot be stopped. Those who we do not understand are the greatest danger to our own comfort and peace.
The Dark Knight surpasses all expectations of a comic book adaptation to become a full commentary on society. Lessons of life, law and order, and the danger of escalation are all introduced. The lesson of escalation, which was introduced at the conclusion of Batman Begins is crucial, because it is the true reason for the creation and ultimate decent of Batman.
Honorable mention: Ghost World, Road to Perdition, Superman II, The Crow, 30 Days of Night, Constantine, Blade II and X-Men.