DC Comics is known for its gritty and often dark storylines, reflected in its film adaptations, including live-action and animated movies. From exploring the darker aspects of superheroes' lives to tackling complex moral dilemmas and societal issues, DC movies have frequently pushed the boundaries of what is typically considered appropriate for comic book adaptations.
Their animated movies have often been praised for their willingness to explore darker themes and subjects that would be too controversial or risky for live-action films, making them a popular choice among adult audiences. Whether it's exploring loss, grief, and trauma in Batman or examining power dynamics and corruption in Watchmen, DC movies have often delved into complex themes that challenge viewers to think deeply about the world around them.
10 Batman: Gotham by Gaslight (2018)
Gotham by Gaslight, set in an alternate reality during the late 19th century, adopts a much darker tone than most Batman movies. The plot revolves around Batman's investigation into the Jack the Ripper murders in Gotham City.
The film explores themes of corruption, class division, and misogyny in a Victorian-era setting, which adds a layer of grittiness and realism to the story. The movie also features more violent and gory scenes than typical animated DC films. With its mature content and atmospheric setting, Gotham by Gaslight stands out as one of the darker entries in the DC animated universe.
9 Superman: Doomsday (2007)
The animation opens with the death of Superman, killed by the monstrous Doomsday. The opening scene sets the stage for a somber and intense story, as the film explores the darker aspects of Superman's character and the consequences of his apparent invincible nature. It also delves into the emotional toll that the hero's death takes on his friends and loved ones.
Besides exploring the idea of Superman's mortality, Doomsday also studies how the people of Metropolis are struggling to come to terms with the possibility that their hero may not return after all. The movie touches on themes of violence, loss, and grief, as the characters are trying to cope with the aftermath of Superman's death.
8 Man of Steel (2013)
Man of Steel is known for its dark tone, which is a departure from the classic Superman movies of the past. The film is about identity, isolation, and the weight of responsibility that comes with possessing incredible power. The destruction of Superman's home planet, Krypton, is depicted in a brutal and violent manner, setting the tone for most of the film.
Additionally, General Zod is a formidable opponent, who is willing to go to great lengths to achieve his goals, including killing innocent people. The film also features a darker and more brooding version of Superman, who struggles to find his place in the world.
7 The Flashpoint Paradox (2013)
The Flashpoint Paradox is an animated film based on the Flashpoint comic book series that explores some dark and mature topics. The story revolves around Barry Allen, also known as the Flash, who wakes up in an alternate reality where his mother is alive and his powers no longer exist. As he tries to restore the timeline, he finds himself in a brutal and dystopian world where superheroes are either dead or corrupted.
The film tackles themes of loss, regret, and the consequences of one's actions. It also portrays the characters in a morally gray area, questioning the heroism of some and the villainy of others. The Flashpoint Paradox is not afraid to delve into darker territory, making it a compelling and thought-provoking addition to the DC animated universe.
6 The Dark Knight Returns, Part 1 and Part 2 (2012, 2013)
The Dark Knight Returns, parts 1 and 2, are animated adaptations of Frank Miller's graphic novel of the same name. The films are set in a bleak and dystopian future where Batman is retired, and Gotham City has become overrun with crime and corruption. The films revolve around the struggle between Batman's morality and his desire to bring justice to a city that has lost its way.
The films explore themes of aging, regret, and the harsh realities of a world where superheroes are no longer relevant. The violence is brutal, with no punches pulled in depicting the consequences of a world that has spiraled out of control. The Dark Knight Returns is an unflinching look at the darker side of the superhero mythos and is not suitable for the faint of heart.
5 Justice League Dark: Apokolips War (2020)
Apokolips War is another animated film that is known for its really dark themes and graphic violence. The movie is set in a post-apocalyptic world where the planet has been taken over by the evil New God, Darkseid. The Justice League is nearly destroyed, and the remaining heroes must band together to launch a final assault on Apokolips to save the world.
The movie explores themes of sacrifice, loss, and redemption as the heroes face the cruel reality of their situation. The violence in the film is intense, with many characters meeting gruesome, unthinkable fates. Many fans revealed that Apokolips War provided a hard-to-swallow experience and that its brutality stayed with them for days after watching the movie.
4 Batman: Under the Red Hood (2010)
Under the Red Hood is considered one of the darkest animated movies from the DC universe. It presents themes of loss, grief, and the moral ambiguity of vigilantism. The movie explores the repercussions of Batman's refusal to kill and the consequences of his actions on Gotham City. The Joker himself questions Batman's values and even accuses him of being responsible for the madness in Gotham.
The Red Hood, who is revealed to be Jason Todd, a former Robin who was brutally murdered by the Joker, adds a layer of darkness to the story. Overall, this movie features violent battles, drug dealings, murders, and difficult-to-solve moral dilemmas.
3 Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016)
Dawn of Justice portrays a world where people have lost faith in Superman and question whether he is a force for good. This leads to a debate about whether Superman should be held accountable for his actions and what the consequences of his existence could be. The movie also explores the darkness within Batman, who is trying to cope with the trauma of his past and has become more ruthless in his quest for justice.
The themes of power, responsibility, and the blurred lines between hero and villain are also present throughout the film. All in all, Batman v Superman is a dark and thought-provoking film that raises important questions about heroism and justice.
2 Watchmen - The Ultimate Cut (2009)
Directed by Zack Snyder, Watchmen is a superhero movie that explores themes of power, morality, and vigilantism. Set in an alternate history where costumed heroes are a part of everyday life, the story follows a group of former vigilantes who come out of retirement to investigate the murder of one of their own.
The movie dives deep into the psychology of the characters, exposing their flaws and vulnerabilities, and questioning whether they truly have the right to act as judge, jury, and executioner. The violence in the film is graphic and unrelenting, showing the brutal reality of fighting crime and the toll it takes on those who choose to do so.
1 Batman: The Killing Joke (2016)
The Killing Joke is a graphic and thought-provoking exploration of the Joker's origins and his complicated relationship with Batman. The film delves into themes of trauma, madness, and the blurred lines between heroism and villainy. The Joker's brutal assault on Batgirl and her subsequent paralysis highlights the dark reality of violence.
Moreover, the story's examination of the Joker's descent into insanity, and his twisted attempt to prove a nihilistic point to Batman, make for a truly unsettling and dark narrative. The film raises important questions about the nature of evil and the lengths to which individuals will go in order to achieve their goals.