Highlights
- Birds of Prey (2020) defies gender norms with empowered female protagonists, delivering a humorous and action-packed film that showcases strong, multifaceted women who can be every bit as capable as men.
When it comes to superhero movies, the DC Extended Universe (DCEU) has released its fair share of blockbusters. However, amidst the well-known hits, there are still hidden treasures—underrated sequels that have slipped slightly under the radar but deserve a second watch for DC movies. These movies bring distinctive storytelling, character depth, and captivating narratives that, for various reasons, may not have gained as much attention as they should.
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From movies like Wonder Woman 1984, and Birds of Prey, to more recent movies like The Flash, and Blue Beetle, this list explores the top arguably underrated DCEU sequels that have quietly made their mark in the superhero realm before the rebooted and convoluted DCU comes into play.
9 Shazam! Fury of the Gods (2023)
Regardless of its disappointing outcome at the box office, Shazam! Fury of the Gods remains a must-watch picture. The film follows Billy Batson and his foster siblings as they come to terms with the God-given superhuman identities they share. When three ancient gods bent on vengeance arrive on Earth in search of their long-lost magic, their lives take a drastic turn.
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Shazam and his allies are in a high-stakes struggle, and it could mean the difference between life and death. An important cinematic experience, this sequel promises an explosive mix of adolescent life and superpowered heroics. Overall, the film explores heavy ancient religious themes like family and sacrifice.
8 Birds of Prey (And The Fantabulous Emancipation Of One Harley Quinn) (2020)
Despite its innovative treatment of female villains and the expansion of Harley Quinn's persona, Birds of Prey (2020) underperformed at the box office. The film depicts Harley Quinn's journey toward self-actualization and independence as she breaks free of her abusive relationship with the Joker. This revision from her portrayal in Suicide Squad (2016) adds nuance, complexity, and sympathy to her character, turning her into a multidimensional antagonist who can win over audiences' sympathies.
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With characters like teenage Cassandra Cain and others like her, Birds of Prey continues to defy gender norms by showing empowered women working together to shape their own destinies. The film's tone is both humorous and action-packed, but its message is serious: women can be every bit as strong, sophisticated, and capable as men. It abandons tired superhero tropes in favor of strong, multifaceted female protagonists.
7 Wonder Woman 1984 (2020)
Wonder Woman 1984 is not without fault, and whilst it was both critically and commercially unsuccessful, it still tried to keep a unique identity. Diana (Wonder Woman) strives to keep a low profile while she mourns the death of Steve Trevor during the political and social instability of the 1980s. Maxwell Lord, a charming businessman with a dark secret, and Barbara Minerva, an archaeologist who can transform into a ferocious cheetah, are two tough foes she must face.
The movie therefore explores themes of greed, temptation, and sacrifice while pursuing an aesthetically pleasing reference to the 1980s. Its unique visual style and thematic exploration take viewers on a nostalgic ride back to societal issues dealt with during that period. With proper context and ambiance, Wonder Woman 1984 is quite enjoyable and unexpected.
6 Justice League (2017)
Despite encountering production difficulties like a change in director and significant reshoots, the 2017 film Justice League managed to lay the groundwork for subsequent DCEU movies. Justice League 2017 brings together recognizable DC superheroes like Batman, Wonder Woman, and the Flash, adding a sense of camaraderie. Additionally, it introduces new characters like Aquaman and Cyborg while offering insight into their backgrounds and motivations.
Amidst this complexity, Justice League explores themes of hope, unity, and the accountability that comes with having power, which is in line with the core values of DCEU. Justice League (2017) therefore occupies a prominent place in the DCEU and in the superhero world, even though it may not have received unanimous accolades like other famous superhero movies.
5 Zack Snyder's Justice League (2021)
Zack Snyder's Justice League, also known as the Snyder Cut, is the director's cut of the 2017 film Justice League. This version's significance comes from its dedication to realizing director Zack Snyder's initial vision for the Justice League, which he was unable to completely realize in 2017 for personal reasons. Compared to the 2017 theatrical edition, this version has a lot of additional novel footage, improved character development, and a different tone.
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It goes above and beyond by delving into the pasts of important heroes like Cyborg and The Flash, providing a richer backdrop for the main narrative. Zack Snyder's Justice League was much anticipated and well-received when it was first released. Supporters as well as critics agree that it significantly outperforms the 2017 edition.
4 Suicide Squad (2016)
Suicide Squad (2016) is rather an enthralling entry by DCEU. With the movie introducing viewers to a diverse crew of characters, straddling the fine line between antiheroes and villains, the result is a morally complex ensemble. Unlike more traditional superhero films, Suicide Squad dared to venture into the murky waters of morality, having characters like the Joker and Harley Quinn, renowned villains, thrust into situations where they are compelled to perform acts of heroism.
While Suicide Squad didn't receive the widespread recognition that critics had anticipated, it succeeded in carving out a niche for itself by drawing in viewers who admired its audacious departure from the conventional superhero formula. By doing so, it solidified its position as a major piece within the DCEU, providing an unconventional take on the genre.
3 The Flash (2023)
Andy Muschietti's film The Flash (2023) offers a novel perspective on the Flash series. The story follows Barry Allen, played by Ezra Miller, as he travels back in time to save his family but unintentionally changes the future. In this altered timeline, he realizes that Superman isn't available to thwart Zod's invasion. Barry must work with a retired Batman, an imprisoned Kryptonian, and an alternate version of himself to correct the course of events.
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While the CGI might have raised some eyebrows, the director states that the effects were intentionally stylized to be seen from Flash's perspective. It is safe to say that this adds to the sequel's unique charm. Nevertheless, despite the frustration related to the movie, The Flash (2023) still delivers a highly entertaining and thought-provoking perspective on the Flash's character development.
2 Blue Beetle (2023)
Blue Beetle emerges as a groundbreaking superhero film, boldly placing a Mexican superhero at the forefront of the cinematic stage. It defies expectations, leaving audiences thoroughly impressed and entertained. Blue Beetle is more than just a movie; it stands for development and variety in the superhero genre.
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While it doesn't entirely break free from traditional tropes, it's undeniably entertaining, thanks to its unique cultural perspective and thrilling execution. In sum, Blue Beetle isn't just a superhero spectacle; it's a cultural criterion, combining intense action sequences with an outstanding soundtrack to produce a truly memorable cinematic experience.
1 Black Adam (2022)
The DCEU's Black Adam, directed by Jaume Collet-Serra, is a standout entry because of its outstanding CGI and gripping battle scenes, which keep viewers interested from the opening seconds until the end credits with the return of Superman. Teth-Adam, an ancient Egyptian slave who acquires exceptional powers conferred by the wizard Shazam, serves as the focal point of the story.
He sets off on a quest for the Crown of Sabbac after being released from a protracted magical confinement, which ushers in an epic struggle. Dwayne Johnson, who plays an anti-hero with six heavenly abilities, excels in the role. Aldis Hodge, Noah Centineo, Sarah Shahi, Marwan Kenzari, Quintessa Swindell, and Pierce Brosnan are among the film's outstanding ensemble cast, and they all give passionate performances.