when Chris Evans was in good movies? Within five years, the Captain America icon has gone from appearing in Avengers: Endgame and Knives Out to starring in soulless streaming fodder like Ghosted and now, Dwayne Johnson’s Santa Claus action-comedy Red One. 63t

Yes, it may seem like a demented movie pitch dreamed up by AI, but Red One is an honest-to-Kris-Kringle real film that’s dropping this holiday season, like a lump of coal in your stocking. The first trailer for the sure-to-be seasonal stinker landed on our rooftops this June 25 — but it’s an early Christmas gift I wish I could return for store credit.

You may not believe me, but I genuinely went into this trailer with an open heart and was totally willing to be won over… and then Chris Evans made a joke about bringing a Wonder Woman action figure to life so he could hook up with it and I checked out.

Essentially what you would get if you put Red Notice and Aardman family film Arthur Christmas into a blender, Red One sees a musclebound Santa (J.K. Simmons, reliving his Swol Commissioner Gordon era) abducted from the North Pole. This leaves his chief… uh, reindeer herder, I guess, Dwayne Johnson to enlist Chris Evans’ expert tracker — a level 4 naughty-lister, as a buff polar bear tells us — in helping him track the jolly one down.

The unlikely allies start off their journey by using Santa magic to turn a toy car into a full-size vehicle. “You don’t have a Wonder Woman action figure, do you">just agree to do Avengers 5 and put us out of our misery.

Public domain laws are weird, but kind of wonderful, characters like Sherlock Holmes, Frankenstein, and even King Kong are all in the public domain, meaning if you wanted to make a movie where the world’s most recognizable detective and Frankenstein’s monster fight a giant ape you could totally do that and even release it in theaters.

Superman is a character plenty of people would love to get their hands on. Just think of the possibilities: You could make your own Superman movie, or have him interact with other public domain characters. I’m just spitballing, but here’s a few ideas off the top of my head: have Superman robbing banks with his partner in crime: Cthulu, or write a love story between the Man of Steel and Jay Gatsby. The possibilities are practically endless. 

Films that take a well known character and put them in a completely different situation have already been made before. For example, in 2022, a certain little yellow bear entered the public domain and so we got Winnie the Pooh: Blood and Honey, a slasher film where Pooh and Piglet went on a killing spree. As you’d expect, it’s not very good.

The most recent addition to the list of public domain characters is Disney’s own mascot, Mickey Mouse himself. Well, technically it’s the first version of the character, who appeared in the animated short, Steamboat Willie.  Anyways, it’s not too long before we can expect to see Superman become a part of the public domain too!

So when will Superman enter the public domain? 1l282f

The character debuted in 1938 and according to U.S. laws any property or character created before 1978 will go into public domain after 95 years. That means that the last year that DC owns the copyrights to that version of the character will be 2033, from 2034 onwards, Superman will be public domain. 

So we now have less than a decade until we could start seeing fan made Superman films. That’s a pretty exciting thought, although fan made super-hero projects don’t always turn out great, *cough* Spider-Man: Lotus *cough* but still, it will be cool to see what others come up with.

What other DC characters are set to enter the public domain? 3i6v3l

In 2035 Batman will also become public domain so it’s possible we could see a remake of Batman vs. Superman. Even with no budget, it couldn’t be much worse than the 2016 version. In 2036, the Joker will no longer be protected, and then in 2037 Wonder-Woman will also be free from copyright laws. It’s pretty wild to think that these characters have all been around for nearly a century.

Of course, it’s still a legal minefield, companies like Disney are notorious for fiercely protecting their characters, and DC and Warner Bros. will likely be just as protective. It’s also important to that only the original versions of the character will be public domain, so we won’t be getting fan films based off of Henry Cavill’s or Christopher Reeve’s versions, as those are technically still protected by copyright.

Despite presiding over a career mostly taken up by action blockbusters that are a far cry from breakthrough arthouse films, Gal Gadot has grown into one of the most respected actresses of our generation.

Fast & Furious in 2009 marked the Israeli thespian’s breakout in Hollywood, a success she would top by landing the role of Diana Prince aka Wonder Woman in the DCEU. It’s unclear what the future will hold for Gal now that the superhero cinematic universe is getting rebooted, but we decided to review some highlights of her career nevertheless, ranking them from worst to best in this circle.

7. Knight and Day (2010) 1y612s

Gadot had a brief role to play in Knight and Day, the 2010 action film spearheaded by Tom Cruise and Cameron Diaz. Still, as far as ing characters go, this one was a memorable performance from the Wonder Woman star. Knight and Day is a very middling, forgettable thriller when all is said and done, but it still bears the mark of James Mangold, who is one of the more acclaimed action filmmakers out there.

6. Red Notice (2021) 6ka6t

Red Notice is one of those films that only work because of their lead actors. In this case, those leads happen to be Dwayne Johnson, Ryan Reynolds, and Gal Gadot, who elevate a very generic script and make the movie actually bearable. In fact, thanks to this talent, you might actually lose yourself in the rhythm and start to have fun.

5. Death on the Nile (2022) 4elj

While this movie fell short of actually capturing the magic of Agatha Christie’s Death on the Nile, there’s something charming about Kenneth Branagh’s honest attempt to bring Hercule Poirot to life. This time around, the enigmatic ensemble is led by none other than Gal Gadot, who portrayed the wealthy heiress Linnet “Linny” Ridgeway-Doyle in the sequel. Whatever else can be said of the sequel and its discernible shortcomings, Gadot was an amazing addition, at times single-handedly carrying the scenes.

4. Ralph Breaks the Internet (2018) 61d1y

This is probably the best movie on this list, but given the fact that Gadot only plays a minor part, it probably shouldn’t receive the top honors. Ralph Breaks the Internet is a brilliant sequel through and through, and Gadot’s character Shank also shines as the badass NPC racer, Shank. It’s a wonder why Gadot hasn’t been cast as a voice actor in more projects, because her somewhat raspy voice and distinct English accent make her a perfect choice for exotic characters.

3. Keeping Up with the Joneses (2016) 3s216g

Keeping Up with the Joneses confirmed that Gal Gadot is perfectly capable of embodying a comic character. Besides, whoever thought of teaming her up with Isla Fisher is a genius, because their chemistry in that movie was through the roof, as strange as it might sound on the face of it. You put Zack Galifianakis, Jon Hamm, Isla Fisher, and Patton Oswalt in a movie, and you’re almost guaranteed to get comedy gold. So imagine our surprise when the character who shined the most among that ensemble was Gadot’s Natalie Jones.

2. Fast Five (2011) 2d4h62

Gisele was an important part of the original Fast & Furious movies. Gadot reprised her role in Fast Five in 2011 and served in Dominic’s crew, while also developing a romantic bond with Han. Gisele is not quite a femme fatale, with Gal trying to channel her inner heroine into the character, keeping her kind, but also surefooted. We singled out Fast Five because it was the best one out of the three entries she appeared in. The character seemingly perishes in the sixth entry, but it is revealed during the mid-credits scene of 2023’s Fast X that Gisele somehow survived.

1. Wonder Woman (2017) 5vr6s

Even after all these years, I still believe the first Wonder Woman by Patty Jenkins and Gal Gadot is the best movie that came out of the DCEU. The 2017 solo outing might feature its fair share of generic plot elements and tired superhero tropes, but Gadot’s magical performance as Diana Prince turned it into something really special. It also proved to everyone that their initial reservations about Gadot were unfounded because we couldn’t have asked for a better Wonder Woman. If James Gunn is half as clever as we take him for, he’ll keep Gadot around for his DCU reboot in some capacity.

Few stars have experienced a rise as sharp as Gal Gadot‘s.

The DC icon was a relative unknown ahead of her casting in the fourth Fast & Furious movie, and she barely rose in prominence following that 2009 appearance. She was in three more Fast & Furious films before she debuted as DC’s Wonder Woman, and suddenly became a household name. All at once, the world learned who Gal Gadot was with the 2017 release, and she instantly became one of the most in-demand women in Hollywood.

In the years since, Gadot helped keep the DCEU aloft while juggling appearances in a range of high-dollar releases, from 2017’s Justice League to 2018’s Ralph Breaks the Internet and, soon after, her second solo DC flick. A few less-impressive Netflix offerings followed, but Gadot’s mark on Hollywood is already set in stone. All of her projects may not be record-breakers, but she’s still one of Tinseltown’s most-watched stars.

Her popularity on the screen eventually opened doors for Gadot to start her own production company, Pilot Wave Motion Pictures. The relatively fresh-faced company only has a few projects under its belt, the most notable of which is arguably the incoming Cleopatra, which already faces accusations of whitewashing. Those same accusations are sparking a debate among Gadot’s fans, as they discuss what, precisely constitutes whitewashing, and if a Gadot-helmed film falls into that camp.

Where is Gal Gadot from? 6l382p

The discussion of background and race is often a fraught one, at least in the U.S., where countless racially motivated crimes (often perpetrated by police) prove that we are far from standing on equal footing in this country. As such, it’s common for backlash to hit films that maneuver a white lead into a traditionally non-white role. Look at the reaction to Scarlett Johansson’s casting in Ghost in the Shell. Her seizure of a role that should have gone to an Asian actress sparked instant backlash, but Johansson still debuted as Motoko Kusanagi with the film’s 2017 release.

These decisions are painfully common in Hollywood and have led to broad distrust from consumers. As such, questions about Gadot’s background — particularly following news that she will play Cleopatra in her production company’s film of the same name — are right on schedule. And, while she isn’t American, she’s certainly not Egyptian either.

Gadot was born in Petah Tikva, a city in western Israel, but grew up in Rosh HaAyin, a less populous city nearby. She lived in the area through the majority of her youth, and — at age 20 — ed the Israel Defense Forces for a two-year stint.

Gal Gadot’s ethnicity 642o3d

Gadot’s status as a “woman of color” has come under debate several times over the years, and her background is often brought up as a point of proof by either side. Most people don’t consider her to fall under the umbrella, which serves as a big culprit behind the backlash to her casting as Cleopatra. It’s worth noting here that research shows a range of skin colors were common in ancient Egypt, which could make Gadot’s casting less controversial, but the decision to cast an Israeli actress instead of one with an Egyptian background is still questionable.

Gadot is descended from Ashkenazi Jews, with her ancestors boasting roots in the Levant, an area in the Middle East that includes Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Syria, and Jordan, as well as Southern Europe, with links to Austria, , Poland, and The Czech Republic. Gadot herself has stated that she was raised in a “very Jewish, Israeli family environment,” which makes her the perfect fit for any range of Israeli roles — but perhaps not for history’s most famous Egyptian queen.

Not to beat the old DC vs. Marvel drum again, but it’s tragic to compare the superhero careers of the MCU’s Avengers and the DCEU’s Justice League. While Marvel’s OG cast got to bow out gracefully at the end of the Infinity Saga, the Snyderverse’s leads have either been quietly shuffled off stage or very publicly replaced. See Henry Cavill, Ben Affleck, and, yes, Gal Gadot.

Gadot’s portrayal of Diana Prince was always was one of the highlights of the much-troubled DCEU, even if 2017’s acclaimed Wonder Woman was followed up by 2020’s panned Wonder Woman 1984. Nonetheless, the Israeli actress proved her staying power with further appearances in the likes of Shazam! Fury of the Gods and The Flash. So why isn’t a Wonder Woman 3 with Gadot happening? Was she fired?

Wonder Woman 3 isn’t happening, but why was Gal Gadot let go? 5x65j

First of all, let’s that DC is currently in a time of transition. Former Marvel filmmaker James Gunn officially took over as the new co-chief of DC Studios, alongside producer Peter Safran, in November 2022, with the first slate of movies and TV shows to come from the rebooted DCU announced in January 2023. This confirmed that new incarnations of Superman and Batman would be introduced in such films as Superman: Legacy and The Brave and the Bold.

As for the third member of DC’s Trinity, Wonder Woman lore was promised to be kept alive through Paradise Lost, a Max prequel series focusing on the Amazons of Themyscira, Diana’s island home. This came after it was confirmed director Patty Jenkins had parted ways with DC, due to creative differences with the new head honchos, and would not be helming the previously announced Wonder Woman 3.

We kind of assumed that was that, then, until Gadot claimed that actually she was still attached to WW3 in August 2023, after having a very encouraging meeting with Gunn and Safran. This was swiftly followed by Variety reporting that, despite the actress’ comments, DC was not moving forward with a third movie for the heroine and was simply focusing on Paradise Lost at this time. Since then, Gadot has not repeated her claims so we’ve been left to assume WW3 is dead and her time in the role is over.

So, was Gal Gadot fired? It’s difficult to say. Certainly, it sounds like her interactions with Gunn and Safran were not as final as Henry Cavill’s, who was firmly and clearly told his services would no longer be required, with David Corenswet later hired as his replacement.

“I was invited to a meeting with James Gunn and Peter Safran,” Gadot revealed to Flaunt magazine, “and what they told me, and I’m quoting: ‘You’re in the best hands. We’re going to develop Wonder Woman 3 with you. [We] love you as Wonder Woman— you’ve got nothing to worry about.’ So we’ll see.”

Variety‘s insider source made clear that “nothing was ever promised” to the actress regarding WW3, but it sure sounds like Gunn and Safran are big fans of her performance as Diana and so aren’t in a hurry to replace her. That is if they’ve even officially let her go as Wonder Woman. All in all, then, it probably wouldn’t be accurate to say Gadot has been fired and it’s feasible, if a bit of a stretch, that she could still return. Maybe if DC fans grab hold of the Dreamstone and wish really hard…

We still don’t know for certain who’s going to end up wielding the Lasso of Truth as Wonder Woman in the new and hopefully improved DCEU, although Gal Gadot certainly seems confident it’ll be her.

So far, the only characters to have been confirmed to carry over from one universe to the next are the bare bones of James Gunn’s Peacemaker crew (which some people aren’t happy about for obvious reasons) and Xolo Maridueña’s Blue Beetle, but the Justice League looks as if it’s getting a complete overhaul.

David Corenswet will headline Superman: Legacy, The Brave and the Bold will debut a new Batman, The Flash bombed to a historical degree, Jason Momoa seems set to bow out as Aquaman and potentially reappear as Lobo, with Ray Fisher keeping the franchise at arm’s length, which leaves Gadot’s Diana Prince as the biggest question mark.

The actress seems convinced she’ll be getting that third solo adventure, but nothing has been confirmed or denied as of yet. Should a recasting happen, then one of the front-runners among fan circles has always been rising star Eiza Gonzalez, and it’s easy to see why.

In a curious development, co-CEO Gunn recently dropped a celebratory Wonder Woman post on Threads, and it’s been noted that Gonzalez commented a tantalizing “This image is the one” underneath. Naturally, it’s stoked the flames of speculation, but it can’t be denied that if the DCEU’s Amazonian isn’t being brought back into the fold, then the Ambulance and Hobbs & Shaw star would make a solid replacement.

Wonder Woman is practically a goddess on Earth. She has superhuman strength, is practically invulnerable, can fly, has a strong healing factor and is nigh-immortal. So, bearing all that in mind, why does Diana need to wear a helmet when she’s riding a motorcycle?

This rather obscure question is under debate on social media, fueled by images of Lynda Carter (or her stunt double) in the 1975 episode “The Murderous Missile” on a Kawasaki KE175, showing off her bike skills and looking stylish as hell.

Like her usual outfit, the motorcycle gear appears to be summoned by her spinning around – so are we to assume this is some kind of magical motorcycle helmet? Fortunately Wonder Woman herself is on the case and has the answer:

Nailed it. Wonder Woman could clearly survive a motorcycle crash without a scratch on her, though if a young girl happened to see that happen, they could get some very dangerous views about road safety and wearing appropriate protective gear.

Replies praise Diana for being “a responsible role model”, though another argues that the gear may be there “to protect the road from damage if she falls off.”

With the future of Wonder Woman 3 still very vague (Gal Gadot says it’s happening, Warner Bros. say no “definitive discussion” has taken place), perhaps the creative team involved should look to the past for inspiration. We for one would love to see Gadot pulling some sick wheelies, jumps and burnouts, and if she’s wearing a killer outfit and appropriate gear, then so much the better.

While Blue Beetle may be suffering a bit in box-office thanks to being released in the shadow of Barbenheimer, the new DC film about Jaime Reyes has been getting some pretty good reviews, which makes a change from some previous big-budget movies from the franchise (looking at you, Black Adam). Ticket sales numbers aside, the character has been a favorite of the fandom since his introduction in the early days of the franchise, and gained even more of a following since being reborn as Jaime Reyes, thus becoming the most prominent Chicano superhero in the comic book world (although fans of Firebird may have something to say about that designation). If you went to the theater to see Xolo Maridueña take on the role of the hero who gets his powers from a sacred scarab and want some more films that have a similar blend of action, family dynamics, and humor, then check out the following movies!

Black Panther (2018)  4d4055

Ryan Coogler and Marvel Studios’ Black Panther star Chadwick Boseman as T’Challa/Black Panther. Set in the fictitious African nation of Wakanda, the film follows T’Challa as he returns home to claim his rightful place as king after his father’s death. Wakanda is highly advanced because of its abundant Vibranium, a rare and powerful metal. However, T’Challa’s claim to the throne is challenged by Erik Killmonger (Michael B. Jordan), who intends to utilize Wakanda’s technology to wage war on the rest of the world. Black Panther includes an almost entirely African and African-American ensemble and explores important issues like identity, heritage, responsibility, and the connection between Africa and the African diaspora. The film’s depiction of Wakanda as a non-colonized, prosperous African nation dramatically challenges stereotypical views. Beyond Black Panther’s over $1.3 billion financial success, it sparked conversations about race and culture in the entertainment industry.

Birds of Prey (2020) 4a3l6p

Cathy Yan’s Birds of Prey (and the Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn) follows Harley Quinn, played by Margot Robbie, after splitting from the Joker as she struggles to forge her identity in Gotham City. Along the way, she becomes involved with a diverse group of women, including Huntress, Black Canary, and Renee Montoya, who forces to bring down the evil crime lord, Roman Sionis, also known as Black Mask. The film is famous for its distinct narrative style, defined by Harley’s eccentric and untrustworthy narration. Moreover, Birds of Prey is significant for its focus on female empowerment. The main characters are all strong, complex women, each with their own motivations and arcs. Their conversations and relationships constitute the heart of the picture, delivering a refreshing change from standard male-dominated superhero themes. The subject of emancipation is central to the story, not just for Harley but for all the characters, as they each seek to break free from the constraints and expectations placed upon them.

Zack Snyder’s Justice League (2021) 2q7l

Zack Snyder’s Justice League, often known as the “Snyder Cut,” is an updated version of the 2017 film Justice League. This four-hour epic, directed by Zack Snyder, is a dramatic departure from the theatrical release, providing a more comprehensive and cohesive vision of the story. Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, Aquaman, The Flash, and Cyborg band together to stop Steppenwolf from obtaining the all-powerful Mother Boxes in this DC Extended Universe film. One of the standout features of Zack Snyder’s Justice League is its character development. The film digs deeper into the backstories of key characters, particularly Cyborg, addressing the connection with his father and the struggle with his new mechanical body in greater depth. Snyder’s characteristic stylish cinematography with a darker, more atmospheric tone makes for the film’s visual feast.

Justice League vs. Teen Titans (2016) 2x362q

The Justice League and the Teen Titans square off in the animated superhero film Justice League vs. Teen Titans. Directed by Sam Liu, the film explores the dynamics between these two groups as they initially clash but eventually unite to combat the demonic Trigon. The story focuses on Robin’s integration into the Teen Titans after his volatile behavior leads Batman to send him to learn teamwork. Fans of Blue Beetle will enjoy this film, as Jaime Reyes plays an important role in the Teen Titans team. His presence in the film allows for a more in-depth look at his character, including his relationship with the mystical scarab and relationships with the other young heroes. The action sequences are exciting and well-animated, highlighting each character’s strengths, notably Blue Beetle’s outstanding technological ability. The humor, especially in the exchanges between the young Titans, fits with Blue Beetle’s cheerful and frequently lighthearted tone.

Teen Titans: The Judas Contract (2017) 2d696x

The animated film Teen Titans: The Judas Contract, directed by Sam Liu, is based on one of the most well-known narrative arcs from the Teen Titans comics. In this movie, the Teen Titans fight the villain Deathstroke while dealing with an internal betrayal. Terra, a new group member with earth-manipulating skills, is revealed to be working with Deathstroke to bring down the team, and the story revolves around this revelation. The Titans must face the deceit and overcome their issues to fight their enemies successfully. The characters of Teen Titans: The Judas Contract are explored in depth, especially Terra and Deathstroke. The moral gray area presented by Terra’s internal conflict and her eventual redemptive path gives the story depth and challenges the usual black-and-white morality of superhero fiction. In addition, if you loved watching Blue Beetle, you will be happy that Nightwing, Starfire, Raven, Blue Beetle, and Beast Boy, among the other Titans, all get their turn in the spotlight, and the plot also uses each character’s unique qualities. 

The Flash 5x4s6s

Another DC favorite, the Flash made his cinematic universe debut a while back, but it was only recently that a film dedicated to Barry Allen was given the green light. Controversial star Ezra Miller reprised their role as the ultra-fast, all-action star in a slightly confusing movie that tried to wade into the multiverse concept that’s all the rage at the moment. While The Flash (based on the comic series Flashpoint) did a slightly better job of it than Phase 4 of the MCU managed, some of the plotting was a bit confusing, but all in all this movie is a fun, fast-paced experience, with lots of great cameos and some even better action sequences. Like Blue Beetle, The Flash is about the main character trying to save their family from a horrible fate and succeeds in blending humor and heart in a way that doesn’t feel too hokey, like some films in the genre.

Shazam! 5g6s3s

Another film based on a DC superhero played by a person who isn’t without controversy, 2019’s Shazam! was a critical and box-office hit, and one of the few out-and-out successes of the DCEU (set to be taken over by James Gunn). Like Blue Beetle, the main character in Shazam! is family-focused, and receives his power from a mystical source — in this case, an ancient wizard. There are also plenty of moments of levity throughout the film to make sure the mood is light, as well as some brilliant action sequences that will impress even the most discerning superhero film lover. Shazam! delivers on everything fans of Blue Beetle will want from a film and more, and has the benefit of having a sequel already out, so if you do love it, you can get a second fix.

Aquaman 353737

This 2008 film stars Jason Momoa as the eponymous hero, and like Blue Beetle, is a part of the DCEU. However, that’s not where the similarities between the two films end with both eschewing the darker elements that have defined many superhero movies in recent years for a good old-fashioned display of action, with a lot of fun sprinkled in for good measure. The movie follows Aquaman as he battles villains and gods to claim his mantle as the Ocean Master, all while giving us plenty of laughs and a lot of nail-biting CGI-driven action sequences. Is it the sort of film that will stay with you for weeks afterwards? Probably not. Will you enjoy watching it? Almost certainly.

Wonder Woman u1137

Amazonian warrior and all-round badass Diana Prince is portrayed brilliantly by Gal Gadot in this 2017 film, which is a little more serious than the others on this list, but doesn’t focus wholly on the gritty, darker elements of the story, instead combining big action with brilliant performances. Fans of Blue Beetle will especially love how this film dives into the lore of the character, giving us the full backstory that includes an epic battle between Greek Gods. Wonder Woman is quite possibly the best DCEU film of this era, with plenty going for it from its fast-paced storyline to its smart writing, and will certainly leave you wanting more content. A great watch that shares some of Blue Beetle‘s sensibilities, but also gives the viewer plenty of unique things to love.

Ant-Man 2lw6j

While it might have been simple to just put other DC films on this list, the fact is plenty of movies from the comic franchise’s biggest rival have a similar vibe to Blue Beetle, and none more so than the irreverent and wholly watchable Ant-Man. To be fair, any superhero film starring Paul Rudd was never going to be a dark tale that delved into moral ambiguity, but the way Ant-Man leans into its absurdity is something that will appeal to fans of Blue Beetle. The films also have other similarities, mostly in of their characterization and fast plotting, as well as the focus on relationships and plotting rather than big action sequences (although both films do have plenty of high-adrenaline moments).

Venom 12u3v

Much like Blue Beetle, Venom gives us an intriguing origin story for a much-loved character, while also providing laughs and action along the way. Tom Hardy takes on the role of Eddie Brock, the man who’s consumed by a symbiotic life form and eventually becomes an antagonist for Spider-Man (although Spidey isn’t involved in this story, mostly due to rights issues between Sony and Marvel). The film itself is a bit messy and definitely not the best work of its cast (which also includes Michelle Williams and Riz Ahmed), but it’s a pretty fun watch as long as you don’t take it too seriously.

Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse 1l2ar

Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse is undoubtedly one of the best superhero films to come out in recent years, mixing outstanding animation with impeccable storytelling and some of the best action sequences ever committed to screen. The film follows Miles Morales (Shameik Moore), a teen who takes on the mantle of the famous web-slinger and works with Spideys from various other universes to stop Kingpin from completing a dastardly plan to hop between universes (albeit for sentimental reasons). Like the hero in Blue Beetle, Morales is part-Hispanic, and there is a massive focus on his family environment in the movie. Both films also act as coming-of-age movies, so there’s plenty of crossover for fans.

Kick-Ass 14o61

Another film based on a Marvel comic that isn’t in the MCU, Kick-Ass was a cultural phenomenon when it came out in 2010 and made stars of leads Chloë Grace Moretz and Aaron Taylor-Johnson. The latter plays Dave Lizewski, a normal teen who is obsessed with superheroes, so much so he tries to become one. After a false start that involves him getting stabbed, he winds up in the middle of a real-life conspiracy that involves crime bosses, crooked cops, and a young girl who can wipe the floor with people twice her size. Quirky, funny, and smart, Blue Beetle fans will appreciate the new take on an origin story, as well as the humor. Plus, it has Nicolas Cage in it, so what’s not to love?

Spider-Man (2002) 3q4j3t

An origin story that has a focus on family like Blue Beetle, the 2002 film Spider-Man remains a brilliant watch to this day. Tobey Maguire stars as Peter Parker, and he is excellent in the role, managing to personify the blend of fun and action that makes this such a compelling watch. Willem Dafoe plays the Green Goblin, giving a bit of extra star power to the cast, but all in all, this film is about how Parker grows his relationships while learning to deal with the new power that has been foisted upon him. Plus, it has this incredible scene which Maguire allegedly did over a hundred takes for.

Iron Man (2008) w695

The movie that revived Robert Downey Jr.’s career, Iron Man is also often named as the film that brought superhero stories back into the public consciousness (although some would argue Christopher Nolan’s Batman trilogy was just as important). Funny, fast-paced, and full of smart writing, the flick about a billionaire-turned-hero might be somewhat responsible for making the cult of nepo-baby king Elon Musk, but those behind the film can’t really be blamed for that. What they can take credit for, though, is a brilliant watch that fans of Blue Beetle will love for its irreverence and engrossing plot, as well as some standout action sequences.

On Wednesday, James Gunn took to social media to sing the praises of Wonder Woman Historia: The Amazons. Writer Kelly Sue DeConnick and veteran DC artists Phil Jimenez’s exploration of the early days of the Amazons was first released in 2021, but has just received a lavish hardback edition.

Gunn described it as “a breathtaking work of sequential art & one of the best things to come out of [DC] & comics in the last few years,” and it has rocketed to number one on the DC books chart on Amazon. It feels like we rarely see Kevin Feige single out specific Marvel comics for praise, so perhaps he should take some cues from the distinguished competition?

On Threads, Gunn has been praised for “singlehandedly and heroically saving the comics industry”, and he couldn’t be happier:

Gunn has been open about which comics are inspiring his new DCU, with iconic writer Grant Morrison set to be a major one. For Superman: Legacy, Gunn has turned to Grant Morrison and Frank Quitely’s incredible All-Star Superman, which sees the Man of Steel becoming overloaded with solar radiation and realizing he needs to set his affairs in order before dying.

For his Batman movie The Brave and the Bold, he’s looking to Morrison’s late 2000s/early 2010s run, in which Bruce Wayne learns he has a son, Damian, and has to deal with his homicidal tendencies.

If Gunn really wanted to mine Morrison’s DC work for more inspiration, we’d love him to tap Final Crisis for a big superhero crossover. Or, if Gunn was looking for a more offbeat project, the Seven Soldiers project seems tailor-made for a series of movies leading up to a big team-up movie.

Either way, here’s hoping DC’s best comics continue to enjoy this sales boost.

As the eternal battle for comic book supremacy rages, the eternal question always seems to crop up: Marvel or DC? The competing comic book brands have been the foundation for iconic superhero teams and plot points that often resemble each other. But only one company can be home to the incomparable Wonder Woman, and that company is DC.

Home of classic characters like Superman and Batman, DC started humbly in the late ‘30s with Action Comics and Detective Comics. These comic lines featured the Man of Steel and Caped Crusader respectively, and were precursors to Wonder Woman’s debut in 1941. A controversial figure, psychologist William Moulton Marston was inspired by his wife, Elizabeth, and their lover Olive Byrne. Though Elizabeth was a staunch feminist, The Guardian reported that the non-fiction book, The Secret History of Wonder Woman, investigated how Marston’s private life led to the comic’s creation with visuals of bondage.

Despite these controversies, Wonder Woman perseveres. She became a flagship character and founding member of the Justice League, a team that features Superman and Batman. The character has come a long way since her introduction as one of the first major female superheroes to star in her solo feature film. Wonder Woman is integral to the DC, a brand in constant one-upmanship with Marvel.

Though you wouldn’t automatically think so, DC has a basis for optimism. While Zack Snyder’s chaotic but highly entertaining DCEU movies would have you believe these characters take place in the grittiest of worlds, that isn’t necessarily the case. DC always gravitated towards larger-than-life people who saved the world because it was the right thing to do. They are driven by optimism and – for lack of a better term – being truly heroic. Batman is the exception that proves the rule. While the Dark Knight cannot exist without solving the crimes of Gotham, that is a stark contrast to the motives of Superman and Wonder Woman. Superman is an alien that believes in truth, justice, and the American Way. Similarly, Wonder Woman is a child of Zeus, making her a demi-god. Her powers are legendary, and she also believes in doing good for the sake of it.

Marvel is the antithesis of DC. While DC largely has one dark character, Marvel has one light character. Steve Rogers always has the moral high ground where everyone rolls around in the mud. Natasha is a Russian spy, Tony is a war profiteer, and Bucky is one of the most traumatized soldiers to walk the earth. Neither brand is better or worse than the other. They appeal to different sensibilities and personalities. Marvel and DC are mirrors and reflect characters fighting for the greater good in any scenario.

The onset of Barbie-mania has brought with it an onslaught of feverish debate. And while Ben Shapiro can rant all he wants about the film’s message (which evidently flew right over his head), there’s a much more uplifting discussion happening online in the hot-pink wake of Greta Gerwig’s dazzling latest film.

Indeed, Gerwig’s record-breaking efforts with Barbie — which recently saw her land the biggest-ever debut opening for a female-directed film — have sparked lively discourse on Reddit, as film buffs have floated their choices for some other cinematic greats directed by women. Scrolling through the thread is like opening a treasure trove of cinema’s greatest hits, so which movies and directors came out on top?

Alongside Gerwig, there were mentions of Patty Jenkins, who, like Gerwig with Lady Bird and Little Women, has helmed both quiet masterpieces (Monster) and popcorn blockbusters (Wonder Woman). Kudos were also given to Kathryn Bigelow, with particular praise for her films Hurt Locker and Point Break.

Female directors were also ed for in the feel-good genre, with Amy Heckerling and Nancy Meyers getting multiple shoutouts for their aughties classics Clueless and Parent Trap, respectively. Women have mastered the comedy world elsewhere, with Redditors lauding Penelope Spheeris and Vicky Jenson for their work on Wayne’s World and Shrek.

Penny Marshall was a top pick for her work on A League of Their Own and the Tom Hanks breakout vehicle, Big. At the same time, Sofia Coppola followed in her father’s footsteps as Redditors anticipate her biopic, Priscilla. Bend It Like Beckham’s Gurinder Chadha, Oscar-winner Emerald Fennell, and actress-director Olivia Wilde also earn their place on the thread.

The thread is a joyous read for film buffs, and with so much talent on offer, the debate was best summed up by Reddit @unexpectedhalfrican: “Women directed some of the most artistic and iconic films, and that they should be given the reins more often.” Did you hear that, Ben Shapiro?

James Gunn has successfully signal-boosted an overlooked gem of a comic: Wonder Woman Historia: The Amazons #1 by writer Kelly Sue DeConnick and artist Phil Jimenez. The positive attention he has recently provided has proved so effective, it seems to be translating to higher sales figures.

After Gunn initially posted his praise for Historia on Twitter, he revealed the book shot up from #63 to #1 on the DC sales chart for Amazon.

From number 63 to number 1 in DC books on Amazon since this post – I’m excited for all of you about to check it out! @dcofficial #historia https://t.co/NAazKkJWL8

— James Gunn (@JamesGunn) August 16, 2023

Comic fans were initially blown away by Historia’s original release back in the fall of 2021, with many hailing its almost psychedelic artwork encoming “the entire story of the Amazons” as an instant classic.

Though DeConnick thanked Gunn for his initial shout-out to Historia, fans of the existing Patty Jenkins-helmed Wonder Woman film franchise are already wondering if the rumor is true that the character’s movie origins will be retconned to match the comic.

With all the weird drama in the press regarding a hypothetical Wonder Woman 3, the brand arguably needs some positive coverage to help balance out perceptions if Gunn’s forthcoming DC Universe film franchise stands a chance of success. While actress Gal Gadot seemed adamant in recent interviews that she is developing Wonder Woman 3 with both Gunn and co-CEO of DC Studios Peter Safran, other reports have surfaced that seem to contradict that. What is certain is that Gunn is developing a series based in Themyscira called Paradise Lost.

With such care given to paying attention to the DC comics lore as it continues to deepen, we can only hope Gunn will apply that knowledge to his DCU going forward, especially with the beloved Wonder Woman franchise.