The two superhero comic studios produce high-grossing, action-packed movies that have grown in popularity recently, but which company is the best: DC Comics or Marvel? The following are some of the best-known movies made by the two rival studios that bring these well-known comic book heroes to life.
DC COMICS
“The Dark Knight”
Fan Rating: 9/10
Critic Metascore: 82/100
2 Oscar Wins: Best Achievement in Sound Editing (Richard King), Best Supporting Actor (Heath Ledger) 6 Oscar Nominations: Best Art Direction, Best Cinematography, Best Film Editing, Best Makeup, Best Visual Effects, Best Sound Mixing
Released: July 18, 2008
Plot Summary: A new villain, The Joker (Heath Ledger), plagues the streets of Gotham. As law officers struggle to catch him, Batman (Christian Bale) takes the law into his own his hands while fighting his long-time feelings for best friend and Assistant District Attorney, Rachel Dawes (Maggie Gyllenhaal).
“Man of Steel”
Fan Rating: 7.6/10
Critic Metascore: 55/100
Released: June 14, 2013
Plot Summary: So-called native Kansan Clark Kent aka Superman (Henry Cavill) must confront his extraterrestrial heritage when inhabitants of his planet invade. Clark struggles to fine tune his powers to save Earth while confronting his romantic feelings for Lois Lane (Amy Adams).
“Green Lantern”
Fan Rating: 5.7/10
Critic Metascore: 39/100
Released: June 17, 2011
Plot Summary: Arrogant test pilot Hal Jordan (Ryan Reynolds) must put aside his own doubts when chosen by an alien ring to protect mankind. Hal must take on an evil being who feeds off of fear to save the universe from destruction.
Other Films To See: “Batman Begins” (2005), “The Dark Knight Rises” (2012)
Future Films: “Batman vs. Superman” aka “Man of Steel 2” (July 17, 2015), “The Flash” (2016)
“I think DC is better because I grew up watching the Justice League and playing with Superman and Batman,” junior Brittany Walsh said.
MARVEL
“The Avengers”
Fan Rating: 8.2/10
Critic Metascore: 69/100
1 Oscar Nomination: Best Achievement in Visual Effects
Released: May 4, 2012
Plot Summary: With a threatening alien attack looming over the world, a secret government agency called S.H.I.E.L.D. assembles a team of heroes to save the day. From many different backgrounds and clashing personalities, Iron Man (Robert Downey Jr.), Thor (Chris Hemsworth), Captain America (Chris Evans), The Hulk (Mark Ruffalo), Black Widow (Scarlett Johansson), and Hawkeye (Jeremy Renner) struggle to unite against the alien force.
“Iron Man”
Fan Rating: 7.9/10
Critic Metascore: 79/100
2 Oscar Nominations: Best Achievement in Sound Editing, Best Achievement in Visual Effects
Released: May 2, 2008
Plot Summary: Billionaire weapons manufacturer Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.) is kidnapped by a terrorist group in Afghanistan. To escape, he creates a suit of armor, giving him superhuman powers while wearing it. This changes his outlook on his lifestyle, causing him to use the suit to bring justice to those deserving of it.
“Spider-Man”
Fan Rating: 7.3/10
Critic Metascore: 73/100
2 Oscar Nominations: Best Sound, Best Visual Effects
Released: May 3, 2002
Plot Summary: Peter Parker (Tobey Maguire), your average, awkward high school student, gets his world turned upside down when bitten by a genetically-modified spider. After a family tragedy, this teen must use his spider-like abilities to battle evil villains.
Other Films To See: “Iron Man 3” (2013), “Thor” (2011), “Spider-Man 2” (2004)
Future Films: “Thor: The Dark World” (Dec. 8, 2013), “The Avengers: Age of Ultron” (May 1, 2015)
“I like Marvel better because they’re the classics,” senior Ryan Russell said.
