Top 50 Best DC Animated Movies Of All Time
DC Films is a division of Warner Bros. that has gone on to enthrall the audience with the release of several big screen extravaganzas such as Joker, Aquaman, Wonder Woman, Shazam, and Man of Steel in the last few years.
However, the film production company is also known for churning out some of the finest superhero animated feature films with remarkable consistency.
Therefore, to do justice to the fans of DC, we have come up with a story on some of their favorite animated credits of all time.
Not only will they find acclaimed standalone films in our piece but they will also be introduced to some acclaimed screen adaptations of impressive storylines from the rich history of comic books.
While some of these cult projects have directly been released on television, a few others have managed to make a splash on the silver screen as well.
So, with the DC Universe Animated Original Movies continuing to expand, it is only fair that we do a comprehensive analysis of some of the best titles out there so far.
Recommended:
1. Batman: The Dark Knight Returns Part 2 (2013)
Batman: The Dark Knight Returns Part 2 revolves mostly around the aftermath of Batman’s return when he has officially been declared a wanted fugitive.
Therefore, it made sense to split the main storyline of the comic book (on which it was based) into two parts while adapting them for the screen.
The film goes on to show the President of the United States of America asking Superman to somehow deter Batman.
This leads to the clash of two of the most seasoned superheroes; something that the viewers would love to watch time and again.
Arguably the most admired DC Universe Animated Original movie, Batman: The Dark Knight Returns Part 2 has been written, performed, and directed with remarkable proficiency.
It is not surprising then that it served as arguably the biggest inspiration for Zack Snyder’s Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice.
2. Justice League: The Flashpoint Paradox (2013)
A Jay Oliva-helmed project to make it to our piece today is Justice League: The Flashpoint Paradox, which is one of the most spectacular Flash tales out there.
The story follows the journey of Flash as he is compelled to collude with a non-existent Justice League to switch an altered timeline.
In case he fails to do so, there is a grave possibility of a war between Wonder Woman’s Amazons and Aquaman’s Atlantis.
A heck of a ride from start to finish, this film utilizes the alternate versions of heroes and villains rather efficiently.
Having said that, one of the primary reasons Justice League: The Flashpoint Paradox was in the news was the fact that it included a subplot that showed Bruce withering in Crime Alley and, consequently, his beloved father taking up the cape of Batman.
Recommended:
3. Batman: Under the Red Hood (2010)
This animated action thriller direct-to-video film introduces the fans to a diabolical villain named Red Hood, who can accurately gauge the moves of the Dark Knight without dropping a sweat.
This makes the altercation between the hero and the villain worth watching. One of the better-written films in the DC Universe Animated original movies collection, Batman: Under The Red Hood thrives on its compelling storytelling that also happens to be emotionally enriching in some ways.
Even though it is not as heavy on action as some other entries on our list, it has its excellent characterizations to fall back on.
Needless to say, Batman: Under The Red Hood is a feature film that no fan of Batman or DC can afford to miss.
Recommended:
4. Batman: The Dark Knight Returns Part 1 (2012)
Helmed by Jay Oliva, Batman: The Dark Knight Returns is a two-part direct-to-video animated superhero film. Both the parts have officially been adapted from Frank Miller’s 1986 comic book, The Dark Knight Returns.
The film marks the return of Batman after a gap of ten years. This is to make sure that he can finally put the criminals, who are too keen to conquer Gotham City, in their place.
Even though he may have returned for the greater good, the Dark Knight finds himself indulged in deadly combat with the many wrongdoers and the Joker himself.
An outstanding screen adaptation of one of the most magnificent comic book stories, The Dark Knight Returns Part 1 surprises in more ways than one.
So, if you’re expecting an adventurous and colorful experience while planning to watch this feature, be certain of the fact that the dark and realistic execution of the story will leave you spellbound.
5. Batman: Mask of the Phantasm (1993)
Often counted among the best comic book movies to have ever been produced, Batman: Mask of the Phantasm was the first film in the DC Animated Universe to have seen a theatrical release.
The film, besides detailing Batman’s origins, brings a new and powerful criminal to the fore. The catch here is that the villain seems to be connected to Bruce Wayne’s ex-girlfriend and blames the Dark Knight for having murdered a crime lord.
Needless to say, Batman has no option other than to teach him a good, taut lesson. One has to acknowledge the fact that Batman: Mask of the Phantasm did not only come up with better animation but it also injected authentically alarming sequences into its tight storytelling.
Don’t be surprised to find a lot of violence, blood, and gore infused into its screenplay.
6. Justice League Dark: Apokolips War (2020)
It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to claim that the epic finale of this feature film is, in many ways, equivalent to that of the box office behemoth Avengers: Endgame.
The project features a massive star cast and demonstrates how the members of the Justice League reunite with the sole aim to take on Darkseid and save the remaining survivors following the unfortunate and unforeseen destruction of the planet.
Justice League Dark: Apokolips War integrates almost all the stories from the collection to ensure that the fans who have followed the series for years are satisfied with its grand finale.
Moreover, one can argue that this movie is, in fact, one of the best-animated titles that one can watch after Zack Snyder’s Justice League.
7. Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker (2000)
The year 2000 had the privilege to welcome the much-awaited crossover of Batman: The Animated Series and Batman Beyond.
Better still, the excitement went beyond the roof after it was revealed that Mark Hamill would be returning as the iconic Joker.
Needless to say, fans refused to keep calm and couldn’t wait to catch this straight-to-video feature as soon as it was released.
Batman Beyond: Return Of The Joker, which was commended for its startling revelations, traces the journey of Bruce Wayne, who is compelled to face his archrival Joker who was thought to be dead.
However, will he be able to get the better of Joker this time around?
Most loyal fans of the series would suggest you to catch the unrated cut that can be watched on HBO Max.
This is because the version not only manages to establish a captivating environment but also goes on to celebrate both the shows that are a part of the crossover.
8. Batman: Assault on Arkham (2014)
The plot of the 20th feature film of the DC Universe Animated Original Movies revolves chiefly around the Suicide Squad; even though Batman plays a significant role in it.
The film, which is set within the Batman: Arkham video game universe, follows Batman as he is tasked with protecting Gotham City from a bomb planted by Joker.
In addition, the Dark Knight has to deal with Amanda Waller’s team of the Suicide Squad. The movie thrives on its solid characters, entertaining action sequences, and storyline that comprises quite a few surprises for its targeted audience.
9. Justice League: Doom (2012)
The plot of Justice League: Doom is truly exhilarating. It showcases how Batman’s clandestine plans of slaying the members of the Justice League, in case they turn out to be evil, are stolen and used by formidable antagonists against him and his squad.
The intense plot follows Savage, who aims to wipe out the human race the first chance he gets. To ascertain that his schemes are not thwarted by the Justice League, he prepares a team of supervillains to take down the members of the League individually.
The film’s attempt to project how Batman has to think better to outdo the very plans he first put in place works big time.
Also, Justice League: Doom has to be applauded for making better use of the underrated character, Martian Manhunter; one that wasn’t used in the most resourceful manner in the various movies of the collection so far.
10. The Death of Superman (2018)
The Death of Superman has to be one of the most interesting movies in DC’s collection of ambitious animated projects.
The feature film traces the journey of Doomsday; a monstrous humanoid who appears out of nowhere from a meteorite and starts to turn the city upside down with his crazy antics.
However, little does the monster know that Superman, along with the Justice League, has taken a call to put him down for good.
Overall, it would be safe to assert that The Death of Superman is one of the most loyal screen adaptations of its source material, which is what makes it even more fun to watch.
In fact, it easily outshines DC’s first attempt at adapting the same story with Superman: Doomsday, which was released in 2007.
11. Batman: Year One (2011)
There are no arguments about the fact that this animated movie version of Batman: Year One remains loyal to its source material.
Based on the four-issue story arc of the same name, the film traces the remarkable journey of Batman during his first year as the indomitable Dark Knight.
It showcases the struggles that Bruce Wayne faces while trying to figure out what he really wants to be in his life.
The plot follows how Wayne, in his dreaded Batman avatar, and city cop Jim Gordon, do their best to tackle the miscreants in Gotham City in their own ways.
In the process, the two conscientious men end up sharing a rather unusual camaraderie as well.
12. Constantine: City of Demons – The Movie (2018)
Helmed skilfully by Doug Murphy, this feature film traces the journey of Chas Chandler and occult investigator John Constantine, who, a decade after a tragic blunder, set out to cure the former’s daughter, Trish who is battling a demonically induced coma.
Warner Bros. and DC do a commendable job of implanting elements of horror into the film’s storytelling. Since it comprises mature content, a lot many children may not be able to make full sense of the screenplay.
Be that as it may, Constantine: City of Demons is a must-watch for those who are more than willing to explore the complex life of John Constantine.
13. Batman: The Long Halloween Part 1 (2021)
This Chris Palmer directorial venture is as exciting as it is surprising. First things first, its charm lies in the fact that it utilizes the character of Batman as the bonafide detective, and not just as an action fanatic.
The story follows a series of brutal murders that traumatize the residents of Gotham City during the time of the holidays.
Batman tries his best to catch the serial killer before more crimes are committed. In his tough quest, he is assisted by district attorney Harvey Dent and police officer James Gordon.
The plot details the Caped Crusader’s relentless mission to find the holiday-themed serial killer, and goes on to connect massively with the viewers, who get drawn into the film’s storytelling in no time.
Batman: The Long Halloween acknowledges that, aside from his appetite for action, Batman can also take care of the proceedings by relying heavily on his ability to best his foes through great deduction skills.
14. Wonder Woman (2009)
There is no denying the fact that this animated feature film serves as a clear inspiration for Patty Jenkins’ blockbuster flick Wonder Woman; one that stars the gorgeous Gal Gadot in the titular role.
Therefore, it is not surprising to notice that both the projects appear to be identical to each other in terms of their setting and plot structure.
The story follows the journey of Princess Diana, who takes the onus on herself to save the world after Ares, the god of war, threatens to destroy human civilization once and for all.
There have been several instances where fans of DC films have petitioned that a lot more content from the well-regarded animated features should be borrowed in order to execute the live-action ones with efficiency.
Needless to say, Patty Jenkins is one individual who seems to have taken the advice rather seriously.
15. Justice League: Crisis on Two Earths (2010)
Based on the abandoned direct-to-video feature Justice League: Worlds Collide, Justice League: Crisis on Two Earths has been credited with trying to push the rigid boundaries of the DC Universe Animated original movies.
The film depicts how the Justice League is recruited by Lex Luthor to not only combat their respective evil counterparts but also to save planet Earth from their terrible and nasty agendas.
This assertive animated feature does not squander a lot of time in trying to explain the backstory that its core audience may already be familiar with.
Needless to say, this quickly sets the plot in motion and allows the viewers to sit back, relax, and watch their favorite superheroes battle their respective wicked counterparts.
Justice League: Crisis on Two Earths has managed to generate a lot of goodwill banking on the character projection of its main villain Owlman, who was played efficiently by James Woods.
16. Justice League: War (2014)
This Jay Oliva directorial venture blends its top-notch action with manageable, surface-level storytelling to provide non-stop entertainment to its viewers.
The film shows superheroes such as Superman, Wonder Woman, Batman, and others coming together to ensure that the Earth does not end up falling prey to the insidious influence of the evil Darkseid.
Even though the revered characters have not been fully developed here, they do get a moment or two of their own to shine.
The film primarily shows how the superheroes reunite in response to Darkseid’s abrupt arrival on Earth. However, the story does not really stretch beyond an obvious point in this one.
17. Batman & Mr. Freeze: SubZero (1998)
This direct-to-video animated superhero film is the second project to be based on Batman: The Animated Series. Helmed by Boyd Kirkland, it is also a standalone sequel to Batman: Mask of the Phantasm.
The film shows how Batman and Robin rescue Batgirl from the clutches of the cryogenic supercriminal, Mr. Freeze.
Batman & Mr. Freeze: Sub-Zero keeps the suspense and the tension intact throughout its run time. Needless to say, it made a bold entry into the DC Animated Universe.
The histrionics of both its chief antagonist and main lead are enough for the fans of the franchise to sit through this title.
18. Batman vs Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (2019)
This Jake Castorena-helmed animated superhero film has officially been adapted from James Tynion IV and Freddie Williams II’s six-issue intercompany crossover comic book miniseries Batman/Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.
The story follows Batman, who, at the behest of Batgirl, tries to reach out to the Ninja Turtles. He does so because he hopes to deter Shredder, who has joined forces with Ra’s al Ghul and the League of Assassins intending to destroy Gotham City for good.
This animated feature opened to favorable reviews which helped it amass over $3.3 million from home video sales.
19. Batman vs. Robin (2015)
Partially based on Scott Snyder’s “Batman: The Court of Owls” saga, this Jay Oliva directorial venture underscores the dilemma that Damian finds himself in while striving to abide by his father’s declaration of never to kill.
However, he may soon have to take a call after a vicious toymaker starts destroying lives by abducting kids and turning them into dolls.
This direct-to-video animated superhero film utilizes Damian, and not his father, as the main protagonist. The writing and the voice acting both are decent in this one.
In addition, its poignant climax manages to make an impression.
20. DC League of Super-Pets (2022)
Based on the DC Comics superhero team Legion of Super-Pets, DC League of Super-Pets is a smart and exciting superhero comedy flick that has been helmed by Jared Stern.
The story tracks how Superdog Krypto tries to rescue Superman and the rest of the league after they end up getting abducted by the supervillain Lex Luthor.
We catch Krypto finding a group of shelter pets with superpowers and trying to convince them to help him in his rather dangerous mission.
While the movie certainly made the kids laugh, it also helped the adults chuckle from time to time. It is not surprising then that it went on to become a box office success.
21. Green Lantern: First Flight (2009)
Time to make some noise for one of the original members of the Justice League; someone whose epic life story has been told with elan in the animated feature film Green Lantern: First Flight.
The entertaining project tracks the journey of a pilot named Hal Jordan, who receives an enigmatic and seemingly powerful ring from an alien who is about to die.
The extraordinary part about the ring is that it will allow Jordan to transform him into a Green Lantern.
While Green Lantern: First Flight competently illustrated the association between Hal Jordan and his arch-enemy Sinestro, it also went on to show how seriously the titular character takes his task of patrolling the earth to ensure that peace, order, and justice prevail at all times.
22. Superman/Batman: Public Enemies (2009)
Based on the DC Comics story arc “Public Enemies” in the Superman/Batman comic book series, this animated superhero feature film traces the journey of heroes Batman and Superman, who seem to be standing on the wrong side of the law, even though they aim to fight crime.
However, after Lex is elected as the President of the United States of America, he comes up with an elaborate plan to frame them.
Superman/Batman: Public Enemies, which opened to generally positive reviews, is reportedly among the most profitable movies in the DC Universe Animated Original Movies line-up.
23. Suicide Squad: Hell to Pay (2018)
This animated adult superhero flick demonstrates how, after having been diagnosed with a terminal ailment, Amanda Waller reassembles Task Force X with the aim to procure an esoteric black playing card that is called Get Out of Hell Free.
A digital release, Suicide Squad: Hell to Pay was appreciated for its readiness to kill some of its key characters, as well as for its sense of humor and surprisingly good writing.
In fact, several reviewers even went on to call it arguably the most impressive Suicide Squad feature film out there.
24. Superman vs. The Elite (2012)
Based on the comic book story “What’s So Funny About Truth, Justice & the American Way?”, this Michael Chang directorial venture attempts to cast a light on themes that are usually not given a lot of space in superhero-themed projects.
The film shows Superman stumbling upon a new crew of rivals, the Elite, who have nothing but resentment for his idealism.
As the story progresses, their radicalism can soon be seen turning out to be ruthless. While there is a lot of action to boot here, themes of politics, power, and America’s place in the world are also explored.
25. Teen Titans: The Judas Contract (2017)
Directed by Sam Liu, this direct-to-video animated superhero film is based on The Judas Contract by Marv Wolfman and George Pérez.
The story follows Deathstroke, who has been authorized by Brother Blood to abduct and bring the Teen Titans to him for he wishes to attain a godlike status after draining each of them of their respective unique powers.
Even though it is a fairly entertaining watch, Teen Titans: The Judas Contract’s limited run time does not really provide the writers with enough room to do justice to the villain’s character.
26. Justice League: Gods and Monsters (2015)
What happens when those who are seen as saviors end up being suspects in a few brutal murder cases themselves?
Well, that’s exactly what the storyline of Justice League: Gods and Monsters attempts to showcase. The plot shows how the public grows suspicious of the Justice League, Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman after they end up being prime suspects in several murder cases; a predicament that forces them to turn into fugitives.
This animated feature film thrives on its writing, fight sequences, and characterization. It is a must-see for every DC fan out there.
27. Justice League Dark (2017)
Even though it was released with an R rating, this animated science fantasy superhero feature film was relatively mild and bloodless in its approach.
Directed by Jay Oliva, the story follows numerous murder investigations that are spearheaded by Batman and other superheroes from the Justice League.
A top-notch celebration of everything supernatural about DC, Justice League Dark never loses sight of what it wishes to convey to its core audience, which is what keeps its intriguing factor intact for the better part of the screenplay.
Its sequel, Justice League Dark: Apokolips War, was also released in the May of 2020.
28. Superman/Batman: Apocalypse (2010)
This Lauren Montgomery directorial venture brings two of the most admirable superheroes of all time, namely Batman and Superman, together.
The film tracks the journey of an enigmatic Kryptonian whose spaceship comes crashing down on earth. However, after Darkseid learns about her whereabouts, he ends up kidnapping her.
Now, the onus to save her is on two giants of the game, Batman and Superman. But, will they actually be able to protect the girl?
Based on the Superman/Batman comic book storyline “The Supergirl from Krypton”, Superman/Batman: Apocalypse is a fun adventure flick that also brings in other heroes such as Wonder Woman and some of the New Gods to the forefront as it progresses.
29. Justice League: The New Frontier (2008)
Adapted from the DC Comics limited series DC: The New Frontier, this Dave Bullock-helmed feature film is a superbly entertaining watch.
Set in the 1950s, the film traces the journey of a new generation of superheroes who are urged to team up with the active veterans of the community and the United States government to fight a threat to planet Earth.
This surprisingly pleasing and inventive adaptation continues to be among the better projects bankrolled by DC and Warner Bros. Animation to date.
Therefore, it was not shocking to find some critics calling Justice League: The New Frontier the most gratifying animation experience they may have had in years.
30. Batman: Hush (2019)
Based on the 2002 comic book story arc of the same name, Batman: Hush traces the journey of the Dark Knight who comes to realize that a wrongdoer always keeps getting in his way when he is striving to do someone some good.
Therefore, the Caped Crusader has no option left other than to form a formidable alliance to stop Hush from playing his perilous game.
The story, which is a fair balance of darkness and humor, comes across as a bit more mature in its approach in this one.
In fact, you’ll find plenty of Batman fans who actually consider this to be among the best Batman-themed animated features that they may have ever chanced upon.
31. Batman and Superman: Battle of the Super Sons (2022)
This Matt Peters directorial venture is based on the comic books of the same name.
Reportedly DC’s first venture into 3D animation, the film chronicles the journey of Jonathan Kent and Damian Wayne, who are burdened with saving the world from impending doom.
Needless to say, the duo rises to the occasion and joins forces to not only rescue their fathers but also protect the planet by becoming the superheroes they were also intended to be.
Even though predictable, Batman and Superman: Battle of the Super Sons received generally positive reviews from film pundits and was praised for its depiction of the relationship between its two young heroes.
32. Justice League vs. Teen Titans (2016)
A Sam Liu-helmed feature film to make it to our list is Justice League vs. Teen Titans. The film traces how after Robin acts indifferently to Batman’s orders, he is urged to merge with the Teen Titans.
Soon enough, Trigon can be seen reemerging as the Titans find themselves facing the possessed members of the Justice League on the battlefield.
The film successfully captures everything that the Teen Titans are all about, but with a slightly grown-up feel. Also, the action beats make the project fairly entertaining for its viewers.
33. Superman: Doomsday (2007)
Based on the DC Comics storyline “The Death of Superman”, Superman: Doomsday focuses both on the death and return of the superhero Superman.
The story details how the planet witnesses a power-packed armageddon; one in which Superman gets trapped in a mortal battle with a bloodthirsty creature like Doomsday.
But, the fun lies in watching whether Superman will be able to muster the energy to fight back or not!
This feature film was lauded for being an obvious improvement over other DC animated projects that were released at the time. It was also presented in a technically sound manner.
34. Teen Titans Go! vs. Teen Titans (2019)
Helmed by Jeff Mednikow, this animated superhero flick is a crossover between the television series Teen Titans Go! and the original Teen Titans.
The film traces how a villain, The Master of Games, travels through the multiverse and ends up kidnapping the Teen Titans.
His only aim is to take control of the entire world with immediate effect. Therefore, to ensure that his dream comes true, he starts pitting the Titans against a different version of themselves to destroy the planet once and for all.
Teen Titans Go! vs. Teen Titans is a delightful crossover that should not be missed by anyone who swears by the films of the DC Animated Universe.
35. All-Star Superman (2011)
“All-Star Superman” was basically a 12-issue mini-series that was created by the team of DC itself and featured Superman as the central protagonist.
The film traces the journey of Superman, who, after getting exposed to solar radiation, seems to be perishing for good.
Therefore, he plans to spend what’s left of his life fulfilling his dream. However, he is forced to stop Lex Luthor after it is revealed that he is hell-bent on executing his wicked plans.
Directed by Sam Liu, All-Star Superman was applauded for its expert utilization of emotions, artwork, storyline, and characterization.
36. Teen Titans Go! to the Movies (2018)
Based on the television series Teen Titans Go!, which itself is based on the DC Comics superhero team of the same name, this animated superhero musical comedy film traces the journey of Teen Titans, who wish to participate in a superhero movie.
However, after getting aware of the Teen Titans’ desire, Slade puts himself to work and starts to turn the Titans against each other with the use of a mind-controlling device.
The film was a decent money spinner at the box office and received positive reviews for its stylized animation, humor, cast, and score.
37. Batman: Bad Blood (2016)
A sequel to the 2015 film Batman vs. Robin, this direct-to-video animated superhero feature film derived quite a few elements from Grant Morrison’s run on Batman; especially the Leviathan story arcs.
The story of the film majorly revolves around the disappearance of Bruce Wayne. It shows how his trusted sidekicks, namely Nightwing and Robin, team up to protect Gotham City while he is gone.
Also, during the same time, Batwoman can be seen looking into the Dark Knight’s sudden disappearance. This well-cast and fun project comprises some of the best action sequences for any animated Batman title.
38. Reign of the Supermen (2019)
Directed by Sam Liu, Reign of the Supermen serves as a direct sequel to the 2018 animated film The Death of Superman, which was based on the comic book story arc of the same name in “The Death of Superman” event.
The film details how months after Superman’s sacrifice, four strong competitors come to the fore to fight each other while displaying their unique skills.
This is all to ascertain that one of them gets the opportunity to succeed Superman. As amusing as this feature is, it is infused with a lot of pointless jokes; some of which even go on to take the seriousness away from the storytelling.
39. Batman: Gotham by Gaslight (2018)
Set in Victorian-era Gotham, this Sam Liu-helmed animated superhero feature traces the journey of the Dark Knight as he tries to nab a serial killer named Jack the Ripper, who terrorizes poor women before killing them.
Meanwhile, an actress, Selina Kyle, can also be seen trying to bring the killer to justice. Loosely based on the standalone graphic novel of the same name, Batman: Gotham by Gaslight was appreciated for staying loyal to its source material and for its intelligent execution.
However, the project wasn’t considered to be suitable for a young audience.
40. Batman: Gotham Knight (2008)
Based on the DC Comics superhero of the same name, Batman: Gotham Knight is an animated superhero anthology feature film that aims to cast a light on the key events in Bruce Wayne’s life.
The film consists of six segments that were jointly produced by studios in Japan and DC. The timeline of the project is supposed to be set between the events of Batman Begins and The Dark Knight.
The beauty of Batman: Gotham Knight lies in the fact that each of the segments has its own artistic way of presentation; something that provides the overall execution with a definitive edge for sure.
41. Son of Batman (2014)
Directed by Ethan Spaulding, Son of Batman is a screen adaptation of Grant Morrison and Andy Kubert’s “Batman and Son” storyline from 2006.
The story details Batman’s journey after he discovers that he has a son who has been raised and nurtured by the League of Assassins.
The Dark Knight tries his best to form a connection with him while trying to withstand the chief antagonist of the movie, Deathstroke.
Son of Batman manages to incorporate a decent amount of humor in its adult-oriented action sequences; something that usually works for tent-pole mainstream entertainers.
42. Superman: Unbound (2013)
Based on the 2008 comic book story arc “Superman: Brainiac” by Geoff Johns, this James Tucker directorial venture traces the journey of Superman and his spontaneous and fearful cousin, Supergirl.
The story show how the duo decides to take on the insensitive Brainiac; a cybernetic who reportedly holds the knowledge and might of over ten thousand worlds.
The 75-minute-long feature film thrives on its superb action and animation sequences and gets the job done without being too great or underwhelming in its approach and execution.
This fairly entertaining Superman outing also casts a light on the Man of Steel’s sharp sense of sarcasm.
43. Justice League: Throne of Atlantis (2015)
Partially based on the “Throne of Atlantis” story arc from The New 52 written by Geoff Johns, Justice League: Throne of Atlantis shows how Aquaman is compelled to choose either the Justice League or the Atlantis after the powerful combatants of Atlantis start demolishing both Metropolis and Gotham City.
While a lot of critics felt that the character of Aquaman failed to be fleshed out well in a film that primarily revolves around his character, several others were of the opinion that the animation, if nothing else, gets the job done.
44. Superman: Man of Tomorrow (2020)
Helmed by Chris Palmer, Superman: Man of Tomorrow is an action-packed ride that thrives on its hard-hitting script and emotions.
The story, which is dependent on the appeal of two special B-list characters, follows an intern at the Daily Planet named Clark Kent, who utilizes his secret powers to defend Metropolis from the cruel ambitions of alien invaders, Lobo and Parasite.
While Lobo turns out to be quite the scene stealer in this one, Parasite’s origin story also packs a solid emotional punch that makes him come across as endearing.
In our opinion, even an average fan of animated superhero features must give this project a try.
45. Superman: Red Son (2020)
This Sam Liu directorial venture is based on writer Mark Millar’s comic book miniseries of the same name that was published in 2003.
The story of the feature film showcases how after Kal-El’s rocket lands in the Soviet Union, he evolves into its national hero Superman in no time.
However, a plot to put him to rest once and for all is being planned by an American scientist Lex Luthor.
Following its official release, the project was criticized by the mainstream Russian media for comprising elements that could be seen as an information war of sorts against their beloved nation.
46. Justice Society: World War II (2021)
Considered to be among the finest of the long-running DC Universe Movies series, Justice Society: World War II takes the right amount of ideas from its source material.
The film traces the journey of the Justice Society of America; a faction of heroes supporting the allies in the Second World War.
The Society soon acquires an associate from the future who sends its members on an expedition that ends up rewriting the course of history itself.
Justice Society: World War II manages to take care of its pacing issues which had been an impediment in several of DC’s animated features in the past.
47. Batman: The Killing Joke (2016)
Based on Alan Moore’s and Brian Bolland’s graphic novel of the same name, this adult animated thriller superhero film has been helmed by Sam Liu.
The story follows Batman’s relentless quest to find the tricky Joker after the latter escapes prison. In the meantime, the Joker gets busy doing what he does best.
He ends up kidnapping Commissioner Gordon and goes on to paralyze his dear daughter.
Courtesy of the popularity of its two main characters, Batman: The Killing Joke had to be released simultaneously in theaters and digitally.
It was praised for its animation style and vocal performances.
48. Injustice (2021)
This Matt Peters-helmed feature film details how the Joker tricks Superman into killing Lois Lane in an alternate Earth; an act that sends the superhero on the path of total destruction.
Sooner than later, Superman decides that he must take full control of Earth as Batman and his allies do their very best to resist him.
Based on the 2013 video game of the same name, this animated superhero title was praised for its vocal performances and animation.
However, it was also criticized for not being true to its source material and its rushed storytelling.
49. Green Lantern: Beware My Power (2022)
Helmed by Jeff Wamester, Green Lantern: Beware of My Power tells the story of a recently discharged Marine sniper John Stewart, who happens to be at a crossroads in life.
While he is striving to figure out how to withstand the intricacies of his life, things get even more complicated when he chances upon an extraterrestrial ring that grants him the extraordinary powers of the Green Lantern on the planet.
Many who are familiar with Green Lantern John Stewart and his heroics believe that he is a pretty good addition to the Justice League (Unlimited) series.
However, many also hold the opinion that this particular feature has failed to do justice to the titular character. While the animation certainly is vibrant here, its origin story had to face a lot of criticism.
50. Legion of Super-Heroes (2023)
Jeff Wamester’s Legion of Superheroes opened to extremely mixed reviews in 2023. In its story, we are introduced to Kara, who struggles to make peace with her life after the loss of Krypton.
While Superman mentors her, she tries to deal with a shady group called the Dark Circle which seems to be looking to get its hands on a powerful weapon held in the Academy’s vault.
There is no denying that the storyline here is a tad predictable. However, it does manage to provide its viewers with adventures that may come off as fun.
Add to that the fact that it thrives on its consistent animation which stretches across most of these DC animated projects. That being said, this film is watchable and no more.
