Summary
- Even acclaimed superhero movies can face skepticism due to controversial decisions, but talent can prevail against low expectations.
- Movies like Aquaman, The Batman, and The Suicide Squad overcame doubts about casting, directors, or past films to become successful.
- Iron Man, Batman, and Guardians of the Galaxy all defied expectations, proving that even risky superhero projects can become massive hits, changing the industry.
Audience anticipation isn't always the best indicator of success for superhero movies, with many of the most acclaimed films in the genre being met with skepticism on announcement. The best superhero movies are typically carried by their talent, with star actors and directors either proving themselves or living up to their reputations by piloting an expensive film based off a beloved IP. But audiences aren't always easily convinced that a given project will succeed, even if they wind up being proven wrong.
It's easy to forget in the wake of a comic book movie success story that expectations may not have been high leading up to the opening weekend. This can be due to controversial casting decisions, a spotty track record from a production studio, or a lack of faith in a more obscure character or franchise being adapted for the silver screen. Whether it's Marvel, DC, or films based off of other independent superhero stories, films that are widely regarded as some of the greatest in the genre today may not have had the best optics.