The horizon of the superhero universe has expanded in recent years with the introduction of quintessential female characters who have gone on to take center stage. From their formidable strength to their trendy costumes, these new generation women superheroes have captivated audiences across the globe. Starring talents like Brie Larson, Samuel L. Jackson, Park Seo-joon, Marvel Studio’s latest release, The Marvels, continues the narrative of women superheroes saving the world. The story follows Carol Danvers, aka Captain Marvel, who has reclaimed her identity from the tyrannical Kree and taken revenge on the Supreme Intelligence. However, unintended consequences see her shouldering the burden of a destabilized universe.
Ahead of its release, here are five women centric superhero films that you must watch if you haven’t already.
1. Wonder Woman (2017)
Directed by Patty Jenkins, Wonder Woman stands as a groundbreaking masterpiece that reintroduced the iconic character Diana Prince to a new generation. Gal Gadot's portrayal of the Amazonian princess was nothing short of extraordinary. The film's unique blend of action, mythology, and feminism left audiences awe-struck. Wonder Woman broke records and shattered the myth that a woman-led superhero movie couldn't be a box office hit.
2. Captain Marvel (2019)
In Captain Marvel, Brie Larson plays Carol Danvers, a former U.S. Air Force pilot who becomes one of the most powerful superheroes in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Directed by Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck, this film explores her quest to discover her true identity and her extraordinary abilities. It's a thrilling and empowering ride that emphasizes the strength of self-discovery and resilience and gives us a glimpse of a superhero who transcends conventional expectations and proves that strength knows no gender.
3. Black Widow (2021)
Scarlett Johansson's Natasha Romanoff, aka Black Widow, finally gets the solo movie she deserves in Black Widow. Directed by Cate Shortland, this film delves into Natasha's past, revealing the secrets and challenges she faced as a former Russian spy and Avenger. It's a gripping tale of redemption, family, and the enduring power of sisterhood, making it a must-watch for fans of complex, multifaceted heroines.
4. Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2022)
Black Panther: Wakanda Forever brings together Queen Ramonda, Shuri, M'Baku, Okoye and the Dora Milaje as they fight to protect their nation from intervening world powers in the wake of King T'Challa's death. As the Wakandans strive to embrace their next chapter, the heroes must band together with Nakia and Everett Ross to forge a new path for their beloved kingdom. Played by Letitia Wright, Shuri’s character showcases immense strength and strategy to help overcome the enemy in question.
5. Dark Phoenix (2019)
Although the X-Men series has often focused on the story of Jean Grey as a powerful mutant, Dark Phoenix brought her to the forefront in a compelling way. Directed by Simon Kinberg, this movie delves deep into Jean's struggles with her extraordinary abilities and the moral dilemmas that come with them. And here’s the film that inspired this list:
6. The Marvels (2023)
It’s clear that women are not only shining as individual heroes but are also making their mark as part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The Marvels, directed by Nia DaCosta, promises to be an epic adventure, with Brie Larson reprising her role as Captain Marvel, joined by Teyonah Parris as Monica Rambeau and Iman Vellani as Kamala Khan (Ms. Marvel). The Marvels will undoubtedly continue the trend of strong and empowering women-led superhero stories and hold the potential to showcase the strength, camaraderie, and individuality of these female heroes, emphasizing the idea that it's their diversity and unity that make them an unstoppable force.
