While 2024 proved to be a quieter year for comic book films, major players like Marvel, DC, and others in the genre still delivered impressive cinematic moments. Despite fewer releases, Marvel managed to achieve a commendable box office performance. Notably, Deadpool & Wolverine grossed over $1.3 billion globally, marking a significant win for the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). In contrast, DC’s Joker: Folie à Deux did not replicate this success, and Sony experienced disappointments with both Madame Web and Kraven the Hunter. However, the film Venom: The Last Dance performed much better, even amidst mixed reviews.
Every film carries its own merit, although some gems may require a keen eye to uncover. Deadpool & Wolverine certainly delivered many standout moments in 2024, featuring a witty script overflowing with clever cameos, meta references, and the exhilarating action fans craved. Even films that didn’t achieve blockbuster status offered unique highlights. The following is a rundown of the top 10 comic book movies of 2024.
10
Deadpool & Wolverine’s Opening Credits
Deadpool & Wolverine
Known for their striking opening credit sequences, Deadpool films set the tone right from the start. In the latest iteration, the movie kicks off with a freeze-frame battle featuring Deadpool, accompanied by Juice Newton’s “Angel of the Morning.”Following the trend, Deadpool 2 showcased a James Bond-style opening set to Celine Dion’s “Ashes.”The much-anticipated Deadpool & Wolverine leans into nostalgia with its opening, integrating NSYNC’s “Bye Bye Bye”into a chaotic yet thrilling action sequence.
This unforgettable opening amusingly aligns Deadpool’s movements with the song, all while he dispatches TVA soldiers using Wolverine’s adamantium bones from Logan. The clever choreography also features a delightful homage to NSYNC’s iconic music video, ultimately prompting the band to update the title on YouTube to reflect its special connection with the film.
9
Joker Questions Gary Puddles During His Trial
Joker: Madness for Two
Joker: Folie à Deux represented a bold leap but ultimately faced mixed reactions from audiences and disappointing box office returns. One of the most compelling aspects is its introspective look at Arthur Fleck’s past actions from the 2019 film. A crucial moment arises during Arthur’s trial when he interrogates Gary Puddles, his friend who witnessed a tragic event leading to the death of Randall.
While Arthur rationalizes Randall’s murder as justified, Gary’s emotional response highlights the ripple effects of violence, pushing Arthur to reconsider the Joker persona he has embraced. This moment signifies a significant turning point for Arthur, marking a departure from the character’s established trajectory, a thematic choice that, although polarizing, showcased a brave narrative direction.
8
Deadpool And Wolverine Save The Multiverse
Deadpool & Wolverine
The emotional crescendo of Deadpool & Wolverine culminates in a heartfelt act of friendship that saves the multiverse. After a climactic showdown with the Deadpool Corps, Wade Wilson and Logan find themselves facing the formidable Cassandra Nova, who threatens existence itself through a device called the Time Ripper. In a selfless act, Deadpool endeavors to destroy the machine, only for Wolverine to join him in this final push.
Set against the backdrop of Madonna’s “Like a Prayer,”the scene is both comedic and poignant as it features flashbacks that highlight Wolverine’s heroism. The cheesy yet thrilling reveal of Wolverine’s abs further anchors the levity amidst the high stakes. As they emerge triumphant while “Iris”by the Goo Goo Dolls plays, the audience is left with an uplifting finale that resonates long after the credits roll.
7
Venom Bonds With Different Animals
Venom: The Last Dance
Traditionally, audiences have seen Venom primarily bonded with humans. However, Venom: The Last Dance takes an inventive leap, showcasing Venom’s ability to bond with various animals in a series of entertaining sequences. In a race against time while evading the Imperium and Knull’s minions, Venom temporarily transfers his symbiotic powers to a horse, enabling a swift escape.
As the plot unfolds, Venom further bonds with a frog and a fish, leading to hilarious and fresh visual gags. This creative approach opens new possibilities for future adaptations, hinting at a broader range of storytelling opportunities within the Venom universe.
6
Chris Evans Returns As Johnny Storm
Deadpool & Wolverine
Fans have been eager to know if Chris Evans would ever reprise his role in the Marvel Cinematic Universe after Steve Rogers’s departure at the end of Avengers: Endgame. While he is slated to return in Avengers: Doomsday in an undisclosed capacity, Evans surprised audiences as he returned as Johnny Storm in Deadpool & Wolverine—a nostalgic nod to his role from the mid-2000s Fantastic Four films.
Joined by Deadpool and Wolverine, Johnny faces an overwhelming horde of X-Men villains, momentarily confusing Deadpool as he mistakes him for Captain America. Unfortunately, Johnny’s bravado leads to a swift and tragic demise, marking an emotional but entertaining twist that also sets the stage for the new generation of characters.
5
Kraven Fights Rhino’s Goons In The Woods
Kraven the Hunter
Kraven the Hunter stands out as the most intense entry in Sony’s Spider-Man Universe, exhibiting numerous grisly scenes that capture Kraven’s ruthlessness. Following his arrival home, Kraven sets a series of cunning traps for the armed goons sent out by Rhino, showcasing his lethal ingenuity.
This sequence unfolds with a mix of horror and dark comedy akin to Home Alone, but instead of paint cans, he employs spikes and blades to defend his territory. The filmmakers’ creative decisions in this action-packed climax inject vitality into a film that needed excitement, blending humor and brutality effectively.
4
Deadpool Searches For A New Wolverine
Deadpool & Wolverine
Understanding that Jackman’s Wolverine is irreplaceable, Deadpool & Wolverine cleverly incorporates this theme into the storyline. The film introduces the concept of an ‘anchor being,’ positing that Wolverine served as a vital link in his universe, with his demise signaling the gradual unraveling of reality.
In a quest to save his world, Deadpool explores the multiverse, encountering various alternate versions of Wolverine, including Old Man Logan, Patch, and even Henry Cavill’s rumored portrayal. This playful montage is a humorous homage to Wolverine’s extensive comic history, allowing fans to enjoy a trip down memory lane.
3
Deadpool and Wolverine Fight With Elektra, Gambit, Blade, And X-23
Deadpool & Wolverine
Fans buzzed with anticipation leading up to Deadpool & Wolverine, speculating on the many cameos that could unfold. The film exceeded expectations by including beloved characters like Elektra and X-23, while also surprising viewers with the return of Wesley Snipes as Blade and Channing Tatum as Gambit.
In an exhilarating showdown against Cassandra Nova’s army, these characters shine, allowing for moments of redemption and closure following their respective film arcs. The camaraderie among them underscores the thrill of this high-stakes battle, providing a satisfying experience for long-time fans.
2
The Symbiotes Team Up To Fight Knull’s Creatures
Venom: The Last Dance
In a bold narrative twist, Venom: The Last Dance shifts from the conventional battles against adversarial symbiotes to uniting various symbiotes in a collaborative effort against Knull’s Xenophages. This army of formidable foes aims to capture Venom, who bears a vital codex. Gathering symbiotes for a united front provides exhilarating sequences that keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
Even though the climax leans heavily on CGI, the execution revitalizes the franchise, showcasing different abilities and creating a visual spectacle. This finale hints at exciting directions for Venom’s future in the wider Marvel universe.
1
Wolverine Puts On The Cowl And Fights The Deadpool Corps
Deadpool & Wolverine
Among the many spectacular moments in Deadpool & Wolverine, none resonated more strongly with fans than when Jackman donned Wolverine’s iconic cowl after 24 years. The film takes a moment to highlight this pivotal scene that fans have awaited, as Wolverine and Deadpool take on the Deadpool Corps in a spectacular action sequence.
Executed in a mesmerizing tracking shot, the duo cuts through an army of Deadpool variants set to the backdrop of “Like A Prayer.”This thrilling visual spectacle is not only filled with engaging combat but also evokes nostalgia, making it a definitive standout moment of 2024’s comic book cinema, surpassing all releases from both Marvel and DC.
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