Over the years, the cinematic landscapes of Marvel and DC have produced some memorable films, both brilliant and not-so-successful. While several films may not have thrived critically or commercially, many of them still contained exhilarating action sequences. Looking ahead, the future of Marvel and DC looks promising. Marvel is set to release highly anticipated titles, including two Avengers installments and Spider-Man 4, while DC, under the vision of James Gunn, is gearing up for projects like Superman and Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow.
Nonetheless, both franchises have seen their share of disappointments. From underwhelming entries in the Spider-Man catalog to the former DCEU projects, Marvel and DC have both had their struggles at the box office and with audiences. Nevertheless, many of these films still managed to deliver thrilling fight scenes despite their overall shortcomings.
10
Kraven The Hunter’s Woods Fight Sequence Is Action-Packed And Suitably Gore-Filled
Kraven The Hunter (Sony’s Spider-Man Universe, 2024)
The latest installment, Kraven the Hunter, marks a waning chapter for Sony’s Spider-Man Universe, with its performance at the box office yielding only $53.8 million thus far. Critically, it has been met with harsh reviews, earning a mere 16% on Rotten Tomatoes. Despite its dismal reception, the film delivers remarkable violent action sequences that stand out amongst poorly received superhero movies.
In one of the film’s most gripping moments, Kraven, portrayed by Aaron Taylor-Johnson, showcases his expertise as a hunter. He ingeniously sets traps in the woods, leading to intense confrontations with Rhino’s henchmen, resulting in gory and unforgettable fight scenes where limbs are lost, heads are taken down, and Kraven immerses himself amidst the chaos.
9
Suicide Squad’s Street Battle Shows The Real Potential Of The Movie & Cast
Suicide Squad (DCEU, 2016)
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The DCEU has presented a mixed bag of films, and 2016’s Suicide Squad was particularly plagued by a troubled production. Although it achieved financial success, the film wasn’t nearly as compelling as its earnings suggested. The original cut, directed by David Ayer, was overshadowed by a studio-approved version that felt lackluster. The chaotic final act fell flat, but there exists a memorable earlier street battle that exhibits the team’s core potential.
During the street battle, the Suicide Squad faces off against an unknown army, giving each character a moment to shine and showcasing their unique abilities. This sequence highlighted what could have been a much more entertaining film had there been more consistent action like this throughout.
8
The Amazing Spider-Man 2’s Electro Fight Has Spider-Man Swinging For His Life
The Amazing Spider-Man 2 (Spider-Man Franchise, 2014)
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The Amazing Spider-Man 2 grappled with narrative depth and character development but still managed to deliver visually astonishing action scenes. Although met with criticism for its crowded plot, the fight between Spider-Man and Electro remains a standout moment. When the two clash at the power plant, viewers witness a breathtaking visual display with thrilling moments that showcase Spider-Man’s agility against Electro’s formidable electric powers.
Accompanied by a gripping score, the tension peaks as Spider-Man deftly navigates Electro’s attacks, culminating in a clever collaboration with Gwen Stacy that seals the battle. This fight remains one of the most visually captivating moments in live-action Spider-Man history.
7
Black Adam’s Brawl With The Justice Society Is Filled With Superhero Powers
Black Adam (DCEU, 2022)
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Dwayne Johnson’s portrayal of Black Adam aimed to shift the DCEU power dynamics, but the film didn’t resonate well with viewers. While the plot suffered from weaknesses, particularly with a lackluster villain, the fight sequences stood out for their execution and engagement.
One of the most exhilarating moments is Black Adam’s clash with the Justice Society of America, showcasing an array of superhero powers in a spectacular showdown against both magic and might. This confrontation underscores the complexities of power dynamics in superhero narratives while offering heart-pumping action.
6
Spider-Man 3’s Final Battle Makes Up For A Disappointing Film In Emotional Fashion
Spider-Man 3 (Spider-Man Franchise, 2007)
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Although critically maligned, Spider-Man 3, directed by Sam Raimi, was pivotal in shaping superhero cinema. The film struggled with its ambitious plot, particularly in the hasty inclusion of Venom forced by studio demands. Nevertheless, the concluding battle between Spider-Man, Harry Osborn, and their enemies manages to redeem some of the film’s shortcomings.
This climactic battle captures the essence of Spider-Man, showcasing emotional stakes as Peter Parker ultimately overcomes not just external enemies, but personal losses as well. Sandy and Venom’s defeat, culminating in dramatic moments, encapsulates the high-stakes nature of the superhero experience.
5
Batman V Superman: Dawn Of Justice’s Superman & Batman Fight Is As Epic As It Can Get
Batman V Superman: Dawn Of Justice (DCEU, 2016)
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Zack Snyder’s Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice offers an intense and ambitious clash between two of comic history’s most renowned heroes. Despite its mixed reviews, the film’s main event—a fight sequence between Batman and Superman—remains a captivating encounter. Batman, portrayed by Ben Affleck, utilizes kryptonite and advanced technology to bring a formidable challenge to Superman, played by Henry Cavill.
This face-off emphasizes the emotional turmoil and stakes involved, marking a significant moment within the DCEU, transforming what could have been just another superhero battle into a deeply intense narrative experience.
4
Dark Phoenix’s Train Sequence Showed How Powerful Magneto Is
X-Men: Dark Phoenix (Fox’s X-Men Franchise, 2019)
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While Fox’s X-Men franchise had its ups and downs, Dark Phoenix is often regarded as a disappointing finale. Among its many flaws, the film featured a noteworthy train scene that highlighted the tremendous abilities of Magneto, played by Michael Fassbender.
The intensity of this confrontation unfolds as Magneto demonstrates his powers against both the X-Men and their adversaries, showcasing spectacular displays of rage and strength. It’s a formidable reminder of what the character represents and serves as a thrilling highlight in an otherwise lackluster film.
3
Wonder Woman 1984’s Cheetah Fight Showcases Diana Prince’s Endurance
Wonder Woman 1984 (DCEU, 2020)
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Regrettably, while the original Wonder Woman movie remains iconic, Wonder Woman 1984 fell short of its predecessor, garnering a variety of critiques that ultimately led to the end of the franchise as we know it. Despite its flawed execution, Gadot’s portrayal of Wonder Woman retained a degree of strength during the fight scenes.
The climactic confrontation with Cheetah showcases intense combat while revealing Diana Prince’s resilience. Marrying classic comic moments with cinematic bravado, it serves as a highlight amidst the film’s broader narrative shortcomings.
2
Fantastic Four: Rise Of The Silver Surfer’s Doctor Doom Final Fight Had Johnny Storm Unite The Team’s Powers
Fantastic Four: Rise Of The Silver Surfer (Fantastic Four Franchise, 2007)
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Despite numerous attempts, no Fantastic Four movie has yet managed to reach its full potential. Nevertheless, 2024 and 2025 promise new beginnings for Marvel’s First Family. Driven by mixed opinions, Tim Story’s sequel, Fantastic Four: Rise Of The Silver Surfer, did manage to deliver an invigorating climax. Johnny Storm, portrayed by Chris Evans, takes center stage as he cleverly combines the abilities of his teammates to face Doctor Doom.
This thrilling moment in the film reveals how well the Fantastic Four can work together, illustrating their inner dynamics in an action-packed scenario where Johnny utilizes every power at his disposal to achieve victory.
1
Superman III’s Evil Superman Took On Clark Kent In A Brawl
Superman III (Superman Franchise, 1983)
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Christopher Reeve remains a defining figure in portraying Superman. His performance in the latter half of his movie saga, while not as beloved, still showcased sparks of creativity. In Superman III, the narrative introduces an intriguing twist where the hero’s good and evil personas manifest into two separate entities.
This split leads to a memorable showdown between Clark Kent and Evil Superman, with Reeve showcasing his versatility by fully embodying both characters. The battle offers lightheartedness amid superhero chaos, making it a fitting finale to this list of remarkable yet flawed fight scenes in Marvel and DC films.
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