Watch This Week: Superheroes

by Culture Staff

Photography courtesy of Wonder Woman Film on Facebook

On the heels of Black Panther’s record-breaking success, some viewers may look to get into comic series or branch out and watch action and adventure films they might not normally have considered. Our Culture staff pulled together several “superhero” films for the uninitiated to start with.

Thor: Ragnarok

Taika Waititi’s take on the Thor series is full of color, humor and energy that the other films in the series seemed to lack. It’s more lighthearted, but doesn’t stray too far from the literally other-worldy problems Thor seems to always face; in this film particularly, he must save Asgard from the “Ragnarok,” or literally “the end of the world.” The actors from the previous movies are the same, and it introduces Tessa Thompson as Valkerie and Jeff Goldblum as “the Grandmaster.” It’s available to stream now on Amazon video.

Guardians of the Galaxy

This Marvel film received rave reviews after its release for its humor and nostalgic soundtrack. Guardians has a perfect balance of music and comedy to entertain any viewer, even those who typically wouldn’t watch a superhero film. And on top of it all, it stars Chris Pratt and Zoe Saldana as the lead heroes – there is nothing better. It’s available to stream on Netflix.

Wonder Woman

Patty Jenkins’ revival of the beloved Amazonian princess was almost directed by Avengers showrunner Joss Whedon, who bailed after he admitted he “didn’t have” much of a story after several months of writing. Jenkins’ film shows Diana, also known as “Wonder Woman” as she discovers the depth of her powers and seeks to fulfill her “destiny” amid the chaos of World War 2. With a female lead and classic superhero plot, Wonder Woman is the perfect starting-point movie for those looking to try the “superhero” subgenre.

Christopher Nolan’s Batman series

The revamped Batman series received a lot of flak for being too ambitious, but Nolan’s mid-2000s adaptations are one of the best modern takes on the Batman franchise. Watch them all in one long, rainy day, or break them up in a series of month-long movie nights; either way, if you’re looking to take a break from Marvel or try out DC storylines, Nolan’s series is the best place to start. Batman Begins is available to stream on Amazon Video.