2019 was a watershed moment for superhero cinema. The Marvel Cinematic Universe was closing out its epic Infinity Saga, DC was reinventing its approach, and animated features were proving they could hang with the big boys. It was a year that left fans spoiled for choice, and the debate over which film truly reigned supreme is still raging today. Let's dive into the rankings and see how these titans stack up.
6. Spider-Man: Far From Home
Tom Holland's web-slinger has become a cornerstone of the MCU, and while his latest outing, Spider-Man: Brand New Day, shattered box office records, his 2019 adventure, Spider-Man: Far From Home, is arguably the weakest of his solo films. That's not to say it's a dud—far from it. The film shines brightest when it features one of the greatest Spider-Man villains ever brought to the big screen.
Jake Gyllenhaal's Mysterio is a masterclass in villainy. His performance is captivating, his manipulation of Peter Parker is chillingly effective, and his illusion sequences are pure visual spectacle. While the middle act drags a bit, the opening and closing acts are strong enough to make this a worthy, if not top-tier, entry in the Spider-Man canon.
5. Joker
The Joker is arguably the most iconic comic book villain of all time, so it was only a matter of time before he got his own solo film. With a talent like Joaquin Phoenix at the helm, it was almost guaranteed to be a hit. And indeed, Phoenix's portrayal is the film's undeniable highlight.
While the story itself is solid but not groundbreaking, Phoenix's performance is a tour de force. He commands every scene, bringing a haunting, unsettling energy that makes Joker a must-watch for any fan of the character or of Phoenix's craft.
4. Batman vs. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
2019 wasn't just about live-action heroes; animation also delivered some gems. One of the most delightful surprises was Batman vs. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, a crossover that pitted the Dark Knight against the pizza-loving, cowabunga-shouting turtles. Based on the comic book series of the same name, this film is a perfect example of how to do a team-up right.
The contrast between Batman's gritty seriousness and the Turtles' goofy charm is a joy to watch. The action is top-notch, with martial arts choreography that does justice to both franchises. But what really elevates this film is its emotional core, giving each character a meaningful arc that adds depth to the fun.
3. Shazam!
The DCEU has had a rocky reputation, but Shazam! is a shining exception. This film is a heartfelt, hilarious, and surprisingly emotional journey about Billy Batson (Asher Angel), a foster kid who gains the power to become an adult superhero (Zachary Levi) by saying one magic word.
What makes Shazam! so special is its focus on family. Billy's search for his birth mother leads him to discover the true meaning of family in his new foster home. It's a lighthearted, youthful film that can make you laugh one moment and tear up the next. Director David F. Sandberg crafted one of the best DC films in years, and it remains a fan favorite.
2. My Hero Academia: Heroes Rising
Anime continued its global takeover in 2019, and My Hero Academia: Heroes Rising was a standout. This film takes the beloved characters from the hit series and puts them in a high-stakes battle that pushes them to their limits. It's a thrilling, action-packed adventure that delivers on every level.
For fans of the series, this is a must-watch, offering some of the best animation and character moments in the franchise. It's a testament to the power of anime to tell compelling superhero stories that rival their live-action counterparts.
1. Avengers: Endgame
Topping the list is the cinematic event of the decade: Avengers: Endgame. This was the culmination of 11 years and 22 films of storytelling, and it delivered on every promise. It was a fitting, emotional, and epic conclusion to the Infinity Saga, giving closure to beloved characters while setting the stage for the future.
From the gut-wrenching opening to the triumphant final battle, Endgame is a masterclass in blockbuster filmmaking. It's a film that rewards longtime fans with callbacks and payoffs while still being accessible to newcomers. It's not just a superhero movie; it's a cultural phenomenon that proved the genre could be both commercially and critically successful on an unprecedented scale.
2019 was truly a banner year for superhero films, and these six represent the best of the best. Whether you prefer the epic scope of the MCU, the gritty realism of Joker, or the animated fun of Batman vs. TMNT, there was something for everyone. And if you're looking for more great content, check out our list of uplifting movies or dive into the best HBO limited series for your next binge.
