In the summer of 2008, superhero cinema was forever changed by two titans: Iron Man and The Dark Knight. But there was a third caped crusader that year—one that actually out-grossed Iron Man at the global box office. That film was Hancock, a gritty, unconventional superhero tale starring Will Smith and Charlize Theron. Now, nearly two decades later, the movie has found a new home on Pluto TV, where it's streaming for free—perfect for a generation that may have missed its theatrical run.
Directed by Peter Berg, Hancock follows John Hancock (Smith), an immortal being with superhuman strength and flight, but also a serious drinking problem and a public image in shambles. After saving a PR executive (Jason Bateman) from a train wreck, Hancock agrees to a image overhaul that turns him from a public nuisance into a beloved hero. But his newfound popularity is complicated when he meets Mary (Theron), a mysterious woman who reveals they share a tragic connection: their powers diminish when they're near each other.
The film was a commercial juggernaut, earning nearly $630 million worldwide on a reported budget of $150 million. Yet it received mixed reviews, with critics praising Smith's charisma but panning the muddled plot. Its Rotten Tomatoes score sits at a modest 42%, with the consensus calling it "flimsy" and "poorly executed." Still, its cult following has only grown over the years, and talk of a sequel has never fully died.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Hancock is its creative pedigree. The screenplay was co-written by Vince Gilligan, who would go on to create Breaking Bad, and the film was co-produced by none other than Michael Mann. That combination of TV genius and cinematic auteurism gave Hancock a unique flavor that set it apart from the typical superhero fare of its time.
Theron, who plays the enigmatic Mary, would later revisit similar themes of immortal warriors in The Old Guard and its sequel. And Smith, who has been teasing a Hancock 2 for years, hinted in 2025 that Zendaya might be involved. With I Am Legend 2 also in development, the star seems keen on revisiting his action-hero roots.
If you're in the mood for a superhero movie that breaks the mold, Hancock is now available on Pluto TV. And while you're at it, check out our list of underrated superhero movies that deserve more love. For those who prefer their capes on the small screen, we've also rounded up superhero TV shows that need no fixing.
Will Hancock 2 ever happen? Only time will tell. But for now, you can revisit the original—and maybe spot the seeds of a sequel that never was. Stay tuned to ShowtimeSpot for all the latest on this and other superhero projects.
