How To Watch All Superman Animated Movies In Order

May 20, 2024, 1:20 p.m.

Movies

How To Watch All Superman Animated Movies In Order

0 0

Summary Superman's animated movie history offers unique takes on the Man of Steel, exploring varied adventures and characters.

Despite fewer solo films, Superman remains a beloved DC Comics character, showcased in compelling and entertaining animated movies.

Each animated installment delves into Superman's heroism, relationships, and battles against formidable foes.

Superman has appeared in a litany of great animated movies in the DC Universe. From 2006 to the present day, Superman has appeared in 13 animated movies, varying in story, tone, and reception. With each animated installment offering a unique take on the iconic Man of Steel, audiences are treated to a kaleidoscope of adventures, characters, and heart-pounding action throughout Clark Kent’s cinematic history.

Superman has surprisingly few animated solo movies, particularly compared to the swathe of animated Batman movies that have been roundly celebrated. Though Superman has a slightly less iconic pantheon of villains, the hero remains one of the most revered and beloved DC Comics characters. As such, despite boasting fewer movies, Superman’s animated movie history is equally as entertaining and compelling, often exploring the consequences of Superman’s heroic persona.

Related Superman: Release Date, Plot Details & Everything We Know Superman is the first entry in James Gunn's much anticipated new DCU, and here is everything we know from cast to story and release date.

Superman Animated Movies In Order

Superman Animated Movies Year Superman: Brainiac Attacks 2006 Superman: Doomsday 2007 Superman/Batman: Public Enemies 2009 Superman/Batman: Apocalypse 2010 Superman/Shazam!: The Return of Black Adam 2010 All-Star Superman 2011 Superman vs. The Elite 2012 Superman: Unbound 2013 The Death of Superman 2018 Reign of the Supermen 2019 Superman: Red Son 2020 Superman: Man of Tomorrow 2020 Batman and Superman: Battle of the Super Sons 2022

13 Superman: Brainiac Attacks (2006)

Directed By Curt Geda

Superman: Brainiac Attacks is a 2006 animated film featuring the iconic superhero, Superman, as he battles one of his most formidable foes. The movie depicts Brainiac, a powerful alien artificial intelligence, returning to Earth with a new plan to defeat Superman and conquer the planet. With Lex Luthor secretly aiding Brainiac, Superman faces unprecedented challenges.

Superman: Brainiac Attacks highlights Superman's heroism, his deep connection with Lois Lane, and the intense battles against Brainiac's advanced technology. Despite mixed reviews, it remains notable for its exploration of the dynamic between Superman and his adversaries, and the ongoing struggle to protect Metropolis from ever-evolving threats. The movie truly captures the essence of Superman's bravery and resilience.

Superman: Brainiac Attacks (2006) Superman: Brainiac Attacks is an animated superhero film that pits Superman against the villainous Brainiac, who has stolen the city of Metropolis' technology. As Brainiac attempts to capture Superman, the Man of Steel must use his powers to stop the villain and save the city. Director Curt Geda Release Date June 20, 2006 Cast Tim Daly , Dana Delany , Powers Boothe , Lance Henriksen , George Dzundza Runtime 75 Minutes

12 Superman: Doomsday (2007)

Directed By Bruce Timm, Lauren Montgomery & Brandon Vietti

2007’s Superman: Doomsday is an animated movie produced by Warner Bros. Animation and DC Comics. It is an adaptation of the iconic "The Death of Superman" storyline from DC Comics. The film portrays the epic battle between Superman and Doomsday, an unstoppable killing machine. Their confrontation leads to Superman's tragic death, leaving the world mourning its greatest hero.

However, Superman's demise isn't permanent, as he ultimately returns to confront a corrupt clone of himself. Superman: Doomsday explores themes of heroism, sacrifice, and the enduring hope symbolized by Superman. The film's darker tone and mature storytelling marked it a significant entry in the DC Universe Animated Original Movies franchise.

Superman: Doomsday Where to Watch *Availability in US stream

rent

buy Not available Not available Not available Director Lauren Montgomery , Bruce W. Timm , Brandon Vietti Release Date September 18, 2007 Cast Adam Baldwin , Anne Heche , James Marsters , John Di Maggio , Tom Kenny , Swoosie Kurtz

11 Superman/Batman: Public Enemies (2009)

Directed By Sam Liu

Superman/Batman: Public Enemies is based on the "Public Enemies" storyline from DC Comics. It features Superman and Batman as they are declared outlaws by President Lex Luthor, who frames them for an impending meteor strike threatening Earth. The world's most powerful superheroes become fugitives, hunted by government forces and fellow heroes turned adversaries.

With intense action sequences and a gripping narrative, Superman/Batman: Public Enemies explores concepts of trust, betrayal, and the resilience of friendship. The impeccable voice cast includes Tim Daly as Superman, Kevin Conroy as Batman, and Clancy Brown as Lex Luthor, delivering stellar performances that capture the essence of these iconic characters. The movie is celebrated for its dynamic animation and faithful adaptation of the comic book series.

Superman/Batman: Public Enemies (2009) Superman/Batman: Public Enemies is an animated superhero film based on the comic book series of the same name. The story takes place in a world where a meteor hurtling towards Earth threatens to destroy human civilization, and Lex Luthor, now the President of the United States, frames Superman for the impending disaster. Director Sam Liu Release Date September 29, 2009 Writers Stan Berkowitz Cast Tim Daly , Kevin Conroy , Clancy Brown , LeVar Burton , Xander Berkeley Runtime 67 Minutes

Related How To Watch Justice League Animated Movies In Order DC has a massive library of animated Justice League films, which can be hard to follow. Here's how to watch each in order and by continuity.

10 Superman/Batman: Apocalypse (2010)

Directed By Lauren Montgomery

2010’s Superman/Batman: Apocalypse is based on the DC Comics' "The Supergirl from Krypton" storyline and is a sequel to Superman/Batman: Public Enemies. The film follows the discovery of Superman’s cousin, Kara Zor-El (Supergirl), who crash-lands on Earth. As Superman helps her adjust to her new life, Batman remains wary of her potential danger.

Meanwhile, the villainous Darkseid kidnaps Kara to turn her into a weapon. The heroes must journey to Apokolips to rescue her, leading to an epic confrontation. Superman/Batman: Apocalypse reunites Tim Daly as Superman and Kevin Conroy as Batman, joined by Summer Glau as Supergirl. Praised for its impressive animation and gripping fight sequences, the movie explores notions of family, trust, and identity.

Superman/Batman: Apocalypse (2010) Superman/Batman: Apocalypse is an animated superhero film that follows Superman as he attempts to protect his cousin Kara Zor-El, aka Supergirl, from the villainous Darkseid, who seeks to use her Kryptonian powers for his own purposes. Director Lauren Montgomery Release Date September 28, 2010 Writers Tab Murphy Cast Tim Daly , Kevin Conroy , Summer Glau , Ed Asner , Andre Braugher Runtime 78 Minutes

9 Superman/Shazam!: The Return Of Black Adam (2010)

Directed By Joaquim Dos Santos

Superman/Shazam!: The Return of Black Adam is a short film released in 2010 as part of the DC Showcase series. The story focuses on the origins of Billy Batson, a young orphan chosen by the wizard Shazam to become the superhero Captain Marvel (Shazam). Superman encounters Billy just as the vengeful Black Adam returns to Earth after being exiled for millennia.

Black Adam's wrath forces Superman and the newly transformed Captain Marvel to join forces against him. Superman/Shazam!: The Return of Black Adam is noted for exploring narratives concerning destiny and heroism. It features the voice talents of George Newbern as Superman and Jerry O'Connell as Captain Marvel, reprising their roles from Justice League: Unlimited.

Superman/Shazam!: The Return of Black Adam Where to Watch *Availability in US stream

rent

buy Not available Not available Not available Director Joaquim Dos Santos Release Date November 16, 2010

8 All-Star Superman (2011)

Directed By Sam Liu

All-Star Superman is an adaptation of Grant Morrison's acclaimed DC Comic series of the same name. The story begins with Superman, voiced by James Denton, absorbing an overwhelming amount of solar radiation. This ironically grants him enhanced powers while simultaneously leading to his imminent death. Facing his mortality, Superman embarks on a series of heroic feats and personal reconciliations, showcasing his quintessential qualities of compassion and resilience.

All-Star Superman delves into profound themes such as sacrifice, legacy, and bravery. Directed by Sam Liu, it stands out for its faithful recreation of Morrison's narrative and Frank Quitely's distinct artistic style. The movie delivers a poignant and visually stunning tribute to the iconic superhero and his key comic book contributors.

All-Star Superman Where to Watch *Availability in US stream

rent

buy Not available Not available Not available Director Sam Liu Release Date February 22, 2011 Cast Christina Hendricks , Matthew Gray Gubler , Linda Cardellini , Edward Asner , Arnold Vosloo , Anthony LaPaglia

7 Superman Vs. The Elite (2012)

Directed By Michael Chang

Superman vs. The Elite explores the clash between Superman's idealism and the ruthless methods of The Elite, a new group of antiheroes. It was based on the 2001 DC Comics story "What's So Funny About Truth, Justice & the American Way?" by Joe Kelly. The narrative delves into the moral complexities of heroism as Superman stands firm in his commitment to justice and restraint.

Superman vs. The Elite highlights the enduring relevance of Superman's principles. It explores the moral dilemmas of true heroism as The Elite, led by the cynical Manchester Black, advocates for lethal force against villains. It is also notable for featuring the return of George Newbern as Superman and David Kaufman as Jimmy Olsen from the DCAU and Superman: The Animated Series.

Superman vs. The Elite (2012) Where to Watch *Availability in US stream

rent

buy Not available Not available Not available Superman vs. The Elite is an animated superhero film based on the "What's So Funny About Truth, Justice & the American Way?" storyline. The movie follows Superman, who is challenged by a group of powerful heroes known as The Elite, who believe that their brutal methods are more effective in dealing with villains than Superman's traditional approach. Director Michael Chang Release Date June 12, 2012 Writers Joe Kelly Cast George Newbern , Robin Atkin Downes , Dee Bradley Baker , Ogie Banks , Catero Colbert Runtime 76 Minutes

Related 10 Best Episodes Of Superman: The Animated Series Superman: The Animated Series was an incredibly successful take on Superman, with some memorable episodes that does the Man of Steel justice.

6 Superman: Unbound (2013)

Directed By James Tucker

Superman: Unbound is a 2013 adaptation of DC Comics’ "Superman: Brainiac" arc by Geoff Johns and Gary Frank. The story centers on Superman and Supergirl confronting Brainiac, an alien cyborg who has been collecting cities from various planets, including Krypton’s capital, Kandor. Brainiac's goal extends to Earth, posing a grave threat.

Superman: Unbound navigates notions of heroism, responsibility, and the struggle between knowledge and emotion. Matt Bomer voices Superman perfectly, with Stana Katic as Lois Lane and John Noble as Brainiac. The movie received praise for its faithful adaptation, gripping narrative, and perfect voice acting, solidifying its place as one of the finest Superman animated features.

Superman Unbound Director James Tucker Release Date May 7, 2013 Cast Diedrich Bader , Alexander Gould , Stana Katic , Stephen Root , Melissa Disney , John Noble , Molly C. Quinn , Wade Williams , Frances Conroy , Will Yun Lee , Matt Bomer , Sirena Irwin

5 The Death Of Superman (2018)

Directed By Sam Liu & Jake Castorena

The Death of Superman adapts DC Comics’ iconic 1992 comic storyline of the same name - like Superman: Doomsday. It centers around Superman's epic battle against the monstrous Doomsday, a nearly unstoppable force of destruction. The movie is praiseworthy for faithfully retelling the source material while capturing the high-stakes drama and emotional depth as Superman fights to protect Metropolis and ultimately sacrifices himself to save the world.

The Death of Superman features strong voice performances, including Jerry O'Connell as Superman, Rebecca Romijn as Lois Lane, and Rainn Wilson as Lex Luthor. Its animation style stays true to the comic book esthetics, delivering intense action sequences and poignant moments. The Death of Superman is praised for its compelling narrative and is more effective than Superman: Doomsday.

The Death Of Superman (2018) Where to Watch *Availability in US stream

rent

buy Not available Not available Not available The Death of Superman is an animated superhero film based on the 1992-1993 DC Comics storyline "The Death of Superman". The movie follows Superman as he faces off against the powerful villain Doomsday, who has been engineered to be the ultimate killing machine. Director Jake Castorena , Sam Liu Release Date July 24, 2018 Cast Nathan Fillion Jerry O'Connell , Rebecca Romijn , Rainn Wilson , Rosario Dawson Runtime 81 Minutes Writers Peter Tomasi , Jerry Siegel , Joe Shuster , Paul Norris , Bob Kane , Bill Finger

4 Reign Of The Supermen (2019)

Directed By Sam Liu

Reign of the Supermen is a direct sequel to 2018’s The Death of Superman. It adapts further elements from the iconic DC Comics event “The Death of Superman." The movie depicts the aftermath of Superman's death, when four new superheroes emerge in Metropolis: Steel, Cyborg Superman, Superboy, and the Eradicator, each claiming to be Superman's successor.

Reign of the Supermen reunites Sam Liu with the previous voice cast, Jerry O'Connell, Rebecca Romijn, and Rainn Wilson. Each delivers a stellar performance that captures the emotional depth required for the classic narrative. Reign of the Supermen combines action-packed sequences with captivating and complex themes, concluding the epic narrative arc of Superman's death and return.

Reign Of The Supermen (2019) Reign of the Supermen is an animated superhero film based on the comic book storyline "The Death of Superman". After Superman's apparent death, four new super-beings appear, claiming to be the real Superman. As Lois Lane and the Justice League try to uncover the truth, they must also confront the threat of a villainous plot to destroy Metropolis. Director Sam Liu Release Date January 13, 2019 Cast Jerry O'Connell , Rebecca Romijn , Rainn Wilson , Cress Williams , Cameron Monaghan Runtime 87 Minutes Writers Tim Sheridan , James Krieg

3 Superman: Red Son (2020)

Directed By Sam Liu

Superman: Red Son is a captivating alternate take on the classic superhero mythos. The narrative explores what if Superman's spaceship had landed in the Soviet Union instead of Kansas, USA. Set during a Cold War-era world where Superman becomes a symbol of Soviet power, the movie delves into the ideological clash between communism and capitalism.

Directed by Sam Liu and based on the acclaimed comic by Mark Millar, Superman: Red Sons follows Superman's journey as he grapples with his allegiance to his country and his moral compass. Superman faces opposition from American heroes like Batman and Wonder Woman as he rises to prominence under Stalin's regime. The story raises thought-provoking questions about power, ideology, and the nature of heroism, making it a compelling addition to the superhero genre.

Superman: Red Son (2020) Superman: Red Son is an animated superhero film based on the Elseworlds comic of the same name. The film reimagines the Superman origin story, exploring what would happen if the Man of Steel's rocket ship had landed in the Soviet Union instead of Smallville, Kansas. Director Sam Liu Release Date February 24, 2020 Cast Jason Isaacs , Amy Acker , Diedrich Bader , Vanessa Marshall , Phil Morris Runtime 84 Minutes Writers J. M. DeMatteis

2 Superman: Man Of Tomorrow (2020)

Directed By Chris Palmer

Superman: Man of Tomorrow is a riveting portrayal of the iconic superhero's origins, exploring the early days of Clark Kent's transformation into the legendary Superman. Directed with finesse, it seamlessly blends some of Superman's best animated fight scenes with emotion and moral dilemmas. As Clark navigates the complexities of his dual identity, he grapples with the weight of his powers and the responsibilities they entail.

Superman: Man of Tomorrow boasts stunning visuals and a gripping narrative. It offers an immersing depiction of Superman's journey of self-discovery and redemption in a fresh take on his famed backstory. As the Man of Steel battles formidable foes and confronts his inner demons, he emerges as a symbol of hope, completing his transformation into the iconic hero.

Superman: Man of Tomorrow Where to Watch *Availability in US stream

rent

buy Not available Not available Not available Director Chris Palmer Release Date August 23, 2020 Cast Alexandra Daddario , Ryan Hurst , Darren Criss , Bellamy Young , Zachary Quinto , Brett Dalton

1 Batman And Superman: Battle Of The Super Sons (2022)

Directed By Matt Peters

In Batman and Superman: Battle of the Super Sons, two iconic DC heroes clash in a titanic struggle that tests their physical prowess and their unwavering principles. As Batman's adopted son, Damian Wayne, dons the mantle of Robin and Superman's son, Jonathan Kent, takes up the mantle of Superboy, tensions rise between the two young heroes. Their differing upbringings and ideologies lead to a clash of egos, sparking a battle that threatens to tear apart the very fabric of their fathers' alliance.

Yet, among the chaos, lessons are learned, bonds are strengthened, and a deeper understanding of heroism is forged. In the end, Batman and Superman's guidance prevails, emphasizing the importance of unity and the true meaning of heroism in the face of adversity. Batman and Superman: Battle of the Super Son proffers an entertaining evolution of Superman’s relationship with Batman, crafting an essential entry into Superman’s animated movie history.