6 Superhero Movies You Missed This Decade (You Won’t Believe #1!)
Over the last two decades, superhero films have proven to be valuable investments for Hollywood studios that own comic book stories and characters. Transforming these tales into blockbuster movies has often been financially successful. These franchise cornerstones have frequently dominated the box office with popular stars and iconic heroes gracing the screen.
Not every superhero film is based on comic books; some create their own stories and characters. The success of a superhero movie isn’t guaranteed, regardless of its origin. Here are six movies that might have flown under the radar, but are worth watching. They may not be as well-known as the Avengers, but they offer enjoyable experiences for viewers.
6
‘Secret Headquarters’ (2022)
In some instances, people might view their parents as almost superhuman due to all they do. But what if your parent was truly a superhero? That’s the basis of the 2022 film Secret Headquarters, directed by Ariel Schulman and Henry Joost. The movie features Walker Scobell as Charlie Kincaid, who uncovers a hidden base in his father’s basement, leading him to suspect his dad could be a superhero. Owen Wilson portrays his father, Jack, who gains special abilities from an alien spacecraft he meets and goes by the superhero name The Guard. For years, Jack has been utilizing his powers for good.
In this rephrased version, Charlie along with his companions aid their father in confronting the primary antagonist, portrayed by Michael Peña. This film is a delightful and uncomplicated family production that maintains a playful, casual tone, suggesting that Wilson enjoys himself throughout. The movie was made available on Paramount+ for viewing.
5
‘Project Power’ (2020)
In the year 2020, another film by Joost and Schulman, titled “Project Power,” made its debut on Netflix. Unlike their previous work, Secret Headquarters, this movie takes a more serious tone. The cast includes Jamie Foxx, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, and Dominique Fishback, who form an alliance to prevent people from abusing a drug that temporarily grants superhuman abilities. An intriguing twist on the traditional superhero genre, “Project Power” showcases unique powers for each character who uses the drug. These vary widely, from defensive skin to emitting heatwaves or fire, and even the ability to grow and alter size.
In this movie titled “Project Power“, you’ll find Amy Landecker, Courtney B. Vance, Machine Gun Kelly, Rodrigo Santoro, and Allen Maldonado sharing the screen. This film offers mind-blowing camera work and smooth action sequences, making it a convenient choice for home viewing. Critics found it enjoyable to some extent, with many agreeing that Dominique Fishback delivered an outstanding performance. However, the movie didn’t quite meet its full potential.
4
‘Thunder Force’ (2021)
In 2021, the real-life pals Melissa McCarthy and Octavia Spencer take on leading roles in the film “Thunder Force,” directed by Ben Falcone. Their characters are best friends who acquire extraordinary abilities with a noble purpose: to combat criminals who misuse their powers for nefarious deeds. Octavia Spencer’s character is a scientist who develops a serum that empowers ordinary people, and McCarthy unintentionally becomes her first test subject. As a result of this accidental transformation, McCarthy acquires superhuman strength, while Spencer obtains the power of invisibility.
In this film, I find myself delighting in a cast of characters who’ve shared screen time with McCarthy previously. Jason Bateman steals the show as The Crab, an unforgettable supervillain transformed into a crustacean. Bobby Cannavale assumes the role of the main antagonist, while Falcone, his frequent collaborator’s wife, appears in a minor role, as is often the case in their joint projects. This movie is undeniably whimsical and offers its fair share of chuckles. Although it may not rank among the most innovative superhero originals, it certainly outshines some of the less appealing options currently streaming on Netflix.
3
‘Code 8: Part II’ (2024)
For several years, Stephen Amell and his cousin Robbie have been deeply immersed in the world of superheroes, each landing roles on popular superhero TV shows on The CW. Specifically, Stephen portrayed Oliver Queen in Arrow, while Robbie took on the role of Firestorm in The Flash. Code 8: Part II is a follow-up to the 2019 film, where Robbie starred as Connor Reed and Stephen played Garrett. This movie unfolds in a universe where ordinary people are cognizant of individuals with supernatural powers, and many exploit these abilities for their own benefit.
In simpler terms, the story revolves around Connor, who resides with his ailing mother who has uncontrollable ice-manipulating abilities. He joins a band of superpowered criminals, dubbed “The Powers,” in an attempt to amass funds for his mother’s treatment. The initial film gained enough traction for Netflix to distribute its sequel in 2024. The sequel, titled “_Part II_,” continues the narrative and finds Connor and another character trying to leave their criminal backgrounds behind but are compelled to return due to circumstances. It offers a gritty sci-fi take on the superhero genre with intense action sequences, while also hinting at potential future installments with the introduction of “_Part III_.
2
‘Samaritan’ (2022)
In the thrilling story of Samaritan, two extraordinary twin brothers, one fighting for justice as Samaritan and the other embracing villainy as Nemesis, come face-to-face in a fierce conflict. After a climactic battle at a power plant, both brothers meet their demise. However, whispers persist that Samaritan, the noble vigilante, may have survived, as he hasn’t been seen for years. A young boy is rescued by an enigmatic trash collector who seems to possess powers, leaving the boy convinced that this mysterious figure is none other than the heroic Samaritan.
In the movie titled “Samaritan“, Sylvester Stallone plays Joe Smith, an elderly trash collector who is thought by Javon “Wanna” Walton’s character Sam to be a superhero. This film draws its original concept from a comic book of the same name. Throughout the movie, Stallone effectively portrays his character as a possibly aged superhuman with his towering presence and acting skills. The plot features an intriguing twist that hints at the possibility of a sequel.
1
‘Blue Beetle’ (2023)
In the DC comics, the character Blue Beetle is portrayed by Xolo Maridueña, who plays Jaime Reyes in the movie. This fresh college graduate finds himself with extraordinary abilities after receiving an ancient artifact. The Blue Beetle’s suit, or exoskeleton, bonds to him and grants him superhuman strength, the capacity to create weapons, and flight capabilities. Alongside Maridueña, the film also features Adrian Barraza, Susan Sarandon, George Lopez, Bruna Marquezine, Raoul Max Trijilo, Damian Alcazar, and Elpidia Carrillo.
Under Angel Manuel Soto’s direction, the movie debuted in 2023 and grossed $130.8 million at the box office. Despite not meeting expectations, it was highly praised by critics who found it enjoyable and generally gave it favorable reviews. It also resonated with audiences who streamed it on MAX, becoming the most-watched film in the U.S. A Blue Beetle animated series is the next venture for the franchise.
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2025-06-11 00:35