In a year when major studios delayed or reshaped release plans, 2020 still delivered a surprising number of mainstream comic book adaptations across theaters and streaming platforms. While Marvel Studios had a quieter calendar, audiences saw five notable comic book films reach wide release or premium streaming, offering a varied mix of styles, stars and storytelling approaches.
This past year brought new entries from the revised DC slate, renewed interest in adaptations from streaming platforms, and even the long-delayed arrival of The New Mutants. Featuring high-profile performers such as Charlize Theron, Vin Diesel, Margot Robbie and Gal Gadot, 2020’s comic book films ranged from bold and visually ambitious to uneven and flawed. Together they reflect a transitional moment for the genre as filmmakers experiment with tone, scale and platform.
In this Ranked feature, The Film Magazine assesses the five mainstream comic book movies of 2020, evaluating each on quality, entertainment value, critical response and audience reaction to determine which films rose above and which stumbled. Below are our rankings of the 2020 comic book movies, from least to most successful in this particularly unusual year.
Follow us on Twitter to keep up to date with more articles like this one.
5. The New Mutants
The New Mutants Review
The New Mutants ultimately feels like a muted, undercooked conclusion to an X-Men era that once defined modern superhero cinema. Plagued by years of production delays, studio-driven reshoots and creative uncertainty, the film struggles with inconsistent tone and many scenes of clunky dialogue. A more focused script and tighter editorial choices might have turned this into a solid, intimate genre entry, but the final product often reads like an idea stretched beyond its resources.
That said, there are sparks—Anya Taylor-Joy delivers a memorable performance that elevates much of the material. The film’s closing act offers a more coherent emotional through-line and may convince some viewers it’s not without merit. Still, as a finale for that strand of the franchise, The New Mutants is underwhelming compared with earlier X-Men outings that once set the standard for comic book adaptations.
Recommended for you: Every X-Men Movie Ranked
4. The Old Guard
The Old Guard Review
The Old Guard arrives with a compelling hook—immortal warriors who have quietly protected humanity for centuries—but the film rarely digs deep enough into its characters or ethics. Its ensemble of skilled fighters often feels distant, more archetypal than fully realised, and the movie leans heavily on familiar action tropes while glossing over complex moral questions.
Charlize Theron and her co-stars show commitment, and the action choreography contains standout moments, yet the film’s modern-day setting and thematic choices sometimes feel generic or contradictory. The Old Guard has entertaining sequences and a premised freshness, but it ultimately falls short of the thematic depth and emotional resonance it hints at, leaving it eligible but not essential among 2020’s adaptations.
3. Bloodshot
Bloodshot Review
Bloodshot is a Vin Diesel-led, high-concept action film that mixes blockbuster spectacle with an identity-and-memory-driven narrative. While some performances and accents falter, the movie delivers a few clever twists and engaging action set pieces that make it more than a straightforward genre retread. Visually, its heavy red-tinged palette gives the film a distinctive, if occasionally over-stylised, look.
The script borrows elements from predecessors like The Matrix and Edge of Tomorrow, and while those influences are noticeable, Bloodshot still offers fresh moments and a solid premise. It’s not without flaws—uneven acting and moments of cliché remain—but its willingness to explore moral ambiguity and manipulate genre expectations earns it a mid-tier placement among 2020’s comic book releases.
2. Wonder Woman 1984
Wonder Woman 1984 Review
Wonder Woman 1984 had high expectations following the success of the 2017 original. The sequel offers big-budget production values, nostalgic 1980s flourishes and strong performances—Gal Gadot and the supporting cast bring warmth and heart. However, the film struggles with inconsistent plotting, underdeveloped subplots and a tone that wavers between earnestness and camp.
There are moments of genuine emotion and spectacle, and the score and visuals often impress, but the movie feels like a step down in focus and cohesion when compared to its predecessor. Still, fans of the character and viewers seeking blockbuster escapism will find worthwhile moments here, even if Wonder Woman 1984 doesn’t fully live up to its promise.
Recommended for you: Every 2017 Comic Book Movie Ranked
1. Birds of Prey: And the Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn
Birds of Prey Review
Birds of Prey stands out as 2020’s most vibrant and confident comic book film. Margot Robbie’s Harley Quinn anchors the movie with magnetic energy, while the film’s bold visual style, kinetic editing and irreverent tone deliver an experience that feels distinct from other superhero fare. The narrative embraces empowerment and chaotic fun without losing sight of genuine character development.
Visually inventive and tonally daring, Birds of Prey mixes comedy, action and emotional beats in a way that refreshes the DCEU’s palette. Its soundtrack, production design and Margot Robbie’s influence behind the scenes all contribute to a film that feels defiantly original—an emancipatory, entertaining triumph that earns the top spot among this year’s comic book releases.
Recommended for you: 2019 Superhero Movies Ranked
Although 2020 will be remembered for many events outside of cinema, the year’s comic book titles still signalled shifts in the genre—new voices emerging, streaming platforms staking claims, and studios taking different creative risks. These five films offer a snapshot of that transition, from experimental stylings to familiar blockbuster formulas. Which of these releases was your favourite comic book movie of 2020? Share your thoughts in the comments, and follow The Film Magazine on social media to keep up with more rankings and film coverage.