Here's How to Watch Every DC Movie pre-DCEU in Chronological Order
Binging the DC franchise doesn't have to be as hard as tracking down the Joker.
In fact, it is as easy as 1, 2, 3. If you want to watch them in chronological order, it does get a bit more complicated. Instead of breaking down why it gets complex, we'll just show you how to do so to save you the stress. Below is every movie released before the DCEU. Let's get started!
Where to Start
Dating all the way back to 1951, we have the first movie on our list: Superman and the Mole Men. Though there were quite a few theatrical serials featuring heroes Superman and Batman that predated this release, this was the first feature-length film to be based off a DC Comics character. The film, starring George Reeves, would be the inspiration for the Adventures of Superman television show that was on air from 1952 to 1958.
Batman (1966)
Directly based on the massive show starring Adam West, 1966's Batman was the Dark Knight's first crack at a feature film. Incorporating the sinister ploys of The Joker, The Penguin, Riddler, and Catwoman, Batman and Robin were given a real run for their money.
Superman (1978)
The template on which modern superhero movies are based upon is Richard Donner's Superman. Starring Christopher Reeve, he is accompanied by an all-star cast including Margot Kidder, Gene Hackman, and Marlon Brando. The film held the title of the most expensive movie, at $55 million, for 10 whole years!
Superman II (1980)
In the sequel to 1978's hit film, Superman is faced with the despicable General Zod, Ursa, and Non – three Kryptonians that were banished to the Phantom Zone before the planet's demise. The film shed light on different powers that Superman has the ability to possess.
Swamp Thing (1982)
With horror legend Wes Craven in the director's chair, DC's first film other than Superman or Batman features Alec Holland who transforms into the Swamp Thing. Adrienne Barbeau, who played Alice, later on lent her voice to Catwoman in Batman: The Animated Series
Superman III (1983)
This film is hailed by many as the beginning of the end of the Christopher Reeve era of the franchise. The film was supposed to feature a Supergirl origin story which never came to fruition. Interestingly enough, this was the first Superman film that gave Reeve top billing.
Supergirl (1984)
The fourth installment of the Superman franchise follows Helen Slater in her film debut. The movie follows Linda Lee as she obtained powers from the yellow sun after arriving on planet Earth. The film was ultimately a flop both critically and by audience review.
Superman IV: The Quest For Peace (1987)
This film is considered to be one of the worst films of all time. It had the lowest box office of the franchise and was an unfortunate farewell, as this was Christopher Reeve's final appearance as the hero.
The Return of Swamp Thing (1989)
The sequel to Wes Craven's 1982 film took a lighter and more comedic approach. Despite the reinforcement of star power, with Heather Locklear as Abby Arcane, nothing could save the film from tanking at the box office.
Batman (1989)
The first "modern-day" of the DC films, Tim Burton's take on the hero revolutionized the way movies were made. It also gave birth to the most iconic superhero franchises of all time. Backed by a star-studded cast of Michael Keaton and Jack Nicholson, the film played a fundamental role in the stylization of future Batman releases.
Batman Returns (1992)
Burton and Keaton return to continue on the heels of international success. That was all achieved with Batman Returns. Star-crossed, yet again, with Michelle Pfeiffer and Danny DeVito as Catwoman and Penguin, are acclaimed today by fans around the world.
Batman Forever (1995)
The last "real" Batman film of the 20th century (more to follow) was made without contributions from Keaton, Burton stayed on the production team. Val Kilmer was next to assume the role of the Caped Crusader. The film focused on the introduction of The Riddler, Two-Face, and Robin.
Batman & Robin (1997)
The cartoonish and flamboyant film cast George Clooney as Bruce Wayne/Batman. There is not much to say about this film except that it is not regarded highly by many. But it is essential for chronological purposes.
Steel (1997)
Starring basketball legend Shaquille O'Neal, Steel was based on John Henry Irons, a key figure in the Superman comics. Irons was the one responsible for engineering the suit to replicate the Man of Steel's powers. The film itself was based loosely on comic books and was chastised by fans and critics alike.
Catwoman (2004)
The first DC film of the new millennium starred Halle Berry as Catwoman. Largely criticized and considered one of many critics' most hated films, Catwoman went on to receive countless nominations at the Golden Raspberry Awards. It was at this show that Berry accepted the "Worst Actress" award for her performance.
Constantine ( 2005)
Starring Hollywood's "nice guy", Keanu Reeves, Constantine follows Reeves as the title character, a cynical exorcist destined for hell. Starring Rachel Weisz, Shia LaBeouf, and Tilda Swinton as supporting cast members, the film was a huge success.
Batman Begins (2005)
Christopher Nolan 's first film of the trilogy flipped the superhero world upside down. Unlike its predecessors, Nolan's Batman was set in a much more real-world environment. With Christian Bale suiting up for the first time, the film was greatly inspired by the "Batman: Year One' comic book.
Superman Returns (2006)
Acting as the final installment of the Christopher Reeve Superman storyline, the film is set five years after Superman II. Brandon Routh dons the suit and cape as Superman, returning to Earth after a long absence.
The Dark Knight (2008)
One of the most successful box office hits of all time, the follow-up to Batman Begins adds Aaron Eckhart to the bill as Harvey Dent. However, the film's shining star is in Heath Ledger's portrayal of the Joker, for which he received a posthumous Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.
Watchmen (2009)
Being the first Zack Snyder film based on a DC comic book, Watchmen built the foundation for what would become the DCEU. After years of development and complexities, Synder finally released the film inspired by Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons' comic. Slapped with an R rating, the movie was a box office smash.
Jonah Hex (2010)
Before hopping over to the MCU, Josh Brolin first took a swing at the DC world when he assumed the lead role of Jonah Hex. The film went as quickly as it came being a colossal flop at the box office.
Green Lantern (2011)
Starring Ryan Reynolds as Hal Jordan, the movie received predominantly negative reviews and a less-than-desirable box office. Even Reynolds took a jab at the role in Marvel's 2016 film Deadpool.
The Dark Knight Rises (2012)
The last of Christopher Nolan's Batman trilogy was also the last film released before Zack Synder's Man of Steel signaled the launch of the DCEU. Drawing from many Batman comic book storylines, the film was an ambitious closure to the last 6 decades of DC films. The movie fired on all cylinders bringing alone an arsenal of characters including Bane, Talia al Gul, and Selina Kyle.