Roughly 80%  of all our favorite superhero movies revolve around fast-paced, action-packed scenes. We connect the mental image of supers to fists thrown in rapid succession, to sparks of magic showing up in shields or blasts. Batman vs. Superman or Avengers: Infinity War often come up as examples of overwhelming displays of power, rather than having a meaningful theme. Many superhero movies focus on the action, the flashiness of it all, with only soft undertones for lessons the viewer can take with them outside the theatre. More recently, this determined stream of lights and bangs has been laid down, allowing important thoughts to shine through more strongly than before. Movies released over the past year, such as Thunderbolts, Fantastic Four, and Superman, carry relevant, real-world themes that are well-integrated into the plot.

The Man of Steel

Drawing from a recent interview with the director of the new Superman movie, James Gunn, “It’s a movie about the man side of Superman.” Unlike former films on this beloved character, Gunn makes a point to focus on the humanity and morals behind heroism. Viewers have expressed relief at this refreshing change back to “classic Superman” from the “serious and mopey” attitude portrayed in other pieces of media. “Throughout this movie, Superman exhibits the belief that everyone, no matter who they are, deserves life and kindness. In light of recent events in America, and even worldwide, there’s undoubtedly an irony when considering those who’ve expressed distaste for the film or mischaracterization because their views don’t align with Superman’s. People who’ve insisted he’s a representation of “Truth, Justice, and the American way. and he’s conservative,” yet blatantly ignore that Superman is a literal “alien immigrant,” and in the comics repeatedly speaks out for minorities and fundamental human rights, from the LGBTQ+ community to immigration rights.

Additionally, fans have argued he’s displayed as “too woke.” This is contradictory, considering Superman is often regarded as the biggest superhero. He prioritizes life, safety, and freedom, so those harboring this belief may feel threatened or uncomfortable by the idea that there’s no excuse for cruelty.

Fantastic Super Family

A look into Fantastic Four: First Steps offers a take on superheroes that isn’t often seen, and director Matt Shakman usually refers back to it. In his film, the superheroes featured are a family, as opposed to many prior instances of found family, such as the Avengers or X-Men. This perspective adds a unique spin and a different range of problems and benefits, such as raising a family in battle, and a more substantial emotional commitment. In this instance, the audience can see the struggle that Richard and Sue have with bringing a new life into such a dangerous world. Many times throughout the film, a message of familial appreciation and connection is enhanced and pressed upon. In times of struggle and distress, leaning on those around you is vital and undoubtedly of constant relevance in life.

This is not to say that superhero movies throughout time don’t hold meaning and important themes, just an important recognition of the higher concentration of positivity and humanity in recent films. When taking into consideration movies like Batman, where the physical action and displays of power are a constant trend, newer films are noticeably more mellow and human. In the past year, there has been a surge in community, emotion, and love for all things expressed through our favorite heroes. Audiences leave these theatres uplifted and awed by more than the wonder of magic and explosions. They ignite the spark to carry small acts of kindness into their lives and into our world.