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Superhero films of 2017

The Superhero genre has been growing heavily in since the turn of the Millennium. With Marvel Studios dominating the box office, DC slowly building the cinematic universe (Or quickly, depending on who you ask), and Fox having success with their Marvel characters. In fact, this genre is so strong that I had to completely remove it from my list of 10 blockbusters coming out in 2017, as they would have simply consumed the list. With 3 Marvel movies, a Fox Marvel movie, 2 DC movies, an animated DC movie and a Power Rangers movie coming out this year... Yeah. We're gonna be swamped!

This list is ranked from what I'm personally least anticipated to see to what I'm most anticipated to see. I hope you enjoy.

8. Thor: Ragnarok
The God of Thunder returns with the third instalment of his trilogy. With Chris Hemsworth and Tom Hiddleston returning in their roles, but also, Mark Ruffalo joins the cast reprising his role as Bruce Banner A.K.A: The Hulk. Suggesting a loose adaptation of the fan-loved comic book story Planet Hulk. Even his armour that was displayed in Comic-Con in 2016 practically confirms this. So definitely expect a showdown between the two heroes. However, the reason I've placed this at the bottom of the list is because of Thor's solo track record. Sure, his films were enjoyable, and Thor and Loki's relationship is always interesting. But overall they were quite disappointing. Because of this, I hold little hope for this film. But it is possible that it could change my opinion of it with a good story and great visuals.

7. Power Rangers
Lionsgate is bringing the Power Rangers back to the big screen. This time they're portrayed in a more grounded reality rather than the highly fun and campy versions audiences got on Fox Kids. The first trailer for this film came out in October and made the film look like a cross between the classic Superhero formula and Breakfast Club. Something that definitely has the potential for success. Also, the new suits for the Rangers look amazing and the re-imagining of Rita Repulsa looks pretty good. However, this film hasn't really gained the traction online that it needs to make a big impact on the cinema-going audiences. The only thing this film has going for it, in my opinion, is that it's taking a different approach to well-loved Superheroes and to the genre entirely. But a new trailer that highlights the scope of the film rather than just teasing it will boost its profile in the mainstream's eye.

6. Lego Batman
After the huge success of The Lego Movie, a continuation of that universe was sure to happen. Arguably the biggest highlight of the film was their tongue-and-cheek comical version of Batman. So, giving him is own solo film seems like a sure-fire hit. And, from the traction and highly positive response to the trailers online, it seems to be ready for big box office numbers. Although, speaking of the trailers, my biggest concern is that most of the jokes have already been spoiled by them. But I'll have to watch the film to see if that's really true. But this film does look really good, with the same team behind The Lego Movie back on this film, it's sure to live up to that level of quality.

5. Guardians Of The Galaxy: Vol.2
Before 2014 film analysts were baffled at Kevin Feige's decision to commission a film for one of Marvel's least known properties. But that gamble paid off in 2014. Guardians Of The Galaxy clicked with audiences and became one of Marvel's most loved films. And now the gang is back and they haven't changed a bit. The trailer promises a great thrill-ride with the same amount of action and light-heartedness as the original. Also, we'll be getting another kick-ass soundtrack, courtesy of Star Lord's mother, so we have to look forward to.

4. Spider-Man: Homecoming
Arguably the biggest character talked about from Captain America: Civil War was the new Spider-Man. And it's kind of fitting for the film to be called Homecoming, as Spider-Man is now in the hand of his creators once again. Although, they have to share custody of their child with Sony, who still partially own the rights to Spider-Man. But the trailer for Homecoming reminds me a fair bit of The Spectacular Spider-Man, perhaps the best animated Spider-Man show. Which I'm very happy to see. Plus the diversity in this film is through the roof. With names like Zendaya, Donald Glover and Tony Revolori. Bringing a more realistic depiction of modern-day Queens. Tom Holland has definitely proven himself as Spider-Man, and this will be his chance to prove himself as Peter Parker. In the past, actors playing the character have had trouble finding a middle ground between Spider-Man and Peter Parker. Hopefully, Tom Holland might be the one to fit that middle ground.

3. Wonder Woman
The 4th instalment in the DCEU, and the first female-led film in this new Superhero renaissance, Wonder Woman has a lot riding on it. After critics butchered Batman V Superman and Suicide Squad many audiences are looking to this film to be the one that redeems the DCEU or gives it the respect it truly deserves. I myself fall into the latter category. Wonder Woman stood out as one of the positive elements of BVS, and so her own film has high expectations in that respect as well. Now, whilst the trailers don't exactly depict a happier narrative than its predecessors (It is set in World War One), it does seem to perfectly embody what Wonder Woman represents. The visuals look spectacular, the aesthetic is on point! and Gal Gadot fits the role of Wonder Woman so well. I honestly cannot wait more for this film and I hope this will the film to highlight how great the DCEU truly is!

2. Logan
I argued whether or not to put this film so high on this list. Whilst I have enjoyed the last few X-Men films, and The Wolverine was indeed a good film, I didn't really have high hopes for Logan. But then the first trailer dropped in November 2016 and I fell in love. It reminded me a lot of The Dark Knight, in the sense that it seems to be looking into what makes the protagonist tick. Why does he do the things he does? Not that it'll reach the level of quality that The Dark Knight did (I'll have to wait and see). But it definitely looks like a love letter to Wolverine. Not to mention that Logan will be Rated R, so audiences will finally see some vicious, no safety bars, Wolverine action. Also, this is Hugh Jackman's last ride as the Clawed mutant, and he appears to be going out with a bang.

1. Justice League
Zack Snyder returns to the DCEU with DC's answer to The Avengers, The Justice League! After the first look at the film from Comic-Con and the Behind-The-Scenes trailer that came out in October, fans seem to be feeling really good about the ensemble movie. Not to mention, with Geoff Johns promoted to supervisor of the DCEU, fans who haven't taken kindly to the previous films so re-assurance that Justice League is well looked after. The film gathers the biggest names from the DC lore such as Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, Flash, Cyborg and Aquaman. And will also see Deathstroke make his cinematic appearance, something fans are eagerly awaiting, and Steppenwolf and his legion of Parademons should be more than a match for the League. After many have criticised Zack Snyder Directing and storytelling methods, this film is hopefully the one that gains him respect for his craft. And will highlight the importance and wonder of the Justice League and DC as a whole.

2017 looks like it will bring us a whole lot of great Superhero movies. All companies seem to be continuing with their winning streaks, taking risks or re-branding their heroes. Fans will surely be happy with the slate this year!

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