DC Movies With The Best Endings, Ranked

As a longtime fan of DC comics and movies, I’ve seen my fair share of thrilling conclusions that leave audiences on the edge of their seats. Yet, some endings have left a deeper impact on me than others due to their unique twists, emotional resonance, or sheer audacity.

As a dedicated gamer and comic book fan, I’ve watched with excitement as Hollywood has tried to bring my favorite detectives from the pages of Detective Comics to life on the big screen over the years. Different directors have taken turns at bringing some of the most iconic superheroes, like Batman and Superman, to the silver screen. The outcomes have been a mix of triumphs and disappointments. Some films have left fans ecstatic, while others have fallen short of our expectations.

In contrast, it’s widely accepted that DC films have significantly enhanced in terms of quality in more recent productions. Several blockbusters have made a big impact at the box office, boasting some of the most thrilling and iconic conclusions in movie history. These latest releases feature the most unforgettable endings seen in DC movies to date.

5 Shazam!

Heroics And Cameos

DC Movies With The Best Endings, Ranked

Fans highly praised the film version of “Captain Marvel,” a comic book character, when it came out, generating excitement for more excellent productions in the DC Extended Universe. Noteworthy is Shazam, who stands apart from other superheroes. Although he’s part of the Justice League in various adaptations, Billy remains just a kid. An enchantment bestowed upon him by a sorcerer imbued him with the power to transform into an adult and wield abilities linked to Greek gods.

As the story unfolds, it is revealed to the antagonist, Sivana, that Billy is the chosen one. In response, he kidnaps Billy’s foster siblings as leverage. Faced with this dire situation, Billy decides to relinquish his powers. Using the staff of the Rock of Eternity, they perform a power transfer. However, Billy surprises everyone by using the staff to bestow superpowers upon his siblings instead. United as the Shazam Family, they engage in battle against the Sins. Ultimately, they triumph and send the Sins back to their confines. The Rock of Eternity becomes their shared headquarters, where they continue their heroic endeavors together.

During the mid-credit sequence, Billy supports his long-tormented friend Freddie by extending an invitation to their school event – none other than Superman from the Justice League accepts.

4 The Suicide Squad

Villains Defying Expectations

In the 2021 version of “Suicide Squad,” directed by James Gunn, we find a fresh take on the 2016 film’s storyline. This new production retains the appealing elements of its predecessor while jettisoning any unwanted aspects. The plot remains consistent with the original concept: the Suicide Squad is tasked with carrying out a secret mission for Amanda Waller. Completing this assignment will mean a shorter prison sentence for the team members, whereas failure will result in their demise.

The team is composed of both well-known and lesser-known DC antagonists such as Bloodsport, Harley Quinn, Peacemaker, King Shark, Polka-Dot Man, and Ratcatcher 2. Waller instructs this squad to locate Flag, who has managed to evade military arrest. They apprehend The Thinker in the process and discover Starro the Conqueror, an extraterrestrial project financed by the government.

As I watched the final scenes unfold, the Suicide Squad defied Waller’s commands and put themselves in harm’s way to shield innocent people from Starro’s fury. It wasn’t in our nature to be heroes, but in that moment, we chose to rise above our past transgressions and make a difference. Our selfless acts paid off, as we managed to turn the tide and save the day for the very first time. What a rewarding ending to our second chance at redemption.

3 The Joker

The Birth Of A DC Villain

Director: Todd Phillips
Release Date: August 31, 2019 (Venice), October 4, 2019 (United States)

In an unusual portrayal of the infamous Joker, this production offers viewers a compelling origin story that provides insight into how the notorious DC villain came to be, without justifying his cruel actions. This is an uncommon occurrence as the Joker’s past is typically left shrouded in mystery. The audience is given a glimpse into the daily life of the Joker before he became Batman’s sworn enemy.

The audience witnesses Arthur Fleck’s struggle with an uncontrollable laughing condition, enduring abuse at work, failing as a comedian, dealing with financial hardships, and experiencing profound loneliness. Over time, these hardships push him to the brink of sanity. Eventually, he is publicly humiliated on a talk show for amusement.

At this stage in the movie, he puts on the iconic Joker suit and makeup, signaling his descent into madness. In a shocking turn of events, Arthur murders the show’s host, Murray, during a live broadcast. The chaos ensues as riots ignite throughout the city. Some rioters, drawn to the allure of the Joker, liberate him from custody, hailing him as their beloved Clown Prince. In defiance at Arkham Asylum, the Joker refuses counseling and makes a daring escape, leaving behind a trail of blood and reinforcing his status as the infamous Joker.

2 Watchmen

A Villainous Masterstroke

Director: Zack Snyder
Release Date: February 23, 2009 (Odeon Leicester Square), March 6, 2009 (United States)

While some people might dispute that “Watchmen” is included in the DC universe, evidence from the Doomsday Clock comics suggests they inhabit the same multiverse as Superman and Dr. Manhattan. Despite this, there’s widespread agreement on the powerful impact of “Watchmen’s” film finale.

In this film, viewers are transported to a reality where people taking the law into their own hands and donning costumes to fight crime is quite prevalent. Unlike other heroes in this universe, only one among them possesses extraordinary abilities. Dr. Manhattan, who is an atomic physicist by trade, underwent a lab mishap that transformed him into a powerful being with bright blue skin, essentially becoming a divine deity. However, as time passed, all forms of vigilantism became illegal, regardless of whether the individuals possessed superpowers or not.

In this storyline, the esteemed heroes Rorschach, Dr. Manhattan, Nite Owl, and Silk Spectre are lured back into action when they learn that elderly vigilantes are being eliminated, with the ominous specter of nuclear war looming in the background. Upon investigating, they uncover a shocking truth: their former comrade, Ozymandias, also known as The Smartest Man Alive, is orchestrating these conspiracies. The heroes confront him just as he’s about to set off bombs in major cities, hoping to rally the world against Dr. Manhattan. However, they are dismayed to find that Ozymandias had already executed his plan, leaving them to deal with the aftermath.

The heroes are compelled to surrender due to irreversible damage; Dr. Manhattan abandons humanity, and Rorschach meets his demise. This is an uncommon occurrence in a superhero film where the antagonist emerges victorious. Yet, the concluding scenes of Rorschach’s diary subtly suggest that Ozymandias may be brought to justice for his deceitful actions.

1 The Dark Knight Rises

The Death Of Batman

Director: Christopher Nolan
Release Date: July 16, 2012 (New York City), July 20, 2012 (United States and United Kingdom)

In the concluding part of Christopher Nolan’s praised trilogy, Christian Bale gave a final portrayal of the iconic character, Batman, in “The Dark Knight Rises.” A new adversary for Batman emerged in this film – Bane, who was once part of the League of Shadows. Eight years after the demise of Harvey Dent, Gotham City’s crime-free era was under threat from Bane. This compelled Batman to resurface, but he suffered a crushing defeat and was left with a severely injured body.

After being wounded in a five-month long battle against Bane and his troops, Batman manages to defeat his adversary but suffers additional injuries. Catwoman assists Batman in bringing down Bane, as they work together to thwart a dangerous bomb threat. However, despite their efforts, Batman comes to the disheartening realization that he cannot prevent the detonation. Instead, he employs his flying craft to transport the explosive device away from populated areas and towards the bay, allowing it to safely explode.

According to what the majority believe, Batman met his demise that fateful day, hailed as the savior of Gotham City one last time. However, there were a select few who knew that Bruce Wayne was still alive. In an emotionally charged concluding moment, Alfred discovered Bruce in Florence; their recognition of each other spoken only through a meaningful gesture.

2024-07-19 09:34