Every Superman Movie Ranked by Rotten Tomatoes Score from Worst to Best

Superman is one of the most famous superheroes in the world. He first appeared in comic books in 1938. Since then, there have been many Superman movies. These films have had different actors, directors, and stories. Some have been very successful and loved by fans, while others have not.

With a new Superman movie from director James Gunn, it is a good time to look back at the history of Superman on the big screen. We can see how each film was received by critics. This list ranks the Superman movies from the worst to the best, based on their Rotten Tomatoes (critics) scores.

Superman IV: The Quest for Peace (1987) – 14%

This movie is the fourth and final film starring Christopher Reeve as Superman. In this story, Superman tries to end the threat of nuclear war by getting rid of all nuclear weapons. However, his enemy Lex Luthor creates a powerful villain called Nuclear Man to fight him. The movie was not well-received and has the lowest score on Rotten Tomatoes.

Critics and audiences felt the movie had a weak story and cheap special effects. The action was not exciting, and the actors did not seem interested in the plot. It is often called one of the worst superhero movies ever made. The poor reception of this film led to a long break before another Superman movie was made.

Superman III (1983) – 31%

The third Superman movie starring Christopher Reeve took a more comedic direction. The film featured the famous comedian Richard Pryor as a computer genius who is hired by a rich villain to help him take over the world. Superman must fight a supercomputer and even an evil version of himself.

The movie’s focus on comedy and silliness was not popular with most critics and audiences. They felt it was a step down from the first two films, which were more serious and dramatic. While some people enjoy the movie for its lighter tone, it is generally seen as a disappointment in the series.

Man of Steel (2013) – 57%

This film rebooted the Superman story with a new actor, Henry Cavill, in the lead role. It tells the origin of Superman, from his birth on the planet Krypton to his arrival on Earth and his decision to become a hero. The movie has a more serious and darker tone than previous Superman films and features a lot of action.

Man of Steel received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised its visual effects and action sequences, while others found the story to be joyless and the destruction in the final battle to be too much. The film was a box office success and launched the DC Extended Universe, but it remains a divisive movie among fans.

Superman Returns (2006) – 72%

This movie was an attempt to continue the story of the Christopher Reeve films, but with a new actor, Brandon Routh, as Superman. The film follows Superman as he returns to Earth after a five-year absence. He finds that Lois Lane has moved on with her life, and his old enemy Lex Luthor is planning a new crime.

Superman Returns received generally positive reviews from critics. They praised its style and the emotional depth it gave the character. However, some viewers felt that the movie was too slow and did not have enough action. It was a respectful tribute to the original films, but it did not lead to any sequels.

Superman (2025) – 83%

The newest film, simply titled Superman, introduces the first live-action Superman of the new DC Universe, directed by James Gunn. The film is not an origin story but instead features an established Superman who is already a hero in Metropolis. The story sees the public turn against him due to a plot by Lex Luthor.

The movie has been praised by critics for its hopeful and optimistic tone, which many see as a return to the character’s roots. The performances of the cast have also been highlighted as a strong point. The positive reception suggests a successful new direction for the character on film.

Superman: The Movie (1978) – 86%

The first major Superman movie, directed by Richard Donner, is a classic of the superhero genre. It tells the complete origin of Superman, from his days on Krypton to his heroic deeds in Metropolis. Christopher Reeve’s performance as both Superman and Clark Kent is iconic.

Superman: The Movie was a huge success when it was released. Critics and audiences loved its sense of wonder and adventure. The film’s special effects were groundbreaking for their time, making people believe that a man could fly. It set the standard for superhero movies for many years to come.

Superman II (1980) – 88%

The sequel to the 1978 hit, Superman II, is often considered one of the best superhero sequels ever made. In this film, Superman faces a new threat when three super-powered criminals from his home planet of Krypton, led by the ruthless General Zod, arrive on Earth to conquer it. At the same time, Superman’s relationship with Lois Lane deepens.

The movie is praised for its exciting action sequences, strong villains, and the compelling story of Superman having to choose between his duty and his personal life. The conflict between Superman and General Zod is a highlight of the film. Superman II was a critical and commercial success and remains a fan favorite.