As the2024 Academy Awards nominationswere announced, fans and cinephiles alike were ready to discuss the line-up and the snubs. This year’s nominations promise a diverse range of contenders, from groundbreaking documentaries and gripping dramas. Yet, one genre continuously stands on the outskirts of Oscar glory: superhero films.
Despite their immense popularity and success, these often find themselves in the shadows, with some exceptions that break through the genre barrier and secure an award. Some argue that the Academy favors more “artistic” or “serious” films over the blockbuster superhero flicks. While some believe the fantastical narratives and special effects pose challenges for the hero movies to be taken seriously in the eyes of voting members. But sometimes, we have a hero break through the glass ceiling and claim the ultimate recognition. Let’s take a look at the superhero movies that did take home the Academy Award.
11Superman (1978)
Superman, directed by Richard Donner, stars Christopher Reeve as Clark Kent, an alien from the planet Krypton living on Earth who adopts the persona of Superman to protect humanity. Released in 1978, the film features Gene Hackman as the villain Lex Luthor, who creates a plan that threatens millions of lives. Margot Kidder co-stars as Lois Lane, a journalist at the Daily Planet and Clark Kent’s colleague.
Achievement In Visual Effects - 4 Noms, 1 Win
Released in 1978,Supermanmarked thedawn of superhero blockbusters. Starring Christopher Reeve as the iconic Superman, the movie follows his origin story: infancy on doomed Krypton to his heroic endeavors in Metropolis. Directed by Richard Donner, the film ended up being a critical and financial success and grossed $300 million globally. Nominated for four Academy Awards, including Sound, Film Editing, and a memorable score by John Williams, the film secured the coveted Oscar for Visual Effects. Going beyond traditional categories, the innovative visual effects were acknowledged with a Special Achievement Award. Despite facing tough competition in Sound and Film Editing,Superman’s groundbreaking effects work soared above the rest.
Defying Gravity With Visual Effects
The movie tagline, “You’ll Believe a Man Can Fly,” wasn’t just a marketing gimmick; it was a testament to the film’s impact. The film’s most iconic achievement was its ability to make audiences believe that a man could fly. In an age before computer-generated imagery (CGI), the filmmakers used practical effects to bring aerial exploits to life. The wire-flying riggings used for take-offs and landings, combined with blue-screen matte techniques for stationary shots, created a seamless illusion of flight that captivated audiences worldwide.
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10Batman (1989)
Achievement In Art Direction–Set Direction - 1 Nom, 1 Win
10 years after the first superhero Academy Award,Batman, was the next to take one home. Directed by Tim Burton and released in 1989,Batmanstood as a superhero film that really set the tone for future adaptations of comic book icons. Following Michael Keaton as Bruce Wayne/Batman and Jack Nicholson as the Joker, it departs from the original origin story of Batman, instead focusing on Batman inadvertently creating the Joker. Notable for its departure from the campy tone of previous Batman adaptations,Batmanearned an Academy Award for Best Art Direction, thanks to the exceptional work of set decorators Peter Young and Anton Furst.
A Gothic Gotham Masterpiece
Furst is known for recreating a war-torn Vietnam inFull Metal Jacket, in which he applied his expertise to craft a hellish vision of decay for Gotham. Drawing inspiration from various architectural styles, they intentionally blended clashing elements to create a bleak, dystopian metropolis. Anton Furst and Peter Young’s win in the Best Art & Set Direction category at the Oscars recognized their outstanding contribution to the film’s visually striking world. The duo meticulouslycrafted a Gotham Citythat went beyond traditional superhero backdrops.
Watch theBatmantrailer on Youtube
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9Spider-Man 2 (2004)
Spider-Man 2
Achievement In Visual Effects - 3 Noms, 1 Win
In 2005,Spider-Man 2, the second installment of Sam Raimi’s originalSpider-Mantrilogy, swung into the spotlight at the Oscars, securing the Best Visual Effects award. WhileTobey Maguire reprised his roleas Peter Parker/Spider-Man and faced off against the formidable Doctor Octopus, played by Alfred Molina, it was the film’s technical prowess that garnered Academy recognition. Despite facing tough competition,Spider-Man 2triumphed in the Best Visual Effects category at the Oscars.
Balancing Technology and Story
The film’s success was not only a testament to its captivating storytelling but also its groundbreaking use of visual effects. One example was the gripping train sequence and the menacing cybernetic tentacles of Doctor Octopus, which showcased a seamless blend of CGI and practical effects. John Dykstra, overseeing the visual effects, emphasized the filmmakers' commitment to studying not only Spider-Man’s swinging movements through the city but also adhering to real-world physics.
Watch the trailer forSpider-Man 2on YouTube
Stream On: Disney+
8The Incredibles (2004)
The Incredibles
Best Animated Feature, Achievement In Sound Editing - 4 Noms, 2 wins
Director Brad Bird, known for his ability to infuse animated films with sophisticated storytelling, delivered a groundbreaking experience withThe Incredibles. Released in 2004, the movie masterfully combined family dynamics with the challenges of living in secret as a superhero. Bird’s directorial prowess and Michael Giacchino’s musical direction brought home two Academy Awards in 2005: Best Animated Feature and Achievement in Sound Editing. The journey ofThe Incrediblesbegan with Steve Job’s bold choice to hire Bird, an underdog in the animation landscape, even after his recent setback with the filmThe Iron Giant.
Choosing the Underdog
Bird had an ambitious vision forThe Incredibles, andit was received with a lot of skepticism. Yet, his determination to defy the status quo led to groundbreaking achievements. After overcoming initial doubts and budget limitations, Bird assembled a like-minded, creative team that adopted the “underdog effect” to fuel their innovation. As a result, the film not only defied expectations but set new standards for computer-generated animation.
Watch the trailer forThe Incredibleson YouTube
Related:15 Disney Animated Movies Barely Anyone Remembers
7The Dark Knight (2008)
The Dark Knight
Best Supporting Actor (Heath Ledger) – Achievement in Sound Editing - 8 Noms, 2 Wins
In 2008, Christopher Nolan redefined superhero movies withThe Dark Knight, the second installment in his groundbreaking Batman trilogy. Despite not securing a nomination for “Best Picture,” the film’s legacy paved the way for a paradigm shift in the Oscars, leading to an expansion of the “Best Picture” category.The Dark Knightgarnered a total of eight Oscar nominations, securing two wins, marking a historic moment for superhero films.
Record-Breaking Nominations
It became an unforgettable cinematic experience, primarily due to Heath Ledger’s transformative portrayal of the Joker. Ledger’s performance was nothing short of legendary, perfectly capturing the unpredictable and chaotic nature of the iconic villain. Tragically passing away seven months before the film was released, Ledger won a posthumous “Best Support Actor” Oscar win. In addition to Ledger’s Oscar,The Dark Knightsecured another Academy Award for “Best Sound Editing.” Richard King, a long-time collaborator with Christopher Nolan, received the honor for his exceptional work in creating a riveting auditory experience.
Watch the trailer forThe Dark Knighton YouTube
6Big Hero 6 (2014)
Big Hero 6
Best Animated Feature - 1 Nom, 1 Win
Released in 2014,Big Hero 6, weaved together the brilliant storytelling minds of Walt Disney Animation Studios with the Marvel Comics universe. Directed by Don Hall and Chris Williams, the movie revolves around Hiro Hamada, a young robotics prodigy, and Baymax, a healthcare-provider robot created by Hiro’s late brother Tadashi.
Together, they form a superhero team to confront a masked villain who’s responsibile for his brother’s death. At the 87th Academy Awards,Big Hero6secured the Oscar for “Best Animated Feature,” triumphing over its competitors,How To Train Your Dragon 2,The Boxtrolls,Song Of The Sea, andThe Tale Of The Princess Kaguya.
A Marvelous Animated Feature
Big Hero 6’s victory at the Academy Awards marked seven consecutive wins for Disney in the Animated Feature Film category, following the success ofFrozenthe previous year. The film’s technological and storytelling breakthroughs were celebrated during the Academy’s post-Oscars series. Directed by Don Hall,Big Hero 6stood out for its meticulous attention to detail, including extensive research in Tokyo, which enriched the film’s visual authenticity. The character design, particularly the cuddly appearance of Baymax, drew inspiration from real-life soft robotics, showcasing Disney’s commitment to innovation.
Watch the trailer forBig Hero 6on YouTube
Suicide Squad
Best Makeup & Hairstyling - 1 Nom, 1 Win
Released in 2016,Suicide Squadhas become infamous for being one of the least well-received entries in the Marvel and DC cinematic universes. However, it achieved a unique feat by securing the Oscar for “Best Makeup and Hairstyling” at the Academy Awards. Alessandro Bertolazzi, Giorgio Gregorini, and Christopher Nelson were honored for their exceptional work in transforming actors into iconic DC characters, including Jared Leto’s Joker, Margot Robbie’s Harley Quinn, and Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje’s Killer Croc.
Recognition Among Criticism
Despite facing widespread criticism for its narrative, performances, and character depictions,Suicide Squadtriumphed over competitors like the Swedish drama,A Man Called Ove,and the sci-fi spectacle,Star Trek Beyond. The victory underscored the exceptional artistry involved in crafting the distinct looks of the characters, with special commendation for turning actors into compelling versions of classic DC villains.
Watch the trailer forSuicide Squadon YouTube
Stream On: Netflix
4Black Panther (2018)
Black Panther
Marvel Studios’ “Black Panther” follows T’Challa who, after the death of his father, the King of Wakanda, returns home to the isolated, technologically advanced African nation to succeed to the throne and take his rightful place as king. But when a powerful old enemy reappears, T’Challa’s mettle as king—and Black Panther—is tested when he is drawn into a formidable conflict that puts the fate of Wakanda and the entire world at risk.
Achievement in Music Written for Motion Pictures, Achievement in Costume Design, Achievement in Production Design - 4 Noms, 3 Wins
Released in 2018,Black Pantherstands as a groundbreaking achievement in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, not only for its superhero narrative but also for the cultural and historical significance it carries. Directed by Ryan Coogler, the film follows the journey of T’Challa, played by Chadwick Boseman, the newly crowned king of Wakanda, as he grapples with protecting his people and traditions while facing the challenges posed by a vengeful relative, Michael B. Jordan.
A Cinema Marvel Shaping History
Black Panthermade history at the Oscars, securing three wins out of seven nominations, the most ever for a superhero movie. While it missed the Best Picture award, it triumphed in three crucial categories: “Best Original Score,” “Best Production Design,” and “Best Costume Design.” The recognition extended beyond the fictional world of Wakanda to the talented individuals behind the scenes, such as Ruth E. Carter, the first African-American woman to win the Oscar for Costume Design, and production designer Hannah Beachler, the first black woman to win in her category.
Watch the trailer forBlack Pantheron YouTube
Related:Black Panther Animated Series Eyes of Wakanda Now in Development
3Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (2018)
Spider-Man: Into The Spider-Verse
Best Animated Feature - 1 Win
Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, the 2018 animated sensation, swung into the hearts of audiences and critics alike, earning “Best Animated Feature Film” at the Academy Awards. The film’s uniqueness lies not only in its departure from the traditional Peter Parker narrative but also in its embrace of an array of web-slingers from diverse alternate realities. The film’s brilliance wasn’t confined to its diverse cast of Spider-People but extended to its groundbreaking animation styles, each tailored to the unique personalities of the characters.
A Web of Animated Brilliance
Into the Spider-Versecaptivated audiences by exploring the concept of a multiverse, showcasing not only various Spider-People but also distinct animation styles. The film’s storytelling prowess, coupled with kaleidoscopic visuals, demonstrated a commitment to pushing the boundaries of animated storytelling. The clever integration of obscure variations of Spider-Man, along with the convergence of different animation techniques, made the movie a standout in the superhero genre.
Watch the Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse trailer on YouTube
Stream On: Fubo
2Joker (2019)
Best Performance by an Actor In A Leading Role (Joaquin Phoenix), Best Achievement in Music Written For Motion Pictures - 11 Noms, 2 Wins
Joker, the 2019 DC film, ventured into the realm of the unconventional, presenting a unique and gritty take on the iconic Batman villain, the Joker. Joaquin Phoenix, who portrayed the troubled loner Arthur Fleck, delivered a performance that earned him the prestigious “Best Actor” Oscar at the Academy Awards. Directed by Todd Phillips,Jokerstands as a cinematic achievement that defied expectations and explored the psychological unraveling of its titular character.
The Symphony of Madness
Joaquin Phoenix’s portrayal of Arthur Fleck, the man who would become the Joker, left an indelible mark on the film and the superhero genre as a whole. His immersive performance, characterized by a haunting descent into madness, earned him the Oscar for “Best Actor.” In addition to Joaquin Phoenix’s accolade,Jokerreceived another Oscar for “Best Original Score,” crafted by Hildur Guðnadóttir. The score, dominated by cello-heavy compositions, added an ominous and terrifying layer to Arthur Fleck’s transformation into the Joker.
Watch the trailer forJokeron YouTube
