2 of 6

Write now Article Tools

Page 2 of 2

to preserve the new life he has verses the old one he's hiding from. Like his NAKED LUNCH (1991), SPIDER (2002), THE DEAD ZONE (1983) and DEAD RINGERS (1988), this is a character study in line with the best of them.

HULK (2003)

A film divided among the people who know the character from the various incarnations in the comic books and those who fondly remember the 80s television show that was hampered by a low budget and limited special effects of the time. A beautifully rendered character film from acclaimed director Ang Lee who delivered on the spectacle but audiences thought the film lacked more action. This does not detract from an otherwise flawless film.

MASK, THE (1994)

This Jim Carey comic gem makes you believe a comic book can truly come to life with zany antics and musical numbers to boot. Based on a small press character from Dark Horse Comics, the Mask was a perfect match for the big screen matched only by the charisma Carey brings with it.

ROAD TO PERDITION (2002)

Another gangster graphic novel come big screen film starring Tom Hanks no less. Director Sam Mendes brings beauty to a world of gangsters and violence and Hanks brings humanity to a character whom otherwise doesn't deserve it. It's a road trip between a father and son like none other and a rare film derived from a graphic novel that has real heart.

SPIDER-MAN (2002)

An authentic adaptation of one of Marvel comics most beloved characters. Spear-headed by acclaimed director Sam Raimi, SPIDER-MAN is a testament that a spandex wearing super-hero film can be just a poignant as any other film.

SUPERMAN: THE MOVIE (1978)

The grandfather of all comic book based films as it set the standard that would be followed for years to come. Although there were many that came after it, this was the bar from which all other films of this genre were judged (until BATMAN redefined the bar) and it was also the first to generate a genuine franchise.

The comic book based genre of cinema is having a resurgence like never before with the new Superman and Batman films as well as with the success of smaller characters like Blade and Ghost Rider and Constantine. Audiences are finally being given films that don't talk down to the audience or "camp" it up. These are a sign of good things to come.

Learn more about this author, Kevin Powers.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

• << previous page
• 1
• 2

Add your voice

Know something about Top comic book to film adaptations and their appeal?
We want to hear your view. Write now!