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An Optimistic Look at 2014's Comic Book Movies

There's going to be something for everyone in theaters this year. We go over the major releases and tell you why they're worth looking forward to.

Look, there's no denying we all have our preferences, but it's so painful to see comic fans fighting day in and day out over which upcoming movie looks better than the other. Instead of bickering over the fact everyone has different opinions on subjective material, let's take a minute to simply appreciate the fact there's an absurd amount of good looking comic book movies coming out. Don't waste your energy being upset that someone is excited for something you're not or vice versa. Instead, be happy that there's literally something for everybody this year and embrace your fellow comic fans.

We obviously don't have every single comic bookish movie listed here, but we did our best to cover a majority of them. No matter which one earns your "most anticipated" award, it's definitely looking like it'll be a good year at the movies.

The Amazing Spider-Man 2

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Why it looks awesome: We know Sony has massive plans for Spidey's future and it's clear this film is going to be all about two things: bringing the fun and expanding Spider-Man's cinematic universe. Sure, it's easy for people to pull the "TOO MANY CHARACTERS, SPIDER-MAN 3 ALL OVER AGAIN" card, but it seems obvious each of these characters are being introduced with the future in mind. We know the foes will get their own spinoff, we know there's more Spider-Man movies on the way and we know the Sinister Six will be constructed. This isn't a case of a character being forced into the movie against the director's will, people. If they survive this one, odds are it's because Marc Webb and company have plans for them down the road, too. Just because a character is confirmed to appear doesn't mean they're going to play a big part, after all. Oh, and then there's the fact this is probably going to hit us with a huge moment from the comics. You know, that thing with Gwen Stacy? Yeah, you know what we're talking about.

When you can see it: May 2

Latest trailer: Click this link to watch it. Feel free to pretend you're web-slinging over to the other article or something.

RoboCop

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Why it looks awesome: If RoboCop's changes from the original legitimately upset you (PG-13, one human hand, black, etc), then rewatch the original and just don't see this one. For everyone else, this reboot is looking like it could be a solid action movie. Sporting a strong cast (Samuel L. Jackson and Gary Oldman!) and applying the concept to a modern world which is so focused on security and corruption, José Padilha's remake definitely looks like it has the potential to be a highly enjoyable serving of popcorn entertainment.

When you can see it: February 12

Latest trailer: Click here to check out a pretty detailed featurette.

X-Men: Days of Future Past

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Why it looks awesome: Bryan Singer returns to the X-Men franchise and the director is setting an absolutely ginormous stage. As if tackling the classic Days of Future Past story wasn't ambitious enough, we know the film will also pave the way for an Apocalypse movie and even an X-Force one. Sure, putting this many major characters into the mix means some individuals are bound to get less screen time, but come on, Hugh Jackman, Michael Fassbender, Jennifer Lawrence, Patrick Stewart, Ellen Page, Peter Dinkalge and Ian McKellen (just to name a few) all in the same film? Yeah, you can bet there's a ridiculous amount of potential there and this one has our attention. Additionally, we're finally going to see Sentinels! No, the one scene in X-Men: The Last Stand doesn't count.

When you can see it: May 23

Latest trailer: Get a glimpse of the future here.

Captain America: The Winter Soldier

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Why it looks awesome: Ladies and gentlemen, Ed Brubaker and Steve Epting's The Winter Soldier storyline is going to hit the big screen this year. If you don't know why that's awesome, then we strongly recommend reading the story arc before the movie opens. With Captain America working for S.H.I.E.L.D., it's clear this one's going to be loaded with conspiracy, action and jump straight into the moral issues Rogers has with the organization. Plus, the trailer is simply epic. Go watch it. Seriously, don't skip it.

When you can see it: April 4

Latest trailer: Do yourself a favor and click here to watch the latest video.

Transformers: Age of Extinction

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Why it looks awesome: Optimus Prime is riding Grimlock. There's about a 99.9% chance that is making your inner child freak out right about now. It's safe to say opinions were mixed on Michael Bay's Transformers trilogy. However, while talking with Yahoo! Movies, the director said Age of Extinction will be "a much more cinematic one." Bay also says he's aiming to keep this fourth film "slick" and "there won't be any goofiness in this one." So yeah, it seems fair to assume this latest Transformers movie is going to be full of massive action scenes and a whole lot of CGI craziness. If you dug the first and third, then odds are you should keep an eye on this.

When you can see it: June 27

Latest trailer: Gaze at the explosions here.

300: Rise of an Empire

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Why it looks awesome: Zack Snyder may not be directing this sequel (though he is writing and producing), but it's more than transparent Noam Murro is aiming to duplicate the guy's signature style. With a big focus on naval combat and hitting us with slow motion during some ginormous battles and key cinematic moments, 300: Rise of the Empire seems almost guaranteed to be a visual delight. If interested, this is totally a movie that'll warrant the big screen experience.

When you can see it: March 7

Latest trailer: Click here to observe all of the slow motion madness.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles

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Why it looks awesome: Welcome to the most polarizing movie on the list, readers. There's been so much negative buzz floating around the internet (e.g. early ideas which are now allegedly scrapped, anger over names attached to the project, leaked promo poster with an unflattering amount of accessories on some characters), but you know what? We still haven't seen a single official still or even a second of footage. It's obvious the studio has faith in the movie (been confirmed actors have signed a deal for sequels), so let's not be too surprised if the first teaser actually looks like it could be a good time. Sure, the story probably won't be nearly as compelling as the one over in the IDW comics, but if it's a chance to see a new take on the turtles and deliver some solid escapism, then it could be enjoyable way to spend an hour and a half or so.

When you can see it: August 8

Latest trailer: No footage yet and Paramount asked us to take down the leaked images, but click here to listen to the classic theme song.

Guardians of the Galaxy

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Why it looks awesome: This is without question a risk for Marvel Studios. Ask any casual Marvel movies fan who these characters are and odds are they'll have no idea whatsoever. That said, this is something the studio's most certainly aware of and that's why they've brought in a couple of big names (Vin Diesel, Bradley Cooper) and there's no doubt they'll do a huge marketing push as we get closer to the release date. Once viewers are reeled into the the seats, we're pretty hopefully that they're going to experience a hilarious and exciting sci-fi adventure. James Gunn brings a very unique style to the table (Super, Slither) and because of that, this cosmic movie has the potential to be wildly entertaining. Moreover, how rad will it be to see this team on the big screen and witness Marvel Studios continue to expand their cosmic universe? Fingers crossed this'll be every bit as ridiculously fun as we want it to be.

When you can see it: August 1

Latest trailer: They didn't air one during the Superbowl :(

Godzilla

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Why it looks awesome: When it was first announced Godzilla would get the reboot treatment, the common reaction we saw online was basically "oh, hell no!" After the trailer came out, though? The common reaction was a bunch of jaws hitting the ground of a whole lot of praise. The scope of the movie seems to be every bit as big as the monster itself. From the sheer spectacle of seeing Godzilla through a soldier's perspective to the staggering amount of destruction and the bleak tone, this is definitely a movie you'll want to keep on your radar. Also worth noting: Bryan Cranston is in it!

When you can see it: May 16

Latest trailer: Click here and prepare to be amazed.

Son of Batman

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Why it looks awesome: Okay, so this one technically isn't going into theaters, but a new DC animated movie is always something worth celebrating, right? Taking place in the same continuity as Justice League: War, Batman will finally meet his son, Damian Wayne. If you've read Grant Morrison's run, then you know this is some hugely promising material. To make matters even more exciting, Slade Wilson aka Deathstroke has taken over the League of Assassins. Yeah, count us in.

When you can see it: May 6

Latest trailer: Click here to watch the first look or Damian will punch you in the face.

122 Comments

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ccraft

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Edited By ccraft

I'm excited for all comic book movies,

Robocop: Looks good for a reboot, plot seems decent and the action looks great. Robocop looks better in the movie as grey, but the black look isn't bad either. The cast for Robocop is pretty good. I haven't seen the first film, but have seen 2 and 3, which imo were bad movies.

Amazing Spider-Man 2: Spider-Man vs Green Goblin, Electro, and Rhino should be epic! My only worry is that Green Goblin will look stupid, they have yet to show a clear picture of his face and his hair is kinda goofy. Rhino's design is interesting, but I would be lying if I didn't want to see him in his comic book form. As for Gwen Stacy, I really hope see does die, it would pack a pretty emotional punch! I will miss her...

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: I'm a big TMNT fan so I'm really excited for this film, and since Bay is producing it hopefully we'll see some awesome action. The designs of shredder and the turtles look awesome.

Godzilla: I have seen a little bit of the original, I thought it was hilarious, just something about a man in a Godzilla suit flailing his arms around is funny to me. It peaked my interest a little bit so I will finish it some time. Anyways, I'm really excited for this movie, Godzilla is one of my favorite monsters. Godzilla is still my favorite trailer of 2014.

Captain America 2 Winter Soldier: This movie looks too amazing to just being a second installment of this franchise.

X-Men Days of Future Past: I'm pretty excited to see the past and future X-Men meet, and I'm definitely not upset that Wolverine will be the focus of this film. Only characters I really like is Wolverine, Magneto (past &future), Professor Xaiver (past & future), Mystique, Sentinel, and Bishop looks interesting. This should be the best X-Men film, I hope it lives up to the hype.

Guardians of the Galaxy: I don't know much about this team, but I will most likely go see it.

Son of Batman: I finally got used to Batman's voice, and I hope we see more of him as the voice of Batman. The animated movie is a bit different from the comic, and to me, it looks better too. Batman meeting Damian for the first time in an animated movie is awesome, should have some great action and drama.

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Master_Thief

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Edited By Master_Thief

@ccraft: yeah kinda like the all hail the king one shot

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Rabbitearsblog

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I'm pretty excited for all of these movies! Can't wait to see which one of these movies will be named the "BEST SUPERHERO MOVIE OF THE YEAR!"

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ccraft

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@master_thief: I haven't seen that yet, does he become Mandarin or at least hint at it?

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jackbensley777

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@crom_cruach: well somewhat, it really puts the battles in a more epic proportian, for an example. their were many other greek city states that fought along side sparta in the battle of Thermopylae, their were others or at least athens in the movie.+-

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Lvenger

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@k4tzm4n said:

@lvenger said:
  • ASM 2 - It does look really fun and mixes the Stan Lee and Ultimate Spider-Man mixture really well. However, there is the unfortunate problem of cramming too many villains in one film. Electro, Rhino and this Goblin character may seem inconsequential if they all come at Spidey in a short amount of time without sufficient development to build up the role, the challenge and the threat the villain poses to the hero. That's what makes the final confrontation all the more satisfying.

Webb has stated Rhino's basically there for just one action sequence. It seems clear Harry/Electro will be the "big two" and we're just being introduced to Rhino for his eventually role in the Sinister Six roster.

Well that's one problem with Rhino's shoe horned action sequence already :/

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Master_Thief

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@ccraft: no but the interviewer is really a spy for the nine rings and says he's busting him out of jail because someone wants to meet him.

Trevor says is he a fan and the interviewer says no but you stole his name and he wants it back..... Also justin hammers cameos in the mid credits

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Bystander

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F*UCK!! Am I the only one excited about Robocop!!?

Cool list. + Respect to the author.

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k4tzm4n

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Edited By k4tzm4n  Moderator

@lvenger said:

@k4tzm4n said:

@lvenger said:
  • ASM 2 - It does look really fun and mixes the Stan Lee and Ultimate Spider-Man mixture really well. However, there is the unfortunate problem of cramming too many villains in one film. Electro, Rhino and this Goblin character may seem inconsequential if they all come at Spidey in a short amount of time without sufficient development to build up the role, the challenge and the threat the villain poses to the hero. That's what makes the final confrontation all the more satisfying.

Webb has stated Rhino's basically there for just one action sequence. It seems clear Harry/Electro will be the "big two" and we're just being introduced to Rhino for his eventually role in the Sinister Six roster.

Well that's one problem with Rhino's shoe horned action sequence already :/

Well, I'd say the problem is jumping to conclusions before seeing how it's actually handled, no? :P

@cyberwarriorThank you!

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Lvenger

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Edited By Lvenger

@k4tzm4n No not at all. Because we have evidence of what happened when too many Spider-Man villains were shoved into a movie and not given proper development or meaningful appearances. And Spider-Man 3 was the result. It's hard not to overlook this blatant showcase of the saying "Too many cooks spoil the broth" when this film has the potential to go the same way as Raimi's final Spider-Man film.

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k4tzm4n

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Edited By k4tzm4n  Moderator

@lvenger said:

@k4tzm4n No not at all. Because we have evidence of what happened when too many Spider-Man villains were shoved into a movie and not given proper development or meaningful appearances. And Spider-Man 3 was the result. It's hard not to overlook this blatant showcase of the saying "Too many cooks spoil the broth" when this film has the potential to go the same way as Raimi's final Spider-Man film.

You're taking evidence from a movie that had completely difficult circumstances than Amazing Spider-Man 2. First and foremost, execs made Raimi put Venom in, against his will, and it showed. Secondly, the script itself just wasn't good. Spider-Man 3's problems go well beyond "there are 3 villains." To think ASm2 will be SM3 all over again just because of that is beyond pessimistic, especially since this movie is about world building and Sony has already announced more sequels and spinoffs. It's clear there's long-term plans for some these individuals and it's not just, "look, it's that character you know! Love it, nerds!" Will it be great? Only time will tell. Will be be as bad as Spider-Man 3? I sincerely doubt it.

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@k4tzm4n said:

You're taking evidence from a movie that had completely difficult circumstances than Amazing Spider-Man 2. First and foremost, execs made Raimi put Venom in, against his will, and it showed. Secondly, the script itself just wasn't good. Spider-Man 3's problems go well beyond "there are 3 villains." To think ASm2 will be SM3 all over again just because of that is beyond pessimistic, especially since this movie is about world building and Sony has already announced more sequels and spinoffs. It's clear there's long-term plans for some these individuals and it's not just, "look, it's that character you know! Love it, nerds!" Will it be great? Only time will tell. Will be be as bad as Spider-Man 3? I sincerely doubt it.

Who knows what circumstances are at play here? And whilst Spider-Man 3 had other problems, the first ASM film was harshly criticised for its acting, script and pacing of the story. And that was just with one villain in. Add another two into the mix and one finds it difficult to shake the feeling these problems won't become exacerbated. I hope I'm proven wrong there but the comparison of Amazing Spider-Man 2 and Spider-Man 3 remains perfectly sound given the similarities between the tone and direction of these films. Furthermore, the world building of the ASM world relies on continued success and if this film falters on the same basis that Spider-Man 3 did, bye bye world building. But I'm not saying this will be as bad as Spider-Man 3, I'm saying it has the chance to go wrong in the same way Spider-Man 3 did.

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k4tzm4n

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Edited By k4tzm4n  Moderator

@lvenger said:

@k4tzm4n said:

You're taking evidence from a movie that had completely difficult circumstances than Amazing Spider-Man 2. First and foremost, execs made Raimi put Venom in, against his will, and it showed. Secondly, the script itself just wasn't good. Spider-Man 3's problems go well beyond "there are 3 villains." To think ASm2 will be SM3 all over again just because of that is beyond pessimistic, especially since this movie is about world building and Sony has already announced more sequels and spinoffs. It's clear there's long-term plans for some these individuals and it's not just, "look, it's that character you know! Love it, nerds!" Will it be great? Only time will tell. Will be be as bad as Spider-Man 3? I sincerely doubt it.

Who knows what circumstances are at play here? And whilst Spider-Man 3 had other problems, the first ASM film was harshly criticised for its acting, script and pacing of the story. And that was just with one villain in. Add another two into the mix and one finds it difficult to shake the feeling these problems won't become exacerbated. I hope I'm proven wrong there but the comparison of Amazing Spider-Man 2 and Spider-Man 3 remains perfectly sound given the similarities between the tone and direction of these films. Furthermore, the world building of the ASM world relies on continued success and if this film falters on the same basis that Spider-Man 3 did, bye bye world building. But I'm not saying this will be as bad as Spider-Man 3, I'm saying it has the chance to go wrong in the same way Spider-Man 3 did.

Raimi had a negative relationship with the studio and they made him use a character he blatantly didn't want to and rejected the ones he did (Vulture, Black Cat). While Sony did somewhat mess with Webb's vision, he's still a major player in this franchise and is confirmed as a part of the core team working on its future. You're going to find complaints about every movie on the internet, but overall, the ASM did receive favorable scores, even if it did lack originality. At any rate, they've also blatantly said they felt the first had to get a lot of "basics" out of the way while this one they can really have fun and focus on creating the new mythos. If you didn't like ASM and have your concerns, that's fine -- I'm just tired of seeing people think Spider-man 3 and ASM2 share the same issues simply because there's 3 villains. One movie was going out the door and had a crap relationship with the mastermind behind it -- the other one is just beginning and has a confirmed (not to mention lengthy) future. Not to mention I enjoyed ASM about a thousand times more than SM3, but anyway. It's clear Rhino and other names (Smythe, Toomes) are here to familiarize the audience with them and simply establish them in this world -- a world where they'll likely play a bigger part in the future. It seems clear this one is all about Harry and Electro. Whether or not they'll survive is a whole other discussion... I wouldn't be surprised if Electro's "destroyed" and later reemerges in the S6 and if Harry's killed (after being a part of Gwen's end), this motivates Norman to seek revenge.

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Oh ho, you people amuse me with your insane expectations and assumptions.

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Wolverine008

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Oh ho, you people amuse me with your insane expectations and assumptions.

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F*UCK!! Am I the only one excited about Robocop!!?

Cool list. + Respect to the author.

I'm pretty excited for it!

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Who should be very worried is DC, Marvel is dominating the big screen by far.

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@fodigg: Yeah, it's pretty much all that has to be shown.

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@ccraft: At least somebody understands real cinema. Your the boss man.

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There will be something for everyone...unless you like live action DC characters.

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@ferber08 said:

Who should be very worried is DC, Marvel is dominating the big screen by far.

Honestly, I'd much rather have them take their time with the MoS sequel instead of potentially rushing it out there.