In the ever-evolving landscape of superhero cinema, action scenes play a crucial role in defining the success and memorability of films. Yet, not all action sequences hit the mark, and some even become infamous for their failure to resonate with audiences. From awkward CGI to baffling choreography, several superhero films have delivered moments that are more cringe-worthy than thrilling. Here’s a look at some of the worst action scenes in superhero movies, highlighting what went wrong.
Many superhero films, particularly those from DC and Marvel, are celebrated for their exhilarating action sequences. Iconic battles, such as the Leipzig-Halle Airport confrontation in Captain America: Civil War or the showdown in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, set high expectations. However, when it comes to the worst action scenes, these expectations often go unmet.
One notable example is the climactic duel in Black Panther, where T'Challa faces his cousin N'Jadaka, also known as Killmonger. While the film is highly acclaimed, the final fight is marred by its heavy reliance on CGI. Critics argue that the visual effects detract from the emotional stakes of the battle. The vibranium suits, which should render the combatants nearly invulnerable, are depicted in a way that feels distracting rather than engaging. This fight, which should have been a highlight, instead leaves a sour taste for many fans.
Another baffling moment can be found in Superman II, where Superman inexplicably throws a cellophane “S” symbol at the villain Non during a climactic battle. This bizarre choice has puzzled audiences since the film's release, as it feels more like a gimmick than a legitimate tactic. The scene stands out as one of the most confusing in an otherwise beloved sequel.
Similarly, X-Men Origins: Wolverine features a climactic fight between Wolverine and a heavily modified Wade Wilson, dubbed Weapon XI. This version of Deadpool possesses an absurd array of powers, including katana blades that emerge from his body and Cyclops' optic blasts. The film's final showdown is criticized for its lack of coherence, as it fails to capture the essence of the beloved comic book character. The confusing depiction of Deadpool's powers and the overall execution of the fight left many fans disappointed.
In Green Lantern, the final battle against the fear-inducing entity Parallax is marked by excessive CGI and an anticlimactic conclusion. Hal Jordan manages to defeat Parallax by luring it into the sun, but the ease with which he dispatches the creature undermines the tension built throughout the film. Fans of the Green Lantern lore felt that introducing such a powerful foe too early in the franchise was a misstep.
Suicide Squad also features a poorly executed final fight against the antagonist Enchantress. Critics point out the significant power imbalance between the squad and Enchantress, making the battle feel unconvincing. The chaotic nature of the fight, coupled with the squad's sudden teamwork, lacks the necessary buildup to make it believable. Fans have since called for the release of the “Ayer Cut” in hopes of seeing a more coherent version of the film.
In a different vein, The Flash includes a scene where Barry Allen rescues newborns from a collapsing building. While intended to showcase his speed and heroism, the sequence feels cartoonish and out of place. The use of shoddy CGI renders the babies in a way that detracts from the intended tension, leading to a comedic rather than heroic atmosphere.
Another awkward moment occurs in Daredevil, where Matt Murdock and Elektra Natchios engage in a flirtatious fight in a playground. The scene, which features cheesy one-liners and acrobatics, feels inappropriate given the setting. The dynamic between the characters, especially in light of today's standards, raises eyebrows and detracts from the overall impact of the fight.
In Kraven the Hunter, the climactic showdown features Rhino being defeated by a herd of stampeding buffalo. This bizarre conclusion left audiences scratching their heads, as it seemed implausible that a character portrayed as nearly indestructible could be taken down by animals. The execution of the scene, coupled with a lack of believable CGI, further diminishes the film's credibility.
Madame Web also falls short in its final fight, where Cassie Webb uses her precognitive abilities to protect future Spider-Women from exploding fireworks. The lack of hand-to-hand combat and the reliance on her powers make the climax feel unsatisfying. The film's overall silliness culminates in an unceremonious defeat for the antagonist, Ezekiel Sims, who meets his end in a rather lackluster manner.
Lastly, the fight between Catwoman and Laurel in Catwoman is often cited as one of the worst superhero battles. The scene is riddled with jump cuts and poor choreography, making it difficult for viewers to engage with the action. The villain, Laurel, lacks depth, and the fight feels more like a chore than an exciting climax.
These examples illustrate that even within the superhero genre, not all action scenes are created equal. Whether due to poor CGI, confusing choreography, or simply bad storytelling, these moments have become infamous for their failures. As superhero films continue to dominate the box office, it's essential for filmmakers to learn from these missteps to ensure that future action sequences resonate with audiences and deliver the excitement that fans crave.
