10 Bold Superhero Series That Shatter Conventions

Article Overview

The superhero genre has evolved with edgy, subversive takes that deconstruct the mythology, exploring new perspectives and presenting anti-hero characters.

Anti-superhero media such as The Boys and Deadpool offers a contrasting perspective to the typically light-hearted nature of popular Marvel and DC films, presenting a darker and more realistic depiction of American society.

In addition, emerging superhero shows like Gen V and Peacemaker take the existing universes further, delving into the lives of college-aged characters and following the journey of a flawed hero in his pursuit of redemption.

The superhero genre has become a defining force in the film industry of the 21st century. In recent times, there has been a push to challenge traditional norms and offer edgy and subversive interpretations of comic book adaptations. This includes the deconstruction of mythology, where ancient myths are reimagined, Western films are revised, and superhero shows portray the costumed heroes as villains. Heroes like Superman and Captain America, who have been seen as the embodiment of the best aspects of humanity, now face critical and subversive perspectives.

Media that opposes the traditional superhero narrative tends to be dark and violent, contrasting the light-hearted nature of popular Marvel and DC films. These anti-superhero stories present characters who offer a more pessimistic and grounded view of American society. The success of the Deadpool films has shown that audiences can embrace a story filled with violence and profanity, where the central character is an anti-hero. TV shows like The Boys take things even further, challenging audiences with the notion that superheroes could be tools of corporations, and the most powerful among them could be pure evil. Additionally, new superhero shows are exploring the genre from different angles, including coming-of-age stories and comedies.

9. The Boys

A world where superheroes are the bad guys.

The Boys is an action-packed drama and crime series available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video. It stars a talented cast including Elisabeth Shue, Jensen Ackles, Goran Visnjic, Jessie T. Usher, Chace Crawford, Dominique McElligott, Laz Alonso, Nathan Mitchell, Aya Cash, Colby Minifie, Karl Urban, Erin Moriarty, Karen Fukuhara, Jack Quaid, Antony Starr, Claudia Doumit, and Tomer Capon. The show has been released on July 26, 2019 and has three seasons.

With three seasons released, The Boys has emerged as the most popular title within the anti-superhero genre. Renowned for its explicit depiction of violence, gore, and mature themes, the series also delves into American politics and media by utilizing superheroes that bear striking resemblance to DC's Justice League. Particularly, the character of Homelander serves as an examination of the consequences if someone with Superman's abilities were under the control of an immoral individual manipulated by a major corporation. Each super-powered character in The Boys is tainted in some manner, providing a realistic portrayal of what contemporary American society might resemble if superhuman abilities were a prevailing factor.

8. Invincible

An animated superhero series for adults.

Invincible is an animated series available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video. It was released on March 26, 2021 and features a stellar cast including Mark Hamill, Gillian Jacobs, Jon Hamm, Mae Whitman, Steven Yeun, Walton Goggins, Ezra Miller, Jonathan Groff, Sandra Oh, Djimon Hounsou, Khary Payton, Seth Rogen, Jeffrey Donovan, Sonequa Martin-Green, Mahershala Ali, Malese Jow, J. K. Simmons, Clancy Brown, Zazie Beetz, Zachary Quinto, Jason Mantzoukas, and Nicole Byer. The series falls under the genres of animation, adventure, and action.

Sporting a star-studded voice cast led by Steven Yeun and J.K. Simmons, Prime Video employs animation to narrate the story of Invincible. Derived from the comics with the same title, the series revolves around Mark Grayson, the son of the world's most formidable superhero, Omni-Man. Similar to Homelander, Omni-Man bears a striking resemblance to Superman, but it becomes immediately apparent that there's more to his character than meets the eye. Invincible delves into the complexities of Mark Grayson's journey to adulthood as he hones his own powers under the guidance of Omni-Man, a seemingly altruistic hero whose true nature may be questionable.

7. Gen V

Expanding The Boys universe with college-aged characters.

Gen V is a compelling series that is set to be released on September 29, 2023. It features a talented cast including Lizzie Broadway, Jaz Sinclair, Chance Perdomo, Maddie Phillips, London Thor, Derek Luh, Asa Germann, Shelley Conn, and Patrick Schwarzenegger. The show offers an exciting blend of action, comedy, drama, and superhero elements. With one season currently available, Gen V can be streamed exclusively on Prime Video.

Prime Video has expanded The Boys universe with Gen V, a spin-off series that takes place at a university where aspiring supes are trained for crime-fighting and media marketability. For fans of The Boys, Gen V is a thrilling continuation that is essential for staying up to date with the TV universe's timeline, as the show delves into ongoing storylines from the main series. While the younger characters provide a more relatable perspective for younger viewers, the spin-off still tackles mature subject matter with a touch of prestige.

6. Peacemaker

DC's least competent hero.

Peacemaker

Release Date: January 13, 2022

Cast: Steve Agee, Christopher Heyerdahl, Jennifer Holland, Annie Chang, John Cena, Chukwudi Iwuji, Danielle Brooks, Robert Patrick, Lochlyn Munro, Chris Conrad

Genres: Adventure, Comedy, Action

Seasons: 1

Streaming Service: HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video

James Gunn, known for his work on The Suicide Squad, delivers another thrilling and darkly humorous series with Peacemaker. Starring John Cena as the titular anti-hero, the show explores the consequences of an unlikely individual fighting crime. Despite its edginess, Peacemaker follows the character's journey towards redemption, as he strives to rid himself of the influence of his villainous father. Cena's performance is both hilarious and heartfelt, showcasing his comedic talents while also making the character endearing.

5. Jessica Jones

Exploring the darker corners of the MCU.

Marvel's Jessica Jones

Release Date: November 20, 2015

Cast: Krysten Ritter, David Tennant, Mike Colter, Rachael Taylor, Wil Traval, Erin Moriarty, Eka Darville, Carrie-Anne Moss, J.R. Ramirez, Terry Chen, Leah Gibson, Janet McTeer, Benjamin Walker, Sarita Choudhury, Jeremy Bobb

Genres: Superhero, Crime

Seasons: 3

Streaming Service: Netflix, Disney+

The Netflix Marvel shows are adored for their exploration of the darker and more mature side of the MCU. While the Avengers tackle cosmic threats, Jessica Jones focuses on street-level crimes through her detective agency. Unlike other heroes, her main concerns are paying her bills and dealing with personal struggles like addiction and PTSD. With its complex and relatable lead character, Jessica Jones stands out as one of the finest shows within the Netflix Marvel universe.

4. Watchmen

A sequel to Alan Moore's classic comic.

The HBO miniseries adaptation of Alan Moore's Watchmen comic is a remarkable exploration and deconstruction of the superhero concept. Set 34 years after the events of the original comics, the series introduces a captivating mix of both familiar and new characters. It builds upon the comic's examination of themes such as nuclear annihilation while also delving into pressing issues of police brutality and social injustice. Watchmen is not just an incredible anti-superhero show, but it also stands as one of the finest HBO miniseries.

3. The Umbrella Academy

Netflix's hit super-powered original.

The Umbrella Academy

Release Date: February 15, 2019

Cast: Colm Feore, Cazzie David, Genesis Rodriguez, Robert Sheehan, Aidan Gallagher, Elliot Page, Emmy Raver-Lampman, Jordan Claire Robbins, Jake Epstein, Mary J. Blige, David Castaneda, Justin Cornwell, Justin H. Min, Britne Oldford, Adam Godley, Tom Hopper, Javon 'Wanna' Walton, Ritu Arya, Cameron Britton, Sheila McCarthy

Genres: Adventure, Comedy, Action

Seasons: 3

Streaming Service: Netflix

Netflix's original content has had mixed success, particularly when it comes to shows centered around individuals with superpowers. However, The Umbrella Academy stands out as a definite success. The series follows a group of estranged siblings with extraordinary abilities who come together after their adoptive father's death, embarking on a journey to uncover the truth behind his demise. The characters in The Umbrella Academy possess complexity, flaws, and personal struggles, making them relatable and multi-dimensional. The show skillfully blends superhero elements with family drama, delving into the dynamics and relationships among the characters.

2. The Tick

Amazon's first superhero venture.

The Tick

Release Date: August 18, 2016

Cast: Jackie Earle Haley, John Pirkis, Ryan Woodle, Paul Moon, Joshua Schubart, Griffin Newman, Michael Cerveris, Kahlil Ashanti, Peter Serafinowicz, Scott Speiser, Valorie Curry, Yara Martinez

Genres: Comedy, Action

Seasons: 2

Streaming Service: Hulu, Amazon Prime Video

The Tick, released in 2016, stands out in the superhero genre by adding a touch of comedy to the mix. The series centers around The Tick, a hero, and his unlikely crime-fighting partner, Arthur. This satirical show features witty and eccentric characters who provide a fresh perspective on superheroes. While it does have its moments of gore, The Tick takes a more light-hearted approach compared to the darker and cynical tone of The Boys, firmly establishing itself as a superhero satire.

1. I Am Not Okay With This

A super-powered teen sitcom.

I Am Not Okay with This

I Am Not Okay with This, starring Sophia Lillis and Wyatt Oleff from the It films, is a 2020 comedy series on Netflix. Despite its short length of seven episodes, the show is an enjoyable watch that blends fantasy elements with the challenges of high school and family drama. It introduces a teenage protagonist who discovers her superpowers and must navigate through the complexities of her everyday life. The series deserves to have been given more episodes and further exploration.

Editor's P/S

As a Gen Z netizen, I am excited about the bold new superhero series that are shattering conventions. I am tired of the same old stories about superheroes who are always good and always win. I want to see superheroes who are flawed and complex, who make mistakes and have to deal with the consequences. I want to see superheroes who are not afraid to challenge the status quo and fight for what they believe in.

I think that these new superhero series are a reflection of the changing world that we live in. We are living in a time of great uncertainty and upheaval, and we are looking for new heroes to help us make sense of it all. These new superhero series offer us a new way to look at the world, and they give us hope that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope for a better future.