10 Great Pulp Hero Movies You Must Explore

Unveiling the World of Pulp Hero Movies

In the realm of cinema, there exists a treasure trove of hidden gems that pay homage to the legendary pulp heroes of yesteryears. These characters, though not as widely celebrated as modern-day superheroes, have carved a niche for themselves through captivating storytelling and daring exploits. Let's embark on a journey through time and explore the top 10 pulp hero movies that have etched their names in cinematic history.

1. Tarzan And His Mate (1937)

Background:

Tarzan, the iconic man raised by apes, made his cinematic debut in this pre-code adventure film. The film, starring Johnny Weissmuller as Tarzan, was a critical and commercial success, establishing the character as a beloved icon of popular culture.

Synopsis:

In "Tarzan And His Mate," Tarzan and Jane, played by Maureen O'Sullivan, face various dangers in the African jungle while trying to protect an ivory expedition from a group of ruthless hunters. This film showcases Tarzan's incredible strength, agility, and connection with nature, making it a thrilling and visually stunning pulp hero movie.

Tarzan and his Mate 1937 poster

2. The Mark Of Zorro (1940)

Background:

Zorro, the masked vigilante who defends the oppressed, has been a popular character in literature and film for over a century. This black and white classic, starring Tyrone Power as Zorro, is considered one of the definitive adaptations of the character, setting the standard for all future incarnations.

Synopsis:

"The Mark Of Zorro" follows the story of Don Diego Vega, a wealthy nobleman who disguises himself as Zorro to fight against corrupt officials and protect the people of Spanish California. With his masterful swordsmanship and cunning tactics, Zorro becomes a symbol of justice and hope. This swashbuckling adventure is filled with thrilling action sequences and a captivating storyline that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats.

Tyrone Power in The Mark of Zorro

3. Barbarella (1968)

Background:

Barbarella, the seductive heroine of the 41st century, emerged from the pages of French comic books in the 1960s. This visually stunning and kitsch cult classic, starring Jane Fonda as Barbarella, is a psychedelic journey through space that captures the spirit of the era.

Synopsis:

"Barbarella" takes viewers on a wild and colorful adventure as the titular character navigates strange planets and encounters bizarre creatures in her quest to stop the evil scientist Durand Durand. With its imaginative set designs, provocative costumes, and memorable soundtrack, this film became an icon of 1960s science fiction and pulp hero storytelling.

Jane Fonda in Barbarella

4. Doc Savage: The Man Of Bronze (1975)

Background:

Doc Savage, the multi-talented pulp hero, is known for his incredible strength, intelligence, and medical skills. This lone cinematic adventure, starring Ron Ely as Doc Savage, is a faithful adaptation of the character's pulp magazine origins.

Synopsis:

"Doc Savage: The Man Of Bronze" follows the adventures of Doc Savage and his team of skilled individuals, known as the Fabulous Five, as they strive to protect the world from a power-hungry villain. With its thrilling action sequences, witty banter, and larger-than-life characters, this film captures the essence of the pulp hero genre and showcases Doc Savage's unique abilities and resourcefulness.

Doc Savage: The Man Of Bronze

5. Buck Rogers In The 25th Century (1979)

Background:

Buck Rogers, the astronaut out of time, first appeared in comic strips in the 1920s. This campy yet entertaining space adventure, starring Gil Gerard as Buck Rogers, is a nostalgic tribute to the golden age of science fiction.

Synopsis:

"Buck Rogers In The 25th Century" follows the story of Buck Rogers, a 20th-century astronaut who awakens in the 25th century after being frozen for 500 years. As Buck adapts to this new world, he becomes a hero, battling against the evil forces of the Draconian Empire. This film combines thrilling space battles, futuristic technology, and a dash of humor, creating an enjoyable and action-packed pulp hero movie.

Buck Rogers In The 25th Century

6. Flash Gordon (1980)

Background:

Flash Gordon, the football star turned savior of the universe, has been a popular character in comics and film since the 1930s. This campy space odyssey, starring Sam J. Jones as Flash Gordon, is a delightful blend of action, humor, and memorable music.

Synopsis:

"Flash Gordon" takes viewers on an intergalactic adventure as Flash Gordon, along with his companions Dale Arden and Dr. Hans Zarkov, battles the tyrannical Ming the Merciless. With its colorful visuals, energetic performances, and iconic soundtrack by Queen, this film captures the essence of Flash Gordon's pulp hero origins and provides an entertaining and thrilling viewing experience.

Flash Gordon 1980

7. Conan the Barbarian (1982)

Background:

Conan, the legendary barbarian hero of sword and sorcery, was created by Robert E. Howard in the 1930s. This thrilling blend of action and fantasy, starring Arnold Schwarzenegger as Conan, is a cinematic masterpiece that has cemented Conan's status as an iconic character.

Synopsis:

"Conan the Barbarian" follows the journey of Conan, a warrior seeking revenge against the sorcerer Thulsa Doom, who killed his family and destroyed his village. With its epic battles, mythical creatures, and Schwarzenegger's charismatic performance, this film captures the essence of Conan's pulp hero persona and immerses viewers in a world of adventure and danger.

Arnold Schwarzenegger in Conan the Barbarian

8. The Rocketeer (1991)

Background:

The Rocketeer, a daring stunt pilot armed with a powerful rocket pack, first appeared in comic books in the 1940s. This modern take on classic pulp adventures, starring Billy Campbell as The Rocketeer, is a nostalgic and exciting tribute to the era.

Synopsis:

"The Rocketeer" follows the story of Cliff Secord, a young pilot who discovers a prototype jetpack and becomes the Rocketeer, using his newfound abilities to fight against criminals and protect his loved ones. With its thrilling aerial stunts, 1930s setting, and a heartfelt storyline, this film captures the spirit of pulp hero storytelling and delivers an exhilarating and enjoyable experience.

The Rocketeer movie pic

9. The Shadow (1994)

Background:

The Shadow, the enigmatic vigilante with a dark past, has been a popular character in literature and film for over a century. This visually stunning adaptation, starring Alec Baldwin as The Shadow, is a faithful and atmospheric rendition of the character's pulp magazine origins.

Synopsis:

"The Shadow" follows the story of Lamont Cranston, a wealthy playboy who uses his ability to cloud men's minds and fight crime as The Shadow. As he battles against the nefarious Shiwan Khan, played by John Lone, The Shadow must confront his own inner demons. This film combines mystery, suspense, and stylish visuals to create a captivating and immersive pulp hero experience.

The Shadow pointing a gun

10. The Phantom (1996)

Background:

The Phantom, the iconic pulp hero, has been protecting the innocent in the jungles of Bengalla since the 1930s. This fast-paced action-packed adaptation, starring Billy Zane as The Phantom, is a nostalgic and enjoyable tribute to the character's golden age of comics.

Synopsis:

"The Phantom" follows the adventures of Kit Walker, the latest in a long line of Phantoms who dons a purple costume and fights against injustice. As he battles against the evil plans of Xander Drax, played by Treat Williams, The Phantom must protect the mystical Skulls of Touganda. This film captures the swashbuckling spirit of the character and delivers a thrilling and entertaining pulp hero experience.

Billy Zane as The Phantom

Conclusion

These pulp hero movies may have been overshadowed by modern superheroes, but their timeless charm and thrilling adventures continue to captivate audiences. Whether swinging through jungles or battling evil in space, these films remind us of the rich history and enduring legacy of pulp heroes in the world of cinema. So grab some popcorn, sit back, and immerse yourself in the captivating worlds of these pulp hero movies.