10 Superhero Actors Who Were Critical of Their Own Films

Superhero movie stars in the MCU, the DCU, and other franchises have been known to express their dissatisfaction with their films publicly. Even before the rise of the MCU, superhero movies based on comic book characters were being made. The history of superhero movies includes numerous live-action adaptations from DC and Marvel Comics. Unfortunately, the genre has faced challenges with inconsistent box office performance and critical reception.

At times, negative reviews or perceptions of lackluster quality become widely accepted, including by the stars of the movies themselves. Many actors have been part of comic book or superhero films only to later voice their disappointment with the final product. Throughout the timelines of the MCU, DC movies, and beyond, several actors have openly criticized their own films. They have either acknowledged the negative public reception of their work or shared their own criticisms. Here are 10 superhero movie stars who have publicly criticized their own films.

Sydney Sweeney Poked Fun At Madame Web's Poor Reception

Madame Web (2024)

Sydney Sweeney in her Spider-Woman costume in Madame Web - Madame Web (2024) - Sydney Sweeney Poked Fun At Madame Web's Poor Reception

Sydney Sweeney's role in Madame Web's cast was a big deal for the movie's promotion, with many fans excited to see her in action. However, during her appearance on Saturday Night Live, Sweeney playfully mentioned the film's lukewarm reception, distancing herself from her character, Julia Carpenter. She told the audience they might know her from other projects like Anyone But You or Euphoria, but definitely not from Madame Web. Though not a harsh critique, her reluctance to be linked to the film speaks volumes.

Josh Brolin Had Many Issues With Jonah Hex

Jonah Hex (2010)

A straight-on shot of Josh Brolin as Jonah Hex in Jonah Hex (2010) showcasing the character's facial scars - Josh Brolin Had Many Issues With Jonah Hex

George Clooney Has Disowned Batman & Robin

George Clooney has openly disowned the movie Batman & Robin, expressing his strong dislike for it. In various interviews, Clooney has referred to the film as a "disappointment" and even apologized to fans for his portrayal of the iconic character. He has been vocal about the mistakes made during the making of the movie, taking responsibility for its shortcomings. Clooney has made it clear that he believes the film did not live up to the standard expected for a Batman movie, and he regrets his involvement in the project.

Batman & Robin (1997)

George Clooney in Mr. Freeze's lair in Batman & Robin - Batman & Robin (1997) - George Clooney Has Disowned Batman & Robin

Anthony Hopkins Thought Acting In The Thor Movies Was Pointless

In the years since Batman & Robin’s release, the film has received a massive amount of negative press. One of the movie’s most vocal detractors is none other than its star, George Clooney, who played the Caped Crusader in the 1997 outing. Clooney has all but disowned the movie, even once claiming that he refused to allow his wife to watch it as he wanted her to maintain some respect for him. Though Joel Schumacher’s Batman movies have faced harsh realities, perhaps the worst is Clooney’s own disdain for the movie he starred in.

Thor (2011), Thor: The Dark World (2013), Thor: Ragnarok (2017)

Odin about to die in MCU Thor Ragnarok - Thor (2011), Thor: The Dark World (2013), Thor: Ragnarok (2017) - Anthony Hopkins Thought Acting In The Thor Movies Was Pointless

Jennifer Garner Was Less Than Thrilled With Elektra

Jennifer Garner, known for her role in Elektra, was not entirely satisfied with her experience working on the superhero film. Despite playing the lead role, Garner expressed disappointment with how the movie turned out. She believed that the potential of the character was not fully realized and that the film did not meet her expectations. While Garner did not directly criticize the movie itself, her feelings towards Elektra were clear.

Elektra (2005)

Jennifer Garner as Elektra with knives in Daredevil (2003) - Elektra (2005) - Jennifer Garner Was Less Than Thrilled With Elektra

Topher Grace Thought His Venom Wasted The Character

Topher Grace, who portrayed Venom in Spider-Man 3, expressed his disappointment with how the character was portrayed in the film. Grace felt that his version of Venom did not do justice to the iconic character from the comics.

Spider-Man 3 (2007)

Topher Grace's Eddie Brock as the Venom symbiote covers most of his body in Spider-Man 3 - Spider-Man 3 (2007) - Topher Grace Thought His Venom Wasted The Character

Jim Carrey was not a fan of the violence in Kick-Ass 2

Kick-Ass 2 (2013)

Jim Carrey as Colonel Stars And Stripes pointing a pistol off-screen in Kick-Ass 2 - Kick-Ass 2 (2013) - Jim Carrey Despised Kick-Ass 2's Violence

Halle Berry Acknowledged Catwoman's Failures

Halle Berry, a well-known actress, openly recognized the shortcomings of the movie Catwoman. Despite her involvement in the film, Berry admitted that it did not meet expectations and was not well-received by audiences. Her candid acknowledgment of the movie's failures highlighted her humility and willingness to reflect on her work in a critical manner.

Catwoman (2004)

Halle Berry wearing her mask in Catwoman - Catwoman (2004) - Halle Berry Acknowledged Catwoman's Failures

Ryan Reynolds Joked About How Bad Green Lantern Was

Ryan Reynolds didn't shy away from poking fun at the widely panned superhero movie, Green Lantern. The actor humorously acknowledged the film's shortcomings, showcasing his ability to laugh at himself and the project's failures. Reynolds' self-deprecating humor added a lighthearted touch to the situation, making light of the movie's reputation as a disappointment among fans and critics alike.

Green Lantern (2011)

Ryan Reynolds in a Green Lantern outfit in a promotional image for Green Lantern (2011) - Ryan Reynolds Joked About How Bad Green Lantern Was

Ben Affleck has not been shy about his dislike for the 2003 film Daredevil, where he played the titular character. The superhero movie received criticism from both reviewers and fans, a sentiment that Affleck himself shares. Years after the movie's release, Affleck took to social media to express his disappointment in the film, even admitting that he regrets being a part of it. This public display of dissatisfaction may have caused a stir, but considering Daredevil's reputation as one of the least favored comic book adaptations, it's not surprising.

Daredevil (2003)

Ben Affleck's Daredevil with Elektra's weapon in Daredevil 2003 - Daredevil (2003) - Ben Affleck Hates Daredevil

Ben Affleck, a well-known Hollywood actor, has had a successful career spanning various genres over the years. However, his role in the 2003 film Daredevil is not something he looks back on fondly. In an interview with Playboy Magazine, Affleck bluntly expressed, "The only movie I regret is Daredevil." This candid comment from Affleck stands out as a notable instance of an actor, who has been part of the MCU, the DCU, and more, openly criticizing their own superhero movie role.

Editor's P/S:

This article provides an intriguing glimpse into the experiences of superhero movie stars who have publicly criticized their own films. It highlights the challenges faced by the superhero movie genre, where inconsistent box office performance and critical reception can lead to dissatisfaction among the actors involved. The candid statements from these stars offer valuable insights into the creative process and the pressures of bringing beloved comic book characters to the big screen.

The article also underscores the importance of self-reflection and accountability in the entertainment industry. When actors are willing to acknowledge the shortcomings of their work, it demonstrates a level of maturity and professionalism. It also sets a precedent for open and honest dialogue about the quality of superhero movies, which can ultimately contribute to the growth and improvement of the genre.