If you believed Hollywood cornered the market on sky-high budgets for movies, not so fast. Indian film has crept up and, at times, trumpeted its game, making movies with budgets competing with some of the world’s biggest blockbusters. From sci-fi epics to mythological fantasies, these films are going all out, and the figures don’t lie. Here’s a glance at the costliest Indian films ever produced—and where they stand compared to the most expensive movies globally.

1. Kalki 2898 AD – ₹600 Crore

The science-fiction blockbuster Kalki 2898 AD is raising the standards for Indian cinema with an estimated budget of ₹600 crore. With its ambitious sci-fi backdrop and all-star cast, this Telugu film promises as much visual fidelity as anything America’s Hollywood can produce. If sneak peeks are anything to judge by, it’s the sort of visual spectacle that would make even the most experienced visual effects professionals marvel.

2. RRR – ₹550 Crore

SS Rajamouli-directed RRR didn’t just rule the box office—it set records. Spelled out to the tune of ₹550 crore, the Telugu-language historical drama left no stone unturned. From epic battle sequences to sumptuous set pieces, each frame is packed with detail. It’s not a film—it’s an experience.

3. Adipurush – ₹500–700 Crore

Depending on who you ask, Adipurush took between ₹500 crore and ₹700 crore to make. This ambitious retelling of Ramayana was meant to be a visual spectacle, merging mythology with lots of CGI. The film’s reception can be said to have been divided, but from a production perspective, it’s one of the bravest projects Indian cinema has ever undertaken.

4. 2.0 – ₹400–600 Crore

The follow-up to Enthiran (Robot), 2.0 stars Rajinikanth and Akshay Kumar in a technology-heavy battle between man and machine. With a budget of anywhere from ₹400 crore to ₹600 crore, it’s among the costliest sci-fi movies ever produced in India. The movie went all in on VFX innovations, providing a spectacle that held its own among international peers.

5. Pushpa 2: The Rule – ₹400–500 Crore

Following the stupendous success of Pushpa: The Rise, expectations for its sequel are through the roof—and so is the budget. Pushpa 2: The Rule has an allegedly ₹400–500 crore budget. With Allu Arjun once again in the lead role and a dedicated fan following in wait, the outlay does not seem unjustified.

6. The Greatest of All Time – ₹380–400 Crore

Thalapathy Vijay’s next film, The Greatest of All Time, is already generating hype due to its name and reported budget of as much as ₹400 crore. While details are yet to be revealed, this Tamil movie is proving to be a visual and emotional ride.

7. Brahmāstra: Part One – Shiva – ₹375–400 Crore

A daring effort to start India’s cinematic universe, Brahmāstra: Part One – Shiva, ranged from ₹375 crore to ₹400 crore. With magic, mythology, and superhero-esque action, the film introduced something new to Bollywood and expanded the possibilities of genre storytelling within the industry.

8. Game Changer – ₹350–425 Crore

As the name itself indicates, this new Telugu movie is looking to shake up things. With a production budget of ₹350 crore to ₹425 crore, Game Changer is assuring us of top-class production value and the scale one does not often associate with political thrillers. The producers are going for broke, and fans are paying attention.

9. Singham Again – ₹350–375 Crore

Rohit Shetty’s cop universe is set to receive a turbo-charged new chapter in the form of Singham Again. With a budget said to be as high as ₹375 crore, the action should be bigger, noisier, and more over-the-top than before. Flying cars and humongous explosions are effectively a given.

10. Bade Miyan Chote Miyan – ₹350 Crore

Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff star in this high-octane action movie, which reportedly cost ₹350 crore to make. With international settings, high-gloss stunts, and over-the-top moments, it’s apparent that this film is aiming for blockbuster success.

Notable Mentions

A few more large-budget releases should be mentioned. Baahubali 2: The Conclusion shocked everyone with its ₹250 crore budget, while Saaho was at ₹325 crore. Kanguva, a new Suriya movie, is placed around ₹300–350 crore. Shah Rukh Khan’s Jawan and Salman Khan’s Tiger 3 also went over the ₹300 crore mark, highlighting just how far Indian cinema will go in the area of spectacle.

Regional Big Spenders

It’s not just Bollywood and the southern industries making waves—regional cinema is flexing its financial muscle too. Assamese film Mission China was made on ₹2 crore, while Bengali’s Amazon Obhijaan came in at ₹20 crore. Bhojpuri’s Sangharsh 2 cost around ₹6 crore, and Gujarati hit Bey Yaar was produced for ₹2.25 crore. Marathi, Meitei, Odia, and Punjabi films are also raising the bar, proving that cinematic ambition isn’t limited by geography.

How Indian Budgets Stack Up Against Hollywood

For context, Hollywood’s most costly film to the best of anyone’s knowledge, Star Wars: The Force Awakens, ran the bill at around $447 million—approximately ₹3,700 crore. Indian movies aren’t there just yet, but pieces like Kalki 2898 AD and Adipurush are not far behind. And considering the contrasts in market size and average ticket prices, the scale and ambition of these Indian ones become all the more astounding.

What’s Fueling the Big Spending?

There is a definite drift towards pan-Indian appeal, particularly in Tamil and Telugu cinema. Fans are lapping up spectacle-driven storytelling, and directors are addressing this with larger sets, greater effects, and higher stakes. The streaming revolution, international distribution, and fandom-driven franchises are also contributing to this. As Bollywood, Tollywood, and even Hollywood start to blend lines, one thing is certain: the age of the mega-budget Indian film is here—and it’s just going bigger.

Dreaming of producing films, collecting Oscars, or simply opening the door to the business? Welcome to the film school universe—a realm where stories are written, scenes are filmed and redone, and the next great director is likely sitting in a cramped editing room right now. Whatever your vision—Hollywood blockbuster, festival favorite, or next streaming hit—these schools are where the artistic journey starts. Here are the top ten film programs that have established themselves for channeling passion into production and students into filmmakers.

1. American Film Institute (AFI)

AFI is generally regarded as the industry standard for film schools. With graduates such as Black Swan director Darren Aronofsky and South Park producer Anne Garefino, it’s an institution where committed creators develop their skills. Preeminent for its hands-on, intense method, AFI allows students to produce up to four individual films as they learn from actual, working industry folks. The graduates’ connections are strong—six out of ten Best Picture nominees in certain years have had an AFI alumnus involved. It’s a significant investment, but the industry exposure is difficult to beat.

2. USC School of Cinematic Arts

USC has a long history as a pipeline to Hollywood, with iconic patronage from George Lucas and amenities that approach real-world studios, most notably an on-campus IMAX theater. The curriculum combines tradition and innovation, teaching courses ranging from AI Storytelling to Realtime CG Filmmaking. With graduates such as Black Panther director Ryan Coogler, Grey’s Anatomy creator Shonda Rhimes, and Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige, USC is where creative aspiration meets serious potential.

3. CalArts School of Film and Video

Established by Walt Disney, CalArts is a force in animation and experimental film. Alumni include some of the industry’s most influential animators, such as Tim Burton, Brad Bird (The Incredibles), Andrew Stanton (Finding Nemo), and Jennifer Lee (Frozen). The school flourishes on creative freedom, so it’s perfect for those who desire to push boundaries and shape a distinctive creative voice.

4. Los Angeles Film School

In the middle of Hollywood, the Los Angeles Film School provides hands-on, career-oriented training a few steps away from some of the world’s largest studios. Bachelor’s degrees range from digital filmmaking to graphic design and animation. Among its graduates are Paquita Hughes (Marvel’s Runaways), Oscar-winning sound mixer Phillip Bladh (Sound of Metal), and Emmy-nominated dialogue editor Angelina Faulkner (What We Do in the Shadows). For others, it’s a fast track to actual industry work.

5. NYU’s Kanbar Institute of Film & Television

In the heart of New York City’s thriving arts community, NYU’s Kanbar Institute is a fertile ground for filmmakers to make their mark and tell impactful stories. Its alumni roster boasts the likes of industry icon Martin Scorsese and Breaking Bad writer Vince Gilligan. The institution has both undergraduate and graduate programs, and students of the school continuously win awards from the industry’s major festivals and award ceremonies. If you wish to establish your movie career in the city that never sleeps, Kanbar is an excellent beginning.

6. Chapman University’s Dodge College of Film and Media Arts

Chapman is rapidly climbing the ranks of leading film schools due to cutting-edge tech and serious funding for student productions. From its colossal 40-foot LED wall to generous production budgets, Chapman equips students with the means to experiment and develop. Alumni such as the Duffer Brothers (Stranger Things) and horror director Parker Finn (Smile) attest to this school being an emerging power in both television and film.

7. UNCSA School of Filmmaking

The University of North Carolina School of the Arts is not in New York or L.A., but it has earned a robust national profile. Variety has listed it as one of North America’s leading film schools for more than a decade. The school focuses on creative collaboration and storytelling basics, and its alumni include successful filmmakers like Danny McBride, David Gordon Green, and Jeff Nichols. If you want a school that prizes substance over flash, UNCSA is a good bet.

8. Feirstein Graduate School of Cinema

Based at Brooklyn’s Steiner Studios, Feirstein is the only film school to be situated on a working film lot, and its costs are substantially lower than those of many of its competitors. With MFA degrees in fields such as media scoring, sonic arts, and cinema production, Feirstein provides an applied and interactive education. Its instructors are working professionals, and the school’s focus on diversity and inclusion in storytelling makes it particularly attractive to up-and-coming voices.

9. World’s Best International Film Schools to Consider

Beyond the United States? The rest of the world also has its film schools worth mentioning. The London Film School is a postgraduate-only school with students from over 60 nations. Over in the area, the National Film and Television School (NFTS) has grads such as Nick Park (Wallace & Gromit) and David Yates (Harry Potter). FAMU in Prague has educated masters such as Miloš Forman, and La Fémis in Paris—founded on the historic Pathé lot—has close connections to international film schools. Poland’s Lodz Film School, one of the Continent’s oldest, continues to evolve and define the nation’s vibrant film culture.

10. State and Community Standout Film Programs

You don’t have to take out a second mortgage to get into film. Colleges such as California State University, Northridge provide great programs with the aid of federal grants and scholarships. City College of New York boasts a film program that has its roots back in the 1940s, with emphasis on both fiction and documentary tracks. Purchase College (SUNY) and Rutgers University both produce filmmakers who go on to succeed in indie and nonfiction communities. These schools prove that passion and talent matter more than a Hollywood ZIP code.

Whether you dream of directing blockbusters, editing documentaries, or writing the next binge-worthy series, film school can be the launchpad to your career. These institutions aren’t just training grounds—they’re creative ecosystems where future legends are already hard at work, one frame at a time.

Middle-earth is a world of courageous hobbits and sage wizards, yes, but it’s also the home of some of the most iconic villains on screen. Peter Jackson’s film versions of The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings introduced Tolkien’s more sinister characters to the world in all their chilling, distorted, and occasionally even tragic splendor. Let’s venture into the darkness and list the top ten most dominant villains who made the heroes’ quests so memorable.

Sauron

Sauron is the Big Bad—the shadow that casts over all of Middle-earth. Though he’s not often seen in bodily form, usually as a giant flaming eye on the spire of Barad-dûr, his presence is felt all the time. His strength is not in brute force but in his power to corrupt, manipulate, and control. Be it armies or once-noble creatures, Sauron’s influence is what makes him truly formidable.

The Witch-King of Angmar

The Witch-King doesn’t simply command the Nazgûl—he frightens them into submission. He’s a hulking figure of terror, armed with supernatural abilities and a gruesome flail, and an unsettling presence that sucks hope out of any field of battle. The prophecy that “no man can slay him” contributes to his mythology, so his ultimate face-off against Éowyn and Merry is one of the most legendary sequences in the trilogy.

The Nazgûl

Former kings of men, the nine Nazgûl were tainted by the power of Sauron and are now his most devoted enforcers. Their eerie shrieks, relentless chase after the One Ring, and ghostly apparition render them a formidable foe. Whether mounted on black horses or fearsome Fell beasts, their coming always means disaster.

Saruman

Saruman’s fall is one of the series’ most tragic storylines. Originally the leader of the White Council and one of the wisest of the wizards, he betrays his friends for power. He’s not only Sauron’s minion—Saruman’s got personal ambition, with an army of Uruk-hai at his command and a plan to conquer Middle-earth himself. His betrayal makes him one of the saga’s most nuanced villains.

Azog the Defiler

Azog’s not subtle, but he doesn’t have to be. As the primary villain in The Hobbit trilogy, he’s motivated by a personal grudge against Thorin Oakenshield. With incredible power and an unyielding will, Azog ruthlessly dispatches anyone in his path. He’s more than a brute—he’s a strategic war leader, and his presence defines much of the struggle in the prequels.

Gothmog

Gothmog is not the most physically intimidating character, but where he fails in appearance, he compensates in brutality. Being one of Sauron’s most important commanders, he leads the charge towards Minas Tirith in ruthless aggression. He’s a tactical soldier who feeds on fear and terror, driving his troops even when he’s injured. 

Shelob

Far beneath the tunnels of Cirith Ungol, Shelob lurks. She’s a giant spider, old and starving, and her den is nightmare material. She doesn’t talk, but she doesn’t have to—her venom, agility, and bulk make her one of the most dangerous creatures in the series. Frodo’s battle with her almost kills him, and without Sam, it would have easily.

Gollum

Gollum is not your standard villain. He’s tragic, broken, and very human under his monstrous facade. His addiction to the Ring makes him dangerous, but it also makes him pitiful. He flip-flops from helpful to deadly in a moment, and his ultimate action contributes to the destruction of the Ring. Gollum illustrates that sometimes the deadliest foes are the ones we pity.

Bolg

Bolg, Azog’s son, is not far behind his father in character. He’s less commanding, but just as lethal. Bolg is a fighter at heart, and his battles with Legolas and other characters rank among the most intense within The Hobbit trilogy. He might not carry on his father’s legacy, but he leaves his mark.

The Watcher in the Water

Hidden in the dark waters beyond the Mines of Moria, the Watcher reminds us that Middle-earth’s threats come in more than swords and magic. With its enormous tentacles and volatile temperament, it comes close to ending the Fellowship quest before it even starts. We never get a good look at it, and that only makes us more afraid.

From fallen wizards to monstrous beasts, these villains are more than just obstacles—they’re essential to what makes Middle-earth’s stories so rich and compelling. Their presence pushes the heroes to rise, and their darkness makes the light shine that much brighter.

If you believed that the Marvel Cinematic Universe had already endured its share of drama, think again. Captain America: Brave New World has arrived in theaters not only as the fourth installment of the Captain America series but as one of the hottest-contested Marvel films of recent memory. While the on-screen action is more intense than ever, the actual drama is unfolding off-screen—in critical reviews, online commentaries, and even on protest marches outside Hollywood premieres.

A New Captain, a New Era

It’s all centered around the transition of the shield—Anthony Mackie’s Sam Wilson, once the Falcon, formally assumes the role of Captain America. For many, this change is timely and revitalizing. As critic E. Nina Rothe wrote, Mackie imbues the character with a down-to-earth presence that seems genuine and deserved. The movie probes Sam’s inner struggle and the outside forces that come with taking over a job once filled by Steve Rogers, querying the difficulty of defining heroism in a more fractured, disillusioned world.

Producer Nate Moore put it most succinctly: Brave New World is about Sam proving he can be Captain America in a way even Steve never was.” It’s an ambitious narrative move and one that puts Mackie’s Cap in exactly the right place in a post-Blip, post-Rogers America.

Critics Are Split—Sharply

Even so, the movie hasn’t convinced everyone. Critics have been loud—and sometimes merciless. A.A. Dowd labeled it a “new low” for the franchise due to incoherent storytelling and a failure to find narrative focus. Bilge Ebiri accused Marvel of pumping out “giant slop,” while Ty Burr berated the movie for prioritizing fan gratification over substance. Even the MCU’s signature blend of heart and spectacle seems diminished here.

Screen Rant concurred, describing the movie as a grim retread of previous Captain America films. Sam’s character development, they contend, takes a back seat to a subplot that marks the President Ross of Harrison Ford, whose Red Hulk transformation does provide a few highlight sequences, but which is insufficient to prevent the overall storyline from becoming disjointed.

Sabra, Protests, and Political Firestorms

Compounding the controversy is the casting of Israeli actress Shira Haas as Ruth Bat-Seraph. In comics, the character—and perhaps more famously by her alternate name, Sabra—is a Mossad operative. For the movie, though, Marvel reworked her as an American government agent and forsook the codename altogether. This reworking was able to offend both sides of the political aisle. Israeli critics complained that the character’s identity was diluted, while pro-Palestinian activists protested her inclusion in general. Real-world protests ensued, including boycott calls from Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions-affiliated groups. Few superhero movies spark this type of politically charged blowback on both sides of a debate—Brave New World made it happen.

A Culture War Lightning Rod

The movie also became a battleground in the culture wars. Anthony Mackie’s on-the-record statements about the changing definition of Captain America set conservative commentators off, with some charging the movie with advancing a “woke” agenda. Mackie later explained himself, proudly declaring he got to play an American hero, but the conversation had already spun out of control.

Director Julius Onah tried to smooth over the controversy, explaining that Mackie’s remarks had been taken out of context, but by that point, the story surrounding the movie had shifted from plot to ideology.

Box Office Success Despite the Noise

Here’s the surprise: despite all the negative criticism, Brave New World has performed big at the box office. Opening weekend estimates from Variety and Deadline had it at $80 million to $95 million—its highest-grossing opening since Moana 2 on Thanksgiving. While critics might be splintered, audiences are decidedly still coming.

A Divided Fanbase

What’s perhaps most interesting is how the darker, more geopolitical tone of the film has divided the fanbase. Some appreciate it as a bold new direction—less CGI bombast, more thinking about what being a hero in today’s complex world means. Others lament the loss of the humor and emotional warmth that characterized earlier installments. While Harrison Ford’s Red Hulk stands out, many feel Sam Wilson should have gotten more story-heft in what’s supposed to be his flagship film.

In the end, Captain America: Brave New World is no mere Marvel addition—it’s a cultural Rorschach test. If you see it as a necessary adjustment or a misfire, that tells you as much about what you want from superhero movies as it does the film itself.

One thing is for sure: nobody’s walking away from this movie without an opinion. And perhaps, in a franchise that exists on the argument, that’s a superpower in and of itself.

Let’s face it: in the world of movies, nothing says “power” quite like a franchise that can keep audiences coming back for decades—and rake in billions while doing it.

1. Marvel Cinematic Universe

With a mind-boggling $11.7 billion in North American box office revenue, the Marvel Cinematic Universe is the undisputed champion of the franchise mountain. This giant encompasses all from Iron Man’s initial suit-up to the multiverse mayhem of recent Spider-Man and Avengers blockbusters. The MCU’s secret ingredient? An endless procession of stories that interconnect, dashing heroes, and a slew of post-credit scenes to fuel fans’ theorizing for decades. Avengers: Endgame alone ranks just shy of the top of the worldwide box office, raking in almost $2.8 billion globally.

2. Star Wars

Long ago, far away in a galaxy, far, far away, George Lucas released a science fiction saga that would grow into a pop culture empire. Star Wars has taken in over $5 billion in North America alone, and its international numbers are more staggering. The Force Awakens passed $2 billion globally, and even the supposedly “worst” one, Solo, brought home nearly $400 million. With Disney+ currently powering the franchise with hit shows such as The Mandalorian and Obi-Wan Kenobi, Star Wars remains far from letting its lights fade into the twin suns.

3. Disney Live Action Reimaginings

Who would have expected that making live-action adaptations of traditional animated fairy stories would turn out to be a goldmine? Disney’s live-action reboots have taken in nearly $3.5 billion at home. Whether The Lion King stomps onto the big screen or Beauty and the Beast dances onto the big screen, these films prove that nostalgia sells, especially when you add a dash of CGI and an A-list ensemble cast.

4. Spider-Man

The globe’s go-to web-slinger has swooped his way to over $3.3 billion of North American box office money. From Tobey Maguire’s upside-down smooches to the multiverse adventures of Tom Holland, Spider-Man movies have been packing theaters consistently. Spider-Man: No Way Home, with its universe-smashing ensemble, was nearly at the $2 billion threshold globally, demonstrating that Spidey’s appeal is still as sticky as it gets.

5. J.K. Rowling’s Wizarding World

The enchantment of Harry Potter and his magical companions has earned close to $2.9 billion in North America. Cultural impact cannot be ignored—attempt to locate a person who does not know his or her Hogwarts house. With upcoming TV projects on the way, the Wizarding World will keep on enchanting audiences (and accountants) for years to come.

6. Batman

The Dark Knight darkly brooded its way through 12 movies and more than $2.7 billion at the North American box office. With Michael Keaton, Christian Bale, or Robert Pattinson at the helm, Batman’s on-screen legacy is as enduring as his rogues’ gallery is deep. And don’t forget that The Dark Knight and its sequel both became members of the billion-dollar club, cementing Batman’s place as box office royalty.

7. Avengers

The four Avengers franchise films combined have raked in more than $2.6 billion at the North American box office—a remarkable achievement for four films. Avengers: Endgame alone broke records and hearts, and it is one of the best-grossing movies of all time. Even without a new Avengers team-up coming down the pike, their legacy remains intact.

8. X-Men

Mutants have been raking it in since the early 2000s, with the X-Men franchise (covering Wolverine and Deadpool spin-offs) grossing close to $2.5 billion in North America alone. With Deadpool & Wolverine recently entering the billion-dollar club worldwide, it’s obvious that fans still have a weak spot for adamantium claws and fourth-wall observations.

9. James Bond

Shaken, not stirred—and always a profit. The James Bond series, with 26 movies and six Bobs, has made more than $2.2 billion in North America. Skyfall alone broke the billion-dollar mark globally, evidence that 007’s license to thrill remains as fresh as ever, regardless of who occupies the tuxedo.

Whether you’re a die-hard Marvel fan, a lifelong Jedi, or just someone who loves a good popcorn flick, these cinematic giants have something for everyone—and they’re not slowing down anytime soon.

Let’s be realistic: no film is beloved by all. For each fan who deems The Godfather a work of genius, another is declaring it “the most inexplicably overrated piece of trash” (no joke, someone wrote that). The reality is that even the widest releases and Oscar favorites have their detractors—and occasionally, those criticisms aren’t entirely unfounded. So here are ten movies that are widely beloved, but dig a little deeper and you’ll find plenty of folks who think they’re not all they’re cracked up to be.

The Shawshank Redemption

It’s usually at the top of “greatest films ever” lists and comfortably at number one on IMDb’s Top 250. Not everyone’s convinced, though. Some critics argue that it relies too heavily on tropes and that its emotional tone is manufactured. For some, those who can’t get on with the pace or the prison drama conventions, it’s a long, foregone conclusion.

Joker

Joaquin Phoenix received an Oscar, and the film broke its silence for months. Yet despite its success, Joker polarized audiences and critics. Some interpreted it as a daring, unsettling portrait of a fractured man, but others viewed it as style over substance and accused it of being try-hard and too edgy.

Venom

Tom Hardy’s hammy performance made this one a blockbuster with audiences, even when critics savaged it. The plot is a mess, the jokes are hit-or-miss, and the tone swings wildly everywhere—but for lots of viewers, that randomness is part of its appeal. It’s a mess, but strangely endearing.

Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull

Nostalgia will get a film only so far. While critics were fairly lenient, the public was much less so. From the hated “nuke the fridge” scene to jungle shenanigans courtesy of CGI, even hardcore Indiana Jones fans agree that this one fell short.

Grown Ups

Adam Sandler and his cast seemed to be having a great time on vacation, and many fans enjoyed the ride. But critics weren’t nearly as entertained, labeling it lazy and uninspired. It’s the type of humor that’s simple to watch—but just as simple to forget.

Twilight

This romance vampire film turned into a cultural phenomenon, yet it’s also one of the most controversial franchises around. While there were people who loved the melodrama and romance, there were those who couldn’t move past the cringeworthy dialogue, wooden acting, and sparkly vampires.

Hotel Transylvania

Families loved this animated monster comedy, but some critics weren’t as impressed. Sure, it’s packed with colorful visuals and silly gags, but others found it loud, repetitive, and lacking in substance. Still, if you’re a kid—or a kid at heart—it might be just what you’re looking for.

Transformers

Michael Bay’s bombastic robot-filled extravaganza was a box office bonanza and a treat for action enthusiasts. However, some critics cited the thin plot, inflated length, and cheesy dialogue. Every audience member who enjoyed the blasts, there was one more eye-roll over the excess.

Sausage Party

This cartoon comedy pushed adult humor to extremes. While some appreciated its boldness and originality, many viewers weren’t amused. The off-color jokes, strange animation technique, and that notorious ending left people wondering who exactly this movie was meant for.

Warcraft

Based on the popular video game, Warcraft attracted a massive following, but not everyone was impressed. The critics were bewildered by the rich lore and inconsistent storytelling, while the fans appreciated it as a pretty, enjoyable adaptation of something they had grown fond of.

So the next time you have someone tell you that a film is “universally beloved,” keep this in mind: there’s always somebody out there who hates it with a vengeance. And really, that’s some of the fun of discussing movies.

If you’ve ever found yourself daydreaming about what it would be like to swing through skyscrapers like Spider-Man or call down thunder like Thor, you’re not alone. The Marvel Universe is full of powers that are part-and-parcel awe-inspiring and envy-provoking. But in choosing the ultimate superpower, what is it that counts? Is it brute cosmic power, mind-bending adaptability, or something more stealthy, such as the ability to heal from anything? Here’s a look at ten of the most wanted Marvel superpowers—each one irresistible for its reasons, and sometimes, just a little terrifying.

1. Healing Factor (Wolverine, Deadpool)

Ask any longtime Marvel fan—or even a bestselling fantasy author like Brandon Sanderson—and you’ll likely hear the same top pick: rapid healing. Wolverine and Deadpool’s regenerative powers are incredibly appealing, and not just because they shrug off injuries in seconds. There’s something ridiculously comforting about the prospect of outlasting disease, trauma, and time itself. Immortality isn’t rainbows and sunshine, naturally—watching the people you love get old as you stay ageless forever isn’t exactly a picnic—but the best part? No more hospital records to pay for, no more fear of death, and absolutely no more paper cuts.

2. Reality Manipulation (Scarlet Witch)

For overpowered abilities, the queen is Scarlet Witch. Her reality-altering abilities enable her to redefine the rules of reality. Need to wipe away a bad day? Recreate your world? Click your fingers and change the future? It’s all game. Sure, such power has an enormous emotional and moral price tag—just look at Wanda Maximoff. However, for individuals who dream of total dominance, this power is a complete game-changer.

3. Magic and Mysticism (Doctor Strange, Loki)

There’s something hypnotic about the mystic arts, especially in the possession of a Doctor Strange or a Loki. Whatever it is, opening portals, spell-casting, or toying with time, magical abilities just beg to be innovatively abused. They’re also two of the most visually stunning powers in the Marvel universe. The downside? You might take years of schooling and an almost unbreakable will not to become a cause of devastating backfires (and maybe a chatty cape for back-up).

4. Cosmic Power (Captain Marvel, Thor)

For fans drawn to raw, unstoppable force, cosmic power is the holy grail. Captain Marvel and Thor boast flight, energy projection, enhanced durability, and super strength, making them near-invincible on the battlefield. These powers come with a heavy burden—like fending off galactic threats and dealing with god-level responsibilities—but if you’ve ever wanted to punch a spaceship out of the sky, this is the fantasy for you.

5. Super Intelligence and Technology (Iron Man, Vision)

Brute strength is not the sole requirement of heroes. Others use brainpower and advanced technology to revolutionize the world. Tony Stark and Vision personify the desire to be a mastermind futurist: inventing incredible suits, building AI, and creating solutions to world crises before breakfast. True, this kind of intelligence is a double-edged sword—only a rogue algorithm away from disaster—but the potential for innovation and intellectual superiority is too tempting to resist.

6. Super Strength (Hulk, Captain America)

There is a reason that super strength is timeless. It resonates, it’s fulfilling, and it never gets old. Hulk’s destructive rage and Captain America’s super-human strength are two aspects of the same coin—one raging with fury, the other tempered by restraint. Flipping tanks or throwing shields, strength-based powers provide that eternal “power fantasy” that readers can never tire of.

7. Speed (Quicksilver)

Being quick isn’t cool—it’s convenient. Picture racing by traffic, flying over oceans, or cramming extra time into your day. Quicksilver’s speed is motion plus—it’s freedom. But with a dark flip side as well—super speed means moving the world at a breakneck pace, possibly making everyone else dreadfully slow. Nonetheless, for fans who detest waiting around, it’s an obvious choice.

8. Shapeshifting and Size-shifting (Ant-Man, The Wasp)

Whether it’s avoiding bad guys or sneaking somewhere you shouldn’t be, the versatility of altering your size or shape is both useful and fun. Ant-Man and The Wasp demonstrate just how versatile this can be—first you’re teeny-tiny, the next you’re towering above city blocks. And, of course, the stealth aspect cannot be beaten. Who wouldn’t want to sneak past airport security or access the top shelf without a ladder?

9. Mind Control and Telepathy (Professor X, Mantis)

Reading minds. Manipulating emotions. Influencing decisions without an open word. These are the sorts of abilities that can alter not only battles, but lives. Professor X employs his powers judiciously and with compassion, and Mantis prefers a softer, emotional touch. But the moral dangers are not negligible—when does manipulation become influence? Nevertheless, the vision of strong connection (or strategic leverage) places this ability near the top of many people’s lists.

10. Elemental and Environmental Control (Storm, Magneto)

Controlling nature or elemental manipulation has a certain type of grandeur to it. Storm’s manipulation of the weather and Magneto’s control over metal can redesign cities and direct fights. But these abilities also have a built-in warning label: they’re as devastating as they are breathtaking. Control over the environment is a great burden, but also a certain, undeniable sense of power.

Marvel superpowers strike at our deepest desires—control, freedom, transformation, connection. Whether it’s to exist without pain, to soar above the clouds, or to fix the world’s greatest problems with your brain, there’s a power out there for every type of dreamer. Just make sure you’re careful what you wish for.

Buckle up—2025 is looking to be a year to remember for science fiction. Whether your thing is galaxy-traversing adventures, rogue AI, or revivals of cinema legends, this year’s slate has something for every type of sci-fi enthusiast. From franchise reboots with major budgets to fascinating indie offerings, below are the top sci-fi movies illuminating screens in 2025.

Elio

Pixar returns to space with Elio, a coming-of-age journey with intergalactic flair. When 11-year-old Elio Solis is mistakenly declared Earth’s ambassador, he must survive a room full of aliens in the Communiverse. With voice talent from Yonas Kibreab, America Ferrera, and Jameela Jamil, and directed by Coco co-director Adrian Molina in his solo feature debut, Elio combines heart, humor, and interstellar awe in signature Pixar style.

Jurassic World: Rebirth

The dinosaurs are back again. Five years on from Dominion, Rebirth changes gears to focus on a mission to harvest dinosaur DNA for possible medical advances. Of course, things do not turn out as planned. With the cast headed by Scarlett Johansson, Jonathan Bailey, Mahershala Ali, and Rupert Friend, this new installment promises new thrills, prehistoric peril, and plenty of classic Jurassic moments.

Superman

James Gunn is giving the Man of Steel a new beginning in the freshly rebooted DC Universe. David Corenswet is taking on the part of a younger, more earthy Clark Kent, joined by Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane and Nicholas Hoult as a ruthless Lex Luthor. It’s not a direct sequel—it’s a fresh start, providing a more optimistic tone while setting up a wider DCU.

The Fantastic Four: First Steps

Marvel’s First Family is finally making it to the MCU, and they’re arriving with flair. Set in a retro-futuristic 1960s time period, this reboot sees the Fantastic Four facing down cosmic menaces, Galactus (Ralph Ineson), and the Silver Surfer (Julia Garner). Pedro Pascal stars in the lead as Reed Richards, joined by Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach. Fans have waited years to see how Marvel brings one of its most beloved teams back.

Mercy

Chris Pratt makes a dramatic departure in Mercy, a grounded sci-fi thriller from Wanted helmer Timur Bekmambetov. The story is largely kept under wraps, but we do know Pratt stars as a detective who is accused of a crime he didn’t commit. Co-starring Rebecca Ferguson and Annabelle Wallis, Mercy is generating buzz as one of the year’s most compelling original genre films.

Tron: Ares

The Grid comes back online in Tron: Ares, the long-gestation sequel to the Tron franchise. Jared Leto plays Ares, a software program unleashed into the “real” world as humanity’s first direct encounter with AI. The supporting cast also features Greta Lee, Gillian Anderson, Evan Peters, and Jeff Bridges returning as Kevin Flynn. Prepare to be wowed by visuals, digital-world battles, and a narrative that leaps between virtual and real-world consequences.

Predator: Badlands

Following the franchise booster Prey, director Dan Trachtenberg is back with Predator: Badlands. Little is known, but rumors have this installment putting the Predator in a more focal—and possibly more emotionally complex—position. Elle Fanning tops the cast, and the movie promises to reinvent the classic sci-fi killer. 

Bugonia

Director Yorgos Lanthimos (The Favourite, Poor Things) applies his quirky sensibility to the science fiction genre with Bugonia. A reimagining of the Korean cult favorite Save the Green Planet!, the film tells the tale of two conspiracy theorists who abduct a corporate CEO they think is an alien plotting Earth’s destruction. Emma Stone, Jesse Plemons, and Alicia Silverstone headline what promises to be a wild, genre-defying ride chock-full of dark humor and philosophical subtext.

The Running Man

Edgar Wright adapts Stephen King’s The Running Man again, this time more adhering to the original book than the 1987 take. Glen Powell plays Ben Richards, a man thrust into a deadly TV game show to secure his family’s survival. Josh Brolin, Katy M. O’Brian, and Lee Pace complete the cast. Get ready for a stylish, action-packed blend of social commentary and survival action.

Avatar: Fire and Ash

James Cameron is back in Pandora with Avatar: Fire and Ash, which delves into the Ash People—a fiery, fire-spewing Na’vi clan. Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldana, and Sigourney Weaver return, with David Thewlis and Oona Chaplin added to the mix. As with everything with Cameron, the details of the plot are kept at bay, but the visuals are bound to set a new standard again.

City Rush 4

For the indie sci-fi fan, City Rush 4 is the next chapter in the adventures of special agent Ace (George Tounas) fighting cybercrime, android assassins, and viral attacks in a hyper-digital universe. Eric Roberts and Anna Rezan reprise in this visually striking short-form series, the latest installment of which is just shy of an hour and available on a number of streaming platforms.

The Year Ahead in Sci-Fi

From blockbuster franchises and daring reboots to quirky originals and indie treasures, 2025 promises to be a flag-bearer year for science fiction. Whether you’re visiting old worlds or venturing into the unknown, these upcoming films are primed to push the limits of your imagination—and perhaps even make you reconsider what sci-fi can do.