In 2024, the superhero genre faced significant challenges. Out of seven films released, only one managed to earn a Rotten Tomatoes critic score above 50%. "Deadpool & Wolverine" emerged as the standout success, both critically and commercially. Meanwhile, Sony's attempts to expand its Spider-Man universe met with mixed reactions, with films like "Madame Web" and "Kraven the Hunter" receiving harsh criticism. The year also saw reboots and sequels such as "The Crow" and "Joker: Folie a Deux," which failed to meet audience and critical expectations. Overall, 2024 marked a year of highs and lows for superhero cinema.

The Unsuccessful Attempts: Critical Flops

Sony's efforts to establish its own Spider-Man universe encountered numerous setbacks in 2024. Films like "Madame Web" and "Kraven the Hunter" were poorly received by critics and audiences alike. Both movies struggled at the box office, indicating a growing fatigue with superhero content. Despite featuring established actors, these films failed to captivate viewers or critics, leading to dismal financial returns.

"Madame Web," starring Dakota Johnson and Sydney Sweeney, garnered a mere 11% on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics described it as disorganized and unengaging. Similarly, "Kraven the Hunter" earned a slightly better but still poor 15%, criticized for its lackluster story and subpar special effects. These failures highlight the risks studios face when attempting to build new superhero universes without strong foundational elements. The tepid reception of these films suggests that audiences are becoming more selective about what they watch in theaters.

A Singular Success: Deadpool & Wolverine

Amidst the disappointments, "Deadpool & Wolverine" stood out as the sole bright spot. This film not only achieved commercial success, grossing $1.3 billion worldwide, but also received mostly positive reviews from critics. Its 78% score on Rotten Tomatoes set it apart from the rest of the year's releases. The movie capitalized on the chemistry between Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman, offering fans a thrilling conclusion to the "Deadpool" trilogy and a heartfelt farewell to Fox's Marvel franchise.

The multiversal narrative of "Deadpool & Wolverine" allowed for an innovative storyline that resonated with both longtime fans and newcomers. The film's success dispelled concerns about superhero fatigue, proving that well-executed stories can still captivate audiences. Additionally, the inclusion of a diverse cast and compelling characters contributed to its appeal. By blending humor, action, and emotional depth, "Deadpool & Wolverine" demonstrated that there is still room for creativity and innovation within the superhero genre. Its triumph serves as a reminder that quality storytelling remains the key to winning over critics and audiences alike.