DC Movie Timeline Sequence for Your Movie Marathon

Fans of superhero films are likely familiar with iconic characters like Batman and Superman, brought to life by DC Comics—one of America's largest and most established comic book companies.

These superhero stories have been adapted into various films within the DC Extended Universe (DCEU), where each film is interconnected, often bringing multiple superheroes together in a single movie.

For those who haven't watched the DCEU movies in sequence, Showpoiler has organized them by chronological events to help guide your movie marathon and avoid any confusion.

1. Wonder Woman

Kicking off our DCEU timeline is "Wonder Woman," set during World War I in the year 1918. Gal Gadot stars as Princess Diana of Themyscira, or Wonder Woman, the daughter of Queen Hippolyta. Themyscira is an island inhabited by the Amazon warriors, divinely created by the God Zeus to protect humanity.

In the film, Diana encounters an American spy named Steve Trevor. The two have a strong bond, and Diana follows Steve into the human world to confront her adversary, Ares.

2. Wonder Woman 1984

As the title suggests, "Wonder Woman 1984" is set in the year 1984, a time marked by the tensions of the Cold War.

In this installment, Diana Prince faces off against two formidable adversaries: Maxwell Lord, a corrupt businessman, and Barbara Minerva, who possesses powers like a cheetah.

Additionally, the film features the surprising return of her beloved, Steve Trevor, despite rumors of his demise in the previous film.

3. Man of Steel

"Man of Steel" recounts the origin story of Superman, also known as Clark Kent. This film portrays Clark's early life as seemingly ordinary, despite his extraterrestrial origin from the planet Krypton.

His peaceful existence changes dramatically when he chooses to become Superman to combat General Zod, a fellow Kryptonian. Zod invades Earth to retrieve a vital artifact known as the codex core, which Clark has safeguarded. During intense battles, the narrative also explores Superman's romantic relationship with Lois Lane and his vulnerability to kryptonite.

4. Batman V Superman: Dawn of Justice

Set 18 months after "Man of Steel," "Batman V Superman: Dawn of Justice" unites the iconic figures of Batman and Superman. The plot revolves around the intense conflict between the two heroes, instigated by Lex Luthor's cunning schemes.

Luthor's machinations lead to a fierce confrontation where Superman is critically wounded by a spear tipped with kryptonite during a fight against a monstrous creation of Luthor's.

The movie also introduces other powerful DC superheroes like Wonder Woman, The Flash, and Aquaman through various cameo appearances.

5. Suicide Squad

Departing from the traditional superhero theme, "Suicide Squad" centers on a group of antiheroes. This film assembles a team of dangerous criminals and convicts, brought together by government agents to form the Suicide Squad.

Their mission is to counteract potential threats from powerful beings that could endanger humanity. The eclectic group includes characters such as Harley Quinn, Deadshot, Captain Boomerang, Killer Croc, and Slipknot, all of whom are controlled through nano-bombs implanted in their necks to prevent their escape.

6. Zack Snyder’s Justice League

In "Zack Snyder's Justice League," Batman and Wonder Woman strategize to counter Steppenwolf and his ferocious army, which aims to conquer Earth. The duo recruits Aquaman, The Flash, and Cyborg to bolster their ranks. In a critical move, they resurrect Superman to enhance their collective strength.

This film represents Zack Snyder's original vision for the "Justice League" (2017), a version that diverges significantly from the one directed by Joss Whedon, which did not meet expectations.

Premiering on HBO Max, Snyder removed scenes by Whedon and reshot them to ensure a coherent and stronger narrative within the universe.

The film is noted for its sophisticated cinematography, marked by dark tones and numerous slow-motion sequences, making it a distinct departure from the earlier film's resemblance to a Marvel production.

7. Aquaman

Aquaman explores the life of Arthur Curry, the rightful heir to the throne of the underwater kingdom of Atlantis. Despite his royal lineage, Arthur chooses a simpler life on the surface with his father, a lighthouse keeper.

His life changes when he meets Mera, an aquatic dweller who reveals that Arthur's half-brother, Orm, has malevolent plans against the human world. This revelation compels Arthur to embrace his destiny, return to Atlantis, and confront Orm with Mera's assistance.

8. Shazam!

Shazam! infuses humor into the superhero genre. The film follows young Billy Batson, who is selected by a wizard to transform into the adult superhero, Shazam, whenever he speaks the magic word.

This transformation endows Billy with extraordinary powers to combat evil. However, his abilities also draw the attention of Doctor Sivana, a villainous scientist determined to harness Shazam's powers for nefarious purposes.

9. Harley Quinn: Birds of Prey

Harley Quinn, once a psychiatrist and now a notorious criminal, was previously known as the Joker's lover. "Harley Quinn: Birds of Prey" picks up after the events of "Suicide Squad," portraying Harley's emotional turmoil following her breakup with the Joker.

To find new purpose, she teams up with Cassandra Cain, a young girl targeted by the ruthless crime boss, Roman Sionis. To protect Cassandra, Harley allies with a group of female antiheroes: Huntress, Black Canary, and former police officer Renee Montoya. Together, they go on an adventure that helps Harley step out of the shadows of her past relationship.

10. The Suicide Squad

In The Suicide Squad, Amanda Waller once again assembles a team of villains for a high-stakes mission on Corto Maltese, where the local government has recently been toppled.

They have to destroy Jotunheim, a facility harboring dark secrets of the American government. Despite internal conflicts, the team manages to fulfill their perilous task.

This sequel to the 2016 "Suicide Squad" features the return of Harley Quinn and Rick Flag. Directed by James Gunn, the film is celebrated for its great plot and character development, alongside standout performances from the cast. The narrative continues in the "Peacemaker" series, which is available on HBO Max.

11. Black Adam

Black Adam was entombed beneath the ruins of Kahndaq's palace for five millennia. Recently resurrected, he finds himself in the midst of a battle for the Sabbac crown, a conflict that draws in both forces of good and evil.

Initially, the superheroes from the Justice Society of America try to curb his vigilante justice, but they soon ally with him as the demonic Sabbac emerges from the underworld.

As an anti-hero with powers akin to those of Shazam, stemming from the same mystical origins, Black Adam stands as Kahndaq's protector against malevolent forces. This film also introduces a new group of DC superheroes poised to play significant roles in the unfolding universe.

12. Shazam! Fury of the Gods

The family of Shazam, already strained by personal issues, faces vengeance from Atlas's three daughters. After reassembling their father's magic scepter, Hespera, Kalypso, and Anthea execute a grand scheme. As a result, each family member, except Billy, gradually loses their powers.

In a desperate effort to safeguard both his city and humanity at large, Billy confronts Kalypso, who attacks astride a dragon. Despite defeating her, Billy's life hangs in the balance until Wonder Woman intervenes. With her divine abilities, she not only revives Billy but also repairs the damage, allowing him to reunite with his family.

Shazam films distinguish themselves within the DCEU through their lighter, more jovial tone, yet they maintain a profound narrative about the significance of family. The visual effects are meticulously crafted, offering viewers both comfort and awe.

This guide details the sequence of DC Extended Universe films to clarify the overall storyline. Beyond these, numerous other DC films exist outside the DCEU timeline. Among these varied superheroes, who is your favorite? Share your thoughts in the comments!