James Gunn’s upcoming Superman (2025) film has already sparked debate, especially regarding its new flight scene where David Corenswet's face looks fake. But this isn't the first time a superhero flight scene has divided audiences. Over the years, Hollywood has delivered some of the most breathtaking aerial moments ever put onto film and television. So, which one stands out as the best? Let’s take a look.
Superman’s First Flight – Man of Steel (2013)
Perhaps the most emotionally powerful flight scene in any superhero film. Henry Cavill’s Superman struggles at first but then launches into the clouds, breaking the sound barrier. The sheer exhilaration, combined with Zimmer’s score, makes this a fan favorite.
Neo’s High-Speed Rescue – The Matrix Reloaded (2003)
Neo’s greatest flight moment comes when Trinity plummets from a skyscraper. As he rockets through the city, the sheer intensity and slow-motion effects make this one of the most visually spectacular rescues in cinema.
Iron Man’s Air Force One Rescue – Iron Man 3 (2013)
One of the most intense flight rescues in superhero history. After Air Force One is attacked, Iron Man dives through the sky, catching free-falling passengers and using his suit’s electrified grip to link them together. The sequence is thrilling and demonstrates Tony Stark’s quick thinking under pressure.
Clark Kent’s Red Kryptonite Flight – Smallville (2004, "Crusade")
Before fully embracing his destiny, Tom Welling’s Clark Kent first flew while under the influence of red kryptonite. This moment in Smallville shows him effortlessly gliding over Metropolis, relishing his power. It was a thrilling tease of what was to come.
Black Adam vs. the Hovercrafts – Black Adam (2022)
Dwayne Johnson’s Black Adam doesn’t just fly—he hovers ominously. One of his best moments comes when he calmly levitates as enemy hovercrafts surround him, then obliterates them without effort. His movement feels god-like, emphasizing his overwhelming power.
Training Son In Flight - Superman And Lois (2024, "A Perfectly Good Wedding")
Tyler Hoechlin's Superman's son gains superpowers giving us a great flight training scene where they race in the Artic.
Saving Lois Lane – Superman Returns (2006)
Brandon Routh’s Superman gave us one of the most elegant flight sequences ever. His highlight moment? When he soars to save an space airplane that is going to crash onto a baseball game.
Adam Warlock’s Arrival – Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 (2023)
Adam Warlock’s flight scene is pure chaos. He streaks through the air, weaving between explosions with unmatched speed and recklessness. His flying feels aggressive, matching his unpredictable nature.
Johnny Storm’s Chase with the Silver Surfer – Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer (2007)
One of the most visually striking flight sequences in superhero films, this scene shows Johnny Storm (Human Torch) chasing after the Silver Surfer.
Shazam’s First Flight – Shazam! (2019)
Billy Batson's journey as a superhero is filled with trial and error, and his first attempt at flight is no different. After discovering his powers, he struggles to take off properly, but later, in a crucial battle against Dr. Sivana, he masters the ability and soars through the city with confidence.
And the Best Flight Scene?
For pure spectacle and emotion, Man of Steel’s first flight still reigns supreme. But for high-stakes intensity, Iron Man 3 and The Matrix Reloaded are close contenders.
What’s your favorite superhero flight scene? Did we miss any?
Visit Dan Lalonde Films For All Technology And Entertainment News
Source: Dan Lalonde
Photo Credit: DC/Marvel
Comments