The cinematic adaptations of the DC Universe have brought to life many beloved characters, yet numerous decisions made by these heroes have not stood the test of time. Long before the inception of the DCEU’s film series, adaptations of DC Comics characters were captivating audiences at theaters. With legendary figures like Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman at the forefront, the movies that unfold within the DC Universe showcase some of the most iconic and recognizable figures in contemporary pop culture.

Nevertheless, the choices made by these characters have often proven to be less than ideal. Many films within the DCEU depict characters making choices that, in retrospect, seem foolish or misguided, particularly as societal values continue to evolve. Whether stemming from good intentions or not, these decisions have been reevaluated through the lens of time, marking them as poor choices in hindsight. This article highlights ten such decisions from DC movies that have aged particularly poorly.

10 Waller’s Unwise Decision to Enlist Villains Over Heroes

The Flawed Strategy of Suicide Squad (2016)

Among the various post-credits scenes in the DCEU, one of the most thrilling moments features Bruce Wayne conversing with Amanda Waller following the chaos of Suicide Squad. This scene not only connected the 2016 film to the broader DCEU narrative but also hinted at a potential confrontation between Ben Affleck’s Batman and Jared Leto’s Joker. However, this moment also underscores the absurdity of Waller’s initial choice to assemble Task Force X, comprised of dangerous villains rather than trustworthy heroes.

This pivotal scene reveals Waller’s awareness of Bruce Wayne’s dual identity as Batman and her control over other metahumans like the Flash. This raises significant concerns regarding her decision to recruit wildly unpredictable criminals to execute her plans, especially since her scheme ultimately spiraled out of control. In retrospect, this choice backfired on Waller, making it clear that she had more reliable options available to her, thereby rendering her decision to enlist villains both reckless and poorly conceived.

9 Black Adam’s Provocation of Superman

The Missed Opportunity in Black Adam (2022)

The post-credits sequence of Black Adam features a dramatic return of Henry Cavill’s Superman, showcasing a confrontation where Black Adam taunts the iconic hero, hinting at an epic showdown. However, shortly after the release of the film, the implications of this scene began to unravel, as it became evident that it aged poorly. The anticipation surrounding this confrontation quickly fizzled out as Cavill’s Superman was seemingly written out of the DCEU.

Following Cavill’s brief return, news broke that the DCEU was undergoing a significant reboot, which included the discontinuation of his role as Superman. Thus, Black Adam’s decision to provoke Superman appeared misguided and ultimately led nowhere meaningful, making it seem increasingly pointless. The anticipation of Cavill’s return was never fulfilled, rendering the inclusion of this scene a regrettable and misguided direction for the film.

8 Jonathan Kent’s Heartbreaking Advice to Clark

The Controversial Choice in Man of Steel (2013)

Man of Steel presents a modern retelling of Superman’s origin, introducing audiences to one of DC’s most cherished heroes, portrayed by Henry Cavill. Although the film received a generally favorable response, one particular moment has sparked considerable debate over the years. Early in the narrative, young Clark Kent witnesses the death of his father, Jonathan Kent, who insists that Clark should not intervene to save him, fearing exposure of his superhuman abilities.

This moment becomes increasingly scrutinized as audiences reflect on the implications of Jonathan’s advice. As Clark ultimately embraces his role as Superman, it becomes painfully clear that Jonathan’s sacrifice was unnecessary. Critics argue that Clark possessed the power to save his father without revealing his identity, rendering Jonathan’s decision both tragic and nonsensical. This moment not only highlights a frustrating plot hole but also casts a shadow on Jonathan Kent’s character, making his decision seem profoundly misguided in retrospect.

7 Batman’s Misguided Attempt to Eliminate Superman

The Miscalculations of Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016)

The DCEU’s introduction of Batman in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice set the stage for an epic clash between two of DC’s most iconic heroes. However, one decision made by Batman, portrayed by Ben Affleck, has aged particularly poorly. Following the devastation wrought during the battle in Metropolis, Bruce Wayne becomes consumed by vengeance, swearing to take down Superman, whom he wrongly views as a threat to humanity.

As the story unfolds, Batman’s vow of vengeance seems increasingly foolish, especially when considering the eventual collaboration required to defeat common foes. By the film’s conclusion, Batman and Superman find a way to reconcile their differences, rendering Batman’s initial desire to kill Superman not only hasty but profoundly misguided. The subsequent events, including Superman’s death at the hands of Doomsday, further emphasize how Batman’s rash judgment stands in stark contrast to the necessity of teamwork in the face of overwhelming danger, thus making his earlier decision to seek Superman’s demise age poorly.

6 Batman’s Trust in Catwoman Against Bane

The Risky Alliance in The Dark Knight Rises (2012)

Christopher Nolan’s acclaimed Dark Knight trilogy culminates with The Dark Knight Rises, where Batman encounters Catwoman, a character with a complex moral compass. Early in their interactions, Batman makes the questionable choice to trust Catwoman, who had previously been caught stealing from him. This decision sets the stage for a significant betrayal that ultimately puts Batman in grave danger.

Catwoman’s betrayal becomes apparent when she turns against Batman, leading him directly into the hands of Bane, the film’s formidable antagonist. Although Catwoman redeems herself later in the story, Batman’s initial decision to trust her seems profoundly uncharacteristic and reckless. The betrayal serves as a reminder of Batman’s misjudgment and illustrates how trusting a known thief with such critical stakes can lead to disastrous consequences, making this decision appear particularly foolish in hindsight.

5 Superman’s Regrettable Departure to Krypton

The Fallout from Superman Returns (2006)

In 2006, Superman Returns reintroduced the iconic hero to the silver screen, exploring themes of love and loss. One pivotal decision made by Superman, played by Brandon Routh, significantly impacts his life and relationships. After investigating the remnants of Krypton, he decides to leave Earth, unaware of the consequences that await him upon his return.

Upon his return, Superman discovers that Lois Lane has moved on with her life, even having a child named Jason, who is later revealed to be Superman’s son. This loss compounds the tragedy of Superman’s choice to leave, as it not only cost him a future with the love of his life but also the chance to be present for his son’s birth. Superman’s decision ultimately highlights the cost of his quest for understanding his past and how it led to missed opportunities for a future, making it one of the most regrettable choices in his storied history.

4 Lex Luthor’s Manipulation of Batman and Superman

The Ill-Fated Schemes of Lex Luthor in Batman v Superman (2016)

Jesse Eisenberg’s portrayal of Lex Luthor continues to be a controversial interpretation among fans. The character’s misguided strategies during Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice paint him as a villain whose decisions consistently backfire. Luthor’s machinations involve manipulating both Batman and Superman, attempting to incite conflict between the two heroes.

However, Lex Luthor’s schemes quickly unravel, particularly evident in his reaction to Superman’s eventual demise. After orchestrating the circumstances that lead to Superman’s death, Luthor laments the vulnerability of Earth in the absence of its greatest protector. This reaction underscores the shortsightedness of his decisions. Moreover, his involvement in the conflict between Batman and Superman ultimately results in his capture and imprisonment, rendering his manipulative actions not only futile but also foolish, marking a significant misstep in his villainous career.

3 Batman’s Revelation of His Identity to Rachel

The Implications of Batman Revealing His Identity in Batman Begins (2005)

Batman Begins effectively portrays the origin story of Bruce Wayne, capturing the evolution of the iconic vigilante. As the film progresses, Bruce makes the significant decision to reveal his true identity to Rachel Dawes, his childhood friend and love interest. While this moment appears romantic, it ultimately leads to unforeseen repercussions.

Rachel’s knowledge of Bruce’s identity complicates their relationship, as it ultimately prevents her from pursuing a romantic relationship with him. Furthermore, this revelation inadvertently places her in danger, as it draws the attention of the Joker in The Dark Knight. The consequences of Bruce’s choice culminate in tragedy, as Rachel becomes a target and ultimately loses her life. Bruce’s decision to disclose his identity thus not only alters the dynamics of their relationship but also plays a direct role in Rachel’s demise, making it one of the most regrettable choices in his journey as Batman.

2 Aquaman’s Decision to Leave Jesse Kane Behind

The Consequences of Aquaman’s Choice in Aquaman (2018)

Jason Momoa’s portrayal of Aquaman brought a charismatic and dynamic hero to the forefront of the DCEU. However, one pivotal decision made by Aquaman during his first solo outing has haunted him throughout the franchise. In a dramatic confrontation with pirates aboard a submarine, Aquaman chooses not to save Jesse Kane, instead allowing him to perish during the ensuing battle.

This choice proves to be catastrophic, as Jesse’s death leads to his son, David Kane, adopting the mantle of Black Manta, setting him on a path of vengeance against Aquaman. Had Aquaman chosen to save Jesse, he could have prevented the creation of a powerful enemy, thus avoiding a significant conflict later in the franchise. The decision to abandon Jesse not only reflects poorly on Aquaman’s character but also showcases the far-reaching consequences of his choices.

1 Bruce Wayne’s Fatal Decision to Save Ducard

The Impact of Bruce Wayne’s Decision in Batman Begins (2005)

Batman Begins chronicles Bruce Wayne’s transformation into the Dark Knight, showcasing his journey through rigorous training with the League of Shadows. During a pivotal moment, Bruce, unwilling to take a life, saves his mentor, Ducard, from a burning building. However, this seemingly noble act leads to disastrous consequences.

Unbeknownst to Bruce, Ducard is actually Ra’s al Ghul, the head of the League of Shadows, who subsequently unleashes chaos upon Gotham. Bruce’s decision to save Ducard sets off a chain reaction that culminates in significant destruction and loss. Furthermore, it indirectly contributes to later conflicts, including the rise of Bane in The Dark Knight Rises. Had Bruce allowed Ducard to perish, he might have prevented much of the suffering that follows, making this decision one of the most regrettable in the history of the DC Universe.

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