Heroes Waiting For Their Spotlight
Ever felt like some superheroes are long overdue for their own solo big-screen moment? You’re not alone. There are a handful of caped crusaders out there who deserve more than just a cameo. So, let’s meet 20 heroes who’ve been patiently waiting for their turn to shine—because some stories are just too good to stay in the comics.
1. Zatanna
Stage magician by day and a real sorceress by bloodline, Zatanna brings style, spells, and serious power to the DC universe. Her blend of charm and mysticism screams cinematic potential. A solo film could conjure a visually dazzling journey into DC's magical realm—backwards incantations included.
Zatanna - All Scenes Powers | Justice League Unlimited by Explore Wh!te
2. X-23
Cloned from Wolverine’s DNA, X-23, aka Laura Kinney, first appeared in 2004. This fierce young hero shares her genetic father’s healing factor and adamantium claws, yet her own journey and trauma offer rich emotional depth. Fans already clamored for her film after Logan, making her a must-see hero.
X-23/Laura - All Scenes | Wolverine & The X-Men by Lady TV Scenes
3. America Chavez
America Chavez can punch portals between dimensions, a gift tied to her Latina heritage. Introduced in 2011, her character is a beacon of LGBTQ+ representation in Marvel. Her adventures, especially her cosmic escapades, deserve to be expanded in a film.
America Chavez - All Scenes Powers | Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness by Explore Wh!te
4. Elsa Bloodstone
When it comes to monster hunters, few are as relentless as Elsa Bloodstone. Raised by her father, she’s forged from battle and the supernatural. With her iconic red bloodstone, Elsa faces down demons, zombies, and ancient creatures—perfect for a horror-inspired action film.
5. Jessica Drew
Introduced in 1977, Jessica Drew is not just a female version of Spider-Man. She's a genetically enhanced superhero with a web-slinging ability and an espionage background. Her spy-thriller roots, mixed with her powerful identity, could amaze viewers seeking something beyond the usual superhero story.
6. Martian Manhunter
Telepathy and shapeshifting, not forgetting invisibility—Martian Manhunter has it all, yet he's still sidelined. As a survivor troubled with identity and loss, J’onn J’onzz offers emotional depth on par with his superhuman strength. A solo film could finally spotlight this soulful alien’s story that Earth needs to hear.
Martian Manhunter Powers and Fight Scenes - Justice League: Crisis On Two Earths by Rafael Ridolph
7. The New Gods
Jack Kirby’s 1971 creation of the New Gods introduced us to celestial beings like Darkseid and Orion. The New Gods’ cosmic scale, mythology, and intricate storytelling could easily fill an entire cinematic universe. With rich lore, these characters are primed for their own franchise.
43 - Jack Kirby's Fourth New Gods 5 Part 1 by DC Silver Age Storytime
8. Valkyrie
Portrayed by Tessa Thompson, Valkyrie first appeared in The Avengers #83 in 1971. As the leader of the Valkyries, she could bring the epic grandeur of Asgard to life in her own film. Moreover, her blend of strength and leadership makes her an ideal candidate for a solo adventure.
9. Silver Surfer
Silver Surfer, one of Marvel’s most tragic heroes, gained his powers through the cosmic entity Galactus. His philosophical and existential journeys through the universe open up plenty of cinematic possibilities. A Silver Surfer film could explore deep questions about morality, sacrifice, and redemption in space.
Silver Surfer - All Powers from Fantastic Four: Rise of The Silver Surfer by All Powers Explained
10. Nova
Forget brooding in shadows or dramatic rooftop speeches—Nova shows up like a comet, fists glowing, eyes blazing, and hair probably doing something epic in slow motion. One minute, she's sipping boba; the next, she’s hurling energy blasts at intergalactic villains like it's just another Tuesday.
Marvel's Nova (2026) - First Trailer | Finn Wolfhard by KH Studio
11. Sleepwalker
Sleepwalker’s 1991 debut gave Marvel fans a hero who existed in two worlds: a human host and a supernatural entity. His mind-bending storylines, which blur the line between dreams and reality, offer an intriguing foundation for a psychological action film.
Marvel Legends Sleepwalker by Galactic Man Larry
12. Deathstroke
Known for his deadly precision and tactical mind, Deathstroke is DC's version of a ruthless mercenary. While his villainous nature was explored in Teen Titans, his own movie would focus deeper into his origins, motivations, and complex morality.
Gage Skidmore from Peoria, AZ, United States of America on Wikimedia
13. Bane
Bane is known for his strength and intelligence, notably for breaking Batman's back. This antihero deserves a movie that shows more of his complicated backstory, motivations, and rise to power—focusing on his intellectual and emotional depth rather than just his physical prowess.
14. Gilad, The Eternal Warrior
The Eternal Warrior, Gilad, has fought through centuries, from ancient civilizations to the modern day. His immortality makes him an intriguing figure—both a hero and a man burdened by endless war. A movie focusing on his timeless battles could weave historical and emotional depth into a gripping saga.
15. Ninjak
Ninjak is not your typical hero—he’s a spy with a ninja’s skill set, blending martial arts with high-tech espionage. His stories often mix stealth and action, and fans have long awaited the chance to see his ninja skills brought to the big screen.
NINJAK vs XO MANOWAR - Ninjak vs the Valiant Universe by batinthesun
16. Batgirl
Barbara Gordon’s Batgirl nearly soared solo—until her long-awaited movie was abruptly shelved. That cancellation robbed fans of a fresh, female-led dive into Gotham’s gritty legacy. With sharp detective instincts and combat prowess, Barbara deserves her spotlight.
Batgirl- All Fights and Weapons from Batman The Animated Series by All Powers Explained
17. Storm
Commanding weather with the force of a goddess, Storm isn’t just an X-Men powerhouse—she’s cinematic gold waiting to happen. Born royalty and trained as a street thief, her backstory blends myth, grit, and power. A solo movie could reveal her thunder in every way imaginable.
Storm | X-Men Character Spotlight by Marvel HQ
18. Red Hulk
Thaddeus Ross, better known as the Red Hulk, is a character caught between his military background and uncontrollable rage. His conversion into Red Hulk is filled with drama and action, as he battles not just villains but his own inner demons.
Captain America: Brave New World | Unleashing The Red Hulk by Marvel Entertainment
19. Mystique
Shapeshifting into anyone, anywhere, Mystique brings espionage potential that most heroes only dream of. Her moral gray zone and complex loyalties could anchor a thrilling spy thriller or dark origin story. Audiences deserve an insight into Raven Darkholme’s past, not just her blue-skinned cameos.
Mystique (Jennifer Lawrence) - All Scenes Powers | X-Men Movies Universe by Explore Wh!te
20. The Question
Vic Sage, who first appeared in 1961, is a driven journalist-turned-mystery-solver who uses his investigative skills to expose corruption. With themes of social justice and intrigue, The Question could offer a dark, noir-inspired film that combines detective work with superhero action.
