Movies

5 Movies Where Superpowers Actually Look Kind of Realistic

5 Movies Where Superpowers Actually Look Kind of Realistic
Image credit: Universal Pictures, Sony Pictures Releasing

Tired of flashy costumes and impossible feats? In these films, superpowers are surprisingly believable.

In movies, superpowers often come across as all fancy and exaggerated, but there are some films that actually make them seem more down-to-earth and believable.

Unbreakable

In this movie, directed by M. Night Shyamalan, the main character feels way more relatable. It's not like your usual superhero films where everyone's got super crazy powers; here, they keep it low-key with the strength vibes.

The protagonist struggles with heavy weights, much like an ordinary person would, but eventually manages to lift them. It adds realism to the idea of superhuman strength, making it seem more plausible and relatable.

Code 8

Set in a world where some individuals have unique abilities, Code 8 explores the life of a construction worker with powers who gets entangled in the criminal underworld.

The movie really nails it when it comes to making superpowers seem like part of everyday life for the characters. It's this cool mix of sci-fi and social commentary. And the powers they have that come off more like a hassle than a cool perk.

Spider-Man 2

A small but significant detail in Spider-Man 2 brings a touch of realism to the otherwise fantastical world of superheroes. In one scene, Doctor Octopus uses his mechanical arms to brace against the ground when throwing a car.

This acknowledges the physical limitations of his human body — his legs and spine wouldn’t be able to support the weight otherwise. This kind of attention to real-world physics is rare in superhero films.

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Limitless

Limitless isn't a superhero movie, but it touches upon the superhuman abilities. Bradley Cooper plays a struggling writer who takes a mysterious pill that enhances his brain function to superhuman levels.

The movie does a great job of exploring both the advantages and the harrowing consequences of such power. It's a more cerebral take on superpowers, focusing on mental prowess rather than physical abilities.

Lucy

Just like Limitless, the 2014 Lucy, starring Scarlett Johansson, delves into the myth that humans use only a small percentage of their brain capacity. What makes it stand out is how it blends scientific theory with action-packed storytelling, making you ponder the limits of human potential.