Marvel movies: A celebration of the great Stan Lee's best films from Spider-Man to Black Panther
Marvel comic book writer Stan Lee, who created legendary characters including Spider-Man, the X-Men and Hulk died after being taken to hospital on Monday, at the age of 95.
“He loved his life and he loved what he did for a living. His family loved him and his fans loved him. He was irreplaceable.”
In memory of the prolific writer and producer, here are just a handful of Lee’s most iconic films, where became known for dropping in with a cameo appearance.
Spider-Man (2002)
The 2002 staple film centres around lovable-nerd Peter Parker, played by Tobey Maguire, who after being bitten by a genetically-altered spider gains superhuman spider-like abilities.
Spider-Man marked the first instalment in a three-part saga, with a number of rebirths of the character to follow in the coming years, including The Amazing Spider-Man and Spiderman Homecoming.
The film takes the top spot on the list for its effortless charm, delving into Lee’s consistent theme of family throughout.
It is after all a cult classic.
Black Panther (2018)
Fantasy flick Black Panther marked a momentous occasion in the Marvel universe with a black hero, Chadwick Boseman, taking the lead.
The award-winning film sees T’Challa return home to the African nation of Wakanda in the wake of his father’s death to take his place as king.
When a powerful enemy reappears, T’Challa’s mettle as king and Black Panther is put to the test with the fate of the world on his shoulders.
The gripping film swept up at the People’s Choice Awards this year, giving the film a boost ahead of the Oscars.
The Incredible Hulk (2008)
Everyone’s favourite angry green experiment, Hulk, takes his well-deserved place on the list.
The 2008 film sees scientist Bruce Banner, portrayed by Edward Norton, battle his inner demons in the wake of a catastrophic experiment, which results in Banner’s uncontrollable ability to unleash the Hulk, when emotionally triggered.
Whilst the kind-at-heart green-skinned monster is perused by the US Military, Banner is forced to battle his biological father who attempts to take advantage of his son.
Proving there’s humanity even in the scariest of times, the second reprisal of the green-monster is by far one of Lee’s finest works.
X-Men (2000)
2002 hit film X-Men depicts a universe in which a small number of people are mutants, a breed of humanity that possess superhuman powers, are outcast from society.
The film focuses on much-loved heroes Wolverine and Rogue as they are brought into battle over drastically different approaches to bringing about the acceptance of mutant-kind.
The flick featured A-list cast Hugh Jackman, Patrick Stewart, Ian McKellen and Halle Berry and saw mass success leading to a number of sequels, prequels and spin-offs in the decades to follow.
Deadpool (2016)
Deadpool marked the birth of the ultimate anti-hero, with Ryan Reynolds oozing effortless charm and charisma as Wade Wilson.
Wilson is a former special forces operative who movies on to work as a mercenary.
His world is turned upside-down when evil scientist Ajax tortures and disfigures him after promising to cure his cancer.
The rogue experiment results in the birth of Deadpool, who has accelerated healing powers and a dry, twisted sense of humour that leads him on a revenge-plot to hunt down the man who nearly ruined his life.
Whilst Lee has over 60 films in his portfolio, others worth mentioning must include the Thor franchise which has catapulted to success over the years with Chris Hemsworth in the lead role and Benedict Cumberbatch’s Doctor Strange.
Lee’s death is a true loss for global cinema and a huge-span of superhero universes alike.
Stan Lee - In pictures
