Super+Hero+History

Welcome to the History of Superheroes on Television and in Movies! Superheroes in Television and Film Superheroes emerged on television in the 1940's in order to "defend democracy" during World War II. Beginning with //Superman//, superheroes became a vital part of American television. //Superman// emerged on the scene in 1950 as a live action series starring Christopher Reeve. In following years, other superhero stories, such as //Batman// followed this trend in the 1960's. As technology continued to improve and the introduction of colored television became more and more popular, so did the further inclusion of Superheroes on television. It was during this time period that new type of superhero, Batman, emerged in television. This trend continued in following decades with the addition of superhero live action series starring Spiderman, The Hulk, and others. Modern television shows, such as //Heroes// and //Buffy the Vampire Slayer// are said to stem from superhero live action television shows.

Superheroes also became popular animated series as well. //The New Adventures of Superman// began in 1966 as the first superhero to become animated. Series such as //The Fantastic Four//, //Aquaman,// and //The Adventures of Batman and Robin the Boy Wonder// premiered in the few years following the release of Superman's series. Within the last ten years or so, X-Men, The Justice League, Batman and Iron Man have all starred in their own animated series. Superhero animated series have been a main stay on television since their premier in the 1960's.

In time, superhero movies began having success in the box office, with one of the biggest hits being //Superman: the Movie// in 1978. This trend continues into today, with modern releases of //Iron Man//, //The Dark Knight//, amongst plenty of other successful movies. In the upcoming year, there will be many releases on superhero movies. These movie trailers can be viewed by using the links below.

Check out //The Encyclopedia of Superheroes on Film and Television,// written by John Kenneth Muir for more information about the emergence of TV and movies based on specific superheroes!

Also, check the International Movie Database, @http://www.imdb.com/, for more information about movies and television series based on superheroes.

__**Click the link of the movie title to watch the trailers!**__

Popular Superhero Movies of the 2000's >
 * Catwoman
 * Watchmen
 * Iron Man
 * The Dark Knight (highest grossing comic book movie of all time)
 * The Incredible Hulk

What does the future hold?
Within the next few years, new superhero movies will be making their way on the scene. Some titles include
 * Captain America: The First Avenger
 * The Avengers
 * The Green Hornet
 * Thor
 * The Green Lantern

Also, up and coming, are superhero musicals! Check out @http://www.ibdb.com/production.php?id=488485 to learn more about the new //Spiderman// musical!