By DeAnn Knighton
The 21st Century has seen several attempts by studios to bring female Superheroes to the form, both in leading and supporting roles. While rarely in the titular role, these female characters have worked alongside and, in many cases, upstaged their male counterparts. Some carry mystical and supernatural power and some just simply kick-ass. With the release of "Captain Marvel" this weekend, we thought we would examine some of the best female superheroes the 21st century has brought us. The most successful translations of comic-book to screen for female characters contain three important criteria...
Without any further adieu, here is our list of those who imbue those qualities the best from the 21st Century. Gail - "Sin City" (2005)
So technically, a graphic novel but the medium is close enough to sneak this pick in. Rosario Dawson is at her finest in this role as the leader of the Girls of Old Town. Although she is highly sexualized in the role that ostensibly seems primed only for the male gaze, there is something empowering about a group of women who defy social norms to create and protect their own community and freedom. Gail wields her sexuality as a power to create a safe space for the other “girls” and her dedication shows a care and strength that is worth note and caught my attention.
The Wasp/Hope van Dyne - "Ant-Man" (2015) & "Ant-Man and the Wasp" (2018)
Evangeline Lilly brings this brilliant prodigy to life by improving on her father’s technology while being powered by the spirit of her lost mother. With a dedicated focus she risks her life for the discovery of truth and along the way manages to be the sole reason for Ant-Man’s existence. To say she is the better half is a cliché, but it fits in this context. In both "Ant-Man" and more prominently in "Ant-Man And The Wasp" Evangeline Lilly constantly steals the show and gives us a character who is more than just a side-kick but a worthy equal (as evidenced by the second film's title) to the film's titular role.
Gamora - "Guardians of the Galaxy" 1 & Vol. 2 & "Avengers: Infinity War" (2014-2018)
Who says love is a weakness? Although Gamora (Zoe Saldana), starts her intergalactic journey on screen hellbent on showing her independence and strength, it is her connection to both Peter Quill and her adoptive father, Thanos where the true depth of her courage is displayed. The character and performance by Saldana culminate beautifully in "Avengers: Infinity War" in a focused arc that effectively spans three films.
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