By Richard Craig
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Some superhero movie lines are so iconic, they become larger than the film itself. Across the Marvel Cinematic Universe and DC Universe, certain quotes have transcended their scenes to become cultural touchstones. These quotes capture the essence of heroes and villains alike – sometimes funny, sometimes profound, but always memorable. Whether whispered in the dark or shouted on the battlefield, these lines left a lasting impression.
From rallying cries to brooding monologues, superhero films have a long tradition of unforgettable lines. These aren’t just catchphrases – they’re the distilled mantras of the characters, often echoing across the MCU timeline and DC’s various eras. Whether it’s a hero embracing their identity or a villain announcing their twisted arrival, these quotes help shape how audiences remember the most pivotal scenes. Some are parodied, others quoted with reverence, but all have earned an iconic place in the history of superhero cinema.
10 "Wait 'Til They Get A Load Of Me"
Joker In Batman (1989)
In Tim Burton’s Batman, Jack Nicholson’s Joker steals nearly every scene he's in, but one line early on truly defines his approach to Gotham. Reading a newspaper that declares Batman is “terrorizing” the city, Joker scoffs, “Winged freak... Wait 'til they get a load of me,” before breaking into a maniacal laugh. The line is equal parts hilarious and chilling, underscoring the Joker’s desire not just for chaos, but for attention.
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It also perfectly captures his obsession with Batman, positioning their twisted relationship as a theatrical rivalry for Gotham’s soul. Nicholson delivers the line with gleeful menace, setting the tone for all cinematic Jokers to follow. It’s a quote that sticks with audiences, not just because it’s funny, but because it so purely defines the Clown Prince of Crime’s flair for dramatic entrances and psychotic showmanship.
9 "Some Days You Just Can't Get Rid Of A Bomb"
Batman In Batman: The Movie
The 1966 Batman: The Movie, starring Adam West, is pure camp brilliance, and no line better sums up that era’s tone than Batman’s frustrated, deadpan complaint: “Some days you just can’t get rid of a bomb.” As Batman scrambles around a pier trying to dispose of an oversized, cartoonish bomb – narrowly avoiding nuns, babies, and a marching band – the absurdity hits a hilarious peak.
The line is delivered with such earnestness by West that it becomes funnier the more seriously he takes it. It succinctly distills the psychedelic charm of the ‘60s Batman. Today, it’s a beloved meme and a reminder that Batman doesn’t always have to be grim and gritty. Sometimes, Batman has to run in circles with a comically large explosive.
8 "You Either Die A Hero, Or You Live Long Enough To See Yourself Become The Villain."
Harvey Dent In The Dark Knight
Christopher Nolan’s The Dark Knight is full of iconic lines, but none have echoed through pop culture more powerfully than Harvey Dent’s tragic declaration: “You either die a hero, or you live long enough to see yourself become the villain.” Said during a dinner conversation with Bruce Wayne and Rachel Dawes, the line initially seems philosophical, a commentary on Gotham’s decay and the burden of heroism.
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However, as the film unfolds, it becomes heartbreakingly prophetic. Dent tried to die a hero when he and Rachel were kidnapped by Joker, but was instead twisted into the vengeful Two-Face. His fall from grace gives the quote haunting weight, turning it into a sobering meditation on power, corruption, and idealism. In the context of the superhero genre, it remains one of the most quoted and thematically rich lines ever.
7 "Wakanda Forever"
T’Challa In Black Panther
"Wakanda Forever" became more than a catchphrase – it became a global salute to representation, pride, and strength. First spoken by T’Challa in Black Panther, the phrase is accompanied by a cross-armed gesture inspired by Egyptian Pharaoh iconography and American Sign Language for “love.” Initially used as a call to unity within Wakanda, it quickly spread through the MCU, becoming a rallying cry in Avengers: Infinity War and beyond.
The line resonated far beyond the screen, becoming a cultural phenomenon and a symbol of empowerment. It was even chosen as the subtitle for Black Panther’s sequel, cementing its legacy. Chadwick Boseman’s dignified and powerful delivery turned “Wakanda Forever” into something larger than fiction – an affirmation of heritage and resilience. Among superhero quotes, few have had as much cultural impact.
6 "I'm Always Angry"
Hulk in The Avengers
One of the most jaw-dropping and cheer-worthy moments in the entire Marvel Cinematic Universe comes during the Battle of New York in The Avengers. As the Leviathan charges, Bruce Banner slowly walks forward and says the now-legendary line: “That’s my secret, Cap… I’m always angry.” With that, he transforms mid-stride into the Hulk and punches the monstrous creature in a single, epic blow.
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The line pays off Bruce’s internal struggle throughout the film while showing just how in control he’s become. It also redefines the Hulk – not just as a rage monster, but as a hero who’s learned to channel his power. The quote instantly became iconic, praised for its blend of timing, writing, and payoff that solidified Hulk’s place in MCU history.
5 "I'm Batman"
Batman in Batman (1989)
In the opening scene of Tim Burton’s Batman, a mugger is cornered by a mysterious figure clad in black. After being pulled off a rooftop and left dangling in terror, the thug asks the one question on everyone’s mind: “What are you?” With stoic menace, Michael Keaton’s Batman replies, “I’m Batman.” It’s a simple line, but one that immediately established the character’s mythic tone for a new era of superhero cinema.
Delivered without theatrics but full of gravitas, it introduced a darker, more serious take on the Caped Crusader following decades of campier portrayals. The quote became a defining line for the character, referenced in future films, shows, and even parodied endlessly. Whether whispered, growled, or shouted, “I’m Batman” is as much a part of the Dark Knight’s identity as the cowl itself.
4 "Avengers... Assemble"
Captain America in Avengers: Endgame
After more than a decade of build-up, Avengers: Endgame gave audiences the payoff they’d been waiting for. As portals open and every Marvel hero arrives for the climactic Battle of Earth, Steve Rogers stands tall, lifts Mjolnir, and finally utters the team’s iconic rallying cry: “Avengers… assemble.” The quote had long existed in the comics but was deliberately held back in the movies until this moment.
Chris Evans delivers it with quiet intensity, right before leading the charge against Thanos and his army. It’s a spine-tingling, euphoric moment that celebrates the entire MCU and its interconnected heroes. Years of storytelling converge into this one line, and its impact is immeasurable. “Avengers Assemble” became more than just a catchphrase; it was a celebration of the greatest superhero team-up ever brought to the big screen.
3 "I Am Iron Man"
Tony Stark in Iron Man (2008)
The MCU essentially began with four words: “I am Iron Man.” At the end of Iron Man (2008), when Tony Stark is asked to deny being the armored Avenger, he coolly delivers the unexpected truth instead. It’s the ultimate mic drop, redefining the superhero secret identity trope and kicking off a bold new chapter in comic book films. Robert Downey Jr.’s delivery is pitch-perfect – cocky, sincere, and 100% Tony Stark.
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The quote not only defines his character’s arc but bookends the Infinity Saga when Stark repeats it before snapping Thanos out of existence in Avengers: Endgame. That symmetry gave the line even more weight, making it one of the most iconic in the genre. From beginning to end, Tony Stark’s legacy is encapsulated in this line—confident, heroic, and unforgettable.
2 "Why So Serious?"
Joker in The Dark Knight
Heath Ledger’s Joker brought chaos, terror, and an unforgettable sense of unpredictability to The Dark Knight, and no line encapsulates that better than “Why so serious?” It’s uttered several times throughout the film, usually right after the Joker launches into a horrific story about how he got his scars. Though not lifted from the comics, the line became so instantly iconic that it now feels synonymous with the character.
Ledger’s chilling, slow delivery adds to the tension, making even a seemingly simple question sound ominous. Used in trailers, merchandise, and memes, the quote quickly took on a life of its own. It represents the Joker’s warped sense of humor, his love for anarchy, and his ability to unnerve anyone in his path. Few movie quotes have captured a villain’s essence so perfectly.
1 "With Great Power Comes Great Responsibility"
Uncle Ben in Spider-Man (2002)
No superhero quote has had a more lasting influence than “With great power comes great responsibility.” Originally from the comics, the line was immortalized in Sam Raimi’s Spider-Man (2002) when Uncle Ben delivers it to Peter Parker just before his tragic death. It becomes the central philosophy of Spider-Man’s character, guiding Peter through every difficult choice and sacrifice.
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Tobey Maguire’s Peter clings to those words as a moral compass, and the line would later echo throughout The Amazing Spider-Man series and be lovingly rephrased in Spider-Man: No Way Home. It’s more than just a mantra, it’s the very heart of the Spider-Man mythos. Simple yet profound, it’s a lesson in heroism that extends beyond fiction, resonating with fans of all ages. If any quote defines the superhero genre’s moral soul, it’s this one.
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Batman
PG-13
Action AdventureSuperhero
8/10
45 9.0/10
- Release Date
- June 23, 1989
- Runtime
- 126 Minutes
- Director
- Tim Burton
Cast
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Michael Keaton
-
Jack Nicholson
Batman is a 1989 superhero movie directed by Tim Burton and starring Michael Keaton as Bruce Wayne. The film features Jack Nicholson's chilling portrayal asJack Napier, who turns into the Joker and reigns terror on Gotham. Kim Basinger also stars in the film as Vicki Vale, along with Michael Gough as Bruce's trusty butler named Alfred.
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Batman
PG
Action Comedy Crime9.0/10
- Release Date
- July 30, 1966
- Runtime
- 105 minutes
- Director
- Leslie H. Martinson
- Writers
- Lorenzo Semple Jr.
- Producers
- William Dozier
Cast
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Adam West
Batman (Bruce Wayne)
-
Burt Ward
Robin / Dick Grayson
Batman (1966): Batman follows the Dynamic Duo as they battle four infamous super-villains who threaten global security. With a mysterious invention capable of instantly dehydrating people, the villains concoct a scheme to hold the world for ransom. The film features the iconic characters embarking on a daring adventure to thwart their plans.
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The Dark Knight
PG-13
Drama Action Crime ThrillerSuperhero
10/10
114 9.5/10
- Release Date
- July 16, 2008
- Runtime
- 152 minutes
- Director
- Christopher Nolan
- Writers
- Christopher Nolan, Bob Kane, Jonathan Nolan, David S. Goyer
- Producers
- Benjamin Melniker, Charles Roven, Emma Thomas, Kevin De La Noy, Michael Uslan
Cast
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Christian Bale
Bruce Wayne
-
Heath Ledger
Joker
The Dark Knight, directed by Christopher Nolan, is the second installment in the Batman trilogy starring Christian Bale as Batman. Released in 2008, the film follows Batman’s alliance with Jim Gordon and Harvey Dent as they combat the organized crime that threatens Gotham, facing the menacing Joker.
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Black Panther
PG-13
Action Adventure Science Fiction 8/10
40 8.7/10
- Release Date
- February 16, 2018
- Runtime
- 135 minutes
- Director
- Ryan Coogler
- Writers
- Joe Robert Cole, Ryan Coogler
- Producers
- Jeffrey Chernov, Kevin Feige, Louis D'Esposito, Victoria Alonso
Cast
See All-
Chadwick Boseman
T'Challa / Black Panther
-
Michael B. Jordan
Erik Killmonger
Black Panther follows King T'Challa as he returns to Wakanda to assume the throne of the technologically advanced African nation. Faced with internal and external challenges, T'Challa dons the Black Panther mantle, uniting with allies to protect Wakanda from potential global conflict.
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The Avengers
PG-13
Science Fiction Action AdventureSuperhero
9/10
130 8.9/10
- Release Date
- May 4, 2012
- Runtime
- 143 minutes
- Director
- Joss Whedon
- Writers
- Joss Whedon, Zak Penn
- Producers
- Avi Arad, Chris Brigham, Jon Favreau, Kevin Feige, Louis D'Esposito, Victoria Alonso, Jeremy Latcham
Cast
See All-
Chris Evans
Steve Rogers / Captain America
-
Robert Downey Jr.
Tony Stark / Iron Man
The sixth film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, The Avengers is an action superhero film that sees the heroes assembled across the franchise face off with a deadly galactic threat. With the arrival of Thor's brother, Loki, heroes such as Captain America, The Hulk, Iron Man, and Black Widow are brought together to stop him from unleashing an alien race upon earth.
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Avengers: Endgame
PG-13
Adventure ActionSci-Fi
Superhero
9/10
273 9.2/10
- Release Date
- April 26, 2019
- Runtime
- 181 Minutes
- Director
- Anthony Russo, Joe Russo
- Writers
- Keith Giffen, Stan Lee, Larry Lieber, Don Heck, Jim Starlin, Joe Simon, Steve Englehart, Jack Kirby, Steve Gan, Bill Mantlo, Stephen McFeely, Christopher Markus
Cast
See All-
Robert Downey Jr.
Tony Stark / Iron Man
-
Chris Evans
Steve Rogers / Captain America
Avengers: Endgame, directed by Anthony and Joe Russo, concludes the Marvel Cinematic Universe's Infinity Saga. It follows the remaining Avengers as they attempt to reverse the destruction caused by Thanos, navigating complex dynamics and forging alliances to restore balance to the universe.
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Iron Man
PG-13
Sci-Fi Action Adventure 9/10
55 9.1/10
- Release Date
- May 2, 2008
- Runtime
- 126 minutes
- Director
- Jon Favreau
- Writers
- Matt Holloway, Art Marcum, Hawk Ostby, Mark Fergus
- Producers
- Avi Arad, Kevin Feige, Louis D'Esposito, Peter Billingsley, Stan Lee, David Maisel
Cast
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Robert Downey Jr.
Tony Stark
-
Terrence Howard
Rhodey
Iron Man is the first film in the long-running Marvel Cinematic Universe franchise. Robert Downey Jr. stars as Tony Stark, who becomes Iron Man after he is kidnapped and discovers terrorists are using weapons developed by Stark Industries.Gwyneth Paltrow stars as Tony's love interest Pepper Potts alongside Jon Favreau as Happy Hogan and Jeff Bridges as the villainous Obadiah Stane.
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Spider-Man
PG-13
Action AdventureSuperhero
Sci-Fi 9/10
24 9.4/10
- Release Date
- May 3, 2002
- Runtime
- 121 Minutes
- Director
- Sam Raimi
- Writers
- David Koepp
- Sequel(s)
- Spider-Man 2, Spider-Man 3
Cast
See All-
Tobey Maguire
Spider-Man / Peter Parker
-
Willem Dafoe
Green Goblin / Norman Osborn
Spider-Man is the first film in Sam Raimi's trilogy starring Tobey Maguire as Peter Parker. Released in 2002, the film introduced superhero fans to a live-action Norman Osborn, played by Willem Dafoe, who is transformed into his villainous alter ego, Green Goblin, after being forced out of Oscorp Industries. At the same time, Peter Parker is grappling with his newfound abilities as the iconic wall-crawler.
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