‘The Dark Knight’ and more superhero films that wowed fans and critics

Why so serious? It’s been 10 years since “The Dark Knight” premiered on July 18, 2008 to sweeping success, establishing DC Comics as a major threat in the superhero film industry. But “The Dark Knight” achieved more than just an impressive billion dollar showing at the global box office — it also captivated film critics.

The DC powerhouse proved comic book movies’ potential to extend beyond fanfare and into the upper echelons of cinema history. And though comic book adaptations aren’t necessarily the kind of movies that come to mind when awards season approaches, a smattering have attained critical success. Here’s a list of 10 of the best-reviewed superhero blockbusters of all time.