When Blue Beetle hit theaters, it arrived in the middle of DC’s shifting cinematic landscape—a universe in flux, caught between past failures and uncertain futures. Sandwiched between the underwhelming performances of The Flash and Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom, it didn’t get the attention it truly deserved. Yet, despite its quieter release, Blue Beetle stands as one of the most heartfelt, entertaining, and well-crafted films in the DC lineup. It may not have had the bombastic marketing of Batman v Superman or the multiversal spectacle of The Flash, but it delivered something arguably more important: a grounded, character-driven superhero story with real heart.
At the center of Blue Beetle is Jaime Reyes, played with incredible charm by Xolo Maridueña. Unlike the brooding antiheroes or godlike figures that often dominate DC’s films, Jaime is refreshingly relatable. He’s not a billionaire vigilante or an alien demigod—he’s just a young guy trying to figure out his life while balancing the weight of family expectations. That dynamic alone sets Blue Beetle apart, but it’s the film’s heartfelt portrayal of Jaime’s bond with his family that makes it truly special.
One of the standout aspects of Blue Beetle is its emphasis on family. While many superhero movies feature absent parents, tragic backstories, or solitary heroes, Blue Beetle takes a different approach. Jaime’s family isn’t just a side plot—they are integral to his journey. His parents, sister, grandmother, and Uncle Rudy (brilliantly played by George Lopez) are not just background characters but active participants in his hero’s journey. Their support, humor, and struggles feel genuine, adding emotional weight to Jaime’s transformation into the Blue Beetle. The movie doesn’t just treat them as obstacles or comic relief but as a real, loving family that sticks together no matter what.
The film also boasts a visually striking and unique superhero origin story. The Scarab, an alien biotech weapon that bonds with Jaime, provides some of the best suit-up sequences in the entire DC universe. The way the armor materializes around him, adapting to his thoughts and emotions, makes for some of the most visually engaging action scenes DC has produced in years. Director Ángel Manuel Soto brings a kinetic energy to the film, blending superhero spectacle with a playful, sometimes anime-inspired style that makes Jaime’s abilities feel fresh and dynamic.
Another reason Blue Beetle deserves more recognition is its humor and tone. Unlike some of DC’s darker, more brooding entries, this film embraces fun without losing emotional depth. The humor never feels forced or out of place—it flows naturally from Jaime’s personality and his interactions with his family. George Lopez’s Uncle Rudy, in particular, steals the show with his conspiracy-theorist wisdom and chaotic energy. Yet, despite the laughs, the film never forgets to hit emotional beats, especially when tackling themes of immigration, identity, and the struggles of working-class families.
The film’s villain, Victoria Kord (Susan Sarandon), may not be the most complex antagonist in DC history, but her presence allows the story to focus more on Jaime’s personal struggles rather than an overcomplicated, world-ending threat. Additionally, the inclusion of Carapax, a secondary antagonist with a surprisingly emotional backstory, adds depth to the film’s themes of exploitation and redemption.
What makes Blue Beetle one of the better DC films is its balance. It doesn’t try to be overly dark and gritty, nor does it lean too far into absurdity. Instead, it finds a sweet spot—a film that is action-packed, emotional, and genuinely fun to watch. It understands that superhero movies are at their best when they are about more than just powers and explosions—they are about the people behind the mask and the relationships that shape them.
Ultimately, Blue Beetle stands as one of the most sincere and well-executed films in the DC lineup. It doesn’t rely on nostalgia, cameos, or convoluted universe-building to be compelling—it just tells a great story with a lovable protagonist. It’s unfortunate that it didn’t get the massive audience it deserved, but for those who took the time to watch, it was a reminder of what superhero movies should be: heartfelt, exciting, and full of character. As DC moves forward with its cinematic future, Blue Beetle deserves to be recognized not just as an underrated gem, but as one of the best films the franchise has delivered.