34 Best Movies like Shazam! (2019)

Big earns its place on this list by spotlighting the transformation of a young boy into an adult overnight, making it a natural fit alongside Shazam! Both films use the leap from childhood to adulthood for humor and heartfelt moments, while Big stands out with its whimsical look at growing up and wish fulfillment.

When a young boy makes a wish at a carnival machine to be big—he wakes up the following morning to find that it has been granted and his body has grown older overnight. But he is still the same 13-year-old boy inside. Now he must learn how to cope with the unfamiliar world of grown-ups including getting a job and having his first romantic encounter with a woman. Big is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 44m runtime, released in 1988 with an average rating of 7.2 by 4,104 people. The movie made an estimated total of $151,927,281 in the box office.

Superhero coming-of-age is at the core, with Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse exploring a young protagonist discovering extraordinary powers. Its colorful animation style and innovative storytelling set it apart, providing a fresh, visually stunning journey through interdimensional adventure.

Struggling to find his place in the world while juggling school and family, Brooklyn teenager Miles Morales is unexpectedly bitten by a radioactive spider and develops unfathomable powers just like the one and only Spider-Man. While wrestling with the implications of his new abilities, Miles discovers a super collider created by the madman Wilson "Kingpin" Fisk, causing others from across the Spider-Verse to be inadvertently transported to his dimension. Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 57m runtime, released in 2018 with an average rating of 8.4 by 17,550 people. The movie made an estimated total of $394,884,133 in the box office.

Superpowered teens learning to navigate both high school and heroic responsibilities make Sky High fit seamlessly here. The film delights with imaginative world-building and clever takes on school life, making the process of becoming a hero engaging and lighthearted.

Set in a world where superheroes are commonly known and accepted, young Will Stronghold, the son of the Commander and Jetstream, tries to find a balance between being a normal teenager and an extraordinary being. Sky High is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 40m runtime, released in 2005 with an average rating of 6.3 by 2,502 people. The movie made an estimated total of $86,369,815 in the box office.

The Kid Who Would Be King is included for its focus on young characters thrust into fantastical situations far beyond their experience. Vibrant adventure and a blend of fantasy elements keep the film lively, offering family-friendly excitement and a creative reinterpretation of classic legends.

Old-school magic meets the modern world when young Alex stumbles upon the mythical sword Excalibur. He soon unites his friends and enemies, and they become knights who join forces with the legendary wizard Merlin. Together, they must save mankind from the wicked enchantress Morgana and her army of supernatural warriors. The Kid Who Would Be King is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 2h 0m runtime, released in 2019 with an average rating of 6.2 by 851 people. The movie made an estimated total of $32,140,970 in the box office.

Comedy-infused superpowers stand out in The Mask, making it relevant for this list. Its playful use of an average person gaining extraordinary abilities leads to wild antics and inventive visuals, resulting in a memorable, energetic ride.

Timid bank clerk Stanley Ipkiss discovers a magical mask infused with the spirit of the Norse god Loki. Donning it transforms him into an unrestrained, green-faced, cartoon-like wild man. While the mask grants him the confidence to woo a local singer, it also makes him the target of a ruthless mobster. The Mask is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 41m runtime, released in 1994 with an average rating of 7.0 by 11,445 people. The movie made an estimated total of $351,583,407 in the box office.

Kick-Ass finds its place through its unconventional take on superhero origin stories, delivering action and comedy alongside an underdog journey. It brings its own irreverent twist to the genre, combining bold humor with raw action sequences for a distinctive experience.

Dave Lizewski is an unnoticed high school student and comic book fan who one day decides to become a super-hero, even though he has no powers, training or meaningful reason to do so. Kick-Ass is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 58m runtime, released in 2010 with an average rating of 7.1 by 12,513 people. The movie made an estimated total of $96,188,903 in the box office.

A more intense shift of tone justifies Chronicle's presence, examining the complications when teens unexpectedly gain powers. Its found-footage structure and dramatic focus on consequences create an absorbing, unique look at responsibility and friendship under supernatural circumstances.

Three high school students make an incredible discovery, leading to their developing uncanny powers beyond their understanding. As they learn to control their abilities and use them to their advantage, their lives start to spin out of control, and their darker sides begin to take over. Chronicle is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 24m runtime, released in 2012 with an average rating of 6.9 by 5,841 people. The movie made an estimated total of $145,000,000 in the box office.

Spider-Man: Homecoming belongs in this selection for its portrayal of a young hero grappling with newfound abilities and the challenges of adolescence. The film’s energetic pacing, relatable struggles, and humor make it a standout within the superhero genre.

Following the events of Captain America: Civil War, Peter Parker, with the help of his mentor Tony Stark, tries to balance his life as an ordinary high school student in Queens, New York City, with fighting crime as his superhero alter ego Spider-Man as a new threat, the Vulture, emerges. Spider-Man: Homecoming is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 2h 13m runtime, released in 2017 with an average rating of 7.3 by 23,496 people. The movie made an estimated total of $880,978,185 in the box office.

The Last True Action Hero is featured for its playful approach to the action genre, merging real life with cinematic fantasy. Its blend of satirical humor and action sequences creates an entertaining and self-aware atmosphere that keeps audiences engaged.

The image of firefighters has always been one of fairness, heroism and courage. In Australia, with the constant threat of bush fires, we are reminded seasonally of their mettle. They've even become sex symbols in straight and gay communities. Interviewing firefighters from around the world, the film explores the world of the firefighter: the risks, the danger, the excitement, the humor and the glamor. The Last True Action Hero is a movie from Australia in English, with a total 55m runtime, released in 1995 with an average rating of 0.0 by 0 people.

With youthful protagonists confronting powers out of their control, The New Mutants warrants inclusion. Its darker tone and suspenseful setting offer a different twist, blending elements of superhero lore with psychological drama.

Five young mutants, just discovering their abilities while held in a secret facility against their will, fight to escape their past sins and save themselves. The New Mutants is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 34m runtime, released in 2020 with an average rating of 6.1 by 3,763 people. The movie made an estimated total of $49,169,594 in the box office.

Zoom fits this page due to its comedic tone applied to a group of unlikely youngsters entering a world of superhuman training. Its lighthearted approach and ensemble cast make for lively entertainment and accessible superhero adventure.

Jack Shepard is an out-of-shape auto shop owner, far removed from the man who once protected the world's freedom. Reluctantly called back into action by the government, Jack is tasked with turning a ragtag group of kids with special powers into a new generation of superheroes to save the world from certain destruction. Zoom is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 28m runtime, released in 2006 with an average rating of 5.3 by 648 people. The movie made an estimated total of $12,506,188 in the box office.

Blankman brings an unconventional hero into the mix, focusing on humor derived from ordinary individuals attempting to fight crime. The film’s unique comedic style and inventive approach to the genre provide an offbeat addition to the list.

Darryl is a childlike man with a genius for inventing various gadgets out of junk. When he stumbles on a method to make his clothes bulletproof, he decides to use his skills to be the lowest budgeted superhero of all. Blankman is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 36m runtime, released in 1994 with an average rating of 5.4 by 203 people.

Freaky Friday deserves a spot for its comedic exploration of age transformation and identity swap, similar to the body-switch concept. The film’s charm resides in witty writing and heartfelt moments as characters learn to see life from a fresh perspective.

Mother and daughter bicker over everything -- what Anna wears, whom she likes and what she wants to do when she's older. In turn, Anna detests Tess's fiancé. When a magical fortune cookie switches their personalities, they each get a peek at how the other person feels, thinks and lives. Freaky Friday is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 37m runtime, released in 2003 with an average rating of 6.6 by 4,325 people. The movie made an estimated total of $160,846,332 in the box office.

Unexpected empowerment and adventure drive Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle, where ordinary people inhabit avatars with heightened abilities. Its action-packed sequences and comedic interplay add to a fast-paced, imaginative game-world journey.

Four teenagers in detention discover an old video game console with a game they’ve never heard of. When they decide to play, they are immediately sucked into the jungle world of Jumanji in the bodies of their avatars. They’ll have to complete the adventure of their lives filled with fun, thrills and danger or be stuck in the game forever! Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 59m runtime, released in 2017 with an average rating of 6.8 by 14,674 people. The movie made an estimated total of $995,339,117 in the box office.

Thunder Force makes this list for its comedic approach to regular people suddenly becoming superpowered. Its playful energy and chemistry between leads turn the superhero concept into a source of jokes, action, and off-kilter camaraderie.

In a world where supervillains are commonplace, two estranged childhood best friends reunite after one devises a treatment that gives them powers to protect their city. Thunder Force is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 47m runtime, released in 2021 with an average rating of 5.5 by 1,353 people.

Matilda earns a place here for its young protagonist who discovers she possesses otherworldly talents. The film fuses fantasy with a story of personal empowerment, delivering heart and magic through creative storytelling.

Matilda Wormwood is an brilliant and intelligent little girl. Unfortunately, her parents, Harry and Zinnia, fail to see that fact. As time passes, she finally starts school and has a kind teacher, loyal friends, and a terrifying, sadistic headmistress. As she becomes fed up with the constant cruelty, she discovers she has a special gift that she just might be able to use to outwit the unruly adults around her. Matilda is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 38m runtime, released in 1996 with an average rating of 7.2 by 4,875 people. The movie made an estimated total of $33,500,000 in the box office.

The theme of teens adapting to sudden superhuman powers is central in Power Rangers, making it a relevant inclusion. The film’s teamwork-oriented story and vibrant action sequences offer a nostalgic yet fresh take on group heroism.

Five ordinary teens must become something extraordinary when they learn that their small town of Angel Grove — and the world — is on the verge of being obliterated by an alien threat. Chosen by destiny, our heroes quickly discover they are the only ones who can save the planet. But to do so, they will have to overcome their real-life issues and before it’s too late, band together as the Power Rangers. Power Rangers is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 2h 4m runtime, released in 2017 with an average rating of 6.2 by 4,683 people. The movie made an estimated total of $142,300,000 in the box office.

The Sorcerer's Apprentice is presented for its highlight on the discovery of magical abilities by an unprepared protagonist. The film’s mix of magical training and playful spectacle provides engaging fantasy for audiences of all ages.

Balthazar Blake is a master sorcerer in modern-day Manhattan trying to defend the city from his arch-nemesis, Maxim Horvath. Balthazar can't do it alone, so he recruits Dave Stutler, a seemingly average guy who demonstrates hidden potential, as his reluctant protégé. The sorcerer gives his unwilling accomplice a crash course in the art and science of magic, and together, these unlikely partners work to stop the forces of darkness. The Sorcerer's Apprentice is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 49m runtime, released in 2010 with an average rating of 6.1 by 5,333 people. The movie made an estimated total of $215,300,000 in the box office.

Super earns its spot by looking at individuals taking on the role of hero in unexpected ways, blending dark humor with gritty action. Its offbeat tone and unconventional storytelling set it apart from standard superhero entries.

After his wife falls under the influence of a drug dealer, an everyday guy transforms himself into Crimson Bolt, a superhero with the best intentions, though he lacks for heroic skills. Super is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 36m runtime, released in 2010 with an average rating of 6.5 by 1,766 people. The movie made an estimated total of $1,185,012 in the box office.

Project Power stands out for exploring the sudden acquisition of extraordinary abilities, albeit through a more mature and suspenseful lens. Rapid pacing and creative action sequences make it a thrilling, imaginative ride with unpredictable outcomes.

An ex-soldier, a teen and a cop collide in New Orleans as they hunt for the source behind a dangerous new pill that grants users temporary superpowers. Project Power is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 53m runtime, released in 2020 with an average rating of 6.4 by 3,117 people.

Secret Headquarters belongs here due to its premise involving young characters uncovering a hidden world of heroism. The blend of secret lairs, family dynamics, and burgeoning adventure makes it an appealing entry for fans of fantastical action.

While hanging out after school, Charlie and his friends discover the headquarters of the world’s most powerful superhero hidden beneath his home. When villains attack, they must team up to defend the headquarters and save the world. Secret Headquarters is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 44m runtime, released in 2022 with an average rating of 6.4 by 426 people.

My Super Ex-Girlfriend finds common ground through the comedic mishaps resulting from superpowers disrupting everyday life. Its playful energy is heightened by zany scenarios and the friction between ordinary relationships and the extraordinary.

When New York architect Matt Saunders dumps his new girlfriend Jenny Johnson—a smart, sexy, and reluctant superhero known as G-Girl—she uses her powers to make his life a living hell. My Super Ex-Girlfriend is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 35m runtime, released in 2006 with an average rating of 5.2 by 1,556 people. The movie made an estimated total of $61,108,981 in the box office.

The Incredible Burt Wonderstone makes the list by integrating magical spectacle and quirky humor within the context of extraordinary talents. Its offbeat characters and competitive antics bring a whimsical angle to stories of remarkable abilities.

After breaking up with his longtime stage partner, a famous but jaded Vegas magician fights for relevance when a new, "hip" street magician appears on the scene. The Incredible Burt Wonderstone is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 40m runtime, released in 2013 with an average rating of 5.8 by 1,563 people. The movie made an estimated total of $27,437,881 in the box office.

We Can Be Heroes connects through its focus on young characters taking charge in a world of superpowered chaos. The film’s energetic atmosphere and commitment to teamwork make the action fun and inspiring for family audiences.

When alien invaders capture Earth's superheroes, their kids must learn to work together to save their parents - and the planet. We Can Be Heroes is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 37m runtime, released in 2020 with an average rating of 5.9 by 823 people.

Hancock belongs here because it examines the complications of having superpowers while living among ordinary people, delivering a mix of comedy, action, and unconventional heroism that offers a fresh spin on the genre.

Hancock is a down-and-out superhero who's forced to employ a PR expert to help repair his image when the public grows weary of all the damage he's inflicted during his lifesaving heroics. The agent's idea of imprisoning the antihero to make the world miss him proves successful, but will Hancock stick to his new sense of purpose or slip back into old habits? Hancock is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 32m runtime, released in 2008 with an average rating of 6.4 by 10,366 people. The movie made an estimated total of $629,400,000 in the box office.

Little earns its place thanks to its age-reversal premise, showcasing comedic and heartfelt effects of sudden transformation. The story delights with its sharp dialogue and exploration of both childhood and adulthood from a new perspective.

Jordan Sanders, a take-no-prisoners tech mogul, wakes up one morning in the body of her 13-year-old self right before a do-or-die presentation. Her beleaguered assistant April is the only one in on the secret that her daily tormentor is now trapped in an awkward tween body, just as everything is on the line. Little is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 48m runtime, released in 2019 with an average rating of 6.8 by 761 people. The movie made an estimated total of $17,399,000 in the box office.

Paper Man warrants its inclusion for its exploration of the superhero concept through an unusual, personal lens. The movie’s introspective tone and focus on unconventional relationships create a distinctive experience among films featuring extraordinary abilities.

A coming-of-middle-age comedy that chronicles the unlikely friendship between failed author Richard Dunne and a Long Island teen who teaches him a thing or two about growing up, all under the disapproving eye of his long-suffering wife and his imaginary Superhero friend. Paper Man is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 50m runtime, released in 2009 with an average rating of 6.3 by 370 people. The movie made an estimated total of $13,514 in the box office.

Next Gen is featured for presenting a friendship between a young protagonist and a technological marvel, blending futuristic adventure with emotional growth. Its vibrant animation and heartfelt narrative offer a contemporary take on the theme of empowerment.

A friendship with a top-secret robot turns a lonely girl's life into a thrilling adventure as they take on bullies, evil bots and a scheming madman. Next Gen is a movie from Canada in English, with a total 1h 45m runtime, released in 2018 with an average rating of 7.0 by 864 people.

Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey stands out for its magical elements that transform ordinary lives. Its imaginative world and musical energy bring holiday warmth and excitement to the adventure, appealing to fans who love fantasy with a joyful spirit.

An imaginary world comes to life in a holiday tale of an eccentric toymaker, his adventurous granddaughter, and a magical invention that has the power to change their lives forever. Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 2h 2m runtime, released in 2020 with an average rating of 6.5 by 578 people.

Unbreakable is recommended for its grounded investigation of superhuman potential within everyday reality. Its thoughtful pacing and somber atmosphere offer a different, more introspective angle on what it means to wield extraordinary power.

An ordinary man makes an extraordinary discovery when a train accident leaves his fellow passengers dead — and him unscathed. The answer to this mystery could lie with the mysterious Elijah Price, a man who suffers from a disease that renders his bones as fragile as glass. Unbreakable is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 46m runtime, released in 2000 with an average rating of 7.1 by 10,030 people. The movie made an estimated total of $248,118,121 in the box office.

Thunderstruck finds commonality in sudden magical changes that disrupt a young person’s life, emphasizing the impact of wish fulfillment. Lighthearted humor and heartfelt lessons give the movie a breezy appeal for those drawn to transformative experiences.

After NBA star Kevin Durant switches talent with 16 year old Brian, the teenager becomes the star of his high school team, but Durant starts struggling and eventually learns an important lesson. Thunderstruck is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 34m runtime, released in 2012 with an average rating of 6.2 by 254 people. The movie made an estimated total of $587,211 in the box office.

Mystery Men warrants a spot due to its comedic celebration of unconventional superhero teams, where unlikely heroes rise to the occasion. Offbeat humor and playful world-building offer a quirky alternative to more traditional hero stories.

When Champion City's hero Captain Amazing is kidnapped by the recently paroled supervillain Casanova Frankenstein, a trio of average, everyday superheroes -- Mr. Furious, the Shoveler and the Blue Raja -- assemble a new super team to save him. Mystery Men is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 2h 1m runtime, released in 1999 with an average rating of 5.9 by 929 people. The movie made an estimated total of $29,762,011 in the box office.

Shorts fits this collection by using fantastical elements that empower kids in unexpected ways. The film’s episodic storytelling and imaginative scenarios make for a lively, youthful adventure with plenty of creative surprises.

A young boy's discovery of a colorful, wish-granting rock causes chaos in the suburban town of Black Falls when jealous kids and scheming adults alike set out to get their hands on it. Shorts is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 29m runtime, released in 2009 with an average rating of 5.9 by 322 people. The movie made an estimated total of $29,000,000 in the box office.

The Rocketeer finds its place by delivering a period adventure about an ordinary person thrust into heroics through the discovery of a remarkable artifact. Its vintage charm and spirited action sequences evoke a classic sense of wonder and excitement.

A stunt pilot comes across a prototype jetpack that gives him the ability to fly. However, evil forces of the world also want this jetpack at any cost. The Rocketeer is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 48m runtime, released in 1991 with an average rating of 6.5 by 1,061 people. The movie made an estimated total of $46,704,056 in the box office.