Comics at the Movies

Name: Comics at the Movies
Price: 49.99 AUD
Availability: PreOrder
ISBN: 9781836391739

From Flash Gordon to Avengers: Endgame

James Chapman

$49.99

Hardback

Forthcoming
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English

Reaktion Books
01 July 2026

Film, TV & Radio; Comic strip fiction & graphic novels (Children's&YA); Television & film (Children's&YA); History & the past: general interest (Children's&YA)

Comics at the Movies explores the rich and often overlooked history of comic-book film adaptations, from 1930s serials like Flash Gordon to today's Marvel and DC blockbusters. It traces how the comic and film industries have intersected over the decades, analysing how adaptations reflect their economic, political and cultural contexts. The book examines neglected works such as Doc Savage, Popeye and Sheena, alongside iconic franchises like Superman, Batman and X-Men. It also investigates how these films represent nationhood, race, gender and class, revealing the social politics beneath their spectacle. Accessible and engaging, Comics at the Movies is essential reading for students, scholars and fans alike interested in adaptation, popular genres and the lasting impact of comic-book cinema.

By: James Chapman
Imprint: Reaktion Books
Country of Publication: United Kingdom
Dimensions: Height: 234mm, Width: 156mm,
ISBN: 9781836391739
ISBN 10: 1836391730
Pages: 440
Publication Date: 01 July 2026
Audience: Young adult , Preschool (0-5)
Format: Hardback
Publisher's Status: Forthcoming

James Chapman is professor of film studies at the University of Leicester. His previous books include British Comics: A Cultural History, also published by Reaktion Books.

Reviews for Comics at the Movies: From Flash Gordon to Avengers: Endgame

Readers assemble! Anyone interested in the intersections of cinema and popular culture will want to read this lively and informative account of comic book movie adaptations. James Chapman takes us up, up and away with a fascinating history that explores social and political contexts while providing close readings of specific films, series, and franchises. Highly recommended. * Barry Keith Grant, Professor Emeritus, Brock University, Canada, author of Peter Jackson and co-editor, Comics and Pop Culture: Adaptation from Panel to Frame *