Everyone thinks that Spawn (1997) or Blade (1998) was the first superhero movie to star a black actor in the lead role, but that isn’t exactly true. The world seems to have forgotten about the real trailblazer and the first black superhero movie. However, it still deserves its time to shine again.
Spawn (1997)
Widely regarded as the “first” superhero movie to star a black actor in the leading role, Spawn aired in 1997 and was directed by Mark A.Z. Dippé. The script, which was written by Alan B. McElroy, Todd McFarlane and Dippé, told the story of the superhero and anti-hero, Spawn (played by Michael Jai White).
It follows the story of a mercenary, or rather an assassin for hire, who is written off by his corrupt CEO. He then turns into Spawn after making a deal with the devil to return to Earth to get revenge, which would cause the beginning of Armageddon on Earth, allowing the denizens of Hell to attack Heaven.
With all that being said, Spawn isn’t the first ever black superhero movie, which begs the question, what is?
The Meteor Man – The Real First Black Superhero Movie
The Meteor Man aired in 1993 (years before Black Adam, Steel, Hancock, Men in Black, Black Panther, Spawn or even Blankman came along). This character’s story, unlike the usual path from comic book to screen, was later adapted into a comic book spin-off. In other words, he is not one of the many popular black superhero characters from the comics.
Meteor Man was created by Robert Townsend, the film’s director and screenwriter, who also played the leading role of Jefferson Reed, a.k.a. Meteor Man. In the story, Reed is struck in the chest by a piece of meteor, gaining the ability to fly, despite his intense fear of heights. He can also absorb the knowledge from any book, but only for about thirty seconds, so his powers come with limitations.
Although he is merely a high school teacher in his everyday life, Meteor Man must now defend his troubled neighbourhood from the terrorizing Golden Lions gang. But will his powers be enough to protect his friends and family?
The Meteor Man still holds a special place in our hearts, especially for its groundbreaking representation and use of comedy. Many filmmakers appreciate Townsend’s effort to bring diversity to the superhero landscape and its focus on community unity against crime and adversity. Basically, it was a Marvel movie before there were Marvel movies.
Unfortunately, The Meteor Man was lost to the annals of history due to its low rating on IMDB and even on Rotten Tomatoes. However, it holds the distinction of being the first black superhero movie. This totally original character deserves a second shot at stardom, don’t you agree?
Have you watched The Meteor Man, the first black superhero movie? Also, have you seen the amazing artwork depicting John Boyega as Bashenga, the first Black Panther?
Watch the full trailer for 1993’s The Meteor Man below.
